After the Fires: Challenges and Efforts to Heal LA’s Parks and Trails

The recent LA wildfires have devastated parks and trails, with recovery efforts requiring extended closures, collaborative restoration plans, and community support to address extensive damage and long-term risks like landslides.

2 minute read

January 17, 2025, 8:00 AM PST

By Clement Lau


Sign for Eaton Canyon Natural Area in Los Angeles County.

The Eaton Canyon Nature Center was destroyed in the Eaton Fire. | Jengod, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons

The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have devastated some of the region’s most beloved parks and trails, leaving a mix of hope and uncertainty for recovery. While LA City parks are expected to reopen soon, visitors are advised to wear masks due to unhealthy air quality. In contrast, LA County trails and about 20 parks remain closed, with extensive damage reported in areas like Eaton Canyon and the Pacific Palisades. Tragically, the Eaton Canyon Nature Center and several other park structures were destroyed, adding to the community’s sense of loss. (The LA County Parks Foundation is accepting donations to help restore the Eaton Canyon Nature Center.)

As reported by Ashley Orona, officials face significant challenges in assessing the full scope of the damage, as some fire-affected areas remain unsafe to access. Beyond visible destruction, concerns about landslides and debris flow threaten the region, particularly as the loss of vegetation destabilizes hillsides. Recovery efforts will involve collaboration among various agencies to develop plans that prioritize safety and environmental healing. In some cases, trails may remain closed for extended periods to allow nature to recover, mirroring strategies used after previous fires.

Community groups like We Explore Earth are stepping up to assist in restoration efforts, mobilizing volunteers and gathering resources to support the healing process once it is safe to do so. Their commitment reflects the profound connection many Angelenos feel toward these natural spaces, emphasizing the importance of collective action in restoring the parks and trails as well as the sense of community they inspire.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025 in Los Angeles Public Press

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

High-rise apartment buildings in Waikiki, Hawaii with steep green mountains in background.

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss

The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

April 6, 2025 - Honolulu Civil Beat

People sitting and walking in plaza in front of historic Benton County Courthouse in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Placekeeping: Setting a New Precedent for City Planners

How a preservation-based approach to redevelopment and urban design can prevent displacement and honor legacy communities.

March 28, 2025 - Emily McCoy

Two yellow and white Dallas Area Rapid Transit light rail streetcars at station in Dallas, Texas.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region

At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

April 3, 2025 - KERA News

Blurred cars driving down road with European road signs visible.

Inferior US Vehicle Standard Threaten European Safety

EU vehicles are much safer than U.S. vehicles due to better standards. The U.S. wants its standard to be considered ‘equivalent’ for import purposes. A European Transport Safety Council report examines the conflict.

30 minutes ago - Briefing on Risks to the EU Vehicle Market and Road Safety of Recognising US-market Vehicles as ‘Equivalent’

Two people on bikes riding down paved Burke-Gilman bike trail in King County, Washington on a sunny day.

Washington State Plans Ambitious ‘Cycle Highway’ Network

The state is directing funding to close gaps in its existing bike network and make long-distance trips more accessible.

April 8 - Momentum Magazine

Small green ADU cottage in lush backyard in San Jose, California.

Homeowners Blame PG&E for Delays in ADU Permits

The utility says it has dramatically reduced its backlog, but applicants say they still face months-long delays for approvals for new electrical work.

April 8 - San Francisco Chronicle