DLNR: Wailua Loop Road Still Unstable Despite Repairs

Wailua Loop Road. Photo courtesy of DLNR

This winter, the Wailua Management Road (aka Loop Road), which leads to Kaua‘i’s Blue Hole area, has experienced severe damage due to heavy rains and falling trees. The road was closed on Nov. 26 to all public access (foot and vehicular travel) beyond the point popularly known as “Jurassic” gate, due to hazardous road conditions, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Repairs were recently made earlier this month by the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative to keep the road passable. While the road has reopened, the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife warns people to use caution when using it, especially in some large problematic areas which are still unstable, especially after rain.

“From time to time Loop Road may be impassable for various reasons,” said Sheri Mann, DOFAW Kaua‘i district manager. “We are aware of these issues and doing our best to address them while we seek additional funds and manpower.  The public’s caution and patience is appreciated.”

Foot traffic is not encouraged due to the difficulty the road presents to emergency responders in the event of an accident.