Hiking Hawaii’s Volcanic Rainforest with Bike Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Requires above-average fitness due to elevation gain and uneven terrain; suitable for families with kids who are active hikers.
Overview
Bike Hawaii’s 2.5-mile volcanic rainforest hike on Oahu delivers stunning views of Ko’olau Mountains, Diamond Head, and the Pacific Ocean. Dive into a unique blend of volcanic geology and rare native flora on this guided adventure.
Hawaii Volcanic Rainforest Hike
All Ages • Appx. 3 hours tour
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2.5-mile hike through Oahu's lush rainforest, where you'll encounter rare plant species and breathtaking views. Experience the majestic Ko’olau Mountain range, Diamond Head crater, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, making this adventure a unique blend of natural beauty and rich Hawaiian heritage.
Explore a volcano in the rainforest on this Oahu hike adventure!
Duration
- Appx. - 3 hours
- Monday and Friday
About
Explore the Rainforest on our Hawaiian volcano / rainforest hiking adventure.
Take a hiking trip along the slopes of an ancient cinder cone volcano and explore a lush native rainforest preserve offering sweeping views of O’ahu’s two parallel mountain ranges. Soak in majestic tropical island views as you hike to a 600-foot elevation gain. This Hawaii rainforest hiking trip is rich in rare and endemic plant species, your guided 2.5 mile moderate hike will meander through a native forest as it captures distant scenic views of both the highest point of the volcanic Ko’olau Mountain range (Konahuanui at 3150 feet), the highest point of O’ahu (Mt. Ka’ala at 4025 feet), Le’ahi (Diamond Head) volcano crater, Honolulu, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, Kailua, and the shimmering Pacific Ocean.
Above average fitness level required for this 2.5 mile round-trip Hawaii volcano hike. Sturdy shoes with good traction on dirt and rainforest mud is a must.
This is family fun too! Even the kids will love it.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy shoes
The trail involves muddy and uneven terrain; footwear with good traction is essential.
Bring water
Hydration is important on this moderate hike, especially under tropical sun.
Prepare for elevation
The 600-foot climb requires above-average fitness; pace yourself accordingly.
Start early to avoid mid-day heat
Morning hikes offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawaiian honeycreeper birds
- Forest geckos camouflaged on tree trunks
History
The Ko’olau Mountain Range formed from ancient volcanic activity roughly 2.5 million years ago, shaping Oahu’s rugged eastern terrain.
Conservation
Efforts to protect native forest and endemic species are integral to tour management, minimizing trail impact through guided access.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Honolulu
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking shoes with good traction
Necessary for safe footing on muddy and uneven volcanic soil trails.
Reusable water bottle
To stay hydrated during the moderate 2.5-mile hike.
Light rain jacket
Useful for unexpected rain showers common in rainforest climates.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Vital for shielding from strong tropical sun, especially midday and summer months.
summer|null specific