5 Hiking Trails in Hawaii

Be it the beaches, the wildlife, under sea adventures or the hiking trails, Hawaii is the dream destination for those who are looking for some rugged fun. The hiking trails are especially popular among those who like to rough it out, outdoors.

The Hawaiian hiking trails cover a range of diverse terrain providing a different experience on each of them.

Olomana Trail

Olomana Trail

One of the most difficult hiking trails, Olomana Trail, Oahu is known for its amazing views of the ocean and the mountains Kailua. The first peak on the trail is about 1.5 miles away and has an elevation of about 1000 feet ofering a panoramic view of the surroundings. The trail includes rock climbing and parts of it have sheer drops on both sides. The other two peaks are not as high but the hiking trail is not defined and even more difficult to traverse. The trail requires 1-3 hours to complete.

Diamond Head Summit Trail

Diamond Head Summit Trail

The very popular Diamond Head Summit Trail, offers picturesque views of Waikiki, Oahu. It also offers moderate difficulty with a steep climb. The round trip is a 1.5-mile hike, starting from the middle of the volcano crater and the hikers climb 560 feet to reach the crown of the rim. The hike may take 1-3 hours and includes a paved path, few steep switchbacks, flights of stairs and even a tunnel.  It is an exposed trail and the hikers should carry water and sun–protection.

Manana Trail

Manana Trail

An easy trail, that leads to a camping site, the Manana  Trail is 4 miles long and a good option for those who want to jog or run on the path. It lies just outside the Pearl City. Carry water and sun protection when using the trail.

Manoa Falls

Manoa Falls

A short 0.9-mile hike leads to the base of the Manoa falls. The trail passes through locations where the Jurassic park and the television series Lost were shot. The trail is muddy and requires proper footwear.

Wa’ahila Ridge

Wa'ahila Ridge

The Wa’ahila ridge trail begins at the lower ridge and ends at the beginning of MT Olympus. It is a 1.8-mile hike of moderate difficulty and takes about 1-3 hours to complete. The trail starts of as a wide path but soon it goes up and down the ridges with some rocky portions. The top view overlooks the Palolo and Manoa valley. The trail meets the Kolowalu Trail, which takes a steeper hike to MT Olympus. The region has geo-caches too. Hikers need to carry water and be careful of a huge beehive on the trail.