Hawaiʻi Volcanoes: Sulphur Banks Bridge Closed, Boardwalk Still Open
The Sulphur Banks Bridge is closed until further notice, but the boardwalk and trail stay open from the west side, near the Steam Vents.
By Erika Müller,
If you're planning a visit to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, here's something to work into your itinerary right now. The bridge that crosses the Sulphur Banks area is damaged. It's closed until further notice, with no reopening date announced for now.
The good news is that the attraction itself stays open. The Haʻakulamanu area, its boardwalk, and the Sulphur Banks Trail are all still accessible. You can still come watch these steaming vents where sulfur-laden steam rises from the ground, a mineral landscape in photogenic yellow tones.
What changes on the ground is the entry point. With the bridge out of service, you now reach the area from the west, over by the Steam Vents. So plan to start from that side to get to the boardwalk, rather than coming in across the closed bridge. It's just a matter of orientation, but it's worth planning ahead so you don't waste time once you're there.
Here's our advice. Keep in mind that things can change. A closure "until further notice" means the park team hasn't shared a timeline, so check the access status right before you go. Volcanic-zone trails get adjusted often as damage and repairs come and go, and that's part of the deal in a park this alive.
As for gear, there's nothing special to bring for this short walk, but the sulfur fumes still aren't recommended for anyone with sensitive airways. The trail takes just a few minutes and pairs easily with the other stops near the park entrance.
To place the Sulphur Banks within the bigger picture of your visit and line up your other stops, lean on the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes park guide. And if you're building a longer trip around the island, this spot fits right into our road trip itinerary through the park, a way to connect the volcanoes to the region's other highlights.