
The Angeles National Forest has started to reopen Thursday after widespread devastation during the Eaton and Bridge fires.
Two areas comprising roughly 17% of the forest will remain temporarily closed for public safety and natural recovery of the landscape.
While closed, the following areas below are prohibited:
- Going into or being upon National Forest System lands within the Eaton Fire Closure Area as shown on Exhibit B
- Being on any National Forest System Road within the Eaton Fire Closure Area as shown on Exhibit C
- Being on any National Forest System Trail within the Eaton Fire Closure Area as shown on Exhibit D
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Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains: Exhibits B,C and D
Violating these zoning restrictions is punishable by a fine upwards of $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, imprisonment for six months, or a combination of the two.
Park officials say these areas often include dangerous hazards including:
- Rolling rocks and vegetation
- Landslides, rockslides, mudslides, and flash flooding can occur at any time with little to no warning, even when you cannot see any rain nearby.
- Hidden hot spots burning underground that you could step into unknowingly