What it is
The Maunawili Falls Trail is a popular hiking route on Oahu, known for leading to a multi-tiered waterfall and swimming hole. The trail typically involves navigating through a lush rainforest environment. It has historically been a well-known destination for those seeking a freshwater swim after a hike.
Visitor experience
Travelers choose the Maunawili Falls Trail for an adventurous hike through a tropical landscape culminating in a refreshing waterfall swim. The trail offers scenic views of the Koʻolau mountains and passes through dense vegetation. It's generally considered a moderate hike, often described as muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Visitors often spend time at the falls swimming and jumping from rocks (though rock jumping can be dangerous and is not officially recommended). This activity fits visitors looking for an immersive nature experience that combines hiking with a waterfall reward.
Logistics
The Maunawili Falls Trail is located on the Windward Coast of Oahu, near Kailua. Access has been a significant issue for this trail. Historically, there was a public access point through a residential neighborhood, but this route was permanently closed by the state due to safety concerns and private property encroachment.
As of recent information, the Maunawili Falls Trail is officially closed to public access. The State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) closed the trail due to unresolved right-of-entry issues through private property and dangerous trail conditions. Efforts are underway to reroute a portion of the trail to bypass private land, but this new route is not yet open.
Therefore, visitors should currently consider this trail inaccessible. There are no official permits or reservations available for a closed trail. If it were open, the hike would typically take 1.5 to 2.5 hours round trip, making it a half-day activity. Parking was historically an issue at the former trailhead, with limited street parking and the risk of citations.
Safety and cautions
The Maunawili Falls Trail is currently closed to the public. Attempting to access a closed trail can result in trespassing charges, fines, and potential injury due to unmaintained conditions.
When the trail was accessible, common safety concerns included:
- Mud and slippery conditions: The trail is notoriously muddy and can be very slippery, especially after rain, increasing the risk of falls.
- Flash floods: Stream crossings and waterfalls are susceptible to flash flooding, particularly during heavy rainfall.
- Leptospirosis: Freshwater streams and swimming holes in Hawaii can carry leptospirosis bacteria, which can cause serious illness. Visitors were advised to avoid swimming with open cuts or wounds.
- Rock jumping: While popular, jumping from rocks into the waterfall pool is dangerous and has led to injuries.
- Cultural and land-management caveats: Respecting private property and signage is crucial. The closure itself is a direct result of historical access issues and safety concerns regarding the trail's passage through private land.
Editorial take
Who should prioritize it: Currently, no one should prioritize this activity as the Maunawili Falls Trail is officially closed to the public.
Who should skip it: All visitors should skip this activity until the State of Hawaii officially announces the opening of a new, legal, and safe access route. Attempting to hike a closed trail can lead to legal penalties and put personal safety at risk.
What nearby/overlapping entities should not be confused with it: Do not confuse the former Maunawili Falls Trail access point with any other public trails in the Kailua or Windward Coast areas. Visitors seeking waterfall hikes on Oahu should research currently open and permitted trails, such as those maintained by the Na Ala Hele trail system. Always verify the current status of any trail before planning a visit.
Source notes
- The 10 Best Hikes in Hawaii. USA Today. https://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/activity/hiking-walking/the-best-hikes-in-hawaii/39665242/
- Maunawili Falls Trail Reroute Project. Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/maunawilifalls/
- Maunawili Falls Trail on Oahu - A muddy hike to a beautiful waterfall. Noah Lang Photography. https://noahlangphotography.com/blog/maunawili-falls-trail-oahu-hawaii
- Hikers to be fined, cited if they ignore Maunawili Falls Trail closure. Hawaii News Now. https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2018/10/26/hikers-be-fined-cited-if-they-ignore-maunawili-falls-trail-closure/
