Nestled in the heart of Oahu, Hawaii, the Manoa Falls Trail offers a mesmerizing journey through a lush tropical rainforest, culminating in a breathtaking view of the 150-foot Manoa waterfall. This trail is a testament to Oahu’s natural beauty, providing hikers with an experience that feels straight out of a movie scene. In fact, parts of this trail have been used for filming iconic movies and TV series, such as Jurassic Park and Lost.
Trail Overview
The Manoa Falls Trail is a relatively short hike, spanning approximately 1.6 miles round trip. Despite its length, the trail offers a diverse range of terrains and sights. As you embark on this journey, you’ll traverse through dense jungles, cross wooden bridges, and encounter a variety of native Hawaiian flora and fauna.
Elevation: 600 Feet
Length: 1.6 Miles Round Trip
Duration: 60 to 90 Minutes
Terrain: Gradual Climb, Muddy, Rocky
Difficulty: Easy to Medium
Starting the Journey
The trailhead is conveniently located at the end of Manoa Road. While there’s a paid parking lot available for $7 per car ($4 for Kama’aina & Military), some hikers opt to park in the nearby residential neighborhood and walk up to the trailhead. From the trailhead, you’ll begin your ascent, crossing a bridge and slowly hiking up the sides of the deep rainforest valley.
As you venture deeper into the trail, you’ll be surrounded by a dense canopy of guava trees, eucalyptus, banyan trees, and tall bamboo. The air is often filled with the sweet scent of wild ginger and guava. The trail is well-maintained, with sections laid with gravel to help hikers navigate the muddy areas. However, it’s essential to wear proper footwear as the path can get slippery, especially after rain.
Reaching the Waterfall
The climax of the hike is, without a doubt, the Manoa waterfall. As you approach the end of the trail, the sound of cascading water becomes more pronounced. Before you know it, you’ll be standing in front of the majestic 150-foot waterfall. A cable now keeps visitors several feet from the pool due to a massive rockfall in 2002. While swimming used to be a popular activity at the base of the waterfall, it’s now discouraged due to the potential dangers posed by the rockslide.
What to Bring
- Good hiking shoes: The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
- A light hooded rain jacket: Manoa Valley is known for its frequent rainfall.
- Mosquito repellent: The dense jungle is home to many mosquitoes.
- Bottled water and a light snack: Stay hydrated and energized during your hike.
- Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning views and lush greenery.
- Change of clothes: A pair of shorts, shirt, and flip-flops can be handy after the hike.
Getting to Manoa Falls from Waikiki
By Car:
- Follow Kapahulu St out of Waikiki up to the H-1 Freeway.
- Take H-1 West towards the Airport.
- Take the Punahoe Exit and follow Punahoe Rd up towards the mountains.
- Punahoe Rd turns into Manoa Rd. Follow it all the way to the top.
By Bus:
Take the #5 Manoa Bus from the Ala Moana Shopping Center to the last bus stop up Manoa Road. This stop is near where you’d park your vehicle. From there, walk up to the trail starting point.
FAQs
- How long is Manoa Falls trail?
The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip. - How to get to Manoa Falls trail?
The trailhead is located at the end of Manoa Road. There’s a paid parking lot available, or you can park in the nearby neighborhood. - Is Manoa Falls trail open today?
The trail is generally open year-round, but it’s essential to check for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.
The Manoa Falls Trail is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Oahu. Its accessibility, combined with its stunning natural beauty, makes it a favorite among both locals and tourists. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll in nature, the Manoa Falls Trail promises an unforgettable experience.