The valley floor is 1/4 mile from the trailhead. 4. Re crowding at over look, much more at Waipio as area of over look is much bigger, not so much at Polulu. leave, so there is a lot of turnover for the parking spots. The trailhead has no services at all no water, no restrooms, and no cell service. This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) I ran out of water. Its not a smooth trail, at least to the Z. Regarding treading on sacred ground is not a problem if you follow the following guidelines. Although this is lovely, I recommend further exploring the Pololu Valley and continuing to hike to the Honokane Nui Lookout. From the valley floor it is a short and easy stretch to the beach. Please share your thoughts and comments below. March 3, 2023. Living on the Big Island and traveling regularly to the neighbor islands, Noel and team actively search and share the latest information and updates to Hawaii travel, food, adventure and various lifestyle activities on the islands for your planning and vacation. Some of the cars in the morning may have been from people who were camping in the valley, but overall, it is best to mentally prepare for this popular spot to be busy. The beach is a lovely stretch of fine black sand rimmed with black lava rock and shockingly emerald green beach ground cover. It was sprinkling and gusting when I first arrived at the lookout, but luckily the wind did calm down for me to be able to enjoy the view and grab some photos. Hiking Distance: 1/2-1 mile round trip. I did this once alone, probably took 4 hours. Check out the details here for more images and inspiration to doing this tour. It is possible you will encounter people from the Pololu Valley Steward Program at the lookout. Expect 1-1.5 miles of total hiking + beach exploring; more if you continue along Awini Trail, Hike down to beach is moderate to strenuous when hiking out, Big Island Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Big Island Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. You can also park Over all its 25% grade. Your hike down to the beach was mostly facing the ocean, and your hike back to the parking lot will be more of facing the valley! The simplest is driving to the lookout for the views, but you can also make a small (but steep) hike to the valley floor to check out the beach. done with your hiking adventure, check out all these other fun things to REI Co-op tights are calling them buttery-soft, 23 Unmissable Things to Do on the Big Island, Hawaii, Camping, Permits, and Gear for the Enchantments, GETTING A WALK-UP PERMIT OR FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVE CAMPGROUND, Product Review Testing the Adventure Wagon Interior Modular System, Oregon Mt. It seems like the path is not maintained regularly, so be prepared for it all steep sections, muddy sections, areas with debris, confusing side trails, etc. 6. Most people only drive to the end of Hwy. The views into Honokane Nui and the coast are simply stunning from the ridge. of the beach with the impressive 500 foot cliffs make for a fantastic photo . There people are often volunteering their time to give visitors information about visiting the valley and the make sure parking only happens in allowed spaces. Trailhead: Take Hwy. I'm kind of leaning toward Pololu for that reason. I found this area to be relatively flat and dry. May 11, 2018 Alice Kao. Although I've never hiked it, I can brag that I've driven down the road with the steepest grade in the entire USA! Since you can find similar views at Pololu Valley, I'd save Waipi'o Valley for a time when the road has re-opened and it's safe to hike down to the valley. Turned out, all we needed was the water and chips. Absolutely beautiful. It is unclear if the trail continues. The view of these lush valleys and cliffs into the ocean is stunning. You can even camp in the Pololu Valley. 2. We share our favorite tips and images on Instagram, click here to go to our instagram account. Once I turned around, the journey back to the trailhead went surprisingly quick. Next time with two others and we brought plenty of water and took about 3 hours. Sign indicated trail was closed until 2025, but we parked and immediately hiked down the steep, paved path to the black sand beach without any issues. Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley. You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. Pololu Valley is located in north Kohala on the eastern slope of the extinct Kohala volcano at the northernmost point of the Big Island. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. There are some great views of picturesque bodies of water, including the ocean, a small lake, and a river. Jump-start your day on the Big Island by making your way to any of these four spots to witness a stellar sunrise. call before planning any hike. Image by: Floyd Stewart/Flickr. So Pololu Valley is one of the great coastal valleys on the north side of the Big Island. However, they are not easy to walk along! I have done both several times. Crossing the river was about knee deep and definitely had some force behind it. The 9-mile Muliwai Trail from Waipi'o Valley into Waimanu Valley is rough, hazardous and extremely steep in spots, so only experienced backcountry hikers should attempt it. Lots of great scenery but you can experience that on the drive. The Big Island of Hawaii is simply a treasure trove of beauty. Check out all the fun details of this Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. by kenji SAITO on June 21, 2021. The huge sea cliffs paralleling a beautiful black sand beach were simply amazing to look at. The Muliwai Trail begins by making a challenging ascent of 1,200 feet in less than a mile on switch-backs cut into the wall of Waipio Valley. Can these both be done on the same day? But if you prepare for the crowds and mud, then I know you will enjoy the hike as much as I did. Looking into Waimanu Valley, which was the next valley over from Waipi'o Valley. The photos he took were spectacular. Find climbing partners in Oceania and Pacific Islands. The commissions help support Moderately Adventurous stay alive and kicking. Keep in mind though that the land further back is privately owned and that there are sacred burial sites deeper in the valley. This is about a 5 minute drive from the Pololu Valley trailhead. Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Nanaue Falls Loop from Kukuihaele. The road was wet while we were there so I'm glad I didn't try to drive it. Starting at the Waipio Valley overlook (photo above), the hike down to the black sand beach on the valley floor is about 1.5 miles or 2.4 kilometers. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. In Hawaii, respecting the land is a big thing in Hawaiian culture. He thought I would like it, so next trip for sure! The trail to Pololu Beach is a steep, dirt path. WYOMING Behind the beach you can find large dunes and ironwood trees that protect the valley from floodwaters. A gorgeous visit to Polulu Valley on the west side of Hawaii. Pololu valley is one of the gulches at the tail end of gulches that were formed with the erosion of the Kohala Volcano. STOP OVERPACKING for your trip and pack just the right amount! I loved the dramatic and rugged landscape of the Pololu Valley Hike. These stones can make it uncomfortable to walk into the water so if you do want to take a swim try to bring shoes that can get wet. Your email address will not be published. Although the ground is rocky . The trail climbs the eastern ridge of Pololu through a series of muddy and often slippery switchbacks and leads to a wooden bench that overlooks the Honokane Nui Valley and part of the Honokane Iki Valley. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. If you can find the river area on the far right, there is a small pond area that is relatively safe for swimming in depending on the water levels and weather. Once at Beach go left toward north side of valley opening. You climb over 750 feet with many switch backs for about one mile uphill. At Pololu, btw, you can go to the far end of the beach and hike up another mile or so for a view of the next valley over. Hikes on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Isaac Art Center Waimea - This Hawaii Life, Waimea Farmers Markets - This Hawaii Life, Black sand beaches of Hawaii - This Hawaii Life, Kapoho black sand beach - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike to Ha'ena Beach - This Hawaii Life, Green sand beach on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Free or cheap things to do on the Big Island - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike to Narnia - This Hawaii Life, Big Island hike at Puuwaawaa - This Hawaii Life. And if it becomes a big problem, thats when there may even start to be more serious talks about limiting visitors to visit such places like Pololu Valley. Only a few people continue to the Honokane Nui Lookout, so this part of the trail is less busy. The trail is located about a hundred feet from the shoreline with a small trail located with low lying ferns and on the eastern ridge of Polulu. Locals only. Not sure how much you've read about each hike: http://www.bigislandhikes.com/pololu-valley/, http://www.bigislandhikes.com/waipio-valley/. PEARL HARBOR HI Explore majestic Waipi'o Valley, the lush and tropical Hamakua Coast, and multiple stunning waterfalls on the east side of the Big Island of Hawaii on this day full of fun and exciting adventure. Polol valley is the most northern of the impressive valleys that are carved into the Kohala volcano at the lush green pastures of the Kohala region on the Big Island. The ascent on both ends of this hike will test your cardiovascular system but are well worth it. SLEEPING BEAR DUNES MI We like to be doing actual hiking for about 2-3 hours plus the time to stop and take in the sights. Enjoy the views, the walk, the beach. of water with you on the short hike and sun screen for hot days, Trail and rocky and rough so hiking shoes or tennis shoes are necessary. Not only will you beat most of the crowds but you will also benefit from more pleasant temperatures. It should be remembered that you have to return the same way. In my very limited experience (twice at Waipio, three times at Pololu), I've actually found Waipio more crowded. We're staying in Kolea area so the drive. Aloha and enjoy This Hawaii Life. It is wide enough for both uphill and downhill traffic to the bottom but give some clearance to people struggling uphill. You can hike to two of the valleys at Polulu provided that you stay on the trails and not wander through the mostly land that is private . Answer 1 of 11: What is the best way to see Polulu Valley and Waipio Valley? Pololu Valley was formed over 250,000 to 300,000 years ago when the Kohala Volcano experienced a huge collapse and landslide with a large part falling into the ocean and creating this massive gulch and valley that we see today. Waipi'o is a mile wide at the coast and almost six miles deep. Answer 1 of 20: We are a family of 4 with kids just out of college, We love nature, short hikes, photography. The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) This landslide is responsible for the now famous sea cliffs on the windward Kohala shoreline but also triggered a giant tsunami that left marine deposits multiple 100 ft high on the other islands (read more). It is considered one of the steepest roads in the world down to an . I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. Big Island Earthquake Update. As a paradise for active travelers it is rich in experiences that include nature, culinary discoveries, historic landmarks, shopping, nightlife and festivals. . Cross Waipi'o Beach and visit Muliwai Trail Overlook on a 4.88-mile round trip hike that has climbs on each side of the valley that total 1,300 feet of elevation gain. No . Users of the website may print or download any content for personal use, but no one may reproduce this content (whether text or photographs) for any purpose in print or online without explicit permission from BigIslandHikes.com. It also helped that I knew what to expect. A short way across you will come to a stream. 1: Maui Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Road to Hana (Maui) 6: Maui Itinerary 7: Maui blog posts, The second-biggest island in the chain, much of Mauis appeal comes from its natural landscape and biodiversity, including its two massive volcanoes, whale watching and marine ecosystems, 1: Oahu Overview 2: Things to Do 3: Where to Stay 4: Popular Sights and Destinations 5: Oahu Beaches 6: Oahu Itinerary 7: Oahu blog posts. Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! This is a popular spot, so go on off times! Before you know it, you will have made it to the Pololu Valley floor. It is not considered a swimming beach and sometimes inundated with Portuguese man-o-wars, so do not try to swim this dangerous beach especially with no resources for helping in drowning conditions. only come here for the lookout. Starting at the Waipio Valley overlook (photo above), the hike down to the black sand beach on the valley floor is about 1.5 miles or 2.4 kilometers. I started walking down in order to get away from the people, but was surprised it really was a road, not a trail, and the vans driving down were a bit of a turn-off. Island of Hawaii. Leave before 12, or youll be stopping a lot to share the road. Pololu Valley is a solid 1.5 hours from Kona, maybe more depending on where on the Kona coast youre staying. You'll end up in Waimea, perfect place to have a beer (or whatever) and savor your day. I'd suggest taking the Waipio Valley Shuttle if you have young kids in tow. I could not tell in person which way it went from the lookout, so if you are planning to go further, you will have to do additional research. We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. If you do, please be mindful that you are visiting sacred land. This series consists of the following valleys: Water has eroded 7 deep valleys into the windward side of the Kohala Volcano of the Big Island. You can find a more concise description of this hike at the bigislandhikes website. The hike down is steep, but mostly on pavement. With clouds swirling overhead for the duration of my hike, it was bound to happen. The trail can be quite muddy if it has been raining. If you are trying to decide where to hike, Waipio Valley or here, this hike is MUCH easier. So, Have you been to Polulu and want to go back again? Or read my tips for PLANNING A BACKPACKING TRIP in a National Park. The rest of the gulches follow in order from: Parking is pic.twitter.com/D9gdoFolfq. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. This short trail has beautiful coastal views. just at the end of road with most day trippers coming to take pictures and So, I'd like to feature different trails that are fun . The Pololu Valley and this coastline are particularly beautiful for the steep, greenery-covered valley walls and dramatic cliffs that fall into the ocean. The trail down to the valley floor offers great views into Pololu Valley. Thanks, rj, for the encouragement! Yes, it is a busy trail, which is why I recommend continuing to the Honokane Nui Lookout if you have the fitness to do so. ZION UT one of my friends got a cut on their ankles and we asked a local for a ride up and not having to climb us was the highlight of the trip, INDEFINITE CLOSURE: as of February, 2022, the road leading to this trailhead, Wai'po Valley Road, is closed indefinitely. But being in a more remote part of the island, you can see this as a good thing! This is a great place to bring a picnic. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. Be prepared for the parking area to be busy when you arrive! There was an error submitting your subscription. Approaching Storm at Pololu Valley; Due to Frequent Rain Squalls Off the Pacific Ocean, Rain Gear is Highly . Whether you are on a guided tour exploring the otherworldly landscapes shaped by lava, stargazing atop Mauna Kea, or relaxing seaside in a luxury B&B, the Big Island is sure to impress! Hard on the way up, but totally worth it., starts with a decline up to the beach. Located in the flourishing green pastures of North Kohala at the end of Highway 270, Pololu Valley is simply awe-inspiring, especially at sunrise. Pololu Valley is an easy drive from Highway 270 through idyllic towns like Hawaii and Kapaau. The only ones that can be hiked are Waipio Valley near Waimea, Waimanu Valley (from Waipio) and Pololu Valley, which must be approached from the west side. opportunity in the area. The ornamental . If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. BIG ISLAND You will get the coastal views at the Pololu Valley lookout without even stepping foot on the Pololu Valley trail. Waipio Valley Hike (ROAD CURRENTLY CLOSED) There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. Spotted yesterday at #MaunaLoa a lava boat rides the waves! The Waipio Valley hike down to the beach (hiking back into the valley isn't allowed) is quite a bit steeper and longer, more like 45-60 minutes each way. Look for the rope swings that are usually present. Answer 1 of 11: Our current itinerary gives us one day to devote to hiking aside from what we will do in one day at VNP. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. . Hood Moonlit Snowshoe Tour w/ Rare Earth Adventures, Product Review Recreating Liz Robbins Outfit with Modern Royal Robbins Clothing, Product Review Gregory Maya 10 Hiking Backpack, Product Review Kuhl Travel Pants: FreeFlex Move & Kultivtr Crop, Purple leggings while I got these years ago, here are a few lilac tights I found as of August 2022: These on. Please have a chat with them when you arrive to learn more about the area and treat them kindly. There was a bit of muddy spots on the flat part of the road/trail, but easily navigable. Just dont expect a quiet reprieve into nature. Bummer! It's also the northernmost valley of the same chain that includes Waipi'o Valley, which was shown on the first trip. So detoured then to the beach- amazingly beautiful- and what was beautiful was the people we met along this hike. The valley was the permanent home for Hawaiian ali'i (royalty) until the time of King Umi-a-Lloa. 31. The Pololu Trail Steward program is a recent initiative in which one or more local stewards are present at the Pololu Valley trailhead to inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. Youll finally get to a high ridge with magnificent views of Honokane and the other cliffs of the Kohala mountains. Pololu Valley hike: This is a 2.5 miles round trip and is pretty easy. If you feel challenged, you can even go beyond to the other valleys beyond Pololu on a day trip or overnight stay. Theres a bypass trail just a few feet away from the road around the muddiest areas at the bottom and before the beach. You should hike down with sturdy shoes or boots for the variable rocks, steps and slope factor. BE ADVISED: PARKING AT WAIPIO LOOKOUT COUNTY PARK IS LIMITED TO 24 HOURS. Call 775-0958 for parking at Waipio Valley Artworks. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. 18. On the northern Hamakua Coast, you'll find the lush Waipio Valley. Intermediate. The waves here are gnarly, and I wouldnt recommend swimming here, but it is beautiful to see. If you want to drive instead of hiking down, you'll need to . The views from the ridge are stunning into Honokane Iki and the trail leading downhill is relatively easy but note that the property on the valley floor is entirely private property and access is not permited (unless you know the owner) on the valley floor unless you can find the trail beyond which is not feasible at the moment because of over grown conditions. . Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. It can be distressing for locals to see people coming out of the bushes near the Pololu Valley trailhead, presuming why people are coming out of the bushes. Waipi'o is a deep valley on the Hmkua Coast on the north side of the Big Island of Hawai'i. We just share the best of Hawaii travel, food, adventure and lifestyle to you in our updated posts and newsletters. can find more details about the original Big Island Hikes has another hike that proceeds over to an overlook for the next valley, Honokne Nui. The hike down to the bottom of the valley and to the beach is the same paved road the cars use. One switchback is a particularly good spot for a photo. I have read about the hike / walk to. P.O Box 4849 TRAIL CONDITIONS. 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. There are hikes of varying difficulties, and being at altitude gives it a completely different feel to anything on BI. Walking back up the road at the end was a bit tough just due to the steep incline. GULF ISLANDS FL All Rights Reserved. You will find the trailhead near the parking lot. There are heiaus and historical parks to explore along the way. If you hike- especially after rainy season- wear waterproof sneakers. I stopped by twice once because we were in the area around 3:00 pm and the other to start the hike at 8:30 am. Start early - like 730-8 in morning. Definitely worth walking up the other side. The vegetation is so thick that you do not get a view of the ocean. It is still a gorgeous, worthy hike even if you are heading down to the beach. Colleen you need to do this hike. The water here is notoriously dangerous and should only be attempted by very experienced swimmers and surfers. Unfortunately it is not safe to follow the trail any further because part of the trail came down in the 2006 Kiholo Bay earthquake. Keokea Beach park a beautiful park with nice views of the coastline with picnic grounds and public services. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. syr101 . The wind blowing in the shrubs and trees and helicopters buzzing close over your head enhance the expansive view. Great for first-time visitors. 4 Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall. This is probably one of the best angles to photograph the coast and the mouth of the valley. THEODORE ROOSEVELT ND After that, there were a number of other people arrived. The Pololu Valley Lookout; The hike into Pololu Valley; The black sand beach; Continue hiking to the next valley: the Honokane Nui trail; How to get to Pololu Valley; Things to do close to Pololu Valley; Pololu Valley history. All rights reserved. 6.12 km. BRYCE CANYON UT Views In less than a mile hike, you'll be treated to some of the best views of sheer cliffs and lush rolling valley hills. Continuing on to the Z trail provides more solitude, I'm sure. The Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls were nice, but not really hikes. Somewhere between .75 and 1 mile. Head to the end of Akoni Pule Hwy (270) to come to Pololu Valley. Saw one fisherman on the beach, and four vehicles passed us while hiking the paved section. Update 11/21/06 - State officials have reopened the Pololu Trail in North Kohala. This video and the associated comments explain all: "Happiness in intelligent people is the rarest thing I know."