Kuliouou Valley Trail
(Kuliouou Stream)

Trailhead

Description: This valley trail branches away from the more serious Kuliouou Ridge Trail as that trail begins to switchback and gain altitude. It follows a relatively even, straight path deep into the dark valley forest. The hike parallels the intermittent Kuliouou Stream for the entire duration. What to Expect: The intersection from which the valley trail continues straight (and the ridge trail turns right) is 0.2-mile from the end of Kalaau Pl. The valley trail is a constructed foot-path relatively wide throughout most of the trek. While it is relatively free of underbrush, the overhead canopy can be quite thick in some spots making it a dark hike even during the brightest daylight. The most serious concern with this trail is the intermittent Kuliouou Stream which, with the exception of periods of significant rainfall, remains quite dry throughout most the year. There are no stream crossings to be aware of. However, the stagnant streambed is a prolific breeding ground for mosquitoes! Expect to be stalked by your own, personal band of hostile blood-suckers. Don't make any plans to stop nor spend any time not moving along the trail - these mosquitoes move in quickly! Officially, this trail ends at a small (often dry or merely trickling) waterfall. Thereafter, while the trail continues, it begins to peter out and become more rocky and uneven. The physical "end" to the trail occurs at the back of the valley and the only option is to climb straight up (not recommended). Trailhead Location: Both Kuliouou trails begin on the right-hand, mauka (uphill) side about 25 yards beyond the chained entrance to the Board of Water Supply access road at the end of Kalaau Pl. Several signs mark the beginning of the foot-trail, including one that reads: "Kuliouou Public Hunting Area". Accessing the Trail: Both trails are part of the Na Ala Hele inventory meaning they are open to the public and well-maintained. There is no designated parking except what hikers can find within the residential area on Kalaau Pl. Do not park along the cul-de-sac: it is designated "no parking". From either direction along Kalanianaole Hwy (Rte 72), turn at the traffic light onto Kuliouou Road and drive 0.3-mile to the end (stop sign). Do not continue straight for that housing complex is the Haleloa residential area (there are no trailheads there). Instead, follow Elelupe Road a block to the left, then make an immediate right back onto Kuliouou Road (yes, for some reason it is disjointed). Proceed 0.7-mile and turn right onto Kalaau Pl. Total distance between highway and trailhead: 1.3-miles. Property/Access: Open/public-access. Public access and trail maintenance overseen by Na Ala Hele. Dangers/Other Considerations: Both valley and ridge trails cross through the Kuliouou Public Hunting Area (Unit C) which is active year-round on weekends and state holidays. Goats and pigs are allowed to be hunted by means including dogs, rifle and bow & arrow. Remember that hunters are required to wearing blaze orange for visibility purposes - hikers are not. In other words, if they are wearing very bright colors, shouldn't you? Hunting regulations on open seasons and operating days are subject to change. Contact the Division of Forestry and Wildlife Oahu District Office (808-973-9778) for more infomation. This is a novice trail perfect for beginners and casual walkers. While that does not mean there are no dangers, the hazard levels encountered here are not nearly as great as with other trails. That being said, as with all hiking, exercise caution and prudent judgement.	BWS Access Road Entrance (end of Kalaau Place)
	Actual/Official Trailhead (approx 25-yards along road)
	Early Trail (prior to intersection)
	Trail Intersection (valley trail ahead, ridge trail to right)
	Kuliouou Valley Trail (initial section)
	Kuliouou Valley Trail (deeper in forest)
	Kuliouou Valley Trail (beyond official trail)