1871 Trail

The 1871 Trail is an historic section of the larger King's Trail that traces the Island Of Hawai'i's west side. This section of the trail is a 2.6 mile out-and-back with optional short loop section accessible within Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. 

The most direct way to enter the trail is through the traffic gate to the left of the park Visitor Center when approaching from the parking area. A signed course follows a path carved out on the surface of the lava rock as it skirts several cultural sites in the park that are inaccessible otherwise. The trail through here is straight and rocky, though you might catch views of the feral goat population that lives in the rocky environs of this part of the island.

Just over a half mile in is the Alahaka Ramp, originally constructed in the 1800's to connect the lowland area to the Ki'ilae Village which sits higher up on the cliffside (prior to this ramp visitors to the village were forced to climb a ladder which straddled the cliffs to reach the village). The section around the ramp, as well as views into the bays below and across the palm lined shores are the highlight of this trail. 

Beyond the Alahaka Ramp, the trail continues, passing near a couple cliffside vantage points of bays below, then heading back into the forest and following a generally straight path. Several more smaller ruins sit along the path, but the trail eventually reaches a sign announcing the National Park boundary, beyond which it continues, but with noticeably poorer maintenance. A vault toilet is the lone landmark down here, and we found it best to turn around.

After descending the ramp on the return route, signs mark a fork where the trail makes an optional loop path, heading past several more structures before paralleling the sea on flat rocks and reaching a large picnic area. This loop section is scenic, and definitely recommended to see this area too. There is also access to the historical core areas of the park from along this route.

The 1871 Trail lies within Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park and is subject to park rules, hours and entry fees.