News Release

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park announces seasonal closures to protect peregrine falcons

Young peregrine falcon in flight at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Courtesy of Joe Kelley

News Release Date: February 11, 2022

Contact: Leah Taber, 304-535-6479

HARPERS FERRY, W.Va.—After raising the first successful fledgling at Harpers Ferry in 70 years, a pair of peregrine falcons has returned once again to nest on Maryland Heights in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. 

To provide the peregrine falcons adequate space for nesting, the National Park Service (NPS) will close portions of Maryland Heights from Feb. 16 to July 29, 2022. The closures include several rock outcroppings near the overlook and the following climbing areas: 

• The Gully 

• Sign Wall 

• ABC Ramps 

• Train Tunnel Wall 

• Confederate Walls 

All trails on Maryland Heights and the Union Walls climbing area will remain open. Closed areas will be clearly marked with signs and fencing. To view a map of the climbing closure area, please visit go.nps.gov/HFfalcons.

Peregrine falcons are a sensitive species and had not successfully hatched chicks at Maryland Heights in several decades prior to last year’s success. In spring 2021, the peregrine couple produced three hatchlings, but only one chick survived the vulnerable newborn phase and successfully fledged (developed feathers that enabled it to fly). Human interference, especially during the nesting phase, can drive off mature falcons, cause abandonment of the nest and result in the loss of eggs or death to fledglings. NPS staff asks that people respect closures to give the peregrine falcons a safe habitat to breed and nest. 

For more information about peregrine falcons at the park, visit go.nps.gov/HFfalcons.