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Your Guide to Hawaii's Hiking Trails: Photos, Filters, and FAQs

184 Hiking Trails

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Hawaiʻi County Honolulu County Kauaʻi County Maui County
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What to expect

Hawaii has 184 trails including medium, easy, difficult, and extra difficult trails. The trail with the highest elevation climb is the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail and the one with the least climb is the Mauna Kea and Pu'uwekiu Loop. The longest trail is Ka'u Desert Trail at 60.4 km. To complete this hike you should budget at least 3 days. For a shorter adventure, you can try the Wailuku River State Park Walk a t 124 m. This could be done in as little as 1 days. Trails with the best offering of hostels include Kalopa State Recreation Area Loop, Perimeter Horse and Gulch Rim Loop Trail, Kalalau Trail, Mamalahoa Highway Loop, and Kuamoʻo Burials.

Guide to hiking in Hawaii

Be prepared for hiking in Hawaii with the HiiKER app

Hiking app for Hawaii
Hiiker app download on Apple app store
Hiiker app download on Google play store

FAQs about hiking in Hawaii

What is the climate like for hiking in Hawaii?

Hawaii's weather is idyllic most of the year, making it a hiker's paradise. The dry season, from April to October, offers reliable weather with little rainfall, ideal for hikes such as the Kalalau Trail.
From November to March, Hawaii experiences its wet season. Rain can make trails slippery and treacherous, especially hikes like the stairway to heaven.
The best time to hike in Hawaii is during the dry season or transitional periods in April and November when the weather is most stable. Check out more here: https://www.weather.gov/hfo/climate_summary.

Do I need a permit to hike in Hawaii?

Some trails in Hawaii, like the famed Kalalau Trail, require advance hiking permits. These can be obtained from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. For entering national parks or wildlife refuges, additional permits may be needed. More information is here: Hawaii DLNR.

Is wild camping allowed in Hawaii?

Wild camping in Hawaii is regulated and primarily allowed in designated state parks with a permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. Strict rules apply concerning fires, noise, and waste disposal. Information on obtaining camping permits can be found here: Hawaii DLNR.

Are there mountain rescue services in Hawaii?

In emergencies during hiking in Hawaii, call 911. Local fire departments handle search and rescue. It's advisable to hike with a companion, carry sufficient water, a map, and a charged phone. Stay on marked trails. Find more safety tips at Hawaii State Parks.

Are there dangerous plants in Hawaii?

Hawaii's hiking trails offer unique flora, from lush rainforests to volcanic landscapes. Trails like Koke'e State Park display vibrant 'Ōhi'a lehua blossoms, while hikers may encounter endemic silverswords on Haleakalā volcano. Some plants, like the stinging nettle, can cause skin irritation. More info here: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, hikers may encounter wildlife like the nene goose, Hawaii's state bird, or the unique happy-face spider. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so carry repellent. Be cautious of the small but stinging Portuguese man o' war on coastal trails. More details here: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/.