The best road cycling routes in Waiākea Forest Reserve

The Kea'au to Nanawale Forest Reserve loop offers a deep dive into the Big Island's Puna District, guiding you through vibrant rainforests and past the striking, lava-sculpted landscape of Lava Tree State Monument Park. You'll experience the unique transition from lush, green 'ōhi'a forests to areas marked by ancient volcanic flows, all from the saddle of your bike. This route provides a true sense of discovery, showcasing the island's raw, untamed beauty.

This moderate road cycling route covers a substantial 37.5 miles (60.4 km) with 1201 feet (366 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete. While there isn't a single designated trailhead, you'll generally begin and end your journey in the Kea'au area, where parking is usually accessible. Mornings are often the best time to cycle, offering cooler temperatures and calmer winds for a more enjoyable ride.

Cycling in the Puna district of Hawaii is a fantastic way to explore the Big Island's diverse ecosystems and volcanic history up close. This loop provides a memorable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the area. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a substantial road cycling adventure that combines natural beauty with a good physical challenge.

If you're looking for a road cycling adventure that packs a punch of diverse scenery, the Hilo City Ride loop delivers. This moderate 25.8-mile (41.6 km) route, typically completed in 2 hours and 42 minutes, offers 1683 feet (513 metres) of elevation gain as it sweeps you from serene coastal views past Lili'uokalani Gardens and Coconut Island, into dense, vibrant rainforests, and towards unique volcanic landscapes. You'll experience the rapid transition between environments that makes Hilo cycling so special, with some challenging climbs interspersed with more gentle sections.

Planning your ride is straightforward; Hilo has various parking options, and starting early is advisable to beat the heat and potential afternoon rain showers. Always bring ample water to stay hydrated throughout your journey. While there are no specific permits or fees mentioned for this route, general road cycling etiquette applies.

What truly sets Hilo's cycling apart is its rich natural and historical context. You'll encounter areas where the road is bordered by sharp a'a lava, a direct result of past volcanic activity, and the rainforest sections can feel like riding through a

The road cycling route from Hilo to the Maunakea Visitor Information Station is often called the "hardest bike climb in the world" for good reason. You'll begin in Hilo's tropical rainforest, then ascend through five distinct climate zones, watching the scenery shift to barren volcanic landscapes. The 67.3 miles (108.4 km) ride involves a staggering 9126 feet (2782 metres) of elevation gain, with sections on Maunakea Access Road hitting 20% gradients, making it a truly difficult and demanding experience that takes around 6 hours and 27 minutes.

Starting from Hilo, you'll need to be prepared for extreme conditions. Altitude sickness is a serious risk due to the significant elevation gain, and the Maunakea Visitor Information Station is a vital stop for acclimatization. Temperatures can drop dramatically as you climb, so bring layers. Given the route's remoteness, lack of services, and the potential for rapid weather changes, a support vehicle is strongly recommended for this epic journey.

Maunakea holds deep cultural significance for Native Hawaiians and is also home to 13 astronomical telescopes, thanks to its exceptional viewing conditions. While this route ends at the Visitor Information Station, be aware that the road beyond it to the summit becomes an unpaved, extremely challenging gravel section, unsuitable for standard road bikes. This ride offers a unique opportunity to experience a dramatic transition from sea level to nearly 10,000 feet, showcasing Hawaii's diverse ecosystems.

Imagine cycling through endless rows of vibrant green macadamia nut trees, the air fresh and the roads smooth. This easy 20.2 miles (32.6 km) road cycling loop takes you directly to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center, offering a unique agricultural landscape experience. With only 810 feet (247 metres) of elevation gain, it's a gentle ride that most cyclists can complete in about 1 hour and 32 minutes, perfect for a leisurely outing.

For the best experience, plan your ride for the morning hours. This avoids the warmer afternoon temperatures and the common Hilo showers. There are no permits or fees required for the route or the visitor center, making it an accessible and hassle-free option. You'll find parking available in Hilo near the starting point.

The primary draw of this route is the chance to immerse yourself in the macadamia orchards and visit the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center. Here, you can enjoy free self-guided tours, learn about macadamia cultivation, and indulge in tastings of various macadamia nut products. It's a delightful blend of scenic cycling and a tasty educational stop.