Climbing
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Seasonal climbing restrictions on Granite Mountain and Thumb Butte: February 1 - July 15
Closures Protect Peregrine Falcon Breeding Areas
Peregrine falcons were once listed under the Endangered Species Act. Due to many changes in management practices, peregrine falcons have since recovered from that vulnerable status. They continue to be managed under the requirements of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This law affords land managers the opportunity to provide peregrines the appropriate environment needed for successfully nesting and raising young birds.
Granite Mountain Seasonal Closure
It is prohibited to be upon any part of the Granite Mountain rock cliff face or the rim above the rock face and extending 100 feet back from the edge of the cliff face by rock climbing or any other means of access. Trail 261 will remain open. Maps of the closed areas will be posted throughout the Granite Basin Recreation Area.
Map of Closure Area (230 KB PDF)
On Thumb Butte, both the north and south climbing faces, the top of Thumb Butte, and the areas at the base of the climbing faces will be closed to entry. Trail 33 will remain open for hiking.
Slight Changes to Closure Boundary Starts in 2015
The closed area for Thumb Butte has been slightly modified to provide more effective resource protection while at the same time making some recreation opportunities available. On the south end, the area was extended to better include suitable peregrine habitat on the south end of the butte. On the north end, along the Thumb Butte Road, the area was pulled back away from the road to leave the popular boulders available for folks to climb on and enjoy.Maps of the closed area will be posted around the Thumb Butte area.
Map of Closure Area (153 KB PDF)
Thank you for your cooperation in protecting nesting habitat for these vulnerable birds!
Alerts & Warnings
- 2024 Whiskey Off-road Mountain Bike Race Road Closure
- FRs 354, 9129J, and 9129K Temporary Closure Order # 03-07-24-03
- FR 104 on Mingus Mtn. CLOSED for winter at junction with FR 413
- Perkinsville Bridge Area Special Closure
- There are currently NO FIRE RESTRICTIONS in effect on Prescott NF
- Target Type restrictions implemented across the Prescott NF
- Temporary Camping Restrictions along Highway 260 and Salt Mine Road Corridor
- Drones Use on Forest Service Lands