The Prescott National Forest will once again close parts of Granite Mountain and Thumb Butte starting February 1st to protect nesting peregrine falcons. The seasonal restrictions run through July 15th. The closures include cliff faces and summits where the falcons have nested for over 30 years.
At Granite Mountain, all cliff areas and a 100-foot buffer above the rim will be off-limits. Thumb Butte’s north and south climbing faces, the summit, and base areas will also close.
System trails like Trail 33 and Trail 261 will remain open.
Peregrine falcons are federally and state-protected. Closures help balance outdoor recreation with wildlife conservation.