If you love hiking, then you must plan a trip to Hawaii. It’s the only state in the United States that is blessed with scenery, volcanic landscapes and epic vistas. Needless to say, all these contribute to a never before hiking experience.
In this blog, we’ve provided a list of 7 hikes in Hawaii that you must experience when in Hawaii.
Stairway to Heaven –
The Stairway to Heaven, also known as, Haiku Stairs, is one of the most popular attractions on the entire island. According to legends, the stairs were built by the United States Navy for transmitting signals to the Pacific command. In 1950, it was permanently decommissioned.
The 3922 stairs lead to a mountain ridge that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. However, using the staircase is illegal. You can use the ‘back way’ up trail to hike up to the Moanalua Valley though.
Kaena Point –
The western-most tip of Oahu has a spiritual reputation. According to Hawaiian folklore, it is the place where souls travel after death for migrating into the otherworld.
From the parking lot itself, you can access the starting point of the hike. You can start either from the northern or southern side. An easy three-mile walk will take you the lighthouse, which marks the end point of the trail. The beach is serene and peaceful and offers a fantastic view of the monk seals.
The Diamond Head Trail –
This trail has been named after Oahu’s most popular landmark – the Diamond Head. Diamond Head is a massive volcanic rock that spans about 450 acres.
Though the climb to the top is just two miles, the terrain is steep and risky. However, on reaching the summit, you’ll be able to witness one of the most mind-soothing views of the Hawaiian coast that makes the hike worthwhile.
The Manoa Falls Trail –
It is a relatively easy hike that leads to Manoa Falls. If you’re fond of witnessing nature in all her glory, you mustn’t miss this hike at any cost.
Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, you’ll fall in love with Manoa falls the moment you reach the point. And if you’re lucky, you may even get to witness the rainbows and color prisms.
The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail –
The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail is about two miles long each way and is known to offer some of the best views in Hawaii.
The namesake of this trail, that is, the Makapuu Lighthouse, makes it one of the most popular hikes in Hawaii. These days, this lighthouse is inaccessible but can be seen from a reasonable distance. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see dolphins or whales.
The Pearl Harbour Historic Trail –
If you’re keen to know about America’s past, then this is a hike you cannot afford to miss. The December 7th, 1941 Japanese bombing of the United States Naval Base in Pearl Harbor came as a total surprise. It was the beginning of America’s involvement in World War II.
Now, you can walk a nearly six-mile-long stretch of land which offers a visual history of this area of Hawaii. The trail is moderate and fairly easy. The hike ends with an emotional walk through the Pacific National Monument and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Mauna Kea
The Mauna Kea is the highest mountain in Hawaii. Though its height above the Mean Sea Level is just about 14,000 feet, it would have been the tallest peak in the world if it was measured from the ocean floor.
Not surprisingly, this is one of the toughest Hawaii hiking trails. But the tough climb is worth the effort. On reaching the top, you’ll be able to witness one of the most spectacular sunsets in the world.
So, this was our list of top 7 hikes in Hawaii that you must experience at least once in your lifetime.
Let us know your thoughts in the comment section, or if you think we’ve missed any. Happy hiking!