Cinnamon Bay at Virgin Islands National Park/Anne Finney

Beaches, trails, and parking areas at Virgin Islands National Park reopened Monday in a partial move to return to normalcy in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic as the territorial governor relaxed his closure order. 

“I am pleased to reopen these areas of the park so that visitors can again experience their park lands and waters,” said Virgin Islands National Park Superintendent Nigel Fields. “Visiting natural places is important for our wellbeing, especially so during this challenging time.”

As did U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the superintendent emphasized that individuals who visit the park must remain mindful of social and physical distancing guidelines and should maintain plenty of space between families at the beach and on trails. Park pavilions remain closed, and BBQs and parties are prohibited.

Elseswhere, this past Saturday saw complete closure of Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa, including all trails.

“This decision is not made lightly,” said Superintendent Jim Nepstad. “The trails at Effigy Mounds National Monument are narrow in places; it is extremely difficult for visitors to observe safe social distancing precautions while passing one another on the trails, particularly as they climb or descend the steep sections. For everyone’s sake, we must act in the interest of public health and in alignment with the Governor’s April 16 order.”

Staff at Effigy Mounds will continue protective patrols to ensure the safety of the mounds and the cultural resources the park was set aside to preserve.