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ʻAihualama Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 248 Google reviews · Running trail in Honolulu, Hawaii · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from ʻAihualama Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
This short waterfall trail connects to the Pauoa Flats Trail & the Manoa Falls Trail.
What runners say about ʻAihualama Trail
“The manoa falls trail is easy, so this is a great supplement if you want to burn a couple lore hours with a great view up top.”
“Most of the trail is covered by trees so fairly shady but it is a good amount of uphill and navigating through tree roots and mud.”
“Great photo ops and a nice and easy hike enjoyable for most ages.”
Not to be confused with the Manoa Falls trail. This one takes you up in the mountain to the Nu’uanu lookout. I went on a rainy day and it took me 4 hours roundtrip since it was very slippery and muddy. Be aware that some parts of the trail are narrow so you have to be careful.
This trail is more moderate for any experienced hiker... But if you are not that active and or have any pre-existing conditions that make it difficult for you to walk on a steep incline with slippery rocks and mud do not take this hike to avoid injury on your vacation.
This is a great trail for those that enjoy hiking, it connects with other trails: Manoa Falls, Pauoa Flats, Nu'uanu, and Pu'u Ohia. This isn't something I'd recommend for your little ones, if you mind getting muddy/dirty, or you're protective of your ankles/knees.
A little bit more difficult than manoa falls because it was a unmarked trail with the exception that you can take a picture of the map and follow that. Pretty steep at times and a little mud, but the over all views were amazing and they have a bench at the top to take a break at and soak up all the views, i hope this…
Trail conditions & character
“There are a lot of signs which say not to go into the water or up to the waterfall but I definitely saw a lot of people ignoring the signs so .”
“This isn't something I'd recommend for your little ones, if you mind getting muddy/dirty, or you're protective of your ankles/knees.”
“A part of the trail had two branches fallen across it blocking it, so I had to climb in between a foot tall gap between the two branches.”
“Most of the trail is covered by trees so fairly shady but it is a good amount of uphill and navigating through tree roots and mud.”
“The trailhead starts towards the end of Monoa Falls.”
Plan your run at ʻAihualama Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitedlnr.hawaii.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Honolulu
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve
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Tropical rainforest featuring hiking trails & access to the famous Manoa Falls waterfall.
Mānoa Falls Trail
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This picturesque rainforest trail leading to Mānoa Falls has appeared in several movies.
Trailhead for Kolowalu and Puʻu Pia Trails
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Serene, hilly trail with uneven paths through tropical terrain with abundant birdlife & views.
Kalawahine Trail
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Hiking area in a jungle setting with scenic views, good for kids.
Makiki Valley Trail
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Hiking area featuring tropical vegetation, mosquitoes, and scenic views.
