Mokuleia Trail - Activities On Oahu Waialua, Hawaii

The Mokuleia Trail is a 3.5 mile long (one way), out and back style hiking trail in the Waialua area on the north shore of O'ahu. With elevation gains of around 1,200 feet this is said to be a moderately difficult hike. What adds to the difficulty is that the only way to access this trail is from other trails.

You have two main options to reach the Mokuleia Trail. You can start from Mokuleia & Kuaokala Firebreak Roads which is located up in the Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station and requires both a permit and four-wheel drive vehicle. This requires a trip through the Waianae on the west coast of Oahu and does not connect, via road, to the north shore. Mokuleia & Kuaokala Firebreak Roads ends at the trailhead of the Mokuleia Trail.

Image credit: Google

The other option is to start at the Mokuleia Forest Reserve Access Road which is on the north shore. That trail will technically end and intersect with Mokuleia & Kuaokala Firebreak Roads which you'll then follow for a short distance as it connects to the Mokuleia Trail. Whichever way you choose, it's going to be a fairly long hike.

Once on the Mokuleia Trail, you'll pass through the Mokuleia Forest Reserve and the Pahole Natural Area Reserve (NAR), then crosses the Forest Reserve Boundary onto private land. This trail passes through public hunting areas as well so be sure to wear bright clothing and always stay on the trail to be safe. On that note of safety, don't forget to read Hiking Safety & Essentials before heading out.

Also be aware that the Pahole NAR is a very sensitive ecosystem that is being restored by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife. You're asked to check your shoes to make sure they are free of dirt and seeds to avoid the spread of invasive vegetation. Be sure to use the boot brush at the trailhead.

And now for some interesting facts. The Mokuleia Trail was constructed in 1934 by the Wahiawa Camp of the Civilian Conservation Corps. Most of the original trail has been replaced by Mokuleia & Kuaokala Firebreak Roads but the 3.5 mile section we covered here is still in use today. The Pahole NAR that the trail passes through covers 658 acres and was established in 1981. The reserve is here to protect the native plants and animals of the area.

• General: Cost: Free	• Hiking: Hiking	• Hiking: Length: 3-4 Miles	• Hiking: Level: Moderate	• Hiking: Major Elevation Changes
• Hiking: Out & Back Trail	• Sightseeing: Great Views	• Vehicle Activities: Biking