Angeles National Forest Closed To All Recreational Use

Arcadia--As of September 24, 2002, the Angeles National Forest is closed to all recreational use because of the extreme fire danger. In making the announcement, Forest Supervisor Jody Cook said, "Our concern is for the safety of the public and for the fire fighters currently battling the Williams Fire. By taking this action, we are hoping to prevent future fire starts." The forest closure will be in effect through the end of the current fire season.

State Highway 2 is open to commuters for through access; however, individuals cannot stop along the highway within the forest. Highway 39 remains closed. County roads, some of which will remain open, will also allow for through access only. All Forest Service roads within the Angeles National Forest are closed.

People holding special use permits for activities within the forest are asked to contact the local Angeles National Forest District Rangers for permission to access their site. Permission will be determined on a case-by-case basis. For the Santa Clara/Mojave area, call (661) 296-9710; for the Tujunga/Los Angeles River area, call (818) 899-1900; and for the San Gabriel/Mt Baldy area call (626) 335-1251.

The Angeles National Forest was established by Executive Order in December 1892. It covers over 650,000 acres with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 10,064 feet. The Forest is covered with dense chaparral which changes to pine and fir-covered slopes as you reach the majestic peaks of the higher elevations.

The Angeles National Forest manages the watersheds within its boundaries to provide valuable water to southern California and to protect surrounding communities from catastrophic floods.