The Bridge Fire began on September 8, 2024, at the Cattle Canyon Bridge within the Angeles National Forest. Driven by strong winds and dry conditions, it burned more than 56,000 acres and affected Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. Wrightwood and Mount Baldy Village were two of the worst-affected locations, with 13 residences lost in Wrightwood and 20 in Mount Baldy. Six wilderness cabins also perished.

.

The blaze directly threatened Mountain High ski resort. Still, workers used snowmaking equipment to dampen vegetation, helping to protect key infrastructure. Over 2,400 firefighters battled the blaze, and at least eight were injured. The Burned Area Emergency Response Team and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) investigated the Bridge Fire and determined the fire was arson.

Despite the devastation, Wrightwood’s preparedness and speedy firefighting saved further loss. Evacuated residents returned to survey losses and initiate recovery.

Official Forest Service Closure Announcement