Six hiking areas re-opened in Riverside County
Six hiking areas across Riverside County that had been closed due to heightened fire danger were reopened today.
According to the Riverside County Fire Department, fire Chief Bill Weiser received approval from the Riverside County Board of Supervisors to immediately re-open Eagle Canyon/Tin Mine east of Corona, Steel Peak north of Lake Elsinore, Bautista Canyon southeast of Hemet, North Mountain south of Banning, Whitewater Canyon east of Cabazon and Ramona Bowl south of Hemet.
The hiking areas had been closed due to wildfire threats, but the recent rain and milder temperatures allowed for their re-opening, officials said.
"It's gratifying to announce the reopening of Riverside County's scenic locations for unrestricted access. However, I urge visitors to stay alert and conscientious about the risk of wildland fires,'' Weiser said in a statement.
Future closures may be implemented based on weather conditions, fuel moisture and increased fire threat, according to the fire department.