Annual Rock Climbing Closures

Two peregrine falcon pairs successfully raised three fledglings each in 2023.

NPS / Gavin Emmons

Each year climbing closures for peregrine falcon nesting season are in effect on Moro and Chimney Rocks from April 1 through August 15. These closures protect peregrine falcons as they nest and raise their young.

Peregrine falcons nested on Moro and Chimney Rocks historically, but then disappeared when they neared extinction due to DDT. When use of DDT stopped in this country, populations of these falcons and other birds began to rebound. Peregrines can once again be seen in these parks.

Falcons can be very sensitive to human activity in their nest area and may abandon it if disturbed. Nest sites are monitored to gather current information on use and to ensure prompt re-opening of these areas. Closures are subject to change based on current nesting status. When a closure has been lifted, signs on the areas bulletin boards will be posted showing all or parts of the areas that are open to rock climbing.

 

There are many closures along the east face of Moro Rock for the 2024 summer season.

NPS Photo

 

Moro Rock Closure

Moro Rock is an easy site to access for climbing in Sequoia National Park and offers 1,000 vertical feet of cracks and knobs. It is located just off the Generals Highway near Giant Forest. In summer, free shuttles run from Giant Forest Museum to the Moro Rock parking area. On weekends, the road closes to private vehicles and shuttles are the only way to reach Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow. On weekdays, the road remains open, but the small parking area may be full.

The following routes on Moro Rock are closed:

• The Couch Trip
• Incomplete
• Unknown
• Piece de Renaissance
• Moro Oro
• Full Metal Jacket
• El Nino
• El Principe Pequeno
• Glow With the Flow
• Out of Reach
• Ladies on Top
• Biscuits-N-Gravy
• One Lane Highway

 

Chimney Rocks Area Closure

The Chimney Rocks area is located in the Sequoia National Forest between the Big Baldy trailhead and the Stony Creek Lodge. It is comprised of six granite formations with routes from 1 pitch to 700 feet. There are plenty of beautiful climbs with everything from clean cracks to thin slab, and even some knobs.

The following describe a triangle that encompasses the area closure:

• From 332897e, 4058397n southeasterly along the USFS/NPS border to 333321e, 4057713n From 333321e, 4057713n northwesterly, in a straight line to 332486e, 4058128n
• From 332897e, 4058397n in a straight line southwesterly to 332486e, 4058128n

This closure includes, but is not limited to, the following climbing areas:

• Chimney Rock and Chimney Spire
• The Monk
• Camp Ridge (Crystal Wall)
• Chartreuse Dicephalon.
• **Access to Sasquatch Spire, Moccasin Ridge, and Moccasin Spire is also closed during closures.

All closures are made by order of the Superintendent of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks under authority of Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 1.5(a) and Section (a)(1).

By respecting closures, you play an active role in the conservation of these amazing birds. We appreciate your support.