Southern California fire scorches huge swath of public lands

Southern Californians faced with the loss of lives and homes in a huge wildfire are also grappling with the destruction of a vast swath of public lands that are popular destinations for hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers.

The Woolsey fire has charred more than 83 percent of National Park Service land within the Santa Monica Mountain National Recreational Area, where officials announced all trails were closed.

The park service tweeted "we understand that folks are curious about how their favorite park spots fared. We promise to share that ASAP.” Warning that the blaze was still active after burning for nearly a week. At least two people have died as a result of fire that's destroyed more than 500 homes while consuming 152 square miles of brush and timber.

The fire broke out Nov. 8 and quickly became one of the largest and most destructive in state history. It was 52 percent contained. Firefighters have made steady progress this week but warned many hotspots remain.