The best walks and hikes in PuʻU WaʻAwaʻA Forest Bird Sanctuary
4.5
(26)
300
hikers
4
hikes
Hiking in PuʻU WaʻAwaʻA Forest Bird Sanctuary offers trails through a unique cloud forest environment and diverse forest types. The region is characterized by its volcanic terrain, including the ancient Puʻu Waʻawaʻa cinder cone, and elevations reaching nearly 4,000 feet. Hikers can explore areas dominated by ʻōhiʻa and koa trees, providing a cooler contrast to coastal regions.
Best hiking trails in PuʻU WaʻAwaʻA Forest Bird Sanctuary
- The most popular hiking route is Makāula ʻOʻoma Trail loop, a 3.4 miles…
Last updated: September 2, 2026
4.4
(16)
145
hikers
5.46km
01:39
180m
180m
Step into a world of lush green on the Makāula ʻOʻoma Trail loop, a captivating journey through a native cloud forest on the slopes of Hualālai volcano. You'll find yourself…
4.5
(2)
45
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
102
hikers
10.6km
03:31
540m
540m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
14.9km
04:32
500m
500m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Old Hao Road is a relatively straight, fast singletrack trail on an old fire road. This is a great way to climb up to Pig Skull Trail, a tough climb through the jungle, and complete the Kaloko Loop. There is also a trail, Middle Road, that cuts the loop in half if you want to shorten your ride, or skip the Jurassic Park Trail, a technical descent that completes the loop.
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The Jurassic Park Trail is a short, switchbacking trail that connects the Flat Top Trail to the Tree Stump Trail. This tight technical descent through a rooty jungle to a dead end street where you can park you car, but you can also take a trail just before the trail poster board, Tree Stumps Trail, and to meet up along Old Hao Road to complete the Kaloko Loop.
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Makāula ʻOʻoma Trail is a trail system of almost 4 miles in the Honuaʻula Forest Reserve. The loop can be shortened if you don't want to go for the whole distance. Thanks to the higher elevation, it gets much colder and wetter inside the tree fern forest compared to other parts of the island.
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Makāula ʻOʻoma Trail is a trail system of almost 4 miles in the Honuaʻula Forest Reserve. The loop can be shortened if you don't want to go for the whole distance. Thanks to the higher elevation, it gets much colder and wetter inside the tree fern forest compared to other parts of the island.
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On a clear day you can see far. Flat slope, easy to walk paths.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Forest Bird Sanctuary?
The sanctuary offers several distinct hiking routes, with komoot featuring 4 trails for you to explore. These range from easy loops through cloud forests to more challenging ascents to the cinder cone summit.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Forest Bird Sanctuary?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 24 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique cloud forest environment, the opportunity for native birdwatching, and the panoramic views from the higher elevations.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, there are several easy options. The Makāula ʻOʻoma Trail loop is an excellent choice, offering a 5.5 km (3.4 miles) walk through the cloud forest with a manageable elevation gain of about 185 meters (600 feet). Its lush environment and relatively flat terrain make it suitable for most skill levels.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Forest Bird Sanctuary?
Yes, dogs are permitted on leash within the sanctuary. This allows you to enjoy the unique natural beauty of the cloud forest and volcanic landscapes with your canine companion.
Are there any trails that offer panoramic views?
Absolutely. For breathtaking panoramic views of the Kona Coast, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai, consider the Puʻuwaʻawaʻa Summit loop from Puuanahulu. This moderate 10.6 km (6.6 miles) hike ascends the ancient Puʻu Waʻawaʻa cinder cone, offering spectacular vistas from its summit.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while hiking?
Hikers will encounter a diverse range of natural features, including dense ʻōhiʻa and koa cloud forests, towering hāpuʻu tree ferns, and volcanic terrain. The sanctuary is also a critical habitat for native Hawaiian forest birds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.
What is the best time of year to visit Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Forest Bird Sanctuary for hiking?
The sanctuary can be visited year-round, but due to its elevation (up to 4,000 feet), it is significantly cooler than coastal regions. Afternoon rain is common, so be prepared for damp conditions regardless of the season. Mornings often offer clearer skies.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes available?
For a more extended and moderately challenging experience, the Old Hao Road loop from paws university covers nearly 15 km (9.3 miles) with an elevation gain of over 500 meters (1,640 feet). This route provides a good workout while immersing you in the diverse forest types of the area.
What should I wear or bring for a hike in the sanctuary?
Given the cooler temperatures and common afternoon rains, sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended. Layers of clothing, rain gear, and plenty of water are essential. The volcanic terrain can be rocky and root-filled, so good ankle support is beneficial.
Are there any circular routes available?
Yes, many of the trails in Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Forest Bird Sanctuary are designed as loops. Popular options include the easy Makāula ʻOʻoma Trail loop and the moderate Puʻuwaʻawaʻa Summit loop from Puuanahulu, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.
Where can I find parking for the hiking trails?
Access to the sanctuary is restricted to marked roads or trails. While specific parking details for individual trailheads are not provided in the guide data, visitors typically find designated parking areas at the main access points to the sanctuary. Always ensure you park in authorized locations.
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