Masks are now required at all national parks

Arches National Park. Photo: Parker Malatesta

WASHINGTON — In a press release on Monday, August 16, the National Park Service (NPS) announced that all visitors, employees, and contractors must wear a mask inside all NPS buildings and crowded outdoor spaces.

The mandate applies to everyone, regardless of vaccination status or local transmission levels.

“Visitors to national parks are coming from locations across the country, if not across the world. Because of this, and recognizing that the majority of the United States is currently in substantial or high transmission categories, we are implementing a service-wide mask requirement to ensure our staff and visitors’ safety,” said NPS Deputy Director Shawn Benge.

The requirement is in effect until further notice and also applies to public transportation systems like the shuttle at Zion National Park.

It also applies to outdoor spaces like busy trails and overlooks where social distancing isn’t possible.

“Being vaccinated is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of the coronavirus. Masking in addition to being vaccinated will help prevent the spread of new variants and protect those who are more at risk of severe disease. This simple act of kindness allows us to be safe while we continue to enjoy the benefits of our national parks,” said Capt. Maria Said, MD, an epidemiologist in the NPS Office of Public Health and a member of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.