A geotechnical assessment outlining the rockfall and landslide risks associated with traveling along Waipiʻo Valley Road has led the County of Hawaii’s to close Waipio Valley Road to visitors. The report outlines an immediate need to mitigate rockfall and address slope instability and erosion for everyone’s safety. You can find the complete report here and read the Mayor’s most recent amended (09/16/2022) Waipio Valley Road Emergency Rule No. 1 here.
As of September 19, 2022 access to the valley floor with a covered 4WD vehicle (no ATV!) will be possible again for Big Island residents, county-permitted tour company operators and those seeking to practice their Native Hawaiian traditional or customary rights.