| A nice wilderness walk constructed into the base of the windward Koolau cliffs. This contour trail offers views of waterfall chutes, the Olomana peaks, and the major peaks along the southern Koolau spine. Great trail for botanists and birders, too! |
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Description: A state trail scouted by Richard (Dick) Davis, built with volunteers under the leadership of the Sierra Club and Na Ala Hele, construction into the base of the southern windward Koolau cliffs began in 1991. It contours the foothills behind Waimanalo to Kailua/Nuuanu Pali behind (mauka) the Olomana peaks. It is also known as Maunawili Demonstration Trail, Ko'olaupoko Trail, and Koolaupoko Trail. What to Expect: This was built as a graded trail so expect a relatively level hike. Of course, there are some ups and downs but the steepness is mild. The trail meanders low through the gullies forming the ripples in the gigantic Nuuanu Pali cliffs. The junction with the Maunawili Falls connector trail about 2.5 miles from the Nuuanu Pali trailhead leads down the 1.5-mile Maunawili Falls Trail. Trailhead Location: There are three clear-cut entry/exit points. Two are in the vicinity of the Pali Lookout, one is in Waimanalo. There are several lower ridge routes which have been used to connect with the trail, but they tend to be more obscure. North (Kailua) entry: The official trailhead is near the hairpin turn off Pali Hwy (on the Kailua side) at the scenic lookout parking lot. The unofficial connector trail junctions with the Old Pali Road (beyond a rock restraining fence) and with Maunawili Trail about 0.5-mile from the official trailhead. South (Waimanalo) entry: Along Waikupanaha St, just after Mahiku Pl, on the right side. Accessing the Trail: Use Pali Hwy to access either of the trailheads in Kailua. Use Kalanianaole Hwy to access the southern entry in Waimanalo. No permits required: this trail is public. Property/Access: Open, state-maintained trail/access. Dangers/Other Considerations: Other than normal trail dangers, this trail poses no significant additional risks. However, heavy rains may cause flash floods at stream beds and falling rocks. |
 Trail (Typical) |
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 Trail (Water Catchment Tank) |
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 Trail (Typical) |
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 Trail (Typical) |
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 Trail (Typical) |
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 View from Trail (Olomana Peaks) |
| 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 |
Danger: Low Skill: Novice/Int |