You can follow this trail over the valley floor and up the other side to the next valley: Honokane Nui. Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail: Hapuna Beach to Mauna Kea Beach, Puukohol Heiau National Historical Site Trail, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail: Mauna Kea Beach to Hapuna Beach, Kalahuipua'a Historic Park and Fishponds Loop, Muliwai and Waimanu Valley Trail [CLOSED]. Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. This short trail has beautiful coastal views. Views On my trips to the Big Island of Hawaii I have had the opportunity to hike down into both Pololu and Waipio Valleys and up the trails on the far rims towards Honopue and Waimanu Valleys respectively. We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. The Kohala coast of the Big Island stunned me yet again. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. further out and then walk to the end where the trail begins. The Pololu Ditch Trail into the valley leading to Kapoloa Falls was closed due to the Kona earthquake in October 2006. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. A lush tropical forest surrounded by almost 500 ft high cliffs and fronted by an ocean that more often than not has high surf and rough waves. Very steep. The trail down to the valley floor offers great views into Pololu Valley. From the beach facing the ocean, looking right (SE) we could see Kaluahine Falls funneling water into the ocean. By doing the hike, you . Consider making a stop there before you go to Pololu Valley, just in case! Great info Colleen and RJ. You should hike down with sturdy shoes or boots for the variable rocks, steps and slope factor. The wind blowing in the shrubs and trees and helicopters buzzing close over your head enhance the expansive view. The "beach" is nothing but boulders usually, and the view isn't worth the extra work. Bring a windbreaker or rain jacket just in case. Streams in the valley are susceptible to flash flooding. Wild horses, stray dog that followed us at the hip and protected us, amazing views, a river crossing, wild fruit along the way (pomelo). It's still worth coming here to enjoy the view from the lookout, which I believe is the most beautiful vantage on the island! There are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. explore and see in the area. Hood Moonlit Snowshoe Tour w/ Rare Earth Adventures, Product Review Recreating Liz Robbins Outfit with Modern Royal Robbins Clothing, Product Review Gregory Maya 10 Hiking Backpack, Product Review Kuhl Travel Pants: FreeFlex Move & Kultivtr Crop, Purple leggings while I got these years ago, here are a few lilac tights I found as of August 2022: These on. Hawaii Police said a 2000 Toyota 4Runner was traveling downhill on Waipio Access Road, when it experienced a brake failure and collided with a 2004 Ford Econoline, a tour van, traveling uphill. Waipio is a sacred area, we have never gone down it, because it seems disrespectful to go "touring" there. Waipi'o is a mile wide at the coast and almost six miles deep. Island of Hawaii. And of course, hiking down to the valley floor and spending some time on the beach is very worthwhile. Best bet is to check the daily weather patterns for the day and see if it works with your plans to visit for the area. You climb over 750 feet with many switch backs for about one mile uphill. Longitude: -155.7274313. All rights reserved. Since you can find similar views at Pololu Valley, I'd save Waipi'o Valley for a time when the road has re-opened and it's safe to hike down to the valley. There are are group tours that lead visitors directly to see the waterfall at Pololu called Kapoloa Falls, this is managed by Hawaii Forest and Trail. Hike down on broken paved road. Here are some comparisons: MUD!! pic.twitter.com/D9gdoFolfq. It can get especially hot and sweaty during the hike up! How long is pololu Valley hike? Be careful when it rains, very slick. Your email address will not be published. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. The Awini trailhead can be found on the trail that runs above the beach. The Big Island has several great hikes, such as the Pololu Valley hike and the Waipio Valley hike, which offer stunning views of the coastline and valleys. Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. Once at Beach go left toward north side of valley opening. If youre challenged to extend your hike, consider going beyond to the next valley on the Honokane Nui trail to reach the Honokane gulch. 3. Although I've never hiked it, I can brag that I've driven down the road with the steepest grade in the entire USA! Waipi'o Valley is much more trying, longer, and more satisfying. At the end of Highway 270 in North Kohala, the black sand beach at the mouth of Pololu Valley is accessible to adventurous visitors via a steep, 25-minute hike. statue of Kamehameha 1st who united all of the Hawaiian Islands. Should be great! Unfortunately, only the beach in this valley is public. From there you can look back into the valley seeing waterfalls unseen from other side. Went back in 2020. sad to hear its closed for a couple of years. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Youll probably also notice some nice campsites, but camping here is illegal. I recommend parking up the street slightly so that it is easy to turn around and leave at the end of your hike. Also found a beautiful waterfall. Ultra grateful to the couple from Tennessee who gave us a lift back up in their Toyota Tacoma- even though we left a pricey hiking pole in their car by accident- grateful to have not done the hike up- my body/feet wouldve just gotten too torn up! Download your copy of our Trailhead: Take Hwy. Nearly all streams in Hawaii pose the threat of bacteria. NEW YORK Definitely worth walking up the other side. The road was wet while we were there so I'm glad I didn't try to drive it. Polol valley is the most northern of the impressive valleys that are carved into the Kohala volcano at the lush green pastures of the Kohala region on the Big Island. Pololu Valley and Waipio valley were spectacular hikes. " The hike down to Waipio valley is on a steep paved road, . The Pololu Trail Steward program is a recent initiative in which one or more local stewards are present at the Pololu Valley trailhead to inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. If you are visiting in the winter months (from ~December to ~March) this is a great place to try and see humpback whales. Thanks for visiting This Hawaii life and checking out this post on a Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. You can get some great scenic views from the Pololu Valley lookout right near the parking area. From here, you first follow a very steep road into the Waipio Valley (be careful and watch out for cars). Thanks for visiting today and checking out this post on this Big Island hike to Pololu Valley I hope you are inspired to plan a visit and enjoy these wonderful attractions. Head east on the Akoni Pule Highway and drive to the end of the road before parking at the Pololu Valley Overlook where the trail begins. In a 30-minute call we help you set up the trip of your dreams. If you like exercise you also opt for a hike to the next valley. The trees break the wind on the valley floor, so I can see why this is a desirable camping destination. Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley. It is unclear if the trail continues. Our current itinerary gives us one day to devote to hiking aside from what we will do in one day at VNP. Come prepared! During or after rains the trail can be slippery and because of the relatively steep average grade of the trail (13%) we rate the difficulty as moderate. Have fun. There are no bathrooms near the Pololu Valley trailhead. Pololu Valley is an easy drive from Highway 270 through idyllic towns like Hawaii and Kapaau. I had to press down my "mall parking anxiety" not flee the premises, lol. You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipi'o Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. After hiking Waipio Valley, it was about an hour and 20 minute drive to the . The trail is located about a hundred feet from the shoreline with a small trail located with low lying ferns and on the eastern ridge of Polulu. Hikes on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Isaac Art Center Waimea - This Hawaii Life, Waimea Farmers Markets - This Hawaii Life, Black sand beaches of Hawaii - This Hawaii Life, Kapoho black sand beach - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike to Ha'ena Beach - This Hawaii Life, Green sand beach on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Free or cheap things to do on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike to Narnia - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike at Puuwaawaa - This Hawaii Life. 11:00-1:00: Take a Road Trip to Hip Hawi (#28) and explore Kapa'au. I'm hoping to hike part of the Muliwai Trail in May. It is located on the west side of the island. The crossing might be dry. HAWAII VOLCANOES HI We are on the big island for 6 days (I know that's not much but only time everybody was able to get off work). Yay, it worked! After that, there were a number of other people arrived. Pololu Valley Trail, from the lookout down to the valley takes . The trail down to the beach drops 400 feet in 20 minutes of hikingbe warned, the hike up is difficult for those not in good physical shape and the hike down should not be attempted if you have doubts about being able to hike back up. GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS TN NC Image adapted from source (by Eric Tessmer). The Big Island of Hawaii is simply a treasure trove of beauty. After you pass mile marker 28, youll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! Lots of water and snacks. At the coast there is a beautiful black sand beach constantly pounded by the Pacific Ocean waves. Youll find hiking up the Maliwai uncrowded. Not only is Pololu valley scenic as an overlook at the end of road, but the hike and views going downhill, the walk across the gorgeous black sand beach is a wonderful experience. Most people only drive to the end of Hwy. In the event it reopens, it's likely not worth your trouble. Getting There. This is a gorgeous walk with stunning views and one of our 5 favorite hikes on the Big Island! Mahalo! just at the end of road with most day trippers coming to take pictures and Please share your thoughts and comments below. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Or else you can take a 4x4 down and up the same road. MAUI 2. --Ernest Hemingway, Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, Re: Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u46mHlI3pD0. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Nanaue Falls Loop from Kukuihaele. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. If you can find the river area on the far right, there is a small pond area that is relatively safe for swimming in depending on the water levels and weather. GULF ISLANDS FL Afterward, most people left the valley, and it has been sparsely . ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. If you feel challenged, you can even go beyond to the other valleys beyond Pololu on a day trip or overnight stay. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. Almost immediately upon climbing, it began to rain. The expansive black sand beach is fantastic to walk through and check out the rock sculptures and enjoy the beach. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Waipio'o Valley Loop from Kukuihaele . You can also park It is very wide, comforting during the Pandemic to maintain some space between you and other hikers. See more state parks on the Big Island. I stopped by twice once because we were in the area around 3:00 pm and the other to start the hike at 8:30 am. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. You wont get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. After you pass mile marker 28, you'll get some peak a boo views to the cliffs of Pololu. I had stopped by the trailhead the day before at about 3:00 pm, and it was only slightly more active at that time. The trailhead has no services at all no water, no restrooms, and no cell service. Youll save yourself the tight corners and the wait by parking up the street. Look mauka and you should see a brown sign guiding you to the trail. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Also the water was too high for us to be able to cross without getting soaked above the knees so we missed the back half because we werent prepared. Located in the flourishing green pastures of North Kohala at the end of Highway 270, Pololu Valley is simply awe-inspiring, especially at sunrise. In Hawaii, respecting the land is a big thing in Hawaiian culture. For this reason it is both referred to at the Polol Trail and the wini trail. Looking into Waimanu Valley, which was the next valley over from Waipi'o Valley. The Muliwai Trail begins by making a challenging ascent of 1,200 feet in less than a mile on switch-backs cut into the wall of Waipio Valley. This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. MAHALO! All of the land upriver is privately owned. A gorgeous hike from the top to the gorgeous black sandy beaches of Pololu Valley, the drive alone and panoramic views of the cliffs and coastlines impresses the moment you park on the end of road. Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii, as seen from the overlook. From Pololu valley on these valleys stretch towards the south-east in an impressive display that you can partly see from the Pololu lookout point. can find more details about the original Cool 2. In this video, we'll take you on a journey to the Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii. When you're ready, climb 300' back to the trailhead. It's also the northernmost valley of the same chain that includes Waipi'o Valley, which was shown on the first trip. Unfortunately, rain washed out the trail, and it no longer connects! 270 and gawk at the beauty of the rugged northern Kohala coastline from the Polol Overlook. The Waipio Valley hike is one of the most beautiful and magical hiking spots on the Big Island. White top I was wearing a lightweight top from Free People. Alternatively, you may use, Island of Hawaii Hotels and Places to Stay, Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo - a DoubleTree by Hilton, Hawaii Island Retreat at Ahu Pohaku Ho`omaluhia, http://www.bigislandhikes.com/puu-waawaa/. Dont hike this trial - take a 4x4 down and up. Re crowding at over look, much more at Waipio as area of over look is much bigger, not so much at Polulu. Tried to hike to waterfall but it crosses into private property and couldnt get to it. You'll most likely have to park along the street and walk to the viewpoint/start of the trail. Explore the western town of Hawi and try some local food and snacks. IDAHO , each with hip pockets for easier access to small items. If youre looking for something to do somewhat in the area, you might have a look at Lapakahi State Historical Park for a top Big Island snorkeling spot and to walk through an ancient Hawaiian village, or Hapuna Beach state park which has been called one of the best beaches on the Big Island. The ascent on both ends of this hike will test your cardiovascular system but are well worth it. Required fields are marked *. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapaau. Theres a sense of magic here. The hike down to the bottom of the valley and to the beach is the same paved road the cars use. You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. But, it's not a kid-friendly hike. Crossing the river had water a bit above our knees, but again, it was well worth it to get to the rocks at the far end of the beach. One switchback is a particularly good spot for a photo. We opted to take our 4x4 rental to the black sand beach at the end. You can explore and hike into this wondrous area via the Waipio Valley on one side or Pololu Valley on the other side. It takes about 30 - 45 minutes, but the walk back up will take anywhere between 1 - 1.5 hours depending on your level of physical fitness. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. One of the benefits of living in Hawaii is the opportunity to be outside just about every day of the year. BRYCE CANYON UT The hike down the side of the cliff to the valley floor is short but steep: ~420 ft in 0.6 miles (126 meters in 1.0 kilometers) and takes about 20 to 25 minutes for the average hiker. But in 1946, the most devastating tsunami in Hawaii's history swept great waves far back into the valley. of water with you on the short hike and sun screen for hot days, Trail and rocky and rough so hiking shoes or tennis shoes are necessary. The Pololu Valley Lookout; The hike into Pololu Valley; The black sand beach; Continue hiking to the next valley: the Honokane Nui trail; How to get to Pololu Valley; Things to do close to Pololu Valley; Pololu Valley history. Or read my tips for PLANNING A BACKPACKING TRIP in a National Park. . There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. Absolutely beautiful. On the day we hiked, it was pretty crowded and there were lots of cars driving throughout the trail (maybe one ever minute or two). Remnants from this landslide can still be found under water 81 miles (130 km) from the current coastline. Big Island Earthquake Update. The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Sturdy shoes I wore tennis shoes, but it would have been helpful to have more grip on the muddy sections on the way to Honokane Nui Lookout. There is often a possibility of rain at any moment. The mounds of sand behind the beach are a fun place to spend some time. Waipio Valley is on the northern peninsula of the Big Island. So Pololu Valley is one of the great coastal valleys on the north side of the Big Island. Answer 1 of 11: What is the best way to see Polulu Valley and Waipio Valley?