The roundtrip hike goes down about 420 feet to the valley floor The black sand beach at Pololu Valley can be rocky if a storm has washed away the black sand. The passing clouds threaten rain but also provide dynamic skies in your photos. Answer 1 of 20: We are a family of 4 with kids just out of college, We love nature, short hikes, photography. There are no roads that cross this area south to north of the island. All of the land upriver is privately owned. 4. 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. We revisited the Pololu Valley and hiked down to the bottom once more. Longitude: -155.7274313. Pololu Valley is a solid 1.5 hours from Kona, maybe more depending on where on the Kona coast youre staying. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. See more state parks on the Big Island. If you're visiting the Big Island of Hawaii soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Big Island Visitor Guides. My favorite spot on the island so majorly bummed. Moderately Adventurous participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a small commission if you purchase an item linked on this site. My husband did this hike a couple of weeks ago and loved it http://www.bigislandhikes.com/puu-waawaa/. We'll update this page if and when it reopens. The Pololu Valley and this coastline are particularly beautiful for the steep, greenery-covered valley walls and dramatic cliffs that fall into the ocean. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. We're staying in Kolea area so the drive. How to get to Pololu Valley. Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. The closest restrooms are at the Keokea Beach Park (10 minutes from the overlook) and just behind the King Kameha Statue which you will pass in Kapaau en-route to the overlook from Hawi. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. SOUTH DAKOTA Try not to get blown away by the incredible views and crazy wind at the Honokane Nui Lookout. The crossing might be dry. Make sure you find parking even from a distant walk to the entrance of the trail since parking is limited right at the entrance. Almost immediately upon climbing, it began to rain. Although I would have loved to explore more of this scenic valley, I decided to continue on to the Honokane Nui Lookout. With more time and better weather, we would have attempted the longer hike to Waimanu. 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. Waipi'o is a deep valley on the Hmkua Coast on the north side of the Big Island of Hawai'i. Encouraging women to try adventurous travel. The Big Island of Hawaii is simply a treasure trove of beauty. We just share the best of Hawaii travel, food, adventure and lifestyle to you in our updated posts and newsletters. Bring a flashlight. The dirt and root trail can be steep in places, but the various views of the valley along the way make even part of the walk worth it. 5. The Pololu Valley floor is beautiful with a river, campgrounds, etc. The vertical distance from the overlook point down to the valley floor is 490ft (150m). Waipi'o Valley Lookout - Waipio'o Valley Loop from Kukuihaele . You can stick around for 10 minutes to snap a few pictures of the breathtaking coastline and take in the scenery but the real attraction at Pololu is the short but steep hike down into the valley and the black sand beach at the valley floor. the fertile Pololu . 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. The third guich is higher in elevation and some of the trail is very tricky with barely any trail walking the sides of loose slope but with some helpful ropes to keep you from sliding down hill. Although I've never hiked it, I can brag that I've driven down the road with the steepest grade in the entire USA! Colleen you need to do this hike. You should hike down with sturdy shoes or boots for the variable rocks, steps and slope factor. Big Island Hikes has another hike that proceeds over to an overlook for the next valley, Honokne Nui. If youre interested in Pololu Valley, you may also be interested in these great Big Island activities: ROAD TRIP AMERICA Oahu is the lively center and most visited of all Hawaiian Islands. 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. Start early - like 730-8 in morning. You wont get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. --Ernest Hemingway, Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, Re: Big Island-Hiking from Pololu Valley to Waipio Valley, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u46mHlI3pD0. Saw wild horses at the bottom of the trail. Insanely popular trail the parking area was already busy by 8:30 am. I'm hoping to hike part of the Muliwai Trail in May. . statue of Kamehameha 1st who united all of the Hawaiian Islands. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! 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! Please try again. When you're ready, climb 300' back to the trailhead. He went on our last day, we were leaving on a red eye and I decided not to do it. Sign up today on the latest for your slice of paradise! For decades, residents and visitors have traversed a steep, largely unpaved incline to the Big . The road eventually turns into a trail at Waipio Beach. Waipio Valley Hike (ROAD CURRENTLY CLOSED) If you're interested in Waipio Valley, you may also be interested in these great Big Island activities: Pololu Valley hike Whatever the situation during your visit do NOT even think about taking the coastline to the valleys beyond Pololu. At least 1 liter of water You cannot go wrong with, Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Stay Organized with this Trip Planning Template, Day 4 was our last day on the river, and I finally, Lodge fashion is a little different from river fas, Primarily rafting, we also did a little hiking on, A Rogue waterfall! The Kohala Volcano last erupted about 120.000 years ago (!) After taking more photos with the reflection of the still water, I began the climb up to the trailhead. To get there you have to follow the Akoni Pule Highway (highway 270) until it ends ends 8 miles east of the town of Hawi at the Pololu Valley lookout. 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. Head east on the Akoni Pule Highway and drive to the end of the road before parking at the Pololu Valley Overlook where the trail begins. Big Island travel tips & recommendations , Explore Big Island Hotels & Resorts Search Now. Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike. GRAND TETON WY By doing the hike, you . We looked at info for both Waipio and Pololu Valley and can't decide which we would prefer. The trailhead begins at the end of the road. I'd suggest taking the Waipio Valley Shuttle if you have young kids in tow. Next time with two others and we brought plenty of water and took about 3 hours. GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS TN NC Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. Id love to hear what you thought or if you enjoyed the Waipio valley as much as Pololu. Waipi'o Valley hike elevation: The elevation gain is approximately 975 feet on the steepest road . 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. You . Continue to cliffs, a bit inland you will find a trail. Can these both be done on the same day? 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! So, I'd like to feature different trails that are fun . Trailhead: Take Hwy. MICHIGAN 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. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. P.O Box 4849 TRAIL CONDITIONS. The hike My posts got a little jumb, My Rogue River fashion: layers of sunscreen, wide-, Tools to Plan a Sensational Trip for Yourself. Theres also a trail that starts from the Pololu Valley lookout that goes down to sea level and makes for a great coastal hike. Youll need to relax bc youll be on edge driving - esp if its your first time. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. In the event it reopens, it's likely not worth your trouble. That one's so close to the resort that we could do that in addition to either of the two I asked about. It is smooth sailing going down, but getting back up can be a real workout. Mahalo! Sounds like Pololu is more about the journey and a shorter hike. And you are at the Pololu Valley lookout! Between 250.000 and 300.000 years ago the Kohala volcano experienced a truly massive landslide in which a part of the volcano fell into the ocean. You can even camp in the Pololu Valley. EVERGLADES FL Once you reach the valley, you'll pass through a small picnic area and can either continue on the path above the beach or go down and wiggle your toes in some black sand. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. This is one of the most adventurous and beautiful hikes we have done. Mahalo! The Pololu Valley Lookout gives a spectacular view over the cliffs of the Kohala volcano. We like to be doing actual hiking for about 2-3 hours plus the time to stop and take in the sights. Later in 1780, the great King Kamehameha received the war god . Crossing the river had water a bit above our knees, but again, it was well worth it to get to the rocks at the far end of the beach. The views into Honokane Nui and the coast are simply stunning from the ridge. High surf, undertow, and rip tides are frequently present so only go in the water if you are a good swimmer and dont get in too deep. Best bet is to check the daily weather patterns for the day and see if it works with your plans to visit for the area. In less than a mile hike, you'll be treated to some of the best views of sheer cliffs and lush rolling valley hills. Unfortunately it is not safe to follow the trail any further because part of the trail came down in the 2006 Kiholo Bay earthquake. The road leading to the Pololu Valley Lookout has also been repaired - news release. Really grateful for a kind couple from Seattle gave us a lift up from beach to parking lot! 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. 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. The beach itself is made out of a mix of black sand and large boulders. of the beach with the impressive 500 foot cliffs make for a fantastic photo The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the one at Waipio, but it's on a hiking trail, vs. Waipio where you'll be hiking on a poorly maintained, very steep . Consider the Salomon Trail Sense trail running shoes, which have amazing grip and flexibility while still looking like a regular shoe. BRYCE CANYON UT All of the land upriver is privately owned. Couple that with the recent closure of the access road to the similarly popular Waipio Valley, and the crowds are growing. The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the . It is considered one of the steepest roads in the world down to an . Take your time at the lookout, and I bet you will have some time alone. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. Although the ground is rocky . Bummer, this trail is closed. Went back in 2020. sad to hear its closed for a couple of years. The view from the third switchback of Z-Trail offers the most amazing view of Waipio Valley and is well worth the effort to reach. May 11, 2018 Alice Kao. But being in a more remote part of the island, you can see this as a good thing! explore and see in the area. Looking back into the valley you can see the waters of Pololu stream. 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. Unfortunately, only the beach in this valley is public. There are no bathrooms near the Pololu Valley trailhead. There is no lifeguard. I had the Honokane Nui Lookout to myself for a good 15 minutes before another couple arrived. The beach at the bottom is fantastic, with the valley river flowing into the ocean resulting in a nice shallow play area. where Julie and I were fortunate enough to see flowing lava While Waipi'o Valley was the easternmost of the valleys in the Kohala Mountains in northeast Big Island, Pololu Valley was the westernmost of these valleys. It takes about 30 - 45 minutes, but the walk back up will take anywhere between 1 - 1.5 hours depending on your level of physical fitness. Consider making a stop there before you go to Pololu Valley, just in case! I settled on Pololu Valley, a similar hike to Waipi'o, but with a few less people. 3. No . 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. Fun stuff. . The path washes away, so you have to do it on a dry day, and when you get down, its a bit anticlimactic.

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