A Hike Through This Lush Hawaiian Valley Is Perfect For The Adventurous Soul
By Megan Shute|Published November 15, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
The Hawaiian Islands are not only home to magnificent beaches, but world-class hiking as well. And with near-perfect summer weather year-round, there’s nowhere better to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails than our beautiful islands. And while love coastal trails, waterfall hikes, and those with panoramic views as much as the next person, sometimes we crave a unique, off the beaten path adventure — and this trail through a lush, verdant valley certainly delivers.
Discover an enchanting landscape just waiting to be explored as you step back in time along the Kamananui Valley Trail — also known as the Moanalua Valley Trail.
The verdant, emerald green setting screams adventure, and the real attraction of the Kamananui Valley Trail is that there is no main destination. Instead, this one-of-a-kind trail offers a little bit of everything.
With thick vines hanging from branches above and draping down to the forest bed so plentifully, you’ll feel as though you’re on the set of an Indiana Jones film.
You’ll even stumble upon the ruins of the luxurious Damon mountain estate, one of Hawaii’s wealthiest trusts. The popular film, The Descendants was loosely based on the Damon family and their excessive estate.
Though the trail is well-maintained as part of the Na Ala Hele Trail & Access Program, the meandering path can be confusing. When in doubt, follow the stream (or just head back the way you came).
A few warnings, though: don't attempt this trail if it is raining or has recently stopped raining as the trail can get quite muddy and dangerous. We also recommend giving yourself plenty of time so you're not hiking in the dark. Oh, and bring plenty of water and snacks!
