Supporting Ethical Access Only
About Kānaka Climbers
Culturally & Historically Significant Information for Hawai'i Hikers & Climbers
We are a Native Hawaiian led non-profit organization that aims to encourage a more responsible and ethical outdoor recreational community in Hawaiʻi. We focus on providing vital, culture based education surrounding hiking and climbing. We work with Cultural Practitioners, Allies who are experienced in Archaeology, Botany, History, and Locals. We hope to provide knowledge and guidance that will help people form a connection with the ʻāina (land) and in turn become better stewards. We actively engage in conversations with Kānaka (Native Hawaiian), Native Hawaiian Organizations and Locals within different recreational areas to assist in voicing and supporting area specific concerns, which often involve the protection and preservation of sacred spaces.
We are a Kānaka 'Ōiwi (Native Hawaiian) and Ally led non-profit organization that aims to encourage a more responsible and ethical outdoor recreational community in Hawaiʻi. We focus on providing vital, culture based education surrounding hiking and climbing.
10.4 Million
Visitors a year
1000ʻs
Sacred Sites
434+
Threatened and Endangered Species
1 Goal
To advise and educate on culturally appropriate and respectful ethics in the Hawaiian areas.
Geotagging and Access
Geotagging isn’t something that Hawaiians (kānaka) or locals encourage. Our landscapes are full of ENDEMIC and ENDANGERED flora and fauna, and culturally sensitive areas. Our islands and various hiking locations are under an immense physical pressure from overuse.
Again, please do not share geo-tags, GPS coordinates, or locations of climbing or hiking in areas that are culturally or environmentally sensitive (or illegal) as this can attract unwanted attention to these unmanaged sites. If you haven't taken the time to learn about the area, we don't recommend going.
Access concerns: Every climbing location in Hawai’i is access sensitive. Please do not post directions or geotag photos. This website does not give you permission to access any lands, either public or private. Recreate responsibly and enter at your own risk, and remember YOU represent the entire outdoor community. If a member of the general public or state agency asks you to leave, it is best to go.