Kalalau Trail Safety Concerns
Red helicopter

**IMPORTANT PARK NOTICES**

Monitor local surf and weather reports prior to your park visit.

[MAUI] update 9/10/24: ʻIao Valley State Monument – Due to construction projects at ʻIao Valley State Monument on Tuesday morning, September 17, the earliest available reservation slot is 9:00 A.M to 10:30 A.M. Those who booked earlier reservations prior to this notice may request refunds by emailing <[email protected]>. Mahalo.

[KAUA'I] update 9/10/24 - ENTIRE KALALAU TRAIL SECTION OF THE NĀPALI COAST STATE WILDERNESS PARK NOW CLOSED effective 9/4/24:  The DLNR Division of State Parks (DSP), in consultation with the Hawai‘i Dept. of Health (DOH), has elected to close the entire Kalalau Trail section, from Kē‘ē to Honopu in the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park. Camping at Kalalau Trail is CLOSED. DLNR and DOH are closely coordinating the situation in Kalalau and taking appropriate action to ensure public health and safety.  The closure is effective through at least September 18, 2024. Please check back for updates.

This notice is subject to change pending additional guidance from DOH.

[OʻAHU] UPDATED 9/3/24 – Kaʻena Point State Park, Mokuleʻia Section: Due to severe staff shortages, the processing of vehicular access permits may experience delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.

[KAUAʻI] UPDATED 6/18/24 – Kōkeʻe State Park: The gate to Puʻu O Kila Lookout will be closed to vehicular traffic due to road repairs beginning 3/19/24. The lookout will still be accessible by pedestrians, parking is available at Kalalau lookout.

Kalalau Trail Safety Concerns

PLEASE VIEW OUR KALALAU TRAIL SAFETY VIDEO HERE.

No Emergency Services

In case of emergency, someone must hike out for help or signal a passing helicopter or boat. There is no cellular phone coverage for the Nāpali Coast.

Trail

In places the trail is narrow with steep drop-offs, uneven because of protruding roots and rocks, or slippery because of mud or loose rocks. Wear appropriate footwear.

Crossing Streams

Never cross a flooded stream. Hawaii’s gently flowing, clear streams can quickly become deep muddy torrents. Avoid crossing swift flows when the water level is above your knees. Wait – the water level may recede as quickly as it rose.

Ocean Swimming

Swimming, wading, and bodysurfing are not recommended unless you are an experienced swimmer familiar with local conditions. Surf and currents are variable and can be treacherous even during summer. There are no lifeguards.

Mountain Climbing

Hawaii’s volcanic mountains are too crumbly for roping or climbing and plants are easily uprooted.

Rockslides and Falling Rocks

Avoid the base of steep cliffs, narrow canyons, and waterfalls whenever possible. Fallen rocks – particularly in areas such as the beach fronting the Kalalau caves – indicate the hazards.

Tsunamis (tidal waves)

Tsunamis are an infrequent, but great hazard on low-lying coastal areas such as Hanakapi’ai and Kalalau beaches. A few hours warning may be given, unless the waves are locally generated. Evacuate immediately to high ground and do not return until given official clearance. Tsunamis are often preceded by an unusual drop in sea level prior to the first waves.

Hunting

Goat hunting may be permitted on weekends in August and September. Most hunting occurs in Kalalau Valley or above the trail between Hanakoa and Kalalau. Safety zone signs are posted during hunting season. For your safety, hike on the main trails.