This area is closed to climbing to the public from March 1 to July 31 annually to protect nesting birds of prey. This closure is closely monitored and strictly enforced. The closure extends half a mile, completely surrounding the gulch and the climbing routes. Please obey all posted closures.

During this time, there are only two permitted outfitter guides for 2019. Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center and, only this year (2019), Deer Valley Ranch are permitted to climb in the area under strict guidelines and USFS monitoring.

For more information on current closures and wildlife in the area, please contact the wildlife biologist at the Salida Ranger District. Do not climb in an area if there is a nest present. No bolted routes are allowed near or through raptor nest ledges or any species nest. If you encounter a raptor nest while climbing, stop climbing and report the raptor and other nests to the appropriate land management agency.