The North face of Devils Tower, an area known for several popular climbing routes, has been temporarily closed until further notice. The closure comes after recent observations of Prairie Falcons nesting on the Tower’s north side. Prairie Falcons are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act under U.S. Code 703-712 and Pursuant to Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, 1.5(f) and 2.2(a2), and in accordance with the Devils Tower Climbing Management Plan.
This closure affects over 45 routes on the North side, the edge of the summit as well as all rappel routes through the closed area.
Over one hundred and fifty climbing routes remain open on the Tower. Climbers should be aware of aggressive behavior from the birds protecting their nests, such as diving and attacking climbers causing injuries. “The presence of climbers near or above falcon nests is distressing to parent birds; too much disturbance from climbing activities may cause falcons to abandon eggs or chicks,” said Nancy Stimson, Chief of Resource Management. If falcons exhibit defensive or distressed behavior, descend off of the Tower at the next safe opportunity and report the incident to a park ranger.
“Failure to comply with this closure may result in a fine and or 6 months in jail. All climbers must register at the climbing office before they begin their ascent,” said Drew Gilmour, Chief of Law Enforcement. Please check at the climbing office for a list of all climbing routes which have been temporarily closed.
To learn more about activities at Devils Tower National Monument call 307-467-5283, visit us online at www.nps.gov/deto or on Facebook at Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site. Devils Tower National Monument is located, 33 miles northeast of Moorcroft, WY, 27 miles northwest of Sundance, WY via U.S. 14, 9 Miles south of Hulett via WY 24, and 52 miles southwest of Belle Fourche, S.D. via S.D. Highway 34/WY24.
