Mountain High Resort in the Angeles National Forest reopened for the 2024/25 ski season on Friday, after narrowly escaping the devastating Bridge Fire that scorched nearly 56,000 acres in September. The Bridge Fire, considered one of the largest natural disasters in California history, caused significant damage to the area, including the Mountain High Resort, raising concerns about its recovery.
“We’re excited to go from fighting fire two months ago, to being one of the first resorts to open in the country, so it’s a great thing,” said John McColly, Mountain High’s vice president of marketing and sales.
When the wildfire erupted on Sept. 8 in the San Gabriel Canyon, fire crews battled triple-digit temperatures to contain it. Two days after the fire started, flames spread toward the Wrightwood community and Mountain High. Thousands in the fire’s path were evacuated, and as the flames neared the resort, staff turned on snow-making machines in an attempt to prevent disaster.
On Sept. 10, Mountain High released a statement saying it was still standing. “Thank you to all the firefighters and personnel who worked tirelessly to save Mountain High. There’s a lot of work to do but nothing will stop us from opening in November or providing the level of service you expect.”
While there was some fire damage, the main ski lifts were saved from the flames. “It’s been a busy summer getting all the fire damage repaired and getting ready to open, but we’re here, it’s opening day at Mountain High,” McColly said.
Friday’s opening was for resort pass holders. “Our most loyal guests are here with us today and we’ve got a lot of special events planned for them,” McColly said. Saturday and Sunday kick off opening weekend for the general public.
In Wrightwood, the Bridge Fire burned 13 homes and six surrounding cabins. Twenty homes were destroyed in Mt. Baldy. The reopening of Mountain High Resort is not only a positive sign for the local tourism industry but also a testament to the strength and resilience of the community.
