| Tucked into an earthen fold along the Pauoa Ridge is a hidden 70-foot waterfall. Beware, not only is this in restricted watershed but it is very confusing and the lack of a well-defined trail may be quite agitating for those in a hurry. |
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Description: Ironically, though thousands drive through Nuuanu Valley each day, this trail remains one of the best kept secrets on Oahu. The idea in reaching Lulumahu Falls is to find the best path toward the waterfall instead of expecting to follow a defined trail. Following a series of stream-side trails, pig hunter paths, and feral pig swaths (often in no particular order) you eventually reach a dead-end at which a beautiful waterfall flows down the steep rock face. You can't swim in this shallow pool, however, but it makes a great lunchspot on a hot day. Another valuable feature of this trail are the ruins of Kaniakapupu - the summer residence of Kamehameha III and a wonderful highlight of Hawaiian folklore. For additional cultural/historical info, click More Info. What to Expect: Lulumahu Falls is one of the easiest yet most confusing trails on the island. The Nuuanu territory is heavily vegetated yet is equally thick with pig and hunter trails crisscrossing each other. The confusion is not the lack of trail markings but the existence of too many. Marker ribbons are scattered all over the place. In fact, following ribbons may or may not get you lost. However, while the trail might disappear here and now, there definitely is a trail to Lulumahu Falls. Probably the most confusing section happens when you reach the ruins of Kaniakapupu. Finding the continuation of the trail is really confusing at this point! One should remember to follow the stream as a worst case scenario. The actual trail (there actually is one if you can find it and follow it!) takes you on a straight-line shortcut as the stream meanders, saving you some time. Upstream and uphill (but don't go up any ridges if you happen to come across any). Just keep heading upstream. (You can't blow past the waterfall - it's too steep.) Trailhead Location: The trailhead is neither marked nor maintained. It is in the vicinity of Nuuanu Reservoir on the right side along Nuuanu Pali Road (as you climb uphill). Accessing the Trail: Due to its watershed status, be very careful of this trail. In 2002, five hikers were issued citations by Honolulu Police for trespassing and were forced to appear in court. Police were tipped by a disgruntled hunter who saw the hikers in the area. Property/Access: Dangers/Other Considerations: |
 Kaniakapupu Ruins (circa 1840s) |
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 Kaniakapupu Ruins (plaque) |
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 Lulumahu Stream Crossing |
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 Lulumahu Falls (approx. 70 feet high) |
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 Lulumahu Falls (base of waterfall) |
| What the books say... | |
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| Hawaiian Hiking Trails Craig Chisholm |
Not listed |
| Hawaii's Best Hiking Trails Robert Smith | Not listed |
| The Hikers Guide to O'ahu Stuart Ball |
Not listed |