There’s no doubt about it: the Hawaiian Islands is easily one of the greatest hiking destinations in the country — and maybe even the world. With miles and miles of trails that ascend mountains, traverse ridgelines, and lead to breathtaking natural beauty, Hawaii is truly a hiker’s paradise. And while we love the islands’ most popular trails as much as the next person, sometimes you need to get away from it all and take the trail less traveled. If peace and seclusion are things you crave, we have an idyllic forest trail to share with you today.
Nestled near the northeastern tip of Oahu in the Ko’olau Mountains is the Hauula Loop Trail, a little-known slice of heaven that leads hikers through a lush, verdant forest over the course of 2.5 miles and 800 feet of elevation.
Jay Nordholt/AllTrails
With plenty of shade, this lightly-trafficked loop trail full of Captain Cook pines and ironwood trees is the perfect afternoon escape — no matter the weather or time of year.
Tori Diego/AllTrails
Located at the end of Hauula Homestead Road in the small, rural community of Hauula, this forest trail is off-the-beaten path, but well-maintained.
User/AllTrails
You might even be surprised to discover that this thoughtfully laid out trail nestled in the Kaipapau Forest Reserve was one of the first paths constructed by Hawaii’s early forestry program.
Leonard S Jacobs/Flickr
As you follow the trail, you will feel as though you’ve been transported to a far-away jungle. With lush greenery, plenty of towering trees, and a variety of fruits ripe for the picking. Fancy a mid-hike snack of strawberry guava, anyone?
Leonard S Jacobs/Flickr
With a steady, not-too-steep incline — except for the trek to the summit pictured below — and plenty of switchbacks, you can expect to get a workout in on this trail.
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com
It’s all worth it in the end, though, when you reach the trail’s summit: the view of the Ko’olau Mountains, Laie, and the Pacific Ocean is remarkable. Stop to catch your breath, admire the view, and snap a few photographs.
Leonard S Jacobs/Flickr
With its verdant forest views and remote location, this trail is unlike many others you will find on Oahu. Depending on when you visit, you might discover that you have the trail almost to yourself.
Leonard S Jacobs/Flickr
The Hauula Loop Trail might be little-known, but it’s easy to follow, dog and keiki-friendly, and can be completed in approximately one hour. Depending on where you live, you’ll probably spend more time driving to and from the trailhead than actually hiking, but we don’t mind.
Leonard S Jacobs/Flickr
The Hauula Loop Trail is located at 54-55 Maakua Rd., Laie, HI 96762. This is truly one of my favorite little-known hikes on the island, but this forest trail is pretty phenomenal, too. If you want to discover Hawaii’s magnificent forests, click here.
Jay Nordholt/AllTrails
Tori Diego/AllTrails
User/AllTrails
Leonard S Jacobs/Flickr
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com
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