You are here

Threats to Archaeological Resources Lead To Climbing Area Closure in Zion National Park

Share

Zion National Park officials are closing a climbing area near the Court of Patriarchs due to threats to archaeological materials. NPS photo.

"Social" trails, too much chalk, and even climbing hardware left in place have prompted Zion National Park officials to close a climbing area to protect archaeological resources from damage.

Affected by the closure is an area of the park known as the "Practice Cliffs," which is just north of the Court of the Patriarchs. The closure is scheduled to take effect June 22. Other climbing routes in the same vicinity will remain open unless additional impacts to the archeological resources are identified.

The closed areas will be clearly marked with signs and barriers.

Beginning in 1994, park archeologists created baseline standards to assess impacts and disturbances to archeological resources in the area known as the “Practice Cliffs.” Over the years an increase of human-caused impacts has been documented. Specific impacts of concern are social trails, installation of climbing hardware and use of chalk.

"Social" trails are routes that go off established trails. Not only do they trample vegetation, but they can lead to erosion problems, loss of cultural deposits, accumulation of debris and vegetation, and damage to cultural remnants.

Installation of climbing hardware has resulted in damage to archeological sites and creates a defined route that might lead to future damage by continued use. Climbing chalk on archeological features introduces chemicals and oils to sensitive surfaces and can lead to an increase of erosion.

Park archeologists will continue to monitor the closures to provide accurate data and to ensure compliance.

While recreational climbing can be a challenging and rewarding activity, park officials say the sensitive resources in Zion require protective measures to ensure the preservation of the park’s cultural heritage.

Add comment

CAPTCHA

This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.

The Essential RVing Guide

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

The National Parks RVing Guide, aka the Essential RVing Guide To The National Parks, is the definitive guide for RVers seeking information on campgrounds in the National Park System where they can park their rigs. It's available for free for both iPhones and Android models.

This app is packed with RVing specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 parks.

You'll also find stories about RVing in the parks, some tips if you've just recently turned into an RVer, and some planning suggestions. A bonus that wasn't in the previous eBook or PDF versions of this guide are feeds of Traveler content: you'll find our latest stories as well as our most recent podcasts just a click away.

So whether you have an iPhone or an Android, download this app and start exploring the campgrounds in the National Park System where you can park your rig.