Hawaii Public Radio reported that Makawao State Forest Reserve — Maui’s most popular local recreation area — remains closed following severe damage from Hurricane Lala last month. State crews are working to restore access, but officials warn closures could continue for an extended period with no firm reopening date set.
- Makawao State Forest Reserve, spanning more than 2,000 acres, has been closed since Hurricane Lala hit last month, with roads and trails blocked by debris in multiple locations.
- The Kula Forest Reserve is also closed due to storm damage.
- Downed eucalyptus trees — some four to five feet in diameter with massive root balls — are blocking trails roughly every 100 yards throughout the reserve.
- DLNR’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife is prioritizing clearing roads needed for wildfire response and emergency operations before turning to trail restoration.
- Officials say some closures are expected to continue ‘for an extended period’ and no firm reopening date has been set.
- The trail system is heavily used by hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, hunters, and families, and is described as the most popular recreation area for locals on the island.
Sources
- Hawaii Public Radio: ‘It’s a community place’: Many rally to support clearing storm damage from closed Makawao forest
- Hawaii Public Radio: ‘It’s a community place’: Many rally to support clearing storm damage from closed Makawao forest
Share this article
