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A portion of Bear's Hump in Waterton Lakes National Park is closed due to nesting Falcons. Government of Canada website
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A portion of Bear's Hump in Waterton Lakes National Park is closed due to nesting Falcons. Government of Canada website
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The weather in parts of Southern Alberta is going to be nearing plus 30 this weekend, but climbing in Waterton Lakes National Park will be restricted.

On May 20, it was announced the climbing routes adjacent to Bear's Hump have been closed.

The affected climbing area includes the outer ledge of the top of bear's hump, which is the end of trail, and the vertical rock face below at a width across 300m, including the base of the cliff.

The region is closed due to nesting Prairie Falcons in the area.

If climbers go near falcon nests, their presence may be disturbing to the parent birds, and any disturbance from climbing activities could cause the adult falcons to abandon their eggs or chicks.

Not only that, but this closure is implemented to help keep climbers safe, as Falcons are known to defensively dive in order to protect their nests.

During the closure, Parks Canada staff will continue to monitor the situation.

There is signage and closure tape around Bear's Hump.

The following climbing routes are still open on Bear's Hump:

Routes 1, 2, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, which can be seen on the right-hand side of the image.

Anyone who violates this closure may be charged with a maximum penalty of $25,000 under the Canada National Parks Act.

To learn more, click here.