Discover the hidden waterfalls and coastal valleys of North Kohala with Hawaii Forest & Trail. This easy-paced trek combines off-road access, cultural insights, and refreshing swims beneath tropical cascades.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable walking on uneven, rocky terrain for about 1 mile.
Wildlife
History
The trail crosses lands once used for traditional Hawaiian agriculture, highlighting sustainable practices from centuries ago.
Conservation
Hawaii Forest & Trail prioritizes sustainable access by using private reserves, limiting group sizes, and educating visitors on protecting fragile ecosystems.
Hawaii Forest & Trail
Discover the hidden waterfalls and coastal valleys of North Kohala with Hawaii Forest & Trail. This easy-paced trek combines off-road access, cultural insights, and refreshing swims beneath tropical cascades.
Hawaii Forest & Trail, based in Kailua-Kona on Hawai‘i Island, offers guided outdoor adventures across the island’s most dramatic landscapes. The company operates day trips and private Ohana outings that visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hualalai’s upper slopes, North Kohala waterfalls, Maunakea summit, and the Hakalau Forest Reserve. Many tours include unique experiences such as a private chocolate farm visit, swimming beneath secluded falls, off-road access to remote trailheads, and exploration of lava tubes and crater rims.
Guided by certified experts for select volcano tours, Hawaii Forest & Trail provides interpretive commentary on geology, ecology, and Hawaiian history. The operation includes exclusive and restricted-access options, including guided entry to parts of the Hakalau Forest Reserve and private nature reserves where endangered birds and native plants can be observed. Maunakea trips combine sunset viewing, a warm picnic, and a guided stargazing session with advanced telescopes that allow guests to image deep-sky objects. Kohala adventures emphasize local agriculture, sea-cliff views, and opportunities to swim in freshwater pools. Day-long volcano excursions highlight changing landscapes around Kilauea and finish at iconic Rainbow Falls. Tours are designed to balance immersive natural experiences with safety and local knowledge, offering both shared-group departures and private family-oriented outings.
Booking options include public departures and customizable private Ohana itineraries tailored to families, couples, and small groups on Big Island year round.
Tours Offered
8
Diverse guided adventures on Big Island
Private Outings
Available
Ohana and private options offered
Certified Guides
Yes
Guides certified for volcano tours
Home Base
Kailua-Kona, HI
Operating from Kona on Hawai‘i Island
Reserve a spot on volcano, waterfall, stargazing, or private Ohana tours departing from Kailua-Kona.
Wear sturdy walking or water shoes
Trails can be rocky and wet; closed-toed shoes protect your feet for the off-road hike and swimming spots.
Bring swimwear and a towel
Several waterfall pools invite a swim—wear your swimsuit and pack a towel for drying off after the dip.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect skin with eco-friendly sunscreen that won’t harm the local marine life or sensitive ecosystems.
Prepare for variable weather
The area can be cool, wet, or muddy, so layering with a light jacket or rain gear is advisable.
Closed-toed walking or water shoes
Protects feet on rocky trails and during swimming in waterfall pools.
Swimsuit
Necessary for cooling off in waterfall pools along the trail.
Light rain jacket or windbreaker
Useful for unexpected showers or cooler mornings and evenings.
spring|fall|winter
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the extended hike and warm weather.