Virgin Islands National Park has announced modifications to operations to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and territorial authorities to promote social distancing.
As of Wednesday, March 18, the Cruz Bay Visitor Center will be closed until further notice. Guided hikes and other programs are canceled. Food service at Trunk Bay will not be available. Where it is possible to adhere to the latest health guidance, the park will remain open to provide healthy options for the public. Park trails, beaches and waters remain open. The waters of Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument remain open.
The health and safety of visitors, employees, volunteers and partners is the first priority. The National Park Service (NPS) is working with federal, state and local authorities to closely monitor the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. NPS will notify the public when it resumes full operations and provide updates on its website and social media channels.
The National Park Service urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park and to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between themself and others, washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick.
For high-risk populations, such as the elderly and people with underlying conditions, NPS asks that people take extra caution and follow CDC guidance for those at higher risk of serious illness.
Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus. Please check with individual parks for specific details about park operations.
