Maunalaha Trail
(Makiki Valley)

Trailhead

Description: This trail continually ascends the Makiki ridgeline between Kanealole and Maunalaha Gulches, the majority of which stays either on top of the narrow ridge or contours slightly to the side. While it parallels Maunalaha Stream, the trail remains high and clear from any sight or sound of it. The thick kukui and eucalyptus forest gives way to the occasional view of downtown Honolulu. Of the three trails that make up the popular Makiki Valley Loop, Maunalaha Trail comprises the "east" up/downhill section. Connect the two forks in the loop via the Makiki Valley Trail. What to Expect: Just after the lower trailhead (T-junction), the trail proceeds makai for a short distance before making a single switchback onto the ridgeline. Proceed uphill the rest of the way. The upper trailhead is at a four-way junction with a bench and wooden trail directory featuring Na Ala Hele's Honolulu Mauka Trail System map. On the far (west) side (by the directory), the Makiki Valley Trail initially proceeds downhill. To the right is a very short continuation of Makiki Valley Trail which splits about 0.1-mile uphill into the Moleka and Ualakaa (upper trailhead) Trails. Right next to the Maunalaha Trail is the Ualakaa Trail's lower trailhead. There are some differences with its neighboring ridge trail to the west (Kanealole Trail). For example, once you leave either junction behind, there is virtually no other human touch along the trail save hikers and a falling rocks pictoral sign posted within the lower elevations. There are views along Maunalaha Trail, the forest tends to be large, tall trees only (little to no underbrush), and the terrain is significantly narrow with steepslopes on either side. Something interesting to note: the shade of green in the gulch to the east (Maunalaha Gulch) is darker and bluer than in Kanealole Gulch. Distances: It is approximately 0.7-mile (one-way) from the official trailhead to the four-way junction with Makiki Valley and Ualakaa Trails. Trailhead Location: Lower trailhead: The Maunalaha and Kanealole Trails share the same (lower) trailhead. From within the parking lot, between the Hawaii Nature Center and the DLNR Baseyard, follow the posted metal pointer signs on the makai side. Pass the concrete restrooms and cross the stream via a fenced, concrete bridge. A sign after the crossing will point you to the left. Turn left and continue uphill about 0.1-mile until you reach a T-intersection heavily marked with posted metal signs (including a sign entirely in Korean). The Maunalaha Trail leads to the right. (The Kanealole Trail leads to the left.) Upper trailhead: The upper trailhead is the four-way junction accessible via Makiki Valley or Ualakaa Trails, both on the side of Round Top Drive. Accessing the Trail: The Hawaii Nature Center, site of the lower trailhead, is located in the Makiki Forest Recreation Area which is along Makiki Heights Drive. From H-1, Koko Head-bound (eastward) drivers can use the Punahou St. exit to turn left/uphill onto Punahou St., then turn left at either the Wilder or Nehoa Ave. intersection (your choice!). On H-1, Ewa-bound (westward) drivers can use the Wilder St. exit. From either Wilder or Nehoa Ave, turn mauka (uphill) onto Makiki St. Almost immediately, turn left before Baker Park onto Makiki Heights Dr (be careful here: you’ll be tempted to drive straight past this small park!). Continue 0.5-mile until you reach an elbow in the road that turns sharply to the left. Look straight ahead: you should see a sign marking the entrance to the Makiki Forest Recreation Area. Drive in until you pass the Hawaii Nature Center on your right. You will see metal “Kanealole” (not Maunalaha) trailhead signs pointing out the parking lot you should use. Parking/Facilities: There is a parking lot which can hold 10 - 15 cars (depending on how users park). The trailhead contains a concrete structure with restrooms. A water fountain and relief model of Na Ala Hele's Honolulu Mauka trail system is available nearby. Property/Access: Open/public-access. This is a state park, public land, and access is not restricted. Be aware of the park gate closure time, however, which tends to be at sunset (or earlier). The time is posted at the entrance to the Makiki Forest Recreation Area. Dangers/Other Considerations: There are no unusual dangers with this trail. As with all hiking, exercise caution and prudent judgement.	Lower Trailhead (looking back on T-junction)
	Initial Stretch (enroute to switchback/ridgeline)
	Switchback (uphill to ridgeline)
	Lower Half (uphill, following ridgeline)
	Upper Half (uphill, contouring ridgeline)
	Below Upper Trailhead (looking downhill)
	Upper Trailhead (at four-way junction)