| DIFFICULTY | LENGTH | ELEVATION GAIN | ROUTE TYPE |
| Intermediate | ~6 mi (RT) / 2 – 3 hr | ~ 800 ft | Out & Back |
Feel like a nice short hike with a splash at the end, try Waimano Falls Trail. Be prepared though, although it’s a relatively short trail to the pools, there are some deep descents on the way down and ascents on the way up. At the end of the hike you’ll be rewarded with a waterfall and the pools it feeds into. Be aware though, if the weather’s been dry, the waterfall shrinks to a trickle and the pools become more stale, so it’s best to go after recent rain (though the muddy, slippery trail the rain creates has its own downsides).
The beginning of your trek to Waimano Falls shares the same trail as Manana Ridge Trail which is paved at the beginning and still relatively flat after the concrete turns to dirt. Then, about a mile in you’ll meet a fork in the trail. Go left and you’ll be on you’re way to the Ko’olau summit, but today we’re going right, and heading down the valley below where the falls await. Part of this descent has earned the nickname “Cardiac Hill”, so you can be sure it’ll be a workout. Be careful as you make you’re way down the steep root-veined hill. Once at the bottom you’ll finally there. Cool off with a dip in the pools or splash right in by jumping off a nearby rocky perch, there’s even a rope setup to swing into the water.
You can find street parking at the top of Komo Mai Dr, near where the trail begins. Be respectful though, it’s a quiet residential neighborhood.
Your request has been submitted successfully.
