Signs were posted at the start of the Koko Crater hiking trail this morning declaring the popular trail off-limits.

"Very many people use the trail every day," said Paula Bender, whose husband John, an Advertiser employee, climbs the trail daily. "It's just ridiculous."

The signs, which were posted by city workers, cite the danger of live fire from a nearby rifle range.

Hikers could be seen hiking the trail anyway.

Hawai'i Kai Neighborhood Board chairman Greg Knudsen said today that he was unaware that the trail would be closing.

Residents are organizing a protest at 5 p.m. today at the base of the trail.