There’s no doubt about it: the Hawaiian Islands are easily one of the greatest hiking destinations in the country – and maybe even the world. With miles and miles of trails that ascend mountains, traverse ridgelines, and lead to breathtaking natural beauty, Hawaii is truly a hiker’s paradise. But not all trails are created equal, and this gem, though lesser-known, is one of our current favorites – especially if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu for a while. Let’s see why Makiki Valley Hawaii is a paradise within a paradise.

Measuring in at just 2.5 miles, the Makiki Valley Trail leads you on an expeditious adventure through the Hawaiian jungle without having to drive outside of the Honolulu city limits, and we seriously can’t get enough.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Ready to get away from it all? Your journey will begin just 3.6 miles from the infamous Tantalus Lookout at the Hawaii Nature Center in the marvelous Makiki Valley.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
This loop is actually a combination of three trails within the Na Ala Hele Trail & Access System.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
As you stand at the trailhead, you’ll find Kanealole to the left, and Maunalaha to the right, both named after the streams that run alongside them. These trails are connected at the far end by the Makiki Valley Trail, which, when strung together, form one of the island’s best forest hikes.
Head left, and you’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll past a bubbling brook. Head right, and you’ll face a beastly incline and a maze of knotted roots and rocks. Either way, you go, you will experience some elevation gain and will want to be prepared with sturdy shoes.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr

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While you might want to look down at your footing, don’t forget to pause and look up every once in a while.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Not only will you discover draping vines, but parrots and other exotic birds have been sighted in this area. Why? Well, rumor has it that they are a relic of Paradise Park, a bird park that once operated one valley over in Manoa.
Tree branches have formed tunnels, providing ample shade, and even on a hot day, you’ll still experience the tropical breeze as it makes its way through the valley.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
Descend into a gulch, cross a few springs past mountain apple trees, and enjoy views of the valley stretching into the sea.
You’ll approach an important junction midway through your journey.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
There is a bench to sit and catch your breath or enjoy a snack at the junction with Ualaka’a Trail, which leads upwards into a maze of trails that give hikers the ability to tailor each hike to their particular desires on any given day. This area is an absolute paradise for hikers of all skill levels.
This hike truly has it all: not only will you enjoy a pretty decent workout but you will also feel as though you’ve entered a fairytale forest.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
So, what are you waiting for? A hike along the Makiki Valley Trail is sure to leave you feeling accomplished and refreshed. Just don’t forget your camera!

Let's head out on the Makiki Valley Loop Trail in Hawaii to see what kinds of gorgeous sights you will experience when you come to visit:

Makiki Valley Hawaii is an enchantingly beautiful area. Have you ever embarked on the enchanting Makiki Valley Trail? If so, share your experience with us in the comments. Then, discover another Hawaiian forest hike that showcases another side of Oahu.

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More to Explore

More fantastic hiking trails in Hawaii

Chris Muras | April 28, 2023

What are some of the best hikes in Hawaii?

 

There are countless hikes in Hawaii that are worth mentioning. Here are some of the best hikes in Hawaii near you that you may not have heard about yet:

  • Kuilau Trail, Wailua, HI: This tropical jungle hike offers stunning views of Mount Wai’ale’ale. It is one of the wettest places on the island, but the vibe is pure rainforest and the views are epic. The hike is a little strenuous at times over the 4.5-mile journey mostly because of the mud you'll have to trudge through. Other than that, it is an easy hike.
  • Kapalua Coastal Trail, Kapalua, HI: Part boardwalk, partly paved trail, this easy-going trek with ocean views is a lovely way to spend the afternoon. Not all hikes in Hawaii need to be death-defying to be enjoyable. If you are looking for a nice stroll, this is the perfect 3.5-mile trail.
  • Goat With The Flow Hike, Pahoa, HI: Ah, Hawaii, the land of tropical animals, abundant sea life, and goats. Goats? This is one of the most unique hikes in all of Hawaii. Explore old lava flows as you trek this otherworldly landscape with a herd of goats. They will even carry some of your bags if you want them to.
  • Kilauea Iki Trail, Big Island, HI: Another cool volcano hike is this epic adventure. This volcano in the Volcanoes National Park erupted not that long ago in 1959. On this four-mile loop trail, you'll pass through lush rainforests, steam and sulfur vents, and the solidified lava lake. As you hike over the lava-scared land you can imagine what it must have looked like as it was cooling with vibrant red lava seeping through the cracks.

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Featured Addresses
Makiki Valley Loop Trail, 2131 Makiki Heights Drive, Honolulu, HI, 96822