Home › Hawaii › Honolulu › Round Top Forest Reserve
Round Top Forest Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,173 Google reviews · Running trail in Honolulu, Hawaii · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Round Top Forest Reserve yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. 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.
Scenic mountaintop offering panoramic views of Diamond Head, the coast and the city.
What runners say about Round Top Forest Reserve
“The drive up is scenic, and once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the city and coastline—especially beautiful at sunset.”
There's no purchase of tickets, available parking. Drive up is amazing and to be with Nature. Once you get to the top, it's breathtaking. Makes you forget about your worries, even for a second. It's hot but very windy, so worth it to get out of the car and take a walk around.
Extensive hiking trails and lush rainforest environment. Visitors can experience panoramic views of the city and the coastline. The place to be if you want to escape into nature.
Beautiful spot for a picnic or hike. Enjoy the curvy road to the top. It is amazing how quickly you transition from an urban landscape to a lush rain forest.
Tantalus Lookout is one of the best spots in Honolulu for a quick escape with an incredible view. The drive up is scenic, and once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the city and coastline—especially beautiful at sunset.
Trail conditions & character
“Tantalus Lookout is one of the best spots in Honolulu for a quick escape with an incredible view.”
“The lookout is some 250ft from the parking lot, but it does not stop car break-ins.”
“It’s peaceful, refreshing, and perfect for photos or just taking a moment to relax.”
Plan your run at Round Top Forest Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- 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.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitedlnr.hawaii.gov
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.
Tantalus Lookout - Puu Ualakaa State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 3,521 reviews
Scenic lookout featuring striking views of the Diamond Head volcano cone & the Waikiki skyline.
Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Wayside
4.8 ★★★★★ 316 reviews
A 1,048-ft. hill with impressive views, picnic tables & restrooms, just a short hike from the road.
Makiki Arboretum Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 156 reviews
Hiking area known for its varied trails and wildlife, including a waterfall.
Makiki Valley Trail
4.5 ★★★★★ 139 reviews
Hiking area featuring tropical vegetation, mosquitoes, and scenic views.
Kalawahine Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 119 reviews
Hiking area in a jungle setting with scenic views, good for kids.