The largest trail coursing through the Hidden Valley Wildlife Area in Jurupa Valley is slated to reopen Saturday following almost a month of work to restore the path, which was damaged during a 1,473-acre brush fire.
The Santa Ana River Trail, which begins in San Bernardino County and ends at the sea in Orange County, has been closed to the public where its link runs through the Hidden Valley preserve since the last week of May.
On Saturday morning, the Riverside County Regional Park & Open Space District will remove all barriers to hikers and bicyclists, enabling free use of the pathway again, according to the agency.
The reopening is part of a “phased” recovery effort stemming from impacts tied to the Bain Fire.
“Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is one of Riverside County’s most treasured natural resources, and its recovery will require the support of the entire community,” RivCoParks General Manager Kyla Brown said. “Every volunteer hour helps us restore access, protect wildlife habitat and ensure future generations can continue to learn from and enjoy this remarkable open space.”
Over a roughly three-day period, beginning May 19, the Bain Fire burned through heavy vegetation around the Santa Ana River bottom, spreading across the Hidden Valley preserve. The blaze’s forward progress was stopped on May 22, but it was not declared 100% contained until two days later.
“The fire caused significant damage to natural habitats, trails, visitor amenities, educational spaces and other critical infrastructure throughout the Hidden Valley Wildlife Area,” according to a RivCoParks statement. “Restoration efforts are focused on repairing damaged facilities, restoring wildlife habitat, improving public safety and returning visitor access as conditions allow.”
The agency continues to welcome volunteers interested in helping clear fire-damaged vegetation and restore other parts of the 1,500-acre site.
“No prior experience is required, and all training and supplies will be provided,” RivCoParks said. “Flexible volunteer opportunities are available for individuals, families, students and community groups interested in making a meaningful impact.”
The next goal is to reopen the Hidden Valley Nature Center at 11401 Arlington Ave. That’s tentatively set for July 7, if sufficient progress is made with the cleanup and restoration.
Additional information about volunteer opportunities is available at rivcoparks.org/bainfire.
An official determination regarding what triggered the wildfire has not been released. The Santa Ana River bottom is replete with homeless encampments, and cooking, debris and warming fires are a threat year-round.
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