Seasonal restrictions on climbing and other activities on the cliff faces of Granite Mountain and Thumb Butte will be in effect Feb. 1 through July 15 to protect nesting peregrine falcons. Both sites have supported nesting peregrines for more than 30 years, and the annual closures provide the undisturbed habitat the birds need to successfully raise their young.
On Granite Mountain, all portions of the rock cliff face, along with the rim and a 100‑foot buffer above it, will be closed to climbing and any other form of access. At Thumb Butte, the north and south climbing faces, the summit, and the areas at the base of the climbing routes will be closed. The closures do not affect system trails; Trail 33 at Thumb Butte and Trail 261 in the Granite Basin Recreation Area will remain open. Maps of the closed areas will be posted on-site and are available online at https://www.fs.usda.gov/
Prescott National Forest is asking local birders to share observations and photos of peregrine falcons to help resource managers track nesting progress. Information can be submitted directly to the forest.
Peregrine falcons remain protected under federal and state law. Forest managers work to balance recreation access with the needs of nesting peregrines and the resource values of the Granite Mountain Wilderness, ensuring people and wildlife can use the area at different times without conflict.
If you have any questions about the peregrines and their management, call the Bradshaw Ranger District at 928-443-8000.
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