Fire claims popular recreation spots in Southern California
LOS ANGELES — Southern California residents faced with the loss of lives and homes in a huge wildfire also are grappling with the destruction of a vast swath of public lands that are popular destinations for hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers.
The Woolsey Fire has charred more than 83 per cent of National Park Service land within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, where officials announced Wednesday that all trails were closed.
“We understand that folks are curious about how their favourite park spots fared. We promise to share that ASAP,” the park service tweeted, warning that the blaze was still active after burning for nearly a week.
Three people have been found dead in fire zone, which spans 153 square miles (396 square kilometres).