What's Being Discussed

The Hawai'i Island Nā Ala Hele Advisory Council — the volunteer body that helps guide the state's trail and public access program on Hawai'i Island — will hold its regular meeting on November 18, 2026. Major topics include:

• Trail updates for specific trails including Pololū, Muliwai/Waimanu, Puna, Makāula-ʻOʻoma, Koaiʻa Loop, Kalōpā, and others
• Program Plan update — a contractor called PBR is modernizing the original 1991 Nā Ala Hele Program Plan
• Public access updates for areas including Kaupakuea and Wailele Road, both connected to the Hilo Forest Reserve
• Budget and legislative news affecting the trail program
• Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail corridor updates from federal trail staff
• Subcommittee reports on off-highway vehicle (OHV) areas, Waipiʻo Valley road access, and the Wailuku River Confluence Lookout (also known informally as "Narnia") — including efforts to find a more historically accurate name for that site
• Administrative rule update for HAR 13-130, which governs trail use regulations
• Hawai'i County General Plan and how its trail-related provisions affect connectivity
• Proposed Punahoa State Park, introduced by a state representative

Decisions Expected

• A vote to approve minutes from the September 17, 2026 meeting
• A vote on recommending a new council member, applicant Topher Fast, following a brief interview
• Setting the date and agenda for the next meeting

Who Should Pay Attention

• Hikers, bikers, and outdoor recreationists who use Hawai'i Island trails and public lands
• OHV and dirt bike riders interested in designated riding areas
• Residents near Waipiʻo Valley or the Wailuku River area
• Anyone interested in trail access, state parks, or land-use planning on Hawai'i Island

The meeting is free and open to the public, in person in Hilo or online via Zoom. No registration is required to attend or testify.