by Orange County, CA – A popular Southern California park has been temporarily shut down after a mountain lion was caught on video stalking and charging at mountain bikers along a trail, sparking safety concerns for visitors.
According to Orange County Parks officials, Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park in Lake Forest was closed on Tuesday “out of an abundance of caution” following the encounter. As of Wednesday, the park remained closed, with no estimated reopening date.
The Intense Encounter on Video
A harrowing video obtained by KTLA captured the tense moments between two bikers and a mountain lion. The footage shows the large predator peeking from behind dense vegetation before stepping onto the trail and slowly approaching the bikers, who were visibly frightened but trying to remain calm.
“Go away!” one biker is heard yelling at the animal as they cautiously back down the path. The lion continues advancing — at times walking, then trotting — while keeping its gaze fixed on the riders.
The second biker is heard praying aloud, saying, “Bring your angels to surround us, Lord, and protect us in Jesus’ name,” moments before the mountain lion suddenly charges toward them.
The camera shakes violently as the animal runs at full speed, closing the distance before darting off into the brush. The footage ends abruptly, but officials confirmed no one was injured in the encounter.
Park Closure and Safety Response
Following the incident, OC Parks closed Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park to all visitors while authorities assess the situation. Officials are working with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and UC Davis Wildlife Health Center biologists to investigate the mountain lion’s behavior and determine whether additional safety measures are necessary.
The agency has not confirmed whether the closure is intended to give the mountain lion time to move away from the area or if relocation or tracking operations are underway.
On its official website, Orange County Parks noted that the closure would remain “until further notice”, citing active mountain lion activity in the park.
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Background: Mountain Lions in Orange County
Mountain lions are native to Southern California and are occasionally spotted in rural and suburban parts of Orange County. However, encounters like this one—especially aggressive or stalking behavior—are rare.
Wildlife officials generally advise hikers and bikers to stay calm, make themselves look larger, and avoid running if they come across a mountain lion. Backing away slowly while maintaining eye contact can also help reduce the risk of provoking the animal.
In 2020, a similar mountain lion incident in Whiting Ranch led to a temporary park closure after a cyclist was attacked and injured. Such events have prompted ongoing efforts to educate the public about coexistence with local wildlife.
Community Concerns
The viral video has left Orange County residents shaken, with many urging for clearer signage, wildlife alerts, and more ranger patrols in wilderness parks. Local outdoor groups have also called for mandatory safety briefings before entering mountain lion territory.
As the investigation continues, officials stress that the closure is a precautionary measure to protect both visitors and wildlife.
“Safety is our top priority,” OC Parks stated. “We’re taking every necessary step to ensure the public and the animal are not placed in further danger.”
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to monitor OC Parks’ official website and social media channels for reopening updates and safety information.
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