News Release

Southeast Utah Group Parks Implement Federal Mask Requirement for COVID-19 Prevention and Protection

Date: February 9, 2021
Contact: Kat Kirby, Office of the Superintendent, [phone]

MOAB, UT – 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 the four parks of the Southeast Utah Group—Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, and Natural Bridges National Monument—face masks are now required in all park buildings and facilities. Masks are also required on NPS-managed lands when physical distancing cannot be maintained, including narrow or busy trails, overlooks, campgrounds, parking lots, and other congested areas.  

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

This mask requirement also applies to all commercial operations in the parks. 

As conditions are subject to change, visitors should check the park’s website 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. 

Read the directive in full at:  

Arches National Park Superintendent's Compendium 

Canyonlands National Park Superintendent's Compendium 

Hovenweep National Monument Superintendent's Compendium

Natural Bridges National Monument Superintendent's Compendium