Climbing ethics are vital for the continued access for all outdoor recreation. Climbing, in particular, comes with one, pretty unique ethic guideline. Crag closures. Specific crags and climbing zones across the US have seasonal climbing closures to protect endangered cliff-dwelling raptor species. By leaving the established nesting sites alone during the spring, it increases the chances these birds make babies. Human presence often will cause a nest to be abandoned, which does not help these species endure.
So please respect local raptor closures! Depending on location, they begin Jan-Mar and extend through summer. Giving these birds the It’s a small price to pay to share these wild places with these fantastic creatures.
Not sure if there are raptor closures at your local crags? Check with your local climbing organization or on Mountain Project before heading out. Just a few popular areas with raptor closures:
- Yosemite NP
- Zion NP
- The Gunks
- Areas across Colorado
- Areas across North Carolina
- Plus many more…
Even if you don’t care about baby birds, respect these closures! Land managers are watching, violators can be ticketed, and it makes all climbers look bad. Do it for our community if nothing else.
