Eaton Canyon Closed Indefinitely Due to Post-Fire Hazards
Officials warn of unstable terrain and enforce steep fines for trespassers
Eaton Canyon Natural Area and its trails are now closed indefinitely following extensive damage from the Eaton Fire. Los Angeles County and U.S. Forest Service officials cite unstable hillsides, destroyed infrastructure, and fragile regrowth as reasons for the extended closure. The area will remain off-limits through at least the end of this year, and likely longer!
To prevent unauthorized access and further harm, officials have emphasized that trespassing in the closed areas will be met with enforcement. LA County Park Sheriff Bureau officers will issue fines up to $5,000. On Angeles National Forest lands, violations carry even steeper penalties—fines of up to $5,000 for individuals or $10,000 for organizations, plus potential imprisonment for up to six months.
The closure affects both hiking and equestrian trails throughout the fire-damaged areas. The extended shutdown is necessary to protect the public and allow for the recovery of burned wildlands.
“In some parts of Eaton Canyon, you don’t even see that a trail existed, and so it is unsafe. We have unstable slopes and loose soils, so at any time if someone is walking, they may find loose soil and can really hurt themselves. We have falling rocks and dead trees.”
Norma E. García-González, director of Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation.
Reserve Deputy Sheriff David Chien, team leader of the Altadena Mountain Rescue Team, echoed those safety concerns, stating that hikers who trespass onto fire-damaged trails can put themselves at risk from unstable terrain, fallen trees, or trails that simply no longer exist.
Read the article here: Pasadena Now
While Eaton Canyon remains closed, officials encourage the public to explore other available trails across Los Angeles County. Trail information can be found at trails.lacounty.gov.