Cars and homes burned as the North Fire tore through the Cajon Pass near the 15 Freeway on Friday, July 17, destroying thousands of acres and prompting evacuations of the Baldy Mesa area. With some having to abandon their cars, and others stuck in traffic for miles, commuters and Vegas weekenders were determined to find alternative routes, whether or not they were paved.

@jinglikes: Newest route to Vegas: the scenic, dirt trails through the San Bernardino mountains to beat traffic. That ain't no majestic cloud. #forestfire#terriblybeautiful #wherethehikersat#errybodygoingtovegas