Adirondack Rock Climbing Route Closures
Peregrine falcons, an endangered species in New York State, are again nesting on cliffs in the Adirondack Park. The population of peregrine falcons has steadily grown since the DEC undertook hacking programs in the Adirondacks in the late 1970s.
Cliffs with known peregrine falcon nesting sites are monitored annually throughout the Adirondacks. Rock climbing routes with active nest sites are temporarily closed to prevent any disturbances that might interfere with the successful raising of the young peregrine falcons.
The closure of climbing routes is based on a number of factors, primarily the route's proximity and visibility to a nesting site. Each situation is unique and a specific distance from the nest site can not be used to make a closure determination. DEC's priority is protecting an endangered species; however, attempts are made to maximize the opportunities for climbing at the same time.
At the beginning of the season DEC closes whole or large portions of cliffs where peregrine falcons have regularly nested. This allows them to choose a nesting site without any being troubled by climbing activity. They often choose a site quickly and begin nesting earlier, than when the cliff's were subject to climbing activities. Climbers benefit because the earlier start nesting results in the corresponding earlier fledging of the young and therefore the closed routes are open sooner.
Once DEC confirms peregrine falcon nesting sites, we will evaluate and re-open routes that will not interfere with the falcon nesting activity.
All climbing routes are open. Check back in Spring 2009.
DEC appreciates the efforts of volunteers and the cooperation of climbers. During the 2008 breeding season, 25 peregrine falcon chicks were fledged from 13 nests in the Northern Adirondacks, including three chicks fledged at the Lower Washbowl Cliffs, and two chicks fledged at Poke-O-Moonshine Thank you all for your efforts and cooperation this year.
