Popular Hiking Spot Issues Stern Warning After Viral Video

A popular hiking destination known for its viral animal encounters has issued a stern warning to visitors, CBS News reported.

More than 100 donkeys, horses, ponies, and other wild animals are housed within Red Bucket Rescue and Sanctuary in Chino Hills, CA. All of the residents were rescued by workers from abusive situations at the hands of their former owners. But the formerly peaceful haven is now drawing rambunctious crowds after a video showcasing the idyllic location went viral on TikTok. Specifically, visitors have flocked to the Eucalyptus Trail—a hiking path located within the Helen McCoy Loop, one of the sanctuary’s most-trafficked areas—with the hopes of capturing a similar viral moment.

Now, Red Bucket officials are calling on the public to keep the sanctuary safe and serene for its animal residents. “The environment that we create for them is one of peace and tranquility and safety,” said Susan Peirce, the president of the sanctuary. Peirce warned that what begins as a cute animal encounter could quickly and unexpectedly turn violent. “We’ve had a lot of people wanting to feed the animals carrots, apples and throwing salads over the fence or scaring them,” she explained, adding that such behavior “can be really dangerous for the horses and donkeys.”

City Leaders Intercede with Revised Guidelines

As Peirce and her employees reckon with the increased attention, which has reached a level they admit was never anticipated, Chino Hills city leaders took it upon themselves to post to Instagram a revised trail etiquette guide. Peirce has also worked with ranchers in the region to erect educational signs for visiting adults and children. The sanctuary will continue to work with city officials to protect the animals’ land while instituting additional measures to prevent disruptive tourism.

Readers Blame Social Media for 'Upend[ing]' Animals' Lives

Perhaps predictably, social media users took the announcement rather hard. Many pointed the finger at social media for having “upended” the etiquette around such environments. “Social media really is a plague when it's in the hands of so many entitled, disrespectful people,” read one comment indicative of the general reaction. “To whomever posted the video that has upended these folks' lives and rescue facility, who do you think you are and where is your common sense? Where's your COURTESY? People have become so rude and self-centered.”