The best cycling routes around Wainaku

The 'Imiloa Garden from Waiakea School route offers an easy 3.4-mile (5.4 km) touring cycling experience with a gentle 255 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 22 minutes. While the 'Imiloa Garden itself is a native Hawaiian botanical exhibit designed for walking, this route provides a quick way to cycle to its vicinity, allowing you to appreciate the area around the 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. Expect a straightforward ride on local roads rather than dedicated cycling paths through the garden's lush landscape.

When planning your visit, be aware that the 'Imiloa Garden is a pedestrian-only attraction; there are no cycling trails within its six acres. If you intend to explore the garden's diverse collection of endemic and indigenous plants, you'll need to park your bike and proceed on foot. There's no specific information regarding cycling permits for the area, so it's best to treat this as a route to access the general vicinity rather than a cycling adventure through the botanical grounds.

The 'Imiloa Garden is an award-winning landscape focused on cultural and scientific education, highlighting the deep connection Native Hawaiians have between land and heavens. It showcases over 50 native plant species, including rare and endangered ones, making it a living exhibit integrated with the 'Imiloa Astronomy Center's architecture. This route is a good option for those looking for family friendly cycling in Hilo, Hawaii, to reach a significant cultural landmark, understanding that the botanical exploration happens off the bike.

The Onomea Bay via Pāpaʻikou cycling route offers a delightful journey through a lush tropical rainforest, providing a true jungle feel as you pedal. This easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) touring cycling route, with just 351 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 27 minutes to complete. You'll be treated to stunning ocean views along the Hamakua Coast, with the Onomea Bay Viewpoint serving as a memorable highlight, showcasing what many call a "picture postcard of old Hawaiʻi."

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route primarily uses the paved Old Mamalahoa Highway, also known as the Onomea Scenic Drive. This makes for a smooth ride suitable for all skill levels. The highway conveniently connects back to Highway 19, ensuring easy access. While the main road is excellent for cycling, note that side trails leading to Onomea Bay are not bike-friendly due to their steep and rugged terrain.

Historically, this area was once a major sugar plantation, and the old "Donkey Trails" used for transporting goods are now primarily hiking paths. The route offers a glimpse into this rich past while providing a serene escape into nature. Nearby, you can find attractions like the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden, making this a great option for those exploring the Big Island's verdant landscapes.

The Kaiwiki Park via Wainaku loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through Hilo's verdant landscapes, where you'll glide along paved roads framed by lush tropical foliage. This moderate 10.0-mile (16.1 km) route provides intermittent views of the Pacific Ocean and winds past local parks, all set against the rich biodiversity of the Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve. You'll encounter a steady elevation gain of 1309 feet (399 metres) over approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes, making it a great option for cyclists who appreciate scenic beauty with a manageable workout.

When planning your ride, you'll find the Kaiwiki Park via Wainaku loop is easily accessible with no permits or fees required. Kaiwiki Park itself is a handy spot to pause, offering restrooms and other facilities. While Hilo is known for its rain, the drier months from May to October generally provide more consistent weather, though packing rain gear is a good idea any time of year.

This route is a favorite among local touring enthusiasts in Hilo, known for its well-maintained paved surfaces and the chance to explore sections of Waimalino Lane. It's an excellent way to experience the unique blend of urban charm and natural splendor that defines this part of Hawaiʻi County, offering a taste of the island's diverse plant life and coastal vistas.

The Wailoa River State Recreation Area via Mohouil Park loop is a delightful touring bicycle ride that winds through Hilo's scenic landscapes. You'll pedal along mostly paved paths, enjoying lush greenery, tranquil river views around Waiākea Pond, and glimpses of the iconic King Kamehameha Statue. The route offers a peaceful atmosphere, connecting the urban environment with the serene waters of Hilo Bay and providing beautiful mountain backdrops as you approach Mohouli Park.

This easy 4.4-mile (7.2 km) cycling route, with a gentle 217 feet (66 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick outing, typically taking around 26 minutes. It's an excellent choice for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxed ride. The trail is highly accessible, with no special permits or fees required, and parking is generally available within the recreation area, making it easy to start your adventure.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Wailoa River State Recreation Area holds significant cultural and historical importance, having been developed as a buffer zone after the 1960 tsunami. The park is home to several memorials and the Wailoa Center, which hosts art and cultural exhibits. This loop also integrates with the broader Hilo Bayfront Trail, offering opportunities to extend your ride along the bayfront and explore more of Hilo's charming coastal areas.

The Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through the lush agricultural landscape near Hilo. You'll pedal through extensive macadamia orchards, enjoying the verdant scenery and the unique atmosphere of a working plantation. The route culminates at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center, where you can explore charming gardens and learn about the iconic Hawaiian nut.

This moderate 16.8-mile (27.0 km) cycling loop involves a gentle 612 feet (187 metres) of elevation gain, making it an enjoyable ride for most touring cyclists, taking about 1 hour and 40 minutes. The trail starts and ends at the visitor center, which provides convenient parking. It's a great option if you're looking for cycling trails near Hilo, Hawaii, that combine activity with local flavor.

What sets this route apart is the integrated experience of cycling through the orchards and then visiting the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center. Here, you can sample different macadamia nut varieties and gain insight into their processing, making it more than just a ride. It's a perfect blend of gentle recreation and cultural discovery, ideal for families or anyone seeking a relaxed yet engaging Big Island cycling adventure.