David Y. Ige

Heightened Security at Tracking Station Cuts Access

HONOLULU — The United States Air Force has closed the Ka’ena Point Satellite Tracking Station Access Road due to a heightened security threat level. This road is the main access to the camping and hiking areas in Kuaokala Forest Reserve. Hikers and campers already in the area will be allowed to exit via the satellite tracking station road.

Until further notice, the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) has closed vehicular access to  the Earl  Pawn campground at Peacock Flats, and the Kuaokala trail in the Kuaokala Forest Reserve and Game Management area, in the Wai‘anae mountains. This closure is in effect immediately. People holding permits for camping and hiking this weekend are being notified by DOFAW staff that they will not be able to access these locations. Refunds will be issued for permit dates July 1 to July 5.  Closure notices have been posted on the Division of Forestry and Wildlife website and Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program website, www.hawaiitrails.org

Access to the Kuaokala Forest Reserve and Game Management area is still open via the Mokule‘ia Trail.  Hikers and campers may use this access to get to the Mokuleia Forest Reserve, and the Kuaokala Game Management Area.  Only pedestrian and bicycle access is allowed. No motorized vehicles are allowed.  No access will be allowed on the Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station road from the Kuaokala Game Management area

The Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station hunter/hiker hotline is 808-697-4311.  People can call for updates on the closure.

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Media contact:

Deborah Ward
DLNR Communications specialist

Phone: (808) 587-0320