IN MOTION

Manoa Falls Trail

Manoa Falls Hiking Trail

Just a short trek from the concrete of Honolulu, deep in Manoa valley, you will discover a tranquil place to spend half the day hiking, running or walking. The roughly 1.5 mile Manoa Falls trail starts just a few steps from the 200 acre Lyon Arboretum, where you can view native plants or a Loi field. The trail landscape continually changes, but never looses an ancient feel as it meanders along a small creek. On a dry day the trail is a leisure stroll, but when the rains come navigation can be a bit slippery. In about 20minutes of hiking the adventure seemingly ends with a rewarding view of Manoa Falls. But don't get trapped into taking a picture and turning around, like most of the people that explore this part of the valley. Rather just before the waterfall, on the left hand-side, you will catch the glimpse of a trail that wanders higher up, and deeper into the valley. If you have the time, take this road-less-traveled for a rewarding view of the next valley over.

As the trail switchbacks through exciting vegetation and vistas it crosses a bright green bamboo forest., which is always a pleasant treat for the eyes and makes you wish you could scale to the top of their delicate stems, like the movies. Sometimes you can catch sight of a white parrot and other bird life. Make sure you turn around before you get too tired or run out of water, as you will need to take the same trail back.  If you are looking to explore the simple beauty of Hawaii’s valleys, then Manoa Falls trail is a must-see for locals and visitors alike.  

Getting there: Head towards the mountain on University Ave., driving past the University of Hawaii campus. Turn right onto Manoa Road. The road dead-ends at the trail head and a dirt parking lot.  You can also park before the road dead-ends in the nearby neighborhood.

Details: The Manoa Falls trail is open year round. Bring water. Please stay on the trail and out of the water.  The Arboretum is open to the public on weekdays from 9 AM to 4 PM, and on Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM; admission is free.

Click to Book go Mokulele Flight