Department of Land and Natural Resources

DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES
News Release

DAVID Y. IGE GOVERNOR

SUZANNE D. CASE CHAIRPERSON

For Immediate News Release March 23, 2017

WAIHE‘E RIDGE TRAIL CLOSES FOR FINAL STAGE OF
IMPROVEMENTS AND OBSERVATION PLATFORMS

WAILUKU —   The popular 2.5 mile Waihe‘e ridge trail that climbs the windward slope of the west Maui mountains is again closed through April 7 to allow completion of improvements for increased public safety through surface improvements, drainage upgrades, and vegetative management. 

The trail parcel is owned and operated by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW).

Related improvements include storm water mitigation upgrades to the trail, and the construction of two new observation platforms (summit and valley overlook), benches and picnic tables. These additions are intended to enhance the existing trail system experience and bring the trail up to current trail improvement design standards. 

Thus far, work on the two platforms is almost completed.  Temporary railings have been put in place until back-ordered materials arrive.  

A sheet drain through a boggy area has been constructed and the trail tread work has been completed just past the 1 mile marker. 

Completion of the platforms and trail tread work resumed on March 20. Several retaining walls will be constructed on the switch backs on the upper sections of the trail. If all materials arrive and the weather cooperates, work should be completed by April 7. 

It was first closed on January 3 to begin work to address issues with trail stability due to wetness, erosion, and other drainage-related issues. Viewpoints are also in need of enhancements.   

Work was postponed due to poor weather that caused work delays, contractor scheduling conflicts and back ordered materials not reaching Maui on time.  

The work is being performed by contractor Trails Unlimited LLC, with some assistance from the Maui DOFAW Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program staff. Project cost is $27,000.  

Managed as part of the state’s Nā Ala Hele Trails and Access Program, Waihe‘e ridge is one of Maui’s most popular hiking trails, providing hikers with panoramic views of East Maui and the Waihe‘e valley. It has been a favorite of the public as well as other community organizations since it was created in the 1960’s by state forestry staff to plant trees.

For further information on this or other Na Ala Hele trails on Maui contact Torrie Nohara, Na Ala Hele, Trails and Access Maui Specialist at (808) 984-8100.

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Media Contacts:
Deborah Ward
Communications Specialist
Hawaii Dept. of Land & Natural Resources
(808) 587-0320