The Maunawili Falls Trail was temporarily closed beginning July 15, and the closure is expected to last about two years. | stock photo
The Maunawili Falls Trail was temporarily closed beginning July 15, and the closure is expected to last about two years. | stock photo
The Maunawili Falls Trail and the surrounding neighborhoods began a long-term, two-year improvement plan with a blessing before the official closing.
According to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), the management plan of the popular trail includes the trail itself, as well as the trailhead near the Maunawili Estates subdivision.
"The Maunawili Falls Trail on Oahu is now closed. The temporary closure is expected to be for two years and includes the trailhead near the Maunawili Estates Subdivision," the Hawaii Tourism Authority posted on Facebook July 16. "The closure provides an opportunity for development of a long-term management plan to protect the Maunawili Falls Trail and the surrounding neighborhoods."
The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife is working with the landowner to close the access point, as the master plan for the trail improvement includes enhancements like on-site parking and comfort stations.
The efforts on the trail are being carried out to help preserve cultural and archaeological sites after an initial assessment by Honua Consulting identified Native Hawaiian cultural and archaeological features throughout the valley. While improvement of the trail is ongoing, hikers will still be able to visit Maunawili Falls via the Maunawili Trail.
The DLNR is working with Helber, Hastert & Fee Planners to conduct the community planning process and produce the master plan.
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