Two roads open, campfires restrictions lift in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Mauna Loa Road past Kīpukapuaulu and Hilina Pali Road beyond the Maunaiki Trailhead are now open for the first time since July.

Park managers closed the roads to vehicles due to elevated fire danger during persistently dry weather. Heat from vehicle exhaust systems can ignite dry grass; park cars on paved areas or where vegetation is trimmed and cleared.

Campfires and open-flame cooking fires are again permitted at Nāmakanipaio Campground and Kīpukapuaulu day-use area. Propane and gas cooking stoves are also allowed.

According to the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization, nearly all wildfires in Hawaiʻi are caused by people. The best way to fight wildfire is before it starts.

Each year, about 0.5% of Hawaiʻi’s total land area burns, equal to or greater than the proportion burned in any other U.S. state.