WEST KAUAʻI — After two months of recovery efforts following Hurricane Lowell, Kōkeʻe and Waimea Canyon State Parks officially reopened to the public at 6 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).
The reopening includes state park lookouts and comfort stations between Waimea Canyon Lookout and Pihea, although visitors should expect reduced services as restoration work continues.
The Kōkeʻe Lodge Restaurant and Kōkeʻe Museum are not expected to reopen until next week at the earliest, DLNR announced Sunday.
Trails open to the public
The following trails have reopened:
- Nuʻalolo Trail
- Awaʻawapuhi Trail — first mile only
- Waimea Canyon Trail
- ʻIliau Nature Loop
- Pihea Trail
However, several trails and recreational areas remain closed, including Kohua Ridge, Poʻomau Canyon, Kawaikoi Stream and the Kukui Trail from mile 1.75 down to the river.
The Kōkeʻe campground also remains closed as DLNR resumes previously planned improvements.
Recovery from extensive storm damage
Hurricane Lowell struck Kauaʻi on Sept. 7, leaving extensive damage throughout the island’s upland parks and forest reserves. Fallen trees blocked roadways, utility poles snapped, power lines came down and the parks’ water system became inoperable.
DLNR parks and forestry crews began clearing roads and fallen trees shortly after the storm, allowing contractors and Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative personnel to assess damage and restore critical infrastructure.
“The amount of devastation to the forest landscape and our parks was shocking to see,” said DLNR State Parks Administrator Alan Carpenter.
Carpenter credited the dedication of employees and recovery crews who worked long hours to reopen roads, assist stranded residents and visitors, and support electrical repairs.
“This was truly a kākou affair,” he said.
According to DLNR, approximately 50% of the historic recreational cabins sustained damage ranging from moderate impacts to complete destruction. The historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Camp in Kōkeʻe also suffered significant damage.
State parks personnel and leaseholders continue evaluating the damage and developing short- and long-term repair plans.
Some forest areas remain off-limits
While most state forestry lands and recreational features across Kauaʻi are ready to reopen, several locations remain closed, including hunting units A and L, portions of Puʻu Ka Pele Forest Reserve, and the Wiliwili, Kauluhaulu, Hipalau, Lonomea and Waialae campgrounds.
The western ridge section of Puʻu Ka Pele Forest Reserve, including Makaha Pine Forest Drive, West Ridge Roads and Contour Road, also remains closed.
The reopening marks a significant milestone in West Kauaʻi’s recovery from Hurricane Lowell, restoring public access to some of the island’s most recognizable natural landmarks while highlighting the extensive work still ahead.
Visitors are encouraged to check current park conditions and trail restrictions before traveling into the mountains.
Source: Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of State Parks, Nov. 8, 2026.
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