Nature lovers will delight in the array of plants found in the Koke'e rain forest, from redwoods and Japanese sugi cedars planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's, to native maile and mokihana, which are favored as lei making material. Early morning walks offer glimpses of rare native birds. These shady trails vary in grade from gentle to moderate, and some lead to fishing and hunting areas. These trails will usually be wet during the winter months, so bring rain gear.
The Mohihi-Camp 10 Road is a 4 mile long dirt road that provides access to many of the Forest Trails and Alaka'i Swamp Trails. The road starts 100 yards past Koke'e State Park headquarters, on the right side of Koke'e Road (Route 552) heading up. 4-wheel drive is required, and only during dry conditions because of steep and exceedingly slippery, muddy conditions. Do not ford stream crossings during rainy or threatening conditions. Streams can quickly become dangerous torrents. If caught stranded on one side, wait until the stream subsides, instead of risking a crossing. It may take time, but be patient. Better late than dead.
FOREST TRAILS
Trail
Miles
Hiking Time
Description
(Round Trip)
(Round Trip)
Berry Flat Loop
2.0
1:00
This easy trail is flat and intriguing. Walk through a variety of trees, including the redwood, ohia, lehua, eucalyptus, sugi pine, and koa. See the white strawberries and banana poka.
Halemanu-Koke'e Trail
2.4
1:10
This is one of the more recreational trails with easy hiking. The koa and ohia dominates the Halemanu forest. Some of the other plants are the mokihana, maile, pukiawe, the mountain naupaka, halapepe, aalii, ukiuki, as well as the forest's pests, the blackberry and the banana poka. Native forest birds include the iiwi, apapane, elepaio, and amakihi.
Kaluapuhi
4.0
1:30
A forest trail leading to a plum grove.
Kawaikoi Stream Loop
3.6
1:30
Easy trail. This is likely the most scenic mountain stream-side trail in <>Hawaii. 4-wheel drive down the Mohihi-Camp 10 road, and the trail starts .75 mile beyond the Forest Reserve entrance sign, upstream from "Sugi Grove." Well-maintained, easy trail which loops around Kawaikoi Stream. Trout fish during season. Camping allowed. (See CAMPING)
Maile Flats Trail
5.0
Moderate trail. This trail starts approximately 2 miles beyond the Forest Reserve entrance sign on the Mohihi-Camp 10 Road. It serves primarily as a hunter access route for pig and goat hunting but also provides views of <>Waimea Canyon and dryland koa forest.
Water Tank Trail
2.0
:30
This trail provides a good example of native koa/'o'hia forest.
