Easy hikes and walks in Hilo Forest Reserve
4.6
(28)
479
hikers
8
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Hilo Forest Reserve traverse a diverse landscape on the windward side of Mauna Kea, characterized by moist, montane rainforests. The terrain ranges from 2,000 to 6,000 feet in elevation, featuring dense canopies of native ʻōhiʻa lehua and koa trees. This area is shaped by volcanic activity, with paths winding through old-growth forests, streams, and coastal sections offering ocean views. The reserve acts as a critical watershed, protecting water resources on Mauna Kea's eastern slopes.
Best easy…
Last updated: May 7, 2026
4.5
(19)
347
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
1
hikers
1.40km
00:26
50m
50m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile Onomea Bay Trail through a lush rainforest to scenic ocean views and the Onomea Bay Viewpoint.
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5.0
(3)
29
hikers
1.40km
00:23
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
25
hikers
2.38km
00:42
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Akaka Falls are worth seeing even when it rains.
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Akaka Falls State Park is located on the northeastern Hilo Coast and features two magnificent waterfalls. The 0.6 km long, gently ascending hiking trail takes you through a lush rainforest with wild orchids, bamboo groves and hanging ferns. If you continue following the paved footpath, you will first come across the 30 m high Kahuna Falls. Behind the next bend in the circular route you can already see the towering Akaka Falls, which plunge over 135 m into a gorge. The beautiful waterfall is probably the most famous of its kind on Hawaii Island. The pleasant hike takes less than an hour. https://www.gohawaii.com/de/islands/hawaii-big-island/regions/hilo/akaka-falls-state-park
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From here, visitors can take the Onomea Bay Trails down to the bay. The bay on the ocean is about .4 miles from here on a boardwalk. The walk through the lush rainforest brings visitors to lush forests with so much green foliage and flowers and past waterfalls. Be careful because this area can get very slippery when wet, so wear proper shoes and try to let the trails dry out after it rains. Even if they choose not to go down the trail on foot, bikers can peer down the trail from the parking lot and find a few memorial statues without having to hike.
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Onomea Bay has an amazing view of rocky shores, crashing waves, and a nice viewing platform. The waters are a bit too rough to swim, especially with all the lava rocks. The jungle surrounding the shores and trail are amazing with flowers and thick vegetation.
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Indescribable, a beautifully landscaped garden. A bloom everywhere you look.
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I've seen better, but it's not worth the money.
1
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A must for flower lovers. A really great garden, unique.
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Onomea Bay is located close to the Hawaiʻi Tropical Garden and is the perfect combination of jungle and the ocean. The views along the Onomea Bay Trail will bring you to multiple beautiful viewpoints to enjoy the views of the bay.
1
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Hilo Forest Reserve?
There are several easy hiking trails in Hilo Forest Reserve. This guide features 7 routes that are specifically categorized as easy, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience.
What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes in Hilo Forest Reserve?
You can expect to immerse yourself in a lush tropical rainforest environment, characterized by a dense canopy of native ʻōhiʻa and koa trees, abundant moss, and verdant ferns. Many trails also feature streams, and some offer scenic coastal bay views with spectacular rocky shores.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Hilo Forest Reserve?
Yes, the Hilo Forest Reserve area is known for its impressive waterfalls. A popular easy trail that offers views of these natural wonders is the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop from ʻAkaka Falls State Park, which leads through a lush rainforest setting.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Hilo Forest Reserve?
The easy trails in Hilo Forest Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the pristine solitude, the immersive rainforest experience, and the stunning natural beauty, including the waterfalls and coastal views.
Are there any easy coastal walks or trails with ocean views?
Absolutely! The Onomea Bay Trail is an excellent choice. This easy path descends through tropical vegetation to offer scenic ocean views at the Onomea Bay Viewpoint, showcasing spectacular rocky shores and vibrant jungle surroundings.
Are the easy hiking trails in Hilo Forest Reserve suitable for families?
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. They are generally shorter in duration and have minimal elevation gain, making them accessible for various ages. Trails like the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop are particularly popular for their engaging scenery.
What should I wear or bring for an easy hike in Hilo Forest Reserve?
Due to significant rainfall in the region, trails can be slick and muddy. It's highly recommended to wear waterproof hiking footwear and bring rain gear. Light, breathable clothing is also advisable for the tropical climate.
Are there any circular routes among the easy trails?
Yes, there are several easy circular routes. For instance, the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop from ʻAkaka Falls State Park and the Onomea Bay Viewpoint loop from Papaikou are both excellent options for a round trip.
What is the typical duration for an easy hike in this area?
The easy hikes in Hilo Forest Reserve vary in length, but many can be completed in under an hour. For example, the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop takes about 17 minutes, while the Onomea Bay Trail typically takes around 25 minutes.
Are there specific points of interest or landmarks to look out for?
Beyond the stunning natural features like waterfalls and coastal views, the reserve itself is a critical protected watershed. You'll be hiking through old-growth forests that are home to native ʻōhiʻa and koa trees, and if you're lucky, you might spot rare native birds. The Onomea Bay Viewpoint is a notable landmark offering panoramic ocean vistas.
Where can I find more information about the Hilo Forest Reserve?
For official information regarding the Hilo Forest Reserve, including details on conservation efforts and regulations, you can visit the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources website: dlnr.hawaii.gov.
Most popular routes in Hilo Forest Reserve
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