Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death: clean your shoes when hiking

A fungus called Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death is killing ʻōhiʻa, Hawaiʻi's most important native forest tree. Clean mud off shoes and gear before and after hiking, and do not move ʻōhiʻa wood, leaves or flowers between islands.

• Brush off dirt and mud from shoes, gear and clothes before and after entering a forest, then spray soles with 70% rubbing alcohol.
• Wash mud off vehicle tires after driving on dirt roads.
• Do not injure ʻōhiʻa trees, and do not move ʻōhiʻa wood or parts.
• Do not take ʻōhiʻa lei, flowers or wood from Hawaiʻi Island to other islands.
• The fungus has been confirmed on Hawaiʻi Island and Kauaʻi, with detections on Oʻahu and Maui as well.
• Many trailheads have boot brush stations; use them.

Source: University of Hawaiʻi CTAHR: Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.