Road to Hana Highway road closures

For well over a year now we've been asked by visitors where the road closures exist along the Hana Highway on Maui. Many read articles about the Pa'ihi bridge being damaged in the October 2006 earthquake (off the Big Island's coast) and assume that's the closure. But it's not. Here's the real scoop on the closures.

Paihi Bridge (between Hana and Kipahulu at mile marker 45.5) is NOT closed, but it does have a temporary bridge that was installed Dec. 3, 2006. The bridge was damaged during the earthquake and torrential rain in mid-October 2006. and is being replaced. It was already slated for replacement before the earthquake.

I think many folks confuse this bridge (which was closed for a few days) and the barricaded bridge, Kukui'ula, which is a half-mile past the 40 mile marker (between Kipahulu and Kaupo). Kukuiula bridge at Lelekea remains barricaded due to the danger of rockslides beyond this point and Manawainui bridge (the large gulch bridge).

The county plans to stabilize the cliffs between Kipahulu and Kaupo and then work on the rock cliffs above Manawainui. This entire project may take up to two years (or longer) to complete.

You CAN reach the 'Ohe'o Gulch. You CANNOT go beyond the Gulch and complete the "loop" tour that concludes Upcountry.

Add Your Comments

Name:

Email:

Location:

Remember my personal information

Notify me of follow-up comments?

Submit the word you see below: