Crews Gain Control of Blaze Near Palm Springs Tramway
Firefighters on Friday gained control of a blaze that scorched 100 acres of brush near the Palm Springs aerial tramway. No injuries were reported.
The tramway, a popular tourist destination, reopened shortly before 4 p.m. after Southern California Edison workers restored downed power lines, said Palm Springs Police Sgt. Dan Rose.
The tramway was not damaged and neither were any structures. Firefighters believe the blaze was sparked by an illegal campfire.
The blaze started about 8:30 p.m. Thursday on the north side of Tramway Road. It jumped the road, knocking out power along the way, said city Fire Marshal Carl Thibeault.
About 30 teenagers and several adult chaperons attending a New Year’s Eve party on top of the mountain were safely evacuated.
Rugged terrain and thick vegetation made it difficult to battle the blaze, and firefighters had to bring in water because no hydrants were nearby.
The Palm Springs aerial tramway is one of the largest double-reversible passenger-carrying tramways in the world. The trip to Mt. San Jacinto State Park, at an elevation of 8,516 feet, is 2 1/2 miles.
More to Read
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
