Bridge Fire Nearly Destroys Beloved Southern California Ski Resort
As Northern Californians, we know all too well the devastating impact wildfires can have on our cherished outdoor spaces. This week, we extend our thoughts to Southern California, where the Mountain High Resort narrowly escaped devastation from the 48,000-acre Bridge Fire raging across Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties.
For a moment, it looked like Mountain High, a beloved ski resort in Wrightwood, was about to fall victim to the flames. Dramatic videos shared on social media showed the resort engulfed in massive flames, and early reports mistakenly claimed the property had burned to the ground.
Just shocking video of the #BridgeFire tearing through Mountain High ski resort in Southern California. pic.twitter.com/KXGWBPPz9j
— Colin McCarthy (@US_Stormwatch) September 11, 2024
However, in a fortunate turn of events, Mountain High officials confirmed that the resort had survived with minimal damage.
“We’re still standing strong – we [love] you,” Mountain High announced on X, offering reassurance to their fans and supporters. The resort’s survival is credited to the quick thinking and creative problem-solving of the staff. Faced with advancing flames, staff members used snow cannons—normally employed to create snow in cold temperatures—as makeshift firefighting tools, spraying water to help combat the fire’s advance.
The incident brings back memories of the 2021 Caldor Fire in Northern California, which heavily damaged Sierra-at-Tahoe, a Tahoe ski resort treasured by many in our region. The fire burned through several chairlifts and infrastructure, forcing the resort to close for an extended period. Sierra-at-Tahoe has since worked tirelessly to rebuild, embodying the resilience that Mountain High Resort will also need in the coming days.
It looks like snow makers may have been the saving grace from total #CaldorFire destruction at Sierra-at-Tahoe (along with the hard work from firefighters).
— Active NorCal (@ActiveNorCal) August 30, 2021
(via @miketeselle/IG) pic.twitter.com/t3DtBAho9U
Mountain High is known for its three distinct areas—West, East, and North Resorts—offering a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders. Located just 90 minutes from Los Angeles and Orange County, it is a popular destination when the season begins in November.
The Bridge Fire continues to pose a threat to hundreds of structures, critical power infrastructure, and the natural beauty of the region. As Northern Californians, we understand the heartbreak that comes with the loss of these special places, and we send our support to our friends in the south. May Mountain High stand strong through this ordeal, and may its resilience serve as a reminder of the strength of our outdoor communities.
