The largest Hawaiian island, Oahu, is known for its iconic landmarks, beaches, dining, and the variety of things it offers. One of the top activities to do in Oahu is to surf, as this island is known for its powerful waves, but if it's too flat to head out you may consider the second best outdoor activity, hiking.
Hiking in Oahu
Oahu is filled with over 230 beautiful hiking trails scattered throughout the island, all of which vary in length and intensity. Whether you’re looking to do your first-ever hike or maybe you’re a pro, Oahu has a hike catered to every level.
What to Expect When Hiking in Oahu
If you’re preparing to hike one of the Oahu trails, it should be noted that these trails are a bit different than those found on the mainland and there are several important factors to consider.
Closed trails: Many popular trails have been labeled “closed” or “illegal.” While you will still find a few hikers disregarding these notices, there are often police lingering nearby that can ruin your day with a hefty fine so continue at your own risk.
Parking: A handful of the hiking trails do not have large lots for hikers to park in, let alone lots in general. Most places that hikers can park are unmarked and it is first-come, first-served so planning a hike earlier in the morning is best to secure a spot.
Check the weather: You should always check the weather before heading out on your hikes but in Oahu, it is particularly important due to rainfall and flash floods. If your trail has any waterways, they can become dangerous with heavy rainfall. Trails also get muddy and become a slipping hazard. Combined with the wind, this situation will be far from fun.
Gear Needed to Hike in Oahu
Do not go on a hike unprepared, no matter how easy you think the trail may be. When prepping for your Oahu hike, make sure you have at least the following: A backpack, a portable charger, a hat, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, snacks, a downloaded map and a small first aid kit just in case. For more advanced hikes, consider bringing trekking poles, long pants, hiking boots and a flashlight.
The 5 Best Hiking Spots in Oahu
While there are several other spectacular trails within Oahu, below you will find five of the best-rated hiking spots that range in difficulty but all offer equally breathtaking views.
Diamond Head Crater: Built in 1908 as part of Oahu’s coastal defense system, this 1.9-mile trail is a moderate-level hike that will take you roughly an hour or so to complete. Open year-round, this spot is very popular as it is beautiful no matter the season. The trail begins in the middle of the Diamond Head volcanic crater and continues upwards an additional 500 feet, offering view after view every step of the way.
Koko Crater: Close to Diamond Head Crater is Koko Crater, which is considered to be a hard hike that will take roughly an hour and a half to complete the 1.6-mile trail. This is another popular spot that is open year-round. Here, you will be rewarded with views of Honolulu’s shoreline, Hanauma Bay, and parts of Moloka'i. Within this trail, there is a bridge with no solid ground below but don’t worry, there’s a bypass trail if you are not willing to test your luck that day.
Mānoa Falls Trail: This 1.8-mile, 577-foot elevated hike is located within the lush rainforest and leads to the base of Manoa Falls in the Manoa Valley. It takes around an hour to complete and is considered to be moderate in terms of difficulty. The trail is home to some of the scenes filmed in popular shows and movies such as Jurassic Park and Lost.
Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail: This is another moderate hike but it is a bit longer at 2.5 miles and takes roughly an hour and twelve minutes to finish. Hikers will be able to take in views of the coast as well as the Makapu'u Lighthouse that overlooks the sea below. This is also a great spot to head over to during whale season, as you will likely see a few humpback whales.
Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail: If you’re not ready for a challenge, do not attempt this trail. This is a difficult 4.4-mile trail that takes around three hours to complete. In terms of elevation, it is a 1,666-foot elevation gain. On your hike, you will get to experience Kuli’ou’ou Ridge and other jaw-dropping landscapes Oahu has to offer. The challenge is worth it; however, muddy trails and slippery sections are common so be prepared.
Conclusion: Hiking in Oahu
When the waves in Oahu are simply not up to par, then you can’t go wrong with a hike, as there are so many that the area has to offer. If you’re planning to try out a trial, make sure to pack all of your essentials, check the weather beforehand and be prepared to be rewarded by all of the landscapes and scenery there is to take in along the way.
Коментари