A Hiker’s Paradise
Outside the bustling activity in heavily populated areas of Oahu, you’ll find an amiable jungle gently calling for attention. It’s a mesmerizing mass of glistening waterfalls that spill into bubbling streams, tropical forests, flowers with tempting aromas, and twittering birds. Here you can discover the secrets that have only been explored by mostly hikers, as it’s only human touch seems to be the hidden trails that wind throughout. There are varying trails in the island’s trail system and multiple trailheads are located across this area.
You can choose to hit the trails on your own if you so desire. The Nu’uanu Vally has trails you accessible by a bus ride. When hiking on your own, ensure you are informed, aware, and cautious of the hazards in the area. Some hazards include landslides, trail surface instability and flash floods. Stick to the trails, because it’s easy to lose your way if you wander off the beaten path.
Always hike with another person, instead of alone. Make sure there’s enough water for everyone in your group and map out your planned course before you hit the trails. You can find trail maps at the Hawaii State Parks and Recreation Department at 587-0285. If you prefer, there are also several hiking companies on the island that provide tour guides for your hiking trip.
Popular Oahu Hiking Trails
Hiking the Pu’u Ohia or Ualaka’a Loop will give you wonderful views of the Nu’uanu Valley and Honolulu. They’re also not too far away, so it’s easy to get there and spend a day hiking and exploring. If you’re in Waikiki, the Mt. Tantalus forest and ridgeline trail complex are easy to get to and bring you as closes as 150 feet to the 1,200-foot summit.
The Maunawili Fall Trail will lead you to a beautiful waterfall after a leisurely trek through ginger, bamboo trees, and coffee plants. You’ll cross a gentle stream as you ascend to above the tree line and emerge with spectacular views of Mount Olomana, the Ko’olaus, and the encompassing Kaneohe and Kailua. The end reward is Maunawili Falls. If you want to take this hike, here’s the easiest way to find the trailhead. Head up Pali Highway going towards Kailua. Take a right at Auloa Road, keep to the left when it forks on Maunawili Road. Follow the signs pointing you towards a residential neighborhood. Park your vehicle on the road and walk to the left. There you should find the trail access road.
If you can, try to devote a day to visiting the Kahana Valley State Park. It’s on the Windward Coast. Here you’ll encounter an impressive 5,000-acre valley that is known for untouched nature consumed by rainfall. You won’t be disappointed if you make a point to explore this scenic area.
The western end of Wai’anae Mountains boasts a jagged, fierce area of lava in the Ka’ena Point. Hike a couple of miles to a desolate area from the end of the road on the west. There you’ll find an admirable place to be entranced by the ocean. However, this isn’t the spot to swim or wade.
Lastly, you can find a heiau ho’ola, or a healer’s temple, at the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area found on the leeward side of the island. This is an enchanting, wooded area that also has an arboretum of medicinal plants. The Aiea Loop Trail here offers a 4.8 mile stretch to explore.
