“Working with public health officials and following the latest science and guidance, we can make national parks safer for employees, visitors and partners,” NPS Deputy Director Shawn Benge added. “We will continue to evaluate operations and make appropriate modifications to visitor services as needed.”

National parks have fluctuated between being open and closed to the public throughout the pandemic. Operations at popular spots like Yosemite and The Grand Canyon have been augmented to keep visitors safe while not having to shut down completely. In Yosemite, shuttles are not operating and require various types of reservations.

This new mandate follows President Biden’s recent executive order that requires federal employees and contractors to wear masks while on the job.

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