‘Stairway to Heaven,’ or Dangerous Nuisance? A Hawaii Landmark Is Set to Be Scrapped. (Published 2021) (2024)

With their dizzying vistas and lush terrain, the famous Haiku Stairs in Hawaii first beckoned thrill seekers decades before Instagram, their steps meandering across a mountain range and, at times, above the clouds.

Security guards, “No Trespassing” signs and the threat of fines have done little to deter hikers from making the 3,922-step ascent, known as the “Stairway to Heaven,” to a former radio relay station used by the Navy during World War II. Social media, critics say, has only emboldened them.

But the forbidden trail may be nearing its final step: Last week, the mayor of Honolulu ordered the stairs’ removal, following a recommendation by the City Council, because of concerns over safety, trespassing and the environment.

Officials said that the Haiku Stairs, which do not have a public entrance, are too much trouble to maintain and create a nuisance for the private property owners whose land has been overrun by trespassers. Honolulu budgeted $1 million to dismantle the stairs, which could happen as early as next year.

In a statement on Sept. 14, Mayor Rick Blangiardi of Honolulu said the community could no longer keep the stairs.

“We recognize the interest the stairs have to certain community groups; however, issues such as trespassing, personal injuries, invasive species and overall safety of the public cannot be ignored,” Mr. Blangiardi said. “Fundamentally, it is inappropriate to have a high-use tourist attraction entering through this residential neighborhood, which lacks in the capacity to provide appropriate facilities or parking.”