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Kahakapao Recreation Area

Posted on Dec 2, 2020 in

Kahakapao Recreation Area is a mountain biker’s paradise. An extensive network of hiking trails, biking trails, and biking skills amenities are favorites of the Upcountry community. A mix of native koa/‘ōhi‘a and exotic trees provides a unique birding experience.

The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC’s) Waikamoi Preserve was established to protect the fresh water source for the island and to provide a sanctuary for endangered plants, birds, and hundreds of other native Hawaiian species. The preserve is home to several critically endangered birds only found there, including the kiwikiu (Maui parrotbill) and ʻākohekohe.

This cloud forest is a cool retreat from the hot Kona coast. A lush ʻōhiʻa and hāpuʻu tree fern forest, this undeveloped trail is a real gem. Access the official trailhead from the end of Makahi Street (off Kaloko Drive). Park on the side of the road and be respectful of neighboring properties.

Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō Trail

Posted on Jun 30, 2017 in

This historic trail was once a cattle driving trail linking Puʻu ʻŌʻō Ranch on Mauna Kea and Keauhou Ranch near Kīlauea. An easy, though lengthy 7.4-mile round-trip hike across smooth pāhoehoe and rough ʻaʻā lava flows, the trail meanders in and out of kīpuka (older, forested pockets spared from lava flows) filled with ancient trees ...
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Kaulana Manu Nature Trail

Posted on Aug 7, 2017 in

Kaulana Manu (formerly Kīpuka 21) is a family friendly interpretive trail in a pristine kīpuka (older, forested pockets spared from lava flows). A favorite of birders, this is a good spot to catch a glimpse of many of Hawaiʻi Island’s native forest birds. If you’re lucky, you may see endangered Hawaiian birds like ʻakiapōlāʻau, ʻakepa, ...
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Kaūmana Trail

Posted on Aug 7, 2017 in

This historic trail is a remnant of a foot and later horse trail that once linked the east and west sides of Hawaiʻi Island. An easy 1.5-mile hike across smooth pāhoehoe scrubland, the trail meanders in and out of kipuka (older, forested pockets spared from lava flows) filled with ancient trees and flocks of native ...
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