#Hike to manoa falls series#

Moderate/Advanced Hikers - the end of this trail is the beginning of the Aihualama and Nu’uanu Loop Trail. Proper trail running/hiking shoes are necessary due to mud. One told us (as he was running) that he had been running this trail every day for over 5 years. Trailer Runners - we saw a couple trail runners. It is said that although the ghostly procession floats several feet above the ground, they leave behind footprints in the earth.Friends, Families, Trail Runners, Beginners, Everyoneįamilies - I saw several families with under 5-year-olds. Those few who have seen the apparitions and lived to talk about the experience, report that the warriors are often accompanied by raised torches and the sounds of chanting and drumming can often be heard. In most cases, either the witness or someone the witness knows, experiences a grim fate. Legends say it is a terrible omen for someone to actually see the procession of Hukai-po. Visitors have reported that on certain nights, the faint drumming characteristic of these Hukai-po can be heard at the banyan tree. It is said that the Hukai-po are believed to be armed spirits of warriors entering into or returning from battle. According to “Uncle Joe” Espinda, a tour guide with the Oʻahu Ghost Tours, the reason for the famous banyan trees agitation is because it is located directly in the path of Hawaii’s most prominent legend – the Hukai-po, also known as the Night Marchers. Rumor has it that the large banyan located at the entryway to Manoa Falls Trail isn’t very peaceful at all. In mythology it is believed that banyan trees are the peaceful resting spots where lost spirits reside. Signs are posted informing users that the trail has ended and warn of the potential danger of the area beyond swimming is not permitted in the waterfall pool.

Since then, a bench and a designated viewing area have been constructed. In January of 2002, there was a dangerous landslide next to the waterfall. While the pool looks inviting, rock slides are possible. The waterfall is often bigger after a rain during the hot and dry summer months it is sometimes just a trickle. The water cascades down from the mountain into a small pool at the base. Manoa Falls feature a vertical drop of about 150 feet (46 m). Although this involves a bit of extra effort, it is manageable, even for most kids. The last 100 yards are the most difficult you have to climb up and over some large boulders to reach the Falls. It’s wise to keep this in mind when selecting your shoes for the hike. This lush, jungle-like environment can tend to leave the trail muddy and slippery, so be prepared to get a little dirty. Manoa Valley receives, on average 150 inches of rain each year.

#Hike to manoa falls series#

The TV series Lost also filmed parts in this mysterious tropical terrain. If you feel as though you have stepped back in time to the dinosaur era, there is good reason some of the 1993 jungle scenes of Jurassic Park were shot right in this area. The entire trail is about 1.6 miles (2.6 km) out and back.

The hillsides are coated with large patches of ginger and beautiful wildflowers. Along the way you can expect to see eucalyptus trees, giant vine draped kukui trees, mountain apple, guava, African tulip trees, bamboo, and banyan trees.