Mountain High Resort Spared Major Damage as Wildfires Spread in Southern California
Mountain High Ski Resort, a popular destination for snow enthusiasts and mountain bikers, was overtaken by the rapidly spreading Bridge Fire on the evening of September 10.
Webcams captured flames sweeping through the resort’s chairlifts, sparking fears that the iconic facility could be destroyed. However, staff at the mountain resort reportedly turned on snow-making machines and Mountain High appears to have survived mostly unscathed.
“Fire raced through the area yesterday but GREAT NEWS! All the main lifts & buildings survived with little to no damage,” the resort posted on its X account. “THANK YOU to the fire fighters & employees for their hard work! Our hearts go out to the Wrightwood community, WE ARE WITH YOU.”
The resort was supposed to open a new bike park on September 28, but no word yet on whether those plans have been scuttled.
The Bridge Fire, which started on September 8 in the Angeles National Forest, has now grown to 47,904 acres and is 0% contained, driven by gusty winds and dangerously dry conditions. The fire has prompted mandatory evacuations for several mountain communities, including Wrightwood, Palmdale, and the East Fork communities of Camp Williams Resort.
Officials are particularly concerned about the vulnerable towns of Mount Baldy Village and Wrightwood as the blaze grows out of control.
The threat extends far beyond Mountain High. Snow Summit, a favorite among mountain bikers in Big Bear this time of year, has also shut down operations due to approaching fires.
The situation across Southern California is serious with multiple major fires are burning simultaneously, fueled by a heat wave and low humidity. A number of homes have burned and the fires have injured 13 people.
This new story from CBS talks about how the staff turned on the snow machines at Mountain High:
Other Major Fires Threatening Southern California
Airport Fire
The Airport Fire, which broke out in Trabuco Canyon on Monday, September 9th, has scorched 22,376 acres and remains 0% contained. Caused by a spark from heavy equipment, the fire raced up the Santa Ana Mountains and now threatens communities including Robinson Ranch and Trabuco Highlands. Eight firefighters and two civilians have been injured as crews battle the blaze in steep terrain. Mandatory evacuations are in place for several areas, including Blue Jay Campground and Caspers Regional Park.
Line Fire
The Line Fire, which ignited on Thursday, September 5th in San Bernardino County, has already consumed 34,659 acres and is 14% contained. Firefighters face treacherous conditions, especially in the rugged terrain surrounding Running Springs, Arrowbear Lake, and Big Bear. The fire threatens over 65,000 structures and has triggered evacuation orders for several mountain communities, including Mountain Home Village, Angelus Oaks, and Forrest Falls. A man has been arrested for allegedly starting the fire.
Roblar Fire
Further south, the Roblar Fire began at Camp Pendleton in San Diego County on September 7th. While smaller than the other major fires, it has still charred 1,000 acres. Fortunately, it is now 85% contained and does not threaten personnel or structures on the base.
The Fight Continues
Firefighters across the state are stretched thin as resources are shifted to battle these major infernos. High winds, dry conditions, and challenging terrain have made firefighting efforts especially difficult. Evacuation centers have been set up across Southern California, offering shelter to displaced residents, and animal care facilities have been established for livestock and pets.
