Reminder: Park Gates are Locked Overnight, Vehicle Damaged in Attempt to Exit

A failed attempt by a motorist to exit ʻĪao Valley State Monument after park hours, serves as a reminder that the gates are closed and locked daily at 6 p.m.

According to Larry Pacheco Maui District Superintendent for the DLNR Division of State Parks a driver attempted to get around the secured gate and barriers overnight.

A photo shows damage to the passenger side door at the entrance gate where the vehicle appears to be stuck at an angle and braced against a barrier.

Park hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily; however, officials say people continue to stay in the park after 6 p.m, which results in their vehicles getting locked in for the night.

A sign at the entrance of the parking area has the hours posted along with information stating that vehicles remaining after closing may be cited and towed at the owner’s expense.

Vehicle damaged in attempt to get around locked gate at ʻĪao State Monument on Maui. PC: Hawaiʻi DLNR

Park hours signage posted at ʻĪao State Monument. PC: Hawaiʻi DLNR.

ʻĪao Valley. Photo 10.4.16 by Wendy Osher.

ʻĪao Valley State Park. File photo 8/24/15 by Wendy Osher.

File Photo of ʻĪao Valley / Image: Chris Archer

ʻĪao Valley photo by Wendy Osher.