Nuuanu Trail
(Pauoa Ridge)

Trailhead

Description: This trail, part of Na Ala Hele's Honolulu Mauka Trail System, ascends one of Pauoa Ridge's side spurs to the top of Pauoa Ridge itself. The climb begins in the shady, forested, outer portion of the ridge with occasional, but wonderful, views of Nuuanu Valley. Once the ridgeline is achieved, the trail follows the graded path on the inner side of Pauoa Ridge all the way to Pauoa Flats. Nice views of the Tantalus peak keep you company along the way. Na Ala Hele: "...The lower section of this trail may be difficult for novice hikers." What to Expect: No doubt about it, this is an uphill trail. But unlike it's nearby cousins (Aihualama, Kolowalu), the trail remains relatively interesting throughout the ascent because of the varied plant life along the way and changing scenery which opens up in the middle of the climb. Most of this trail is shaded by a thick forest canopy until reaching the ridgeline. The trail is not significantly steep enough to require any four-point climbing, but a good pace will definitely raise your pulse and get you sweaty. The trail becomes easier to navigate as you ascend, leaving the pine forest behind. The views of Nuuanu Valley definitely open up as you get to the middle elevation of the trail, just before you reach the ridge's turnover point. At the turnover, where you begin hiking on the inside portion of the ridge, the views now include the Tantalus peak (elev. 2,013-ft) and metro Honolulu. Trailhead Location: The lower trailhead is the junction approximately a quarter-mile along the upper portion of Judd Memorial Trail. The upper trailhead is the junction with the Pauoa Flats Trail about halfway between the Aihualama Trail junction and the Kalawahine Trail junction. Accessing the Trail: This trail requires another to reach it. From the bottom, use the Judd Memorial Trail. From the top, use the Pauoa Flats Trail. (That trail, ironically, is also accessed via other trails.) Property/Access: Public/open. Public access and trail maintained by Na Ala Hele. Dangers/Other Considerations: Be careful and pay attention as you hike - especially at the bottom! While the trail is graded, it has suffered serious erosion attributed to heavy rain falls and hikers constantly short-cutting through switchbacks. There are many side trails used by hunters and wanderers which criss-cross the lower switchbacks. As a result, pick your path conscientiously. As with all hiking, exercise caution and prudent judgement.