By: Alex
In Hawaii, USA, there is a staircase known as the "Stairway to Heaven," situated along an extremely steep ridge line with breathtaking views, attracting numerous travel bloggers, influencers, and thrill-seekers to climb and take photos. However, this hiking trail, called the "Haiku Stairs," has its entrance on private land and the path itself is not open to the public, making climbing the "Stairway to Heaven" technically illegal. Authorities, witnessing a continuous rise in illegal hikers and concerned for their safety, recently voted to plan the staircase's removal as early as next year.
▲ The "Haiku Stairs" are located along a steep ridge line with spectacular views. (photo by Darren Lawrence @Pixabay)
Built by the U.S. Navy in 1942 to establish a radio transmission station, the "Haiku Stairs" stretch approximately 853 meters in length with a total of 3,922 steps. Some sections are nearly vertical, earning it a reputation among explorers as one of the scariest staircases in the world. Climbing the stairs leads to a summit at 860 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of Pearl Harbor and the eastern part of Oahu. However, after the radio station was shut down in 1987, the Haiku Stairs have remained closed ever since.
▲ The "Haiku Stairs" stretch about 853 meters and consist of 3,922 steps. (photo by Darren Lawrence @Pixabay)
Although trespassing in the staircase area is illegal locally and can result in fines of up to $1,000 (approximately HK$7,800), it hasn’t stopped the climbing craze. Reportedly, thousands still attempt the climb each year, causing considerable nuisance to local residents. The Honolulu City Council recently passed a resolution, which has been submitted to Hawaii Mayor Rick Blangiardi. Once signed, the resolution will take effect and could lead to the staircase’s demolition as early as next year (2022).
▲ Climbing the "Haiku Stairs" offers views over the entire eastern part of Oahu. (photo by eremy Bishop @Unsplash)
▲ (photo by David Kovalenko @Unsplash)
▲ Some sections are nearly vertical, earning it a title among the world’s most terrifying staircases. (photo by Chad Greiter @Unsplash)
▲ Since the closure of the radio transmission station in 1987, the Haiku Stairs have remained off-limits. Trespassing is illegal in the area. (Photo by Ryan Pernofski @Unsplash)
▲ (photo by Tyler Lastovich @Unsplash)
Source: CNN