Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
floods. Slippery rocks and unseen submerged ledges are other potential hazards, so check
carefully before jumping in. Heed all park warning signs, including temporary ones
based on weather conditions.
At the path's junction with Pipiwai Trail, go right. A few minutes down, you'll come
to a broad grassy knoll with a gorgeous view of the Hana coast. On a clear day you can
see the Big Island, 30 miles away across ʻAlenuihaha Channel.
Waterfall Trails HIKING
The Pipiwai Trail MAP is a fantastic day hike, rewarding hikers with picture-perfect
views of waterfalls and a spellbinding stroll through a bamboo forest. The trail, which
runs up the ʻOheʻo streambed, starts on the mauka side of the visitor center. It passes
Makahiku Falls and ends at Waimoku Falls (2 miles). To see both falls, allow about two
hours.
Along the path, you'll pass large mango trees and patches of guava before coming to
an overlook after about 10 minutes. Makahiku Falls, a long bridal-veil waterfall that
drops into a deep gorge, is just off to the right. Thick green ferns cover the sides of basalt
cliffs where the fall cascades - a very rewarding scene for such a short walk.
Continuing along the main trail, you'll walk beneath old banyan trees, cross Palikea
Stream (killer mosquitoes thrive here) and enter the wonderland of the Bamboo Forest
MAP , where thick groves of bamboo bang together musically in the wind. The trail
here is muddy, but boardwalks cover some of the worst bits. Beyond the bamboo grove is
Waimoku Falls , a thin, lacy 400ft waterfall dropping down a sheer rock face. When you
come out of the first grove, you'll see the waterfall in the distance. Forget about swim-
ming under Waimoku Falls - its pool is shallow and there's a danger of falling rocks.
If you want to take a dip, you'll find better pools along the way. About 100yd before
Waimoku Falls, you'll cross a little stream. If you go left and work your way upstream
for 10 minutes, you'll come to an attractive waterfall and a little pool about neck deep.
There's also an inviting pool in the stream about halfway between Makahiku and
Waimoku Falls.
Ranger Programs NATURE TALKS
( www.nps.gov/hale ) Stop by the visitor center or check the park website to find out what
programs are on the schedule. In the morning, look for guided hikes on the Kuloa Point
and Pipiwai Trails. In the early afternoon, head to the visitor center for nature talks and
cultural demonstrations.
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