On Saturday, January 25, the Altadena Mountain Rescue Team responded to its first post-Eaton Fire rescue call, highlighting the severe danger of current trail conditions in the area.

By Colorado Boulevard Newspaper News Desk

The incident unfolded when a hiker, attempting to navigate the Lower Sam Merrill Trail to Echo Mountain, quickly found himself in a perilous situation.

After ascending a short distance from the trailhead, the hiker discovered that the trail was no longer visible. When he attempted to retrace his steps, he realized there was no clear path back down. Fearing for his safety, the individual called for help.

By the time rescue team members arrived, the hiker had managed to scramble down to a safer position. The team then transported him back to his vehicle, after a brief discussion with a U.S. Forest Service agent regarding the ongoing closure of the area.

The devastation caused by the Eaton Fire, which decimated much of the town of Altadena, has also left the surrounding mountains in ruins. Most trails and roads above the town have been severely damaged or destroyed. With little vegetation or trees left to hold back the earth, the region remains highly unstable and dangerous.

The Altadena Mountain Rescue Team urges the public to avoid entering the burn area, as the trails remain unsafe for both hikers and rescuers. Authorities emphasize the importance of obeying all posted closures to prevent further incidents.