Why is Stairway to Heaven in Hawaii illegal?

The Stairway To Heaven, also known as the Haiku Stairs was built during World War II as a way for soldiers to access the radio antenna that sits at the top. In 2015 a storm damaged some parts of the stairs. Instead of fixing the damage, the stairway was fenced off and deemed highly dangerous and illegal to climb.

How much does the stairway to heaven cost?

BWS gave Honolulu 18 months to complete the acquisition, otherwise the agency will move forward with a plan to remove the “Stairway to Heaven” at an estimated cost of $1 million.

Can you still climb the stairway to heaven in Hawaii?

Although it is legal, it is still a tough hike. There are multiple sections with rope climbs and very steep, muddy ascents. Once you reach the top you can walk down the stairs and get some cool photos. In fact, you can go quite a far way down the stairs because the guards and police usually only wait at the bottom.

What happens if you get caught on the Haiku Stairs?

$1000 trespassing fines, security guards, broken handrails.. just some of the risks you might encounter on your trip to the top of Oahu via the ‘Haiku Stairs’ aka ‘The Stairway to Heaven.

Why are Haiku Stairs illegal?

Why is the stairway to heaven illegal? The current state of the Haiku stairs is not safe as the stairs have not been maintained for years (loose steps and railings, lots of vegetation on the steps). A storm in 2015 has damaged parts of the Haiku stairs as well.

How can I legally climb stairway to heaven?

Long answer: The trail you should be hiking is called Kaulana’ahane trail. The trail itself is legal and easy: 4-hours hike. Hike 4km up Kamanaui Valley Road Trail till a sign on the left for the start of the trail.

Why is Stairway to Heaven hike closed?

But the later termination of Omega Station operations also led to the cessation of stair maintenance. Because of this, the stairs became terribly worn and dangerous. So the state later officially closed the stairs to the public in 1987.

How can I legally climb Stairway to heaven?

Why is Stairway to Heaven closed?

Why is it illegal to climb the Haiku Stairs?

Do not attempt this hike. The act of being ON the Haiku Stairs (also called the “Stairway to Heaven”) is ILLEGAL and trespassing on government property. A powerful storm passed over the island of Oahu in 2015 which caused significant damage to the stairway itself, rendering it dangerous and unusable.

How long is the hike Stairway to Heaven?

4-7 hours
The hike can take anywhere from 4-7 hours depending on your skill level, endurance and the weather/conditions. Make sure to be prepared. This means checking the weather before you go, wearing the correct footwear (no slippahs) and bringing lots of water and snacks .

Why is Stairway to Heaven in Hawaii illegal? The Stairway To Heaven, also known as the Haiku Stairs was built during World War II as a way for soldiers to access the radio antenna that sits at the top. In 2015 a storm damaged some parts of the stairs. Instead of fixing the damage, the…