Stairway to Heaven Hawaii Hike [2024]: Should You Still Go?

So, you want to hike the Stairway to Heaven in Hawaii? With magical views and lush forests, who wouldn't? Just keep these essential tips in mind if you plan to take on this adrenaline-inducing hike.

Stairway to Heaven is referred to among locals as the Haʻikū Stairs. It's an adventurous hike through the mountains of Oahu that offers 360-degree majestic views of the island and the surrounding ocean.

This unbeatable view draws many locals and visitors to the stairs every year. 

But completing Stairway to Heaven is no small feat. It's a literal climb up the mountain with no safety barriers or marked paths. There are a few important things to bear in mind if you plan to take on this daring adventure.

First of all, it isn't altogether legal… but there's a loophole that could grant you access. Let's get to that in a minute. 

Still keen on attempting the Stairway to Heaven Hawaii hike? Great, just be aware that to successfully complete the hike, you'll need to plan your supplies ahead of time and read up on ways to stay safe while hiking such a dangerous route. Check out this guide on the best hiking gear for tips you won't want to miss out on. 

What Is the Stairway to Heaven?

The Stairway to Heaven was built in the 1940s as a route to a hidden US Naval Radio Station. It is more than 3,000 steps along the Ko'olau mountains on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. The hike can take anywhere from 4-7 hours, depending on your hiking experience and preparation. 

Tourists visiting Hawaii often come looking for adventure and views of Hawaii's stunning beaches. Although the Stairway to Heaven hike delivers both, it's not for everyone. This is a well-known hike throughout the island, infamous for its heights and dangerous drops.

Because of these dangers, many locals caution tourists from attempting the walk. 

As a visitor, it's important to remember to respect the mountain and the local culture. The Stairway to Heaven in Hawaii is a contentious topic, and locals seem to be divided over whether the stairs should be open to the public or not. 

How Do You Find the Stairway to Heaven on Oahu?

Finding the trailhead to the Stairway to Heaven can be a little tricky. Since it's not an official hiking trail on Oahu, there's no marked path or map available. 

You'll also have to trek through a residential neighborhood that's sensitive to visitors trying to find a way to the hike. Along with nosy neighbors, you must avoid a security guard that hands out fines for anyone attempting to climb the stairs. But there's a way around this.

We recommend going through the Moanalua Valley Neighborhood Park. This trail is legal, and it will mean that you'll be taking the trail backward. It's an easier way to get to the start, especially because it means that you're not entering through private property.

From the park, you'll make your way to the ridgeline and eventually to the abandoned military base. You aren't technically allowed to trespass onto the base, but you can take in the same famous view of the island, just from a different vantage point.

Also, take a look at one of these free hiking apps that might have helpful hints as you trek through the Moanalua Valley Park. 

What to Expect on a Hike in Hawaii!

It's a good idea to check the weather beforehand. Since the hike reaches high altitudes, fog might make it hard to see where you're going. If there's fog, you'll be robbed of the whole purpose of the Stairway to Heaven hike: the breathtaking views!

You also want to be prepared for muddy trails since Hawaii's mountains get quite a bit of rain all year-round. Make sure you have good shoes and dress in layers for the unpredictable weather.

It can also become pretty hot and humid, so be prepared and bring extra water!

Is Hiking Stairway to Heaven, Hawaii Safe?

In the past, tourists have gotten lost and have needed to be airlifted out of the mountains. There have also been many reports of various injuries because of the treacherous trails. 

Homeowners in the nearby neighborhood have also sent many complaints about trash and trespassing by visitors. The trespassing has become an issue as hikers have been walking through backyards and over fences looking for the trailhead.

This has caused security concerns for locals. 

As of 2024, there haven't been any recorded deaths due to falls on the hike. Although there haven't been any falls, the danger remains, and many state officials would like to see the stairs dismantled. 

Is It Legal to Hike the Stairway to Heaven, Hawaii?

Technically speaking, the hike isn't legal. A security guard at one of the entrances hands out $1000 fines to hikers attempting the stairs.

However, people claim that it's legal to hike the trail backward, starting at the Moanalua Valley Neighborhood Park and ending at the stairs. By doing this route, you'll be able to take in a similar view without having to set foot on the stairs. 

The stairs have been considered illegal to access by the state since 1987, and it doesn't look like this status is going to change anytime soon.

There's a movement to save the Haʻikū Stairs. Friends of the Haiku Stairs is a group that's focused on preserving this piece of history and keeping this world-renowned hike available to the public.

All sides of this matter are being discussed with officials, but until they agree, the stairs' future remains unknown. 

Will Stairway to Heaven, Hawaii be Removed?

There have been recent discussions between city officials about removing the stairs. Honolulu City Council voted in favor of removing the stairs in 2021, but there hasn't been any action since.

The unanimous vote was due to reported injuries and high costs of security. 

However, this movement still needs to be approved by the mayor's office. There's also a chance that the stairs may just be relocated to a different mountain.

Kualoa Ranch on Oahu's North Shore has offered to take the stairs and build it into one of their attractions. So, don't worry, you'll still have a chance to climb these famous stairs! Maybe just in a different location.

Take the First Step with Pilot!

Besides the Stairway to Heaven hike, there are plenty of other beautiful hikes on Oahu that offer unbeatable views and adventurous heights. Plan your next trip to Hawaii with Pilot, the best new travel planning app.