Origin of the Palisades Fire May Be Linked to Popular Hiking Trail
The Palisades Fire, Los Angeles’ largest and most destructive wildfire in recent history, has left an indelible mark on the community. As of Monday morning, the Palisades Fire — along with multiple other blazes devastating Los Angeles — has burned over 40,000 acres and killed at least 24. While firefighters work hard to contain the burn, this tragedy has prompted investigators to begin digging deep into its origins. Experts believe the fire may have started near Skull Rock, a landmark on the Temescal Ridge Trail near the Pacific Palisades.

A house in Malibu, California engulfed in flames. Photo: CNN
Skull Rock and the Origins of the Palisades Fire
Skull Rock, a natural rock formation named for its skeletal appearance, is a favorite destination for hikers seeking stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Located along a relatively easy trail just north of Sunset Boulevard, the site attracts both hikers and local teenagers. This popularity, along with a small fire several weeks earlier, has turned it into a focal point of the investigation into the Palisades Fire.
The LA Times reports that investigators are exploring whether embers from a small fire at Skull Rock, reportedly ignited by fireworks on New Year’s Eve, could have rekindled under recent conditions. The earlier fire, which burned approximately eight acres, was quickly extinguished with the help of water-dropping helicopters. However, satellite imagery shows that the Palisades Fire’s burn scar overlaps with the site of the New Year’s Eve blaze.

Skull Rock, a suspected origin of the Palisades Fire, remains under investigation. Photo: Fotospot
While fireworks are a potential culprit, officials have not ruled out other causes. Skull Rock’s popularity as a hangout spot for teenagers and hikers raises the possibility of accidental ignition from discarded cigarettes, an unattended fire, or other careless behavior. Regardless of the exact cause, investigators are certain that this fire — like many others — is not the result of natural phenomena.
When Wildfires Aren’t Natural
Experts have been able to rule out lightning as a potential fire starter considering the lack of stormy weather in the area during the time of the outbreak. The area surrounding the Temescal Ridge Trail also seems to lack power lines or transformers, eliminating them as a possible cause.

A man sifts through his home after it’s destruction by the Palisades Fire in Malibu, California. Photo: CBS News
National statistics show that humans cause 89% of wildfires (Congressional Research Service), underscoring the importance of fire safety in outdoor spaces. Hikers must adhere to local fire restrictions. Campfires should only be started if absolutely necessary and must be fully extinguished before leaving the area.
Moving Forward
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the Palisades Fire, officials remain focused on uncovering its cause and ensuring greater preparedness for future wildfires. Investigators are working to piece together the events that led to this devastating blaze. Determining the precise cause could take months, as investigators analyze satellite imagery, review evidence from the site, and further rule out possible sources.
Meanwhile, efforts to fully contain the fire are expected to continue, with firefighting teams focusing on preventing further spread and minimizing damage to surrounding areas. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has promised accountability, stating, “We will absolutely do an evaluation to look at what worked, and what didn’t work, and to correct — or to hold accountable — anybody, department, individual, etcetera.” Such evaluations will be critical to improving wildfire prevention strategies and avoiding similar tragedies in the future.
Devastation from the wildfires. Photo: CNN
For those seeking to help, the Mutual Aid L.A. Network has compiled resources for donations, volunteer opportunities, and shelters assisting both residents and animals displaced by the fires.
Featured Image: A firefighter battles the advancing Palisades Fire in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles. Photo: NPR
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Comments 2
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Yes, we could call the people who almost certainly started this fire, deliberately or not, clowns. But I have more severe terms in mind.