UPDATE: West Rock South Buttress Closure

RMF has confirmed with CT-DEEP and New Haven Parks a partial lifting of the Falcon closure at west rock.

The Ball Field Slabs and Old Quarry Walls are now open to rock climbing.
The Overlook Area remains closed at this time due to active raptor nesting.

Affected Areas

The Ragged Mountain Foundation urges hikers and climbers to avoid climbing in the Overlook Area at the South Buttress of West Rock State Park during this critical nesting period (likely through early August). This includes the routes Passage to India and White Streak and any other routes to the west (climbers-left) of White Streak.

According to State of Connecticut biologist, any disturbance that causes nest failure could be a violation of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Photo: Nate McKenzie

Going Forward

The RMF will continue to post updates to the outdoor and climbing community as soon as CT DEEP is able to lift the closure, likely by August.

RMF and the Access Fund are working together to establish a better working relationship with DEEP around raptor closures at West Rock. The climbing communities willingness to voluntarily refrain from climbing at West Rock will assist those efforts.

The RMF Thanks

Martin Torresquinterro, New Haven Parks, Recreation & Trees
Mike Morin, Access Fund
Brian Hess, CT DEEP Wildlife Division
Matt Shove, Ragged Mountain Guides

Courtesy Access Fund