Waʻahila Ridge Trail
Photo Credit: Kelvin Lu
Waahila Ridge

**IMPORTANT PARK NOTICES**

Monitor local surf and weather reports prior to your park visit.

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[KAUA'I] update 10/1/24 - KALALAU TRAIL SECTION OF THE NĀPALI COAST STATE WILDERNESS PARK HAS REOPENED.

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[OʻAHU] update 9/28/24 – Wahiawā Freshwater State Recreation Area: The boat ramp and lower parking lot will be CLOSED on October 5, 2024 for the Day at the Lake Community Event, free event open to the public from 9am to 4pm, no reservations needed – there will be boat rides, environmental education exhibitors, entertainment, and food. More information at dayatthelake.org

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[OʻAHU] UPDATED 9/3/24 – Kaʻena Point State Park, Mokuleʻia Section: Due to severe staff shortages, the processing of vehicular access permits may experience delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.

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[KAUAʻI] UPDATED 6/18/24 – Kōkeʻe State Park: The gate to Puʻu O Kila Lookout will be closed to vehicular traffic due to road repairs beginning 3/19/24. The lookout will still be accessible by pedestrians, parking is available at Kalalau lookout.

Waʻahila Ridge Trail

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    Trail Length 2.4 miles
    Activity Pedestrian
    Difficulty Moderate to Difficult
    Terrain Dry, Mountainous, Partly Native Forest
    Elevation Gain 500 ft
    Park Name Waʻahila Ridge State Recreation Area

    Description

    This ridge hike originates in Wa‘ahila Ridge State Recreation Area, and offers great views and viewing of native forest and birdlife.

    Route

    The trail begins at the back of Wa‘ahila Ridge State Recreation Area within ironwood and guava trees. It traverses alternately between open ridge and forest as it gradually ascends up the ridge between Manoa and Palolo Valleys. It offers spectacular views of Manoa Valley, Palolo Valley, Honolulu and the Ko‘olau Range. Native Hawaiian plants are common along the upper portions of this trail, including koa and ‘ohia lehua. This trail can also be a good place to observe the native birds amakihi and apapane. This trail ends at an intersection with Kolowalu Trail. Do not go up to the summit beyond the Kolowalu/Wa‘ahila junction – it is a Restricted Watershed Area. You may continue down Kolowalu Trail, which descends steeply down into the back of Manoa Valley.

    Directions

    From Waialae Avenue, proceed up St. Louis Drive. Wind up the road, turning right on Peter St. near the top. At the end of Peter (at the cul-de-sac), turn left on Ruth St., continuing into Wa‘ahila Ridge State Recreation Area. Park in the provided parking lot and follow trailhead signs.

    Additional Info

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