Thom, we lived in Estes when I turned 62 and could get an Old F---s pass. I was at the gate when it opened at 8am on that birthday. She said, "Oh my God, it is your birthday" and I said, "Yup, and I want to get a Senior Pass." Back then there was no charge and then in went to $10 cause all the old codgers would lose them and just get another....would try to keep them around if it would cost another $10.
However, we usually make a donation in the box at National Parks because I was told money donated there stays in the Park and does not go to the big collection in D C.