Five Zion NP shuttle drivers quit because of riders angry about mask mandates

The Zion Canyon shuttle at Zion National Park. Photo: National Park Service

SPRINGDALE, Utah — Some recent visitors at Zion National Park have verbally abused shuttle bus drivers for having to wear masks, leaving some workers to quit.

Although there are currently no statewide restrictions requiring mask use, face coverings are still mandated on the federally operated shuttles.

Zion National Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh told the Springdale town council last month that five bus drivers have resigned over the confrontations.

Park spokesperson Amanda Rowland told the AP that Rangers are also hearing frustrations about masks.

She said the park is working in collaboration with the town of Springdale to prepare visitors for the mask requirements.

Zion, along with the other national parks in Utah, has seen unprecedented visitation this summer.

In June, the park broke its record for most visitations in one month.