Are Haiku Stairs illegal?
The site has been illegal to visit since 1987 — but that hasn’t stopped people. Hawaii’s famous Haiku Stairs, known as the “Stairway to Heaven,” will be removed due to illegal trespassing and injuries at the site that have led to hefty costs.
How long does it take to hike Haiku Stairs?
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 .
Is there a legal way to hike Haiku Stairs?
To walk the Haiku stairs is illegal and not recommended. The better option is to take the longer route, which takes you to the top of the mountain, and the Haiku stairs. The trail is long and strenuous, but offers amazing views of the Moanalua valley.
Where are the Haiku Stairs in Hawaii?
Kaneohe
Haiku Stairs or Stairway to Heaven is located in the town of Kaneohe on the island of Oahu. Illegal hikers typically park in the nearby neighborhood of Haiku Village.
Are the Haiku Stairs sacred?
Kawaikapuokalani Hewett, a cultural practitioner, said the top of Haiku Stairs is considered wao akua (a place of the gods) and is therefore sacred. Hewett also is critical of the military’s role in displacing Native Hawaiians who once lived in the area.
What to bring for Haiku Stairs?
What to bring on your hike up the Haiku Stairs:
- Water: we brought 5 bottles for both of us and had too much, but it ended up being cooler that morning, I have a feeling if it was hotter we would have flown through it.
- Snacks: Especially if it’s early in the morning, you’ll need the energy for going back down.
Why are Haiku Stairs closed?
“Due to rampant illegal trespassing, Haiku Stairs is a significant liability and expense for the city, and impacts the quality of life for nearby residents,” councilmember Esther Kiaʻāina told Hawaii News Now.
Who owns Haiku Stairs?
The city had 18 months to take over or the stairs would be torn down. The city anticipated operating the trail as a paid attraction. The city took possession on July 1, 2020.
What do I need to bring to Stairway to Heaven?
How To Do The (Illegal) Stairway To Heaven Hike in Hawaii
- Stairway to Heaven Hawaii Update 2021: Since writing this post I have been informed security at the main and secret entrances has increased massively.
- Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip.
- Take lots of water.
- Have a hearty breakfast.
- Pack carb-dense snacks.
How difficult is Stairway to Heaven Hawaii?
A grueling 3,922 stairs lead up the imposing mountain ridge, often at an almost vertical incline, with only a handrail to catch you from falling into the valley below. It may sound dramatic but at times that is the situation. However, it is not the most dangerous of all the hikes on Oahu.
Is there toilets at Stairway to Heaven?
Also be aware, there are no toilets once you leave the car park, and no food kiosk at any point (although there is a cafe at the Visitor Centre of the Marble Arch Caves, which you could visit on your way home). 3. Is it suitable for kids?: As all parents know, only you really can tell if your kids would be up for this.
When did Haiku Stairs close?
1987
In 1987, the stairs were permanently made off-limits to the public. But that didn’t stop hikers, YouTubers, thrill seekers and other tourists from sneaking into the site. There have been numerous injuries there over the years, most recently a 24-year-old who hurt his knee and had to be airlifted out in April.
How long does it take to do the Stairway to Heaven walk?
The Stairway to Heaven trail is a 14.8 km (9.2 mi) round trip. It starts with a 5.8 km (3.6 mi) gravel path before the 1.6 km (1 mi) boardwalk. It takes about four hours for the average person to complete the Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Trail from the car park to the summit and back.