This easy to get to gem of a waterfall is in a restricted area, which is why most folks have never been there. It requires permission from the Board of Water Supply, which is normally granted only to hiking groups, since each hiker must sign a waiver, and the hiking club must show evidence of liability insurance. The Hawaiian Trail & Mountain Club schedules this hike annually, which is another good reason to join (see box at the end of this article). A bonus feature of the hike is a second waterfall, reached by a rough trail through the forest.
Gathering at the trail head
The hike to Hamama is an easy 3-mile round trip, all of it along a road, with an uphill stretch near the end.
Starting up the road
Even though this is a road walk, there are great views of the Koolau cliffs and plenty of tropical plants to enjoy along the way.
Giant banyan roots en route to the falls
The road ends at the bottom of the falls, which is also the base of the Koolau cliffs, soaring more than 2,000 feet vertically into the sky.
About 100 yards from Hamama, returning along the road, is the route to the second waterfall. It begins at a banyan tree, is unmarked, and the faint and sometimes disappearing trail is difficult to follow.
Starting to the second falls
Footing is also difficult and slippery in places. This part of the hike should only be done with someone who knows the route.
At times, hikers can almost disappear in the heavy foliage.
Finally, a last scramble reaches the falls.
A suitable reward at the end of the trail.
NEXT MONTH: KALAUAO FALLS AND STREAM
| The best way to hike the trails on Oahu is with the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club and the Sierra Club. Both have permission to hike many routes not open to the general public. Neither one requires membership to join most hikes, although non-members pay a small fee, and they restrict certain hikes to members only. For info on membership and hiking schedules, see the following web sites. HTMC & Sierra Club. |
