
Some climbing routes in Rocky Mountain National Park have been closed to allow raptors to nest without human intrusions/NPS
A number of climbing areas in Rocky Mountain National Park are temporary closed to ensure that raptors can nest without disturbance and to promote species recovery.
As of March 1, closures include Checkerboard Rock, Lightning Rock, Batman Rock, Batman Pinnacle, Sundance, Thunder Buttress, The Parish, Alligator Rock, Sheep Mountain, and Twin Owls, Rock One. These closures include all climbing routes, outcroppings, cliffs, faces, ascent and descent routes, and climber access trails to the named rock formations. The areas are expected to reopen July 31, though nesting activity will determine if individual formations can be accessed sooner or later than that date.
Each year, the park initiates temporary closures in the Lumpy Ridge and Sheep Mountain areas to ensure that raptors can nest undisturbed. These areas are monitored by wildlife managers at that time.
The cooperation of climbing organizations and individuals continues to be essential to the successful nesting of raptors in the park, the National Park Service said in a release.
Check the park’s website or call the park at (970) 586-1206 for updated information on raptor closures.