A hiking trail that leads to a climbing wall in Mokuleia will remain closed today

as a result of Monday’s accident in which a 12-year-old girl was critically injured by a falling rock.

Acting Chief Randy Awo of the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ Conservation and Resources Enforcement Division, said, "We will continue to evaluate the situation on a daily basis."

DLNR Deputy Director Guy Kaulukukui said a conservation officer would be stationed near the mouth of the trail to enforce the closure. There are also about half a dozen signs warning hikers and rock-climbers to stay away.

Additionally, Kaulukukui said, climbing ropes placed without the state’s approval by rock-climbing enthusiasts would be removed.

"It’s what we would have done if we came upon climbing ropes anywhere on state property because they’re not supposed to be fixed," Kaulukukui said. "Even though individuals can do rock-climbing, you’re not supposed to have fixed ropes out in the wild."

The state closed the trail after a 12-year-old girl suffered critical head injuries when a rock fell on her at about 10:30 a.m. Monday.

She was part of a group from YMCA Camp Erdman that had hiked to the climbing wall. Counselors were conducting a safety briefing for the group under the rock face when a rock dislodged and fell on her.

She remained in critical condition Wednesday at the Queen’s Medical Center.

Officials said the accident happened about 300 yards from Erdman property.

Michael Broderick, president and chief executive for YMCA of Honolulu, would not provide details about the accident or the group with the injured girl. Broderick said the nonprofit is focused on providing support for the girl and her family.

"We are also reaching out to the other children who were in the group when the accident occurred and will provide support to them as well," Broderick said. "At the appropriate time, we will answer any questions about the Y’s use of Camp Erdman land and other matters."

Terry Kerby, operations director and chief submersible pilot of the Hawaii Undersea Research Lab, was part of a group that created the "Mokuleia Wall" in 1989 to provide a safe climbing environment for beginners and experienced climbers.

He said he was sad to hear a child was injured.

"We all hope that she’s going to be OK," said Kerby, who added that his heart goes out to her family.

Kerby, who hasn’t been involved with the climbing wall for the past decade, said they were very safety conscious when they set up the wall with chains and anchors.

The danger of rockfall remains, he said, adding that climbers need to wear helmets.

According to RockClimbingHawaii.com, the Mokuleia Wall is considered "the most popular and well-developed climbing site in the islands."