Home › Hawaii › Honolulu › Makiki Valley Trail
Makiki Valley Trail
4.5 ★★★★★ 139 Google reviews · Running trail in Honolulu, Hawaii · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- 2 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Makiki Valley 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.
Hiking area featuring tropical vegetation, mosquitoes, and scenic views.
What runners say about Makiki Valley Trail
“We traveled through beautiful tropical forest, streaming vines, and climbed slick dirt covered mounds with only our feet, rocks, and strong tree roots/branches for support.”
“Moderate difficulty for this fun and shady loop trail mostly under the jungle canopy.”
“The well-designed loop ensures a straightforward route, making it accessible for hikers of all levels.”
It took me about 90 mins to finish. Great loop hiking with 3 trails. Didn’t get any issue finding my way as a first timer. The map gives an accurate detail of how long it will take for each trail as well as the distance. I would do it again.
I recently explored the captivating hiking trail that promises an array of environments, making it a delightful journey for nature enthusiasts. The trail seamlessly transitions from a lush green jungle to a dry forest, offering a visual feast for hikers. What sets this trail apart is its versatility.
Very nice place. This is the first hike on this trail. It took us 4.5 hours to finish. My 6 years and 3 years old sons finished by themselves. All the way under tree shades, very comfortable. Will go again.
Moderate complexity hike (during dry season) with various viewpoints and jungle around. Take few bottles of water and snacks for somewhat around 3-5 hours hike ( depending on which trails you choose to go). Waterproof trail sneakers are highly recommended.
Trail conditions & character
“Very beautiful trail in Honolulu; we walked to it from our hotel to make a great day of exercise.”
“We traveled through beautiful tropical forest, streaming vines, and climbed slick dirt covered mounds with only our feet, rocks, and strong tree roots/branches for support.”
“Did it with kids and dogs, a little narrow in places and it is a work out, as about 50% is uphill and the other 50% is down, but it's a good 2mile loop trail.”
“Moderate difficulty for this fun and shady loop trail mostly under the jungle canopy.”
“The well-designed loop ensures a straightforward route, making it accessible for hikers of all levels.”
Plan your run at Makiki Valley 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
- Loop distance2 mi back to where you parked
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitedlnr.hawaii.gov
- Phone+1 808-973-9778
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.
Kalawahine Trail
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Makiki Arboretum Trail
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Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park
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Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside
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A 1,048-ft. hill with impressive views, picnic tables & restrooms, just a short hike from the road.