The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Hilo Forest Reserve
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Family friendly hiking trails in Hilo Forest Reserve traverse lush rainforests and lead to significant natural features. The region is characterized by dense montane rainforests, fed by substantial rainfall, creating a verdant environment with a rich biodiversity. Hikers can explore shaded paths under a thick tropical canopy, encountering native flora and fauna. The terrain includes gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for various ability levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Hilo Forest Reserve
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop from ʻAkaka Falls State Park, a 0.6 mile (1.0 km) trail that takes 17 minutes to complete. This route offers views of Akaka Falls within a rainforest setting.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Onomea Bay Trail, an easy 0.9 mile (1.4 km) path. This trail descends through tropical vegetation towards the coast.
- Local hikers also love the Onomea Bay Viewpoint loop from Papaikou, a 0.8 mile (1.4 km) trail leading through coastal forest, often completed in about 22 minutes.
- Hiking in Hilo Forest Reserve is defined by lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse native flora. The network offers options for different ability levels, with all routes in this guide being easy.
- The routes in Hilo Forest Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Hilo Forest Reserve's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 23, 2026
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Step into a lush, prehistoric-feeling rainforest on the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop, a short but incredibly scenic hike on the Big Island. This easy 0.6-mile (1.0 km) paved loop takes you past two stunning waterfalls, including the dramatic 442-foot (135-meter) 'Akaka Falls and the cascading Kahuna Falls. With only 87 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, you can complete this tropical immersion in about 17 minutes, surrounded by wild orchids, ferns, and bamboo.
Planning your visit is straightforward for this family-friendly route, though you should wear sensible shoes as the paved path can be slippery, especially after rain. While easy, the trail does include multiple steps and some uphill sections, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs. It's a perfect quick stop to experience Hawaii's natural beauty, offering frequent rainbows due to the mist and sunlight.
What makes this trail truly notable is its easy public access to two prominent waterfalls, a rarity on the Big Island. Beyond the falls, the route offers an immersive rainforest experience, complete with informational plaques explaining the area's ecological and cultural significance. Keep an eye out for unique aquatic life in the rivers, like the O'opu fish, found nowhere else in the world.
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hikers
11.9km
03:28
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
1
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1.40km
00:26
50m
50m
The Onomea Bay Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a tropical paradise, winding through dense rainforest and opening up to stunning coastal vistas. You'll find yourself surrounded by vibrant greenery, colorful flowers, and even bamboo, with the highlight being the spectacular views of Onomea Bay and its rugged coastline. The path, while short at 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with 160 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain, transitions from paved to dirt, which can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so wear appropriate footwear for this 25-minute journey.
When planning your visit, be aware that the trail can be very slippery and muddy, particularly after rainfall, due to Hawaii's characteristic red dirt. Bug spray is highly recommended to ward off insects in the lush environment. While the trail provides public access to the shoreline, swimming in Onomea Bay is generally not recommended due to dangerous currents and potential parasites in the stream water.
This trail offers a unique glimpse into "old Hawai'i," reminiscent of the nearby Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden but without an entry fee. Historically, it was part of a system of "donkey trails" used to transport goods. You can explore small rocky beaches, listen to the unique sound of pebbles being dragged by waves, and walk out to a small peninsula for additional views, making it a notable natural feature on the Hamakua Coast.
5.0
(3)
33
hikers
1.40km
00:23
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
24
hikers
2.38km
00:42
60m
60m
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.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Hilo Forest Reserve?
There are 7 easy, family-friendly hiking trails available in the Hilo Forest Reserve area. These routes are perfect for exploring the lush rainforests and natural beauty with children.
What are some of the natural features and landmarks we can see on these family hikes?
The Hilo Forest Reserve area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. You can expect to encounter lush rainforests with dense canopies of ʻōhiʻa lehua trees and native ferns. A major highlight is Akaka Falls State Park, where you can witness the majestic 442-foot Akaka Falls and the cascading Kahuna Falls. The area also offers glimpses of diverse flora and fauna, including rare native bird species.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, several easy loop trails are perfect for families. For instance, the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop is a short, scenic option. You can also explore coastal views on the Onomea Bay Viewpoint loop from Papaikou or the slightly longer Onomea Bay – Onomea Bay Viewpoint loop from Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in the Hilo Forest Reserve area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene wilderness experience, the breathtaking waterfalls, and the lush, verdant rainforests that provide a peaceful escape. The ease of access to stunning natural sights like Akaka Falls is frequently highlighted.
What is the shortest family-friendly hike available?
The shortest family-friendly hike is the Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls loop, which is just under 1 kilometer long and takes approximately 17 minutes to complete, making it ideal for young children or a quick stroll.
Are there any trails that offer coastal views?
Yes, the Onomea Bay Trail is an excellent choice for coastal views. This easy path descends through tropical vegetation towards the coast, offering beautiful vistas of Onomea Bay.
What is the best time of year to visit Hilo Forest Reserve with family?
The Hilo Forest Reserve experiences significant rainfall year-round, contributing to its lush environment. While there isn't a distinct 'dry season,' the weather is generally warm and humid. Visiting during the cooler, slightly less rainy months (typically late spring to early fall) might offer more comfortable hiking conditions, but be prepared for rain showers at any time.
What should we bring for a family hike in this region?
Given the rainforest environment, it's advisable to bring rain gear or a light waterproof jacket, comfortable closed-toe shoes, insect repellent, and plenty of water. Sun protection is also recommended for any open areas. Binoculars can enhance birdwatching opportunities.
Are there any longer, but still easy, family-friendly routes?
For a slightly longer, yet still easy, family adventure, consider the Onomea Bay Viewpoint – Onomea Bay loop from Papaikou. This route covers approximately 2.4 kilometers and takes around 40 minutes, offering more time to immerse yourselves in the tropical surroundings.
Where can I find more information about the Hilo Forest Reserve's conservation efforts?
The Hilo Forest Reserve plays a vital role in watershed protection and conserving native species. For more detailed information on its management and conservation, you can visit the official Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources website: dlnr.hawaii.gov.
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