Manuka Nature Trail
Hawaii hikers

**IMPORTANT PARK NOTICES**

⚠️ Always monitor weather reports and ocean conditions before your park visit. 

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[KAUA’I] UPDATED 5/9/26

Kalalau Trail is CLOSED due to high stream levels.

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Polihale State Parks has REOPENED.

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Koke’e State Park camping will be CLOSED for campground improvements. Construction to begin May 2026 and extend through Spring 2027.

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Pāʻulaʻula State Historic Site: CLOSED for construction.

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[O’AHU] UPDATED 5/1/26

Wahiawā Freshwater State Recreation Area: Portions of the park which access the reservoir (Also known as Lake Wilson) will be closed Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 1 a.m. the park will remain open to visitors for onshore activities, but lake access via the boat ramp, reservoir banks, and reservoir shores will not be allowed until further notice.

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Ka’ena Point State Park, Mākua Section has REOPENED to beach access. The Keawa’ula section remains CLOSED due to road repairs. The Mokule’ia vehicle access road remains CLOSED due to unsafe road conditions, this section remains open to pedestrian and bicycle access. 

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[MAUI] UPDATE 4/20/26

‘Iao Valley State Monument: Will be CLOSED until June 26, 2026 for safety improvements.

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Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area: Polipoli cabins and camping areas are CLOSED until further notice.

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[HAWAI’I] UPDATED 4/10/26

Notice to bidders for Mobile Food Truck Concessions opened today for certain Hawai’i Island parks. More information at: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/announcements/mobile-food-truck-concessions-hawaii/

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[HAWAI’I] UPDATE 3/25/26

Akaka Falls State Park: Water and comfort station CLOSED, park open with portable toilets.

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[MOLOKAʻI] 3/23/26

Palaʻau State Wayside and camping areas CLOSED for renovations until May 4.

Manuka Nature Trail

    ‹ ›
    Trail Length 2 mile loop
    Activity Pedestrian
    Difficulty Moderate
    Terrain Cool, Forested
    Elevation Gain 400 ft
    Park Name Manukā State Wayside

    Description

    Manukā Nature Trail is located in the Manukā Natural Area Reserve, but accessed via the adjacent Manukā State Wayside. The trail takes hikers through a forest of native Hawaiian plants and animals. It offers an experience in Hawaiian natural history, featuring lava flows of different ages, a pit crater, cultural sites and native and non-native species of plants and animals. Bring plenty of water. Mosquitoes are prevalent. Allow 2-3 hours to complete the loop.

    Route

    The trailhead is located just off the parking lot – follow the signs to the start of the trail. The pit crater is at the top of the loop, after which you will begin descending back toward the trailhead.

    Directions

    Trailhead within Manukā State Wayside. Mamalahoa Highway (Highway 11), 19.3 miles west of Na’alehu.

    Additional Info

    • Mountain biking is not allowed on this trail.
    • Stay on the trail.
    • Pack out at least what you pack in.
    • No open fires.