Officials remind hikers Sacred Falls State Park is closed

By Department of Land and Natural ResourcesJune 25, 2012

Sacred Falls State Park
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

HONOLULU -- State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, or DLNR, officials are citing hikers attempting to gain unauthorized entry into Sacred Falls State Park -- which has been closed to the public since 1999.

A recent hiking injury to a female hiker, which required rescue support from the Honolulu Fire Department, prompted the reminder from DLNR officials.

"In the future, there will be zero tolerance for violations, whether juvenile or adult," said William Aila, chairperson, DLNR. "Multiple 'park closed 'signs are posted at the park gate, as well as at locations all along the trail. There is no excuse for claiming someone did not see a sign.

"Exposure to falling rock hazards remains severe at Sacred Falls," he added. "People entering the now un-maintained park are putting themselves at risk of injury or death."

Aila has directed DLNR's Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement, or DOCARE, officers to cite anyone caught in the park.

Numerous persons have already been cited who are entering the park, climbing over or going around the locked fence, and ignoring the park closure and warning signs. Between May 2011-May 2012, at least 45 citations were issued to local residents, visitors and military service members.

"We encourage all persons to respect the park closure, and to safely enjoy our other state park areas or hiking trails within the Na Ala Hele Trail System of State Forest Reserves," said Dan Quinn, administrator, State Parks. Other popular waterfalls on Oahu include Maunawili Falls and Manoa Falls."

Entry into a closed park is a petty misdemeanor offense and subject to criminal penalties of not less than $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense and $500 for a third or subsequent offense. Additionally, administrative penalties are $2,500 for a first offense, $5,000 for a second offense and $10,000 for a third violation

Sacred Falls has been closed by the State for public safety reasons ever since a deadly rockslide in 1999 claimed eight lives.

Hawaii park and trail information

For park or maintained hiking trail information go to:

•www.hawaiistateparks.org,

•www.hawaiitrails.org.