After years of debate and anticipation, Hawaii’s renowned Ha’ikū Stairs, more commonly referred to as the “Stairway to Heaven,” are finally on the path to demolition.
Initiating the preparatory phase last week, the City and County of Honolulu has announced the commencement of efforts to dismantle the Ha’ikū Stairs. This undertaking, scheduled to progress throughout the month, will see the removal of over 600 stair modules. The decision to dismantle the structure was first outlined in 2021.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi of Honolulu articulated the significance of this decision, stating, “This was a decision, when we came into office, that was long overdue. Over the course of many months, in meeting with the people involved and the discovery that we put into it, I can promise you that this was not a capricious decision.” He further emphasized the importance of respecting the residents of the surrounding area and acknowledging the cultural heritage of the Haʻikū community.
Originally constructed by the U.S. Navy during the 1940s, the Ha’ikū Stairs have been officially off-limits to the public since 1987. However, adventurous hikers have persistently flouted these restrictions, often traversing private property to access the stairs in pursuit of the unparalleled vistas they offer.
Authorities caution potential climbers that the stairs now constitute an active work site, posing imminent hazards to trespassers along the trail.
The removal process will proceed methodically, with officials assessing each section in collaboration with a biologist to safeguard native species and prevent erosion before demolition. Restoration efforts will follow, with impacted areas being revegetated with indigenous plants as necessary. The estimated cost of this endeavor exceeds $2.5 million, with a projected duration of six months.
Fortunately, alternative hiking opportunities abound on the island of Oahu, offering breathtaking panoramas without trespassing or endangerment. From the panoramic vistas of Diamond Head Summit trail to the accessible beauty of Makapu’u Point Lighthouse trail and the scenic allure of Mānoa Falls trail, adventurers have an array of options to explore Hawaii’s natural splendor.