Underrated State Park Hikes in Hawaii That Rival Popular Island Trails

When I travel to the different Hawaiian Islands, I always have a hiking trail on my itinerary. And I’m not alone. Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities on the Islands, with some trails seeing hundreds of hikers a day.

While I do love many of these popular trails like Manoa Falls on Oahu, there are many lesser-known trails that deserve just as much attention. In fact, located within several of Hawaii’s state parks are underrated trails that rival the most popular hikes around the Islands. Below are six of these underrated state park trails that you may want to add to your next Hawaiian adventure. 

1. Kalōpā Native Forest Trail, Kalōpā State Recreation Area

• Location: Honokaa, Hawaii
• Length: 0.9 miles

A short and sweet trail perfect for the entire family, the Kalōpā Native Forest Trail is a gorgeous stroll through a lush forest on the Big Island. This loop trail is less than a mile long and has signs along the way identifying the various trees and other vegetation you’ll pass by. Take your time and enjoy the views, and even keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. This is a short adventure with so much to see and admire, you'll fall even more in love with this island as you explore.

2. Ke Ala Loa O Maui / Piilani Trail, Waiʻānapanapa State Park

• Location: Hana, Hawaii
• Length: 2.1 miles

The Ke Ala Loa O Maui / Piilani Trail may be one of our favorite trails on Maui. In just over two miles, you’ll experience pure beauty. You’ll capture remarkable ocean views, gawk at blowholes, and traverse lava rock. There is little shade on this trail, so you’ll want to come prepared. And don't forget that you will need to pay an entry fee into the state park to access this trail.

3. Phallic Rock and Kaulaupapa Lookout, Pala’au State Park

• Location: Kualapuu, Hawaii
• Length: 0.7 miles

One of our favorite places to visit on the Island of Moloka’i, Pala’au State Park is a gem that deserves a spot on every bucket list. And when there, tackle the easy Phallic Rock and Kaulaupapa Lookout Trail. Along your journey, you’ll hike through lush jungle to a stone that is believed to have incredible fertility properties. You’ll also enjoy remarkable views of the ocean and the Kalaupapa Peninsula. It’s an easy trek with Hawaiian scenery, history, and traditions.

4. Nākoa Trail, Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park

• Location: Windward side of Oahu
• Length: 4 miles

This four-mile loop trail within Oahu’s Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park is a place where you can escape the crowds and enjoy the backcountry. This trail takes you through the rainforest of Kahana Valley and is full of a few surprises including incredible vegetation and old bunkers and roads from when the military used this area as a training site during World War II. Come prepared for mud, stream crossings, bugs, wildlife sightings, and an adventure you won’t forget.

5. Pu’u Piei Trail, Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park

• Location: Windward side of Oahu
• Length: 2.4 miles

The Pu’u Piei Trail is not going to be an easy trek within Oahu’s Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park, but it’s going to be a beautiful one. This 2.4-mile journey will require a very steep climb. In fact, in some places, you’ll need to use the provided ropes to pull yourself up—sturdy footwear is a must on this hike. However, once you get to the top, get ready for jaw-dropping scenery. Not everyone will get to experience these views ... only those willing to put forth the effort. 

6. Kukui Trail, Waimea Canyon State Park

• Location: Waimea, Hawaii
• Length: 4.4 miles

You will have an adventure of a lifetime on this state park trail on Kauai. You will drop more than 2,000 feet onto the Waimea Canyon floor, where you’ll enjoy river, waterfall, and canyon views. Whether you are hiking from the top or the bottom, you’ll have an experience to remember. Just be prepared for a steep and slippery climb in places and take plenty of breaks. You don’t want to rush through the canyon landscape that will surround you no matter where you are on this journey.

You may find that several of your favorite Hawaii hikes are lesser-known and just as incredible as those that draw in dozens of people each day. Plan your own trip with Only In Your State's itinerary planner.