The Downhill Summer Tubing Adventure In Hawaii That’s Unlike Any Other
With near-perfect weather year-round and arguably some of the most incredible natural scenery in the world, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the country’s greatest adventures. From camping on the beach and visiting Waimea Canyon to waterfall hikes and skydiving, there is no greater place for an adventure than Hawaii. And while the options are almost endless, this hiking trail and downhill tubing excursion is easily one of the most unique things you can do in the Aloha State.
Tucked away in the Ewa Forest Reserve in the middle of Oahu far, far away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, the Wahiawa Hills Trail is easily one of the island’s most unique — but the hike itself isn’t even the best part.
This steep and slippery 4-mile loop trail follows a series of hills, thus the name "Wahiawa Hills" and is not for the inexperienced hiker. The trail is not well-marked and can be both confusing and overgrown at times, so it’s best to go with someone who has done the hike before.
Though you’ll only discover 500 feet of elevation difference between the highest and lowest points of the trail, hikers will endure a grueling journey that gains more than 2,000 feet in total along the steep hillsides. The continuous ups and downs are a real workout, but there is hope: you don’t have to hike the entire thing.
The pleasant river crossings and pools offer a serene reward at multiple points along the trail, and — if you go at the right time when the stream is at approximately three feet — you can tube down!
Do be warned, though: for anyone who is acclimated to Hawaii temperatures, the water will be freezing! If you can handle the cold, though, and don’t mind portaging your tube every once in a while when the water level gets too low, this is one experience you’ll never forget.
Do you have what it takes to tackle the adventure that is the Wahiawa Hills Trail and Kaukonahua Stream Tube? Start early in the morning, bring plenty of water and a floatie or two, and embark on the journey of a lifetime.
If you'd like to get a closer look at the trail before you attempt this excursion, check out this video from YouTube user Mauigirl1209.
Address: Wahiawā, HI 96712
Have you ever hiked up the Wahiawa Hills Trail and then tubed down the Kaukonahua Stream? If so, share your experience in the comments below. Then, click here to discover an easier tubing adventure on the northern tip of Hawaii Island.
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Megan is a freelance journalist residing near Honolulu, Hawaii. She is obsessed with hiking, beach trips, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
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