Stairway to Heaven
Stairway to Heaven, also known as the Ha'iku Stairs, is one of Oahu's most iconic - and forbidden - hikes. Spanning 3,922 steps and 2,120 feet up the Ko'olau mountain range, the trail offers breathtaking panoramic views. However, the hike has been officially closed since 1987, and access is illegal without special permission due to safety concerns and neighborhood disruption.
Stairway to Heaven, Oahu
This hike is permanently closed.The hike up the Stairway to Heaven, also known as Haiku Stairs, is one of the most popular of Oahu's "forbidden" trails. In the past, people used to climb up here for the fantastic panoramic views, which await all those who made it to the top. The hike is difficult. First you have to make the 2,120-foot, 3,922-step ascent. But even though the trail is closed today, some avid hikers go anyway because of the spectacular view that awaits from the top.
The stairway was originally built for the U.S. Coast Guard to allow access to the LORAN radio antenna on the top of the mountain. But the later termination of Omega Station operations also led to the cessation of stair maintenance. Because of this, the stairs became terribly worn and dangerous. So the state later officially closed the stairs to the public in 1987.
As of 2003, the Haiku Stairs have been completely repaired, which cost the city $875,000. However, legal access is currently still on hold. Up until today, there is no legal entrance to the Stairway to Heaven/Haiku Stairs. If you attempt to hike here, expect to be turned away or cited by Honolulu Police. Hikers have been parking in the residential area, which is limited and frowned upon by residents.
Key Features of the Stairway to Heaven
- Length & elevation: 3,922 steps spanning 2,120 vertical feet into the Ko'olau Mountains.
- Historic origin: Built by the U.S. military during World War II to access a radio antenna site.
- Breathtaking views: Offers sweeping vistas of Windward Oahu from summit ridgelines.
- Trail closed to public: Officially shut down in 1987 due to safety concerns and liability issues.
- Illegal access risks: Trespassing may result in citations and fines; city patrols monitor the site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Stairway to Heaven open to the public?
No. The Ha'iku Stairs have been officially closed since 1987. Access is considered trespassing and is illegal without authorization.
How long is the Stairway to Heaven trail?
The staircase is approximately 3,922 steps long, rising 2,120 feet into the Ko'olau mountain range.
Why was the trail closed?
It was closed due to safety concerns, lack of maintenance, and liability issues. Despite repairs in 2003, legal access was never reinstated.
What happens if I attempt to hike it?
You risk being cited, fined, or turned away by police. Neighborhood complaints and liability risks have led to strict enforcement.