Fire Engulfs Cabin Near Bigfoot Discovery Museum in Felton
FELTON, CA — A fire broke out Sunday night, April 13, 2025, around 10 pm at a small cabin and shed at the Bigfoot Discovery Museum Complex on Highway 9, prompting a swift response from local fire crews. The Felton Fire Protection District is in charge of the incident, with CAL FIRE CZU Engine 1764 first on scene, aggressively containing the blaze to the cabin and preventing spread to the nearby museum. Only minor damage was reported to surrounding structures.
Assisting were Ben Lomond Volunteer Fire Department, Zayante Fire Protection District, Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, CHP Santa Cruz, and American Medical Response. Reports of an explosion after the fire started are under investigation, with no official cause yet determined.
Emergency responders at the Bigfoot Discovery Museum complex Sunday night April 13, 2025 (Photos contributed by Cal Fire CZU)
The Bigfoot Discovery Museum, a Felton landmark since 2004, has drawn Sasquatch enthusiasts with its exhibits of local sightings and artifacts. Facing financial strain post-2020 CZU fires, owner Michael Rugg listed the 3,398-square-foot property for sale in October 2024 for $450,000, planning to sell its collection separately. The listing is currently priced at $299,000. Zoned residential, the site awaits new owership as Rugg retires. The museum remains open Fridays through Mondays, 1-5 pm, pending the sale.
(Featured photo by Julie Horner)
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