NORTH KOHALA, Hawaiʻi Island – The popular Pololū Trail and Lookout will be temporarily closed to the public on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. for essential maintenance and a significant cultural event. The closure announcement comes from the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife’s Nā Ala Hele Trail and Access Program, in partnership with the Protect Pololū ʻOhana (PPO).
The closure will impact all access to both the Pololū Valley Lookout, including the parking area, and the Pololū Trail itself, restricting hiking into the valley.
The Protect Pololū ʻOhana, comprised primarily of lineal descendants of Pololū, will spearhead volunteer maintenance efforts during the closure. Their work will focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors, as well as conducting necessary upkeep of the trail, valley, and the surrounding environment.
May 3rd also marks the fifth annual “E Lei ʻO Pololū” event. During this time, lei lāʻī (ti leaf lei) will be interwoven and respectfully placed on the valley floor as an expression of protection and aloha for the iwi kūpuna (ancestral remains) of this sacred place.
Pololū Valley is a cherished destination for both residents and visitors and the partners appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation as this important maintenance work is undertaken. This brief closure will allow the teams to address necessary tasks, ensuring the continued enjoyment and safety of this treasured site.
Public access to the Pololū Valley Lookout and trail will resume at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
Residents with questions, concerns, or interest in volunteering can contact the PPO at info@protectpololu.org, @protectpololu on Instagram, and Protect Pololū on Facebook.