News Release

Black Canyon and Curecanti implement federal mask requirement for COVID-19 prevention and protection

Date: February 3, 2021
Contact: Sandra Snell-Dobert, 970-641-2337, ext. 227

To protect the health of those who live, work, and visit national parks and National Park Service (NPS) facilities, and in support of President Biden’s Executive Order on Protecting the Federal Workforce and Requiring Mask-Wearing, NPS is immediately implementing a mask requirement for employees, visitors, partners and contractors. 

At Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area, face masks are now required in all park buildings and facilities, including visitor centers and office buildings. Masks are also required on NPS-managed lands when physical distancing cannot be maintained, including crowded overlooks and narrow trails.

The public can find information about the requirement on the park websites and on signs throughout the park and recreation area.

In addition, the following public health measures and temporary closures remain in effect: 

* Limited entry will continue for small areas within visitor centers.

“We appreciate the cooperation and consideration our staff, partners and visitors have shown as we have adapted to COVID precautions” said Superintendent Deanna Greco. “This new requirement helps us to protect our staff and our visitors.”

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison park store operated by Western National Parks Association in the South Rim Visitor Center will continue to operate from the back porch doors, and also requires a mask to enter.

As conditions are subject to change, visitors should check the parks’ websites (nps.gov/blca and nps.gov/cure) and social media channels for details on operations before they visit. Other tips to recreate responsibly are available on NPS.gov. Park rangers are on duty to provide information, protect visitors and park resources and uphold this requirement.