Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, Kauai, Hawaii Poster

"Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, Kauai, Hawaii" by Catherine Sherman. Walking across the wooden swinging bridge in Hanapepe, Kauai, Hawaii, is a popular activity for tourists as well as residents. It crosses the Hanapepe River, linking the old town of Hanapepe to the Hanapepe Valley on the west bank. According to onlyinhawaii.org, The wooden bridge was originally built in the early 1900�s as the only way for locals to cross the river. The rickety and swaying bridge have since became a popular tourist landmark in the area. In 1992, the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge was badly damaged by Hurricane Iniki, said to be the most powerful hurricane to strike Hawaii in recorded history. The bridge was restored and reinforced with cables and wooden planks, making it more stable and less swing-y. The bridge is still used by taro farmers and locals who need to cross the river. Tourists are advised to turn back to the east side after reaching the other bank out of respect to Hanaepe Valley residents. The round-trip walk across the bridge takes 10-15 minutes. The old town of Hanapepe is also an attraction, featuring historic plantation style buildings that are now home to quaint shops, local eateries and art galleries.