Castlewood Canyon SP Climbing Seasonal Closures

From March 1 to May 31 annually, the areas around Shakespearean Theatre and Revolution Buttress and Mind Meld climbing walls in Castlewood Canyon State Park are closed to all entry and use-types. This seasonal closure is in place to protect nesting raptors.

Seasonal closures around raptor nesting sites are critical to the long-term survival of the species. Raptors like falcons and eagles are highly sensitive to human disturbance, especially during periods of courtship, egg incubation, and brood rearing. If disturbed, they may fail to select a site or abandon their nests, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable to predators and the elements. Repeated breeding failures can lead to long-term population declines. These closures also protect visitors, as raptors may become aggressive to defend their nests.