The fire engulfed the longtime neighborhood landmark within minutes. Video obtained by Action News was recorded by the first eyewitness at the scene.
"I heard an explosion. I saw flames shoot up, so I ran down the hill," Russell Papenhausen said.
Papenhausen said he immediately tried to help.
"I went at the back steps where it was engulfed. I thought maybe one of the bartenders were up in the room, kicked in one of the doors, couldn't find anything," he said.
Madera County and CAL FIRE crews remained at the scene for hours. One firefighter was injured, and the saloon was deemed a total loss.
"It was pretty intense," Papenhausen said.
For generations, the historic saloon served as a staple of the community, creating memories for patrons and employees alike.
"It's more than just a name -- it's uncanny. It's the actual spot where the snow starts sticking to the road; that's where the name came from," Alan said.
Among those mourning the loss is Donna Hunter, who worked at the saloon in the mid-1980s. A decades-old photograph shows Hunter and her late mother after her mother finished work at the establishment.
At the time, the white blouse seen in the image was part of the employee uniform.
"I worked there back in the mid 80s. Best job I ever had," Hunter said.
Hunter became emotional as she reflected on what the saloon meant to the community.
"Sad, shocked, memories. This was a landmark place for a lot of people," she said.
The Snowline Saloon was originally built in the 1960s. It had reopened this summer after being closed for seven months for renovations under new ownership. Days before the fire, the group Freedom and Fringe held a line dancing event at the saloon.
"It looks as good as it ever had. It was ready to go, and to hear this, such an impact," Alan said.
Despite the devastation, community members expressed hope that the landmark could someday return.
"When I drive by, I will remember, so I hope somebody could do something with it someday," Hunter said.
Full interview with man who says he was the first on scene of fire
Interview with man who says he was the first on scene of fire
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