Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
925.00 ft (281.94 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
3.50 mi (5.63 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Kuilau Ridge Trail begins at a slightly higher elevation and traces an old abandoned roadbed up a slope to some expansive views toward the mountains in the island's interior.

It starts out following the roadbed, which is now just a double track cleared by the tracks of the moderate number of hikers that this trail sees. The path climbs past trees and to opening views. Expect to sweat a little bit here as the trail maintains its uphill stride pretty consistently for the first 1.25 miles. At that point, the trail hits a clearing with a table scenically overlooking the nearby Mount Wai'ale'ale. It's a great place for a snack and just to catch your breath and take in the island's lush expansiveness.

Beyond here, the trail is a bit trickier to follow, as it first rounds a narrow ridge and continues up a series of small muddy curves and switchbacks, before coming to an end at a wooden bridge where it meets the Moalepe Trail.

From here, retrace your route downhill to the parking area.

If it's a hot day, you can walk slightly further up the road to the Keahua Arboretum swimming hole just around the corner. 

There is a very limited number of parking spaces at the gated trailhead. If parking is full, continue slightly further to park at the Keahua Arboretum. 

There is no water or amenities at the trailhead or along the hike. Come prepared. And expect to end up sweaty and muddy from this hike.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Excellent views. Cooler elevation. Near swimming hole.

Cons

Very limited parking. Trail ends abruptly.

Trailhead Elevation

520.00 ft (158.50 m)

Highest point

1,050.00 ft (320.04 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Wildlife
Big vistas
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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