Puu Pia Trail

Trailhead

Description: This is a tame and totally graded trail that traverses the east forest of Manoa Valley to the top of a small peak called Puu Pia (elev. 880-ft). The peak is actually the high-point of a spur ridge which extends from Waahila Ridge. The trail ascends to the spur's level point (about midway from the top of Waahila Ridge) before it continues a sharp descent to the valley floor. What to Expect: After passing the chained entrance, the relatively wide trail continues under a nicely forested canopy making a gradual ascent to an obvious trail fork about 10 minutes into the trail. At the dark, shady fork, at which is a picnic table and shelter, continue left (the right fork is the Kolowalu Trail) at the wooden signpost. From here, proceed along a slightly steeper path with tree roots scattered about. Essentially, the trail makes a direct, northeastward climb of the somewhat wide gulch formed on the south side between Waahila Ridge and the spur to Puu Pia. Once it reaches the indescript saddle (elev. 800-ft), the trail swings left and climbs along the top of the spur. You leave the shade of the forest canopy once you reach the spur-line. There is a bench at the first hump. The next hump over, marked by electric/telephone poles, marks the end of the trail and is the final high-point before the spur descends to the Manoa Valley floor. Puu Pia juts out into Manoa Valley. The views include everything in Manoa Valley through downtown Honolulu and the Koolau crest to the Konahuanui peaks in the distance. However, trees and shrubs tend to obstruct what would be almost-360-degree views. Trailhead Location: The Kolowalu and Puu Pia trails share the same trailhead (and initial trail) situated at the end of a short, private road along Alani Drive. This private road, on which there are five homes attached, is where Alani Drive makes a sharp bend to the right into Woodlawn Drive. The closest address is 3670 Alani Drive. The trailhead is marked by posted official Na Ala Hele metal signs at both the entrance to and end of the private road. As described above (What to Expect), hike beyond the trailhead to the fork to reach the marked Puu Pia Trail. There is no parking at the trailhead nor along the private road. Street-side parking can be found within the residential area along Alani Drive or E. Manoa Road. Accessing the Trail: This is an open, public-access trail maintained by Na Ala Hele. To reach the trailhead, enter Manoa Valley and take East Manoa Road all the way past Manoa Marketplace. Continue along the right fork (still on E. Manoa Road) until you reach Alani Drive. Property/Access: Landowner: State of Hawaii Dangers/Other Considerations: As with all hiking, exercise caution and prudent judgement.