An iconic and notoriously twisty mountain road in Los Angeles, beloved by thrill-seekers but a bane for locals, has finally reopened to motorists six years after it was severely damaged by a catastrophic wildfire.
A Legendary Road Ravaged by Flames
The 2.4-mile section of Mulholland Highway, famously nicknamed 'the Snake' for its relentless series of winding turns, was forced to close in 2018. Its demise was caused by the dual assault of the sprawling Woolsey Fire and subsequent heavy winter rains that swept through the Santa Monica Mountains. The Woolsey Fire in November 2018 burned nearly 100,000 acres over 13 days, an inferno so intense it melted guardrails and scorched the roadway's surface.
LA County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath explained the lengthy closure in a statement, noting, "We have kept this road closed following the Woolsey Fire for as long as state law allows, and we remain committed to keeping Mulholland Highway safe for everyone." While repairs allowed the route to reopen for pedestrians and cyclists in 2020, motorised traffic remained banned until now.
New Safety Measures for a Notorious Stretch
Prior to its closure, 'the Snake' had become a magnet for motorists and motorcyclists drawn to its challenging hairpin turns, gaining equal notoriety for illegal street races and serious accidents. In a bid to curb this dangerous behaviour, the county has implemented a suite of safety improvements for its grand reopening.
According to reports, these enhancements include:
- New curve-warning signs and updated road signage.
- Tightened intersections to slow vehicle approach.
- Installation of safety bollards and rumble strips.
Supervisor Horvath has also directed Public Works to continue evaluating the area for further improvements, with reports expected in six and twelve months' time.
Community Reaction: Thrill vs. Tranquillity
The reopening has sparked contrasting reactions within the community. Driving enthusiasts have celebrated online, with one Facebook user posting, "Finally reopened after a 7-year wait... Please don't be an idiot by driving too fast and cause it to be closed again."
However, many local residents dread the return of noise and danger. During the closure, the area reclaimed a peaceful character. Cyclist and local Todd Bank wrote in 2023 that the car-free road had become "a magical place again," offering happiness and safety. Some residents even campaigned to privatise the road for locals only, but the Public Works Department rejected the idea. They stated the stretch is critical for public safety, emergency response, and evacuation access in the mountains.
The legendary Snake is now back, weaving through the landscape. Its future, balancing its draw as a driving destination with the safety and quiet sought by the community, remains an open road.
