Adirondack Rock Climbing Route Closures for 2008

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-openi routes that will not interfere with the falcon nesting activity.

Closed Climbing Routes

Moss Cliff - Wilmington Notch

All routes are closed.

Washbowl Cliffs - Chapel Pond

All routes on both Upper and Lower Washbowl Cliffs are closed.

Poke-o-Moonshine Mountain

All routes on the Main Face are closed, except the following routes which remain open:

Opposition
Goat's Foot on Rock
High and Dry
Bushmaster
Big Buddha
Bushido
Bodacious
Pearly Gates
Kaibob
Battle Creek
Static Cling
Certified Raw
Air Male
Son of a Mother
Phase III
Bastard
Ladder
Puppies on Edge
Hang 'Em High
Group Therapy
Adonis
Pandemonium
Discord
A Womb with a View

Thank your for your cooperation. DEC especially appreciates the climbers who are assisting us in locating and observing falcon nest sites. For further information please contact the Region 5 Wildlife Office at 518-897-1291.