Hawaii DLNR Reopens Muliwai Trail on Big Island

HILO – The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has reopened the remote Muliwai Trail on the island of Hawai‘i, after completing trail repair work that included removing fallen trees and excavating landslides that blocked the trail during severe winter storms statewide in mid-December 2007. Trail crews from the Division of Forestry and Wildlife also restored the trail tread in several locations.

"We appreciate the public's patience and understanding during the closure as we worked to ensure the safety of the trail,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson.

Camping permits will again be issued for Waimanu Valley campground. For information contact the DOFAW office at (808) 974-4221.

The trail head of the 18-mile Muliwai trail is accessed through Waipi‘o Valley, located at the end of Highway 240 near Honoka‘a. The trail zigzags up the western wall of Waipi‘o Valley on the Big Island, climbing approximately 1,200 feet to the plateau.

It then leads across the plateau area to Waimanu, crossing 12 gulches that are up to 500 feet deep, then descends another 1,200 feet into Waimanu Valley.

It takes an estimated 7 hours to hike the 11 miles to and from Waimanu Valley.

For information on Muliwai Trail, visit the Na Ala Hele web site at: www.hawaiitrails.org