The bushfires in Los Angeles are a catastrophe for those who have lost their homes, loved ones or their lives. Whether they are part of the mountain bike community is irrelevant at this moment. And yet it is comforting to see how the community is committed to helping those affected.

Two former editors of Mountainbike Action Magazine have lost their homes: Zap Espinoza and Mike Wirth. The latter was editor-in-chief for a time in the decade, according to the magazine, which spoke to him. Both lived in Altadena, where the Eaton Fire is still raging. According to Bicycle Retailer, at least two bike shops have also fallen victim to the flames in the same neighborhood.

Gofundme campaigns are underway for Espinoza and Wirth. And also for the Bunny Museum, which is run by a bike store owner together with his wife. The owner told Bicycle Retailer magazine that he was retiring from the bike industry but wanted to rebuild the Bunny Museum. Collections are also being made on gofundme for the destroyed Steven's Bike Shop.

Facebook reel by Zap Espinoza: facebook.com/reel/1636269316964444

Several trails are also likely to be impassable in the near future, as the superimposed maps from Trailforks and the fire department show. Of course, this is one of the smallest problems currently plaguing the region. The Angeles National Forest, which lies to the north of the Eaton Fire, is now completely closed.

Those in Los Angeles who want to distract themselves from the apocalyptic conditions on the western and northern edges of the city will find plenty of trails in Laguna Beach, for example, at a safe distance from the nearest fire.