Hiking on the Big Island
If you are looking for some of the best hiking in the world, look no further. With eleven of the world’s thirteen sub-climates and elevations ranging from sea level to over 14,000 feet, the Big Island offers some of the most diverse scenery and hiking in the world. No matter your experience level, the Big Island hikes have something just for you.
Big Island Hiking Trails
The Big Island offers countless hiking trails, from easy half-day Big Island hikes to grueling multi-day treks. The 32-mile long Māmalahoa Petroglyph Trail in Waikōloa is an easy trail featuring over 30,000 petroglyphs, and you can go as far as you want. Or, trek the four mile loop through temperate rainforest and the steaming volcanic crater of Kīlauea ʻIki at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. For the more adventurous, head up to the 12,000 elevation on Mauna Kea and trek to sacred Lake Wai‘au. The Muliwai Trail is in a class all its own; it’s one of the best hikes Big Island offers!
Hiking Big Island’s Muliwai Trail
The Muliwai Trail is a 9-mile very strenuous hike that takes you beyond Waipi‘o Valley into the remote Waimanu Valley. On the north side of Waipi‘o Valley you’ll ascend a 1,200-foot ridge. From there, make your way another eight miles across steep gulches and hills. You’ll cross 13 streams and slog through an unbelievable amount of mud. The last section is a super-tricky switchback trail down to the valley floor. The Muliwai Trail is strenuous and challenging for even the most seasoned trekkers. Permits are required for this trail, and the only way back is to hike out the same way you came.
Big Island Hiking Tours
Hawai‘i Forest and Trail is a great company offering a multitude of hiking tours; you can choose from waterfalls, volcanoes, bird watching, Mauna Kea summit, farm, and zipline tours. They also offer custom private tours. Hawai‘i Outdoor Guides has volcano, lava flow, and waterfall treks with friendly guides sharing their knowledge of the Big Island’s plants, culture, and history. ‘Āhiu Hawai‘i has numerous tours that will take you off the beaten path into little known places that most people don’t get to see.
Pull Your Boots On!
Experience the Big Island’s unmatched scenery on a leisurely day hike, or blaze the Muliwai Trail to camp in Waimanu Valley. Whatever you pleasure, contact our vacation experts at ILoveHawaii.com to put your boots to the trail and enjoy a day of hiking on the Big Island!
