DLNR TO CLOSE ‘AKAKA FALLS STATE PARK LOOKOUT MARCH 1 THROUGH 12 FOR SAFETY RAILING INSTALLATION

03/08/2010

Kahuna Falls lookout will remain open

HILO — The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will close the walkway to ‘Akaka Falls lookout between March 1 through 12 for public safety, for the continued installation of safety railings at ‘Akaka Falls State Park.

The Kahuna Falls lookout will remain open and visitors can still go to the Akaka Falls lookout by using the longer Kahuna Falls walkway route.

The Division of State Parks will also be trimming trees near the lookout during its closure.

These improvements are part of the final phase of ongoing improvements to enhance the safety of park visitors and enhance their experience of the park’s unique resources.

The park’s features include lookouts at ‘Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls, a four-mile loop footpath connecting the two lookouts, and a lush landscape of tropical plants and trees.

“‘Akaka Falls State Park is one of the top Big Island destinations for residents and visitors,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson. “These improvements are a key component of the Lingle-Aiona Administration’s ongoing efforts to upgrade our state parks statewide and to ensure safety and comfort for all residents and visitors who use the parks.”

“The temporary closure will ensure the safety of park visitors during construction work. The contractor will provide appropriate safety barriers during this period. We appreciate the public’s understanding during this period,” Thielen said.

The Division of State Parks Hawai‘i district office will notify tour bus companies of this project. Construction road signs will be placed in Honomu to alert visitors.

Three phases of park improvements have already been completed at the Kahuna Falls and ‘Akaka Falls lookouts, including footpath, stairs, handrail, lookout and other related improvements on the respective trail segments to the lookouts.

‘Akaka Falls State Park is located at the end of ‘Akaka Falls Road (Hwy. 220) and is located 3.6 miles of Honomu. It features a pleasant self-guided walk through lush tropical vegetation and to scenic vista points overlooking the cascading Kahuna Falls and the free-falling ‘Akaka Falls which plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge.

For more information call the park office at (808) 974-6200 or the State Parks Honolulu office at 587-0300.

For more information, media may contact:
Deborah Ward
DLNR Public Information Specialist
Phone: (808) 587-0320