ʻIao Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop
Hawaii hikers

PARK UPDATES: 6/8/22

ʻIAO VALLEY STATE MONUMENT – As of August 1, 2022 ʻIao Valley State Monument will be closed until January 15, 2023 for the final phase of the slope stabilization project and parking lot improvements.

•

DIAMOND HEAD STATE MONUMENT - As of May 12th, 2022 all out-of-state visitors must have an advanced reservation to enter the park. PUC commercial tour and trolley patrons must have a reservation. Reservations can be made 14 days in advance. Hawaiʻi residents continue to enjoy free access without reservations, but parking entry may depend on availability. 

ʻIao Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop

UPDATE: 6/8/22 - ʻIao Valley State Monument will be closed from August 1, 2022 to January 15, 2023 for the final phase of the slope stabilization project and parking lot improvements.

    ‹ ›
    Trail Length 0.6 miles
    Activity Pedestrian
    Difficulty Easy
    Terrain Wet Valley
    Elevation Gain 200 ft
    Park Name ‘Iao Valley State Monument

    Description

    A paved walking trail provides a scenic viewpoint of Kuka’emoku (‘Iao Needle), an erosional feature which rises 1200 feet from the valley floor. A short paved loop trail meanders though an ethnobotanical garden adjacent to ‘Iao stream.

    Route

    Trail begins just beyond the park restroom and interpretive signs. The path crosses a bridge over the stream and climbs to the lookout point, where a small shelter is nestled.

    Directions

    End of ‘Iao Valley Road (Highway 32), ‘Iao Valley.

    Additional Info

    • Mountain biking is not allowed on this trail.
    • Stay on the trail.
    • No dogs allowed on this trail.