Park Safety
Safety is one of the top priorities when you come visiting Kōke‘e State Park. Please take our safety precautions with intention to ensure an enjoyable and safe trip!
7 Safety Tips When Visiting Kōke‘e State Park
Here are some tips for enjoying the park and having a safe visit, especially when hiking in the forest:
Cell Service
There is limited and mostly no service in many areas of the park. If electric power is done, so is the little service that is available. If you need accessibility, plan to rely on a satellite service provider.
Bring Water
Carry plenty of water, even for a short hike. Do not drink untreated water from streams
Weather Affects Trail Conditions
Consider a hat, sunscreen, and rain gear. All trails are more challenging when muddy. Rain showers occur frequently and unpredictably. Altitude makes sun protection even more necessary.
Be Aware Potential Flash Flooding
Many trails have stream crossings. Do not cross streams when water is high and fast flowing. Flash floods can occur even when it is not raining. Even a foot of water, if swift enough, can knock and adult down.
Be Safe Around Feral Animals in the Forest
Feral introduced animals – pig, deer, goats, and dogs can be aggressive. Luckily most are nocturnal. Don’t hike after dark. Hunters and their dogs may also be on recreational trails.
Don’t Underestimate Trail Conditions
Kōke’e is the oldest island, and its soil is very different. In many areas, especially on ridgetops and the canyon edges are very slippery. Some have described it like “walking on ball bearings.” After rains, some forested area trails don’t dry up right away. Sections of trails and roads may have veins of very dense and slippery gray kaolin clay described as being like black ice. Proper shoes will not protect you from everything but those and walking sticks can save a trip to ER.
Kōke’e is Remote
Although a short distance from residential areas, rescues take time to organize from the island’s hub at Lihue. Helicopters can’t fly in many conditions including fog and rain as well in high winds. They may not be able to land due to the terrain. For their safety, first responders operate during daylight hours. Make sure you are prepared. Don’t hike very late in the day and don’t take risks. Even car problems take hours to respond to. Drive slowly on rough roads, make sure you have enough gas/electrical charge before coming up the mountain. Drive slowly on rough roads and stay on paved roads with standard rental cars. Listen to local advice as conditions change.
Your Safety Matters
Although a short distance from residential areas, rescues take time to organize from the island’s hub at Lihue. Helicopters can’t fly in many conditions including fog and rain as well in high winds. They may not be able to land due to the terrain. For their safety, first responders operate during daylight hours. Make sure you are prepared. Don’t hike very late in the day and don’t take risks. Even car problems take hours to respond to. Drive slowly on rough roads, make sure you have enough gas/electrical charge before coming up the mountain. Drive slowly on rough roads and stay on paved roads with standard rental cars. Listen to local advice as conditions change.
Guide to Kōkeʻe’s Wonders
Stop by the Kōkeʻe Museum to uncover the history of Kōkeʻe, pick up unique souvenirs and gifts!
Kōkeʻe Through Stories
The forest comes alive through stories of the land and its people. From the rich Native Hawaiian traditions and historic preservation efforts to the unique plants, animals, and landscapes that make this park special. Every corner of Kōkeʻe has a story.