First of all, let us warn you: Hiking on Hawaii often more closely resembles mountain climbing than the nature walks with which visitors are normally familiar. From the U.S. mainland, enthusiastic hikers have tackled some of the shortest and easiest paths and were surprised by the difficulty! The good news for you is that attempting to climb these mountains at different stages of life provides a more realistic viewpoint. Hiking on Hawaii can still be very enjoyable despite the challenges. There are recreational, historical, and picturesque trails, with at least a handful being rather easy walks. Sadly, numerous preferred walks lack actual paths. Starting downhill, climbing behind a friend’s house and following a brook, can be tricky. Favorites notwithstanding their nature, you won’t be sent anywhere without a formal trail. However, should faith in hiking on Hawaii waver, you might also schedule a guided trail walk.
Popular Trails for Hiking on Hawaii in the Greater Honolulu Area
From everywhere on Oahu’s south coast, you can view this dormant volcano in the Diamond Head Crater. See it all from the top via hiking!
Manoa Falls Trail: Trekking in a tropical rainforest leads to a breathtaking waterfall. On Oahu, this is among the easiest—and muckiest—trails available.
Feeling adventurous and with at least five hours to spare? Waahila Ridge Trail. From the summit of the peak, you can view almost half of the island, but getting there is exhausting.
- Judd Trail: From Nuuanu Valley to Manoa Valley and Makiki, a one-mile loop of the far longer Na Ala Hele trail system
- Moanalua Valley Trail: Comprising some ancient ruins and petroglyphs, this mainly level path winds. If you seek more of a challenge, it also relates to the Tripler Ridge Trail.
Overlooking Pearl Harbor, the five-mile Aiea Loop Trail winds across the mountains. See an old Hawaiian heiau close to the trailhead, then search for the B-24 bomber wreck.
- Kaau Crater: Though it is another lengthy (5.5 miles), difficult vertical Hawaii climb with waterfalls, a crater, and fantastic vistas!
- Mariners Ridge Trail: Although it’s ridiculous to label any top-of-the-mountain walk simple, as far as they go, this one is most likely your best choice for summit access!
Short and taxing, Koko Crater climbs straight up a narrow railroad track to the crater rim. Starting at over 35 degrees, the angle of the slope steepens to 50 degrees!
To the point of viewing the lighthouse, the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is the single easiest climb on Oahu. Should you choose to go past that, it becomes really exciting!
Pele’s Chair Trail: A short, level walk to a distinctive lava rock formation—better still, to a quiet beach cove!
Popular Hawaiian Hiking Trails in Windward Oahu
A quite short but steep climb up the ridge of a hilltop to WWII training bunkers and the most amazing view of Kaneohe Bay is the Puu Maelieli Trail! ignores many of the Hawaii film sites.
- Maunawili Falls Trail: A pleasant muddy romp in the rainforest leading to a freshwater pond and little waterfall. From the nearby cliffs, the water is nearly deep enough for jumping.
A quite simple climb to the top of a low ridge, Lanikai Pillboxes Trail offers views across all of Kailua Bay, Lanikai Beach, and Waimanalo Beach, as well as WWII ruins!
Friendship Garden Kaneohe is a publicly accessible, privately owned garden. It boasts a wonderful view of Kaneohe Bay and a distinctive variety of tropical trees!
Popular Hawaiian Hikes on Oahu’s North Shore
Kaena Point: one of two routes to reach the most isolated extremity of the island. Along the lovely North Beach stroll are several tide pools.
Popular Hawaii Hikes on OAHU’s West Shore
Kaena Point: The alternate path to Oahu’s far-off western point. View Waianae Valley from granite arches and get amazing perspective!
Hiking on Hawaii offers an incredible array of experiences, from challenging climbs to serene walks, all enriched by the island’s natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, hiking in Hawaii promises unforgettable adventures.