Temporary Climbing Closures In Place at Rocky Mountain National Park to Protect Nesting Raptors

Some temporary climbing closures have been placed into effect in Rocky Mountain National Park to give raptors some relative peace and quiet during their nesting season.

The closures involve the Lumpy Ridge and Sheep Mountain areas of the park. All closures took effect March 1 and will continue through July 31, if necessary. These closures may be extended longer or rescinded at an earlier date depending on nesting activity, according to park officials.

Closures include Checkerboard Rock, Lightning Rock, Batman Rock, Batman Pinnacle, Thunder Buttress, The Parish, Alligator Rock, Sheep Mountain, and Twin Owls, Rock One. These closures include the named formations as well as areas extending 100 yards surrounding the base of the formations.

The perimeter around Alligator Rock extends for 200 yards in all directions. Closures include all climbing routes, outcroppings, cliffs, faces, ascent and descent routes and climber access trails to the named rock formations. Check the park’s website at http://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/area_closures.htm for updated information on raptor closures.

The same cliffs that are critical for raptors also appeal to climbers. The cooperation of climbing organizations and individuals is essential to the successful nesting of raptors in the park.