Tucked away in a hidden part of Nuuanu Valley is a beautiful waterfall that few people ever see. Descending in several cascades from the high slopes of Konahuanui [the highest peak in the Koolau Mountains], it is similar in appearance, and prettier than Manoa Falls, but more difficult to reach. Also, like Manoa, its pool is too shallow for swimming, although it will provide a horizontal soak. An added benefit of this hike is it passes by Kaniakapupu, the ruins of the summer palace of King Kamehameha III and his queen, Kalama. The hike is short, just over 3 miles, with little elevation gain. However, there is a brief scramble over large rocks just before the falls, which might be difficult for young children.
IMPORTANT NOTE: It is not possible to make this hike except as part of an approved group with a valid permit. The falls lie within a restricted water shed, which is also used as a bow-and-arrow hunting area. Trespassers are not only subject to arrest, but without a coordinated permit, could face an unpleasant encounter with a whizzing, feathered missile. The trail is not marked, and there are several in the area, which would cause confusion to those not familiar with the correct path. Accordingly, I have provided no directions to the trailhead, or detailed description of the route. Those interested in making this trip, should consider joining the Hawaiian Trail & Mountain Club, which does the hike annually as “members only” outing. The Sierra Club also hikes the route on an infrequent basis. Both clubs can be contacted by clicking on their buttons at the end of this article.
Because of the above, for this column I will pretty much let the photos speak for themselves.
Gathering for the hike
Starting out
For a short hike, the route enjoys a surprising variety of terrain and vegetation.
Bamboo on the left, tall trees on the right
The forest changes quickly
Within ten minutes we arrive at all that remains of Kaniakapupu, King Kamehameha III’s summer palace.
Resuming the hike, we enter a bamboo forest.
We then cross a stream,
and find more bamboo.
We pass through a grove of dying rose apple trees
Slippery rocks make slow going
Just before the falls, a stretch of large, moss-covered rocks require careful climbing.
At last we reach the falls,
and enjoy a scenic, but rocky lunch spot.
After lunch, hikers relax, and contemplate the lower part of the falls.
| 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. |
