Certain state lands on Kaua‘i reopened Monday at 6:30 a.m., providing limited access to areas after most areas closed following widespread, unmitigated damage from Hurricane Lowell.
Department of Land and Natural Resources officials say they have made “amazing” progress since the storm and continue collaborating with partners to open DLNR lands as they address the community’s heightened needs.
“We recognize that our parks and forest lands are beloved for their recreational value and contribute to our well-being,” said DLNR First Deputy Director Dave Day. “We remain committed to reopening all DLNR lands and facilities as quickly as possible in line with best safety practices.”
The following areas are now open to the public with restrictions:
Wailua River State Park
Fern Grotto has the following access restrictions:
- Smith’s Motor Boat Tours is permitted to access the Fern Grotto landing.
- No individual kayakers are allowed in the Fern Grotto at this time. This restriction will be strictly enforced to prevent operational conflicts and safety hazards with the larger riverboats.
River and trail access has the following limits:
- Kayakers will be permitted to utilize the river, the designated landing zone and the trailhead.
- Hiking is strictly prohibited past the trailhead until further notice.
- Access to Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) remains closed in its entirety.
Waimea valley section of Puʻu ka Pele Forest Reserve
- Nā Ala Hele trails remain closed (Waimea Canyon Trail, Puʻu Ki-Waialae Trail, Kukui and Koaiʻe Canyon). Access should only be from the bottom of the canyon
- Many of the crossings have been destroyed and all users should proceed with caution as water levels in the river remain high.
- No campgrounds or shelters are open.
Hunting Unit F below the Kōkeʻe Road and Waimea Canyon Drive junction
- Hunters should not pass the barricade on Kōkeʻe Road. Hunters will need to sign in at a check station below the Kōkeʻe Hunter Check Station.
Kōkeʻe Road remains closed until clearing and utility work is completed.
The public is urged to use caution when accessing forested areas, as many unmitigated hazards exist.
DLNR requests the public’s help in addressing storm damage by reporting downed trees, road and trail washouts, as well as damaged infrastructure via ArcGIS Survey123 (free to download, no username required) here.
