DLNR announces limited reopening of select Kauaʻi lands on Monday

The Department of Land and Natural Resources announced that certain lands on Kaua‘i will reopen on Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, at 6:30 a.m. Most DLNR lands remain closed due to widespread, unmitigated damage from Hurricane Lowell. 

“DLNR has made amazing progress since Hurricane Lowell and our public servants deserve to be recognized for that. We continue to collaborate with our partners to ensure that any reopening of DLNR lands aligns with their operational capacity as they continue to address the heightened needs of the community at this time,” said DLNR First Deputy Director Dave Day. “We recognize that our parks and forest lands are beloved for their recreational value and contribute to our well-being. We remain committed to reopening all DLNR lands and facilities as quickly as possible in line with best safety practices.”

Reopening to the public on Monday, Sept. 21, at 6:30 a.m.:

Wailua River State Park

• Fern Grotto Access Restrictions:

1. Smith’s Motor Boat Tours is permitted to access the Fern Grotto landing.
2. No individual kayakers are allowed in the Fern Grotto at this time. This restriction will be strictly enforced to prevent operational conflicts and safety hazards with the larger riverboats. 

• River and Trail Access Limits:

1. Kayakers will be permitted to utilize the river, the designated landing zone and the trailhead.
2. Hiking is strictly prohibited past the trailhead until further notice. 
3. Access to Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) remains closed in its entirety.

Waimea valley section of Puʻu ka Pele Forest Reserve

• Nā Ala Hele trails remain closed (Waimea Canyon Trail, Puʻu Ki-Waialae Trail, Kukui and Koaiʻe Canyon). Access should only be from the bottom of the canyon
• Many of the crossings have been destroyed and all users should proceed with caution as water levels in the river remain high.  
• No campgrounds or shelters are open. 

Hunting Unit F below the Kōkeʻe Road and Waimea Canyon Drive junction

• Hunters should not pass the barricade on Kōkeʻe Road. Hunters will need to sign in at a check station below the Kōkeʻe Hunter Check Station.

Kōkeʻe Road remains closed until clearing and utility work is completed.  

The public is urged to use caution when accessing forested areas as many unmitigated hazards exist. 

DLNR requests the public’s help in addressing storm damage by reporting downed trees, road and trail washouts, as well as damaged infrastructure via ArcGIS Survey123 (free to download, no username required) at the following link: https://arcg.is/1riyre3