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    Judd Trail

    4.1 (105 reviews)

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    Ace T.

    This is a fantastic place for a short hike. The loop takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, and the trail offers plenty of shade and beautiful scenery. I wish I lived closer so I could come here more often. You can park your car on the side of the road, and the trail entrance is marked by an information sign. As with all hiking trails on the island, it's best to avoid going when it's raining or has rained the day before. On a sunny day, the trail is peaceful, and you can enjoy the tranquil waters. The water pool is 5 minutes into the hike if you start on the right side and there were some that was jumping in and swimming. Definitely a must see with ease of access and with a couple of waterfalls.

    Maxine P.

    Judd Trail is fairly short so we combined with another trail. The trail is muddy in spots but not so bad that we needed crampons. This is a great trail for warm sunny days since most of it is covered by a canopy of trees. Really beautiful foliage and the creek flowing through it. Some very interesting trees along the trail. Definitely a pleasant short hike on warm day. If heavy rain is expected it would be best not to hike this one because of the chance of flash flooding. Parking is along the road and fills up later in day.

    Pond
    Dominic B.

    Mahalo to my cousin who brought me to this trail!There's a lot to see for a short and easy hike: bamboo forest, large boulders, plenty of cool flora and a refreshing pond to swim in. There's also a small rock cliff in continuous use that makes for some fun jumps! I'd definitely recommend this as a short and easy hike with plenty of shade and a refreshing swim at the end. As others said it can muddy in some areas, but still worth the hike for taking in the scenery and a swim!

    Peaceful and beautiful (11/26/20)
    Mary E.

    11/26/20- I HIGHLY recommend this hike. I normally prefer a hike up the mountains with a view of the ocean, but this hike is great with all the trees which keeps you nice and cool. There's a small river you have to cross which is fun. I would rate this hike as easy and very kid friendly. It shouldn't take you more than an hour to complete. The only downside is finding parking which is basically just to park on the side of the road. After a rainy few days this hike was more muddier than normal so be prepared to get dirty. Even on a holiday there wasn't too many people around so it's easy to socially distance. We kept our masks on the entire time, only taking them off when we needed to drink water. Please kokua and don't leave any trash behind. There's no trash bins in the area so be sure to take your trash with you and dispose properly. Have fun!

    Shallow pools make soaking beneath these mini-falls a must
    Tracey A.

    Over the course of several years I've managed to hike almost all of the Oahu hikes listed in a book called "Hiking the Hawaiian Islands" (Suzanne Swedo). Three hikes however, I'd not hiked because they were so short that they seemed not worthy of rising from the sand to do so. This year though, I endeavored to check off two short ones by hiking both in a single day. Judd Trail was the second of the two I hiked on a dry, sunny day in January. The Judd Trail is accessed by crossing a creek which was deep enough to require that I take off my shoes before crossing. I got wet up to my knees but later saw a group get through without taking off their shoes. Half of them wound up with soaked shoes; the other half successfully navigated the rock crossing. Once across the creek there's three trailheads and only one trail marker. Take either the middle trail or the one to the left and you'll be on the Judd Trail, a muddy, shaded loop which takes about 40 minutes to navigate. The trail isn't particularly well-marked and we did see people who managed to get lost but I do think that most people should be able to follow the loop without that happening. Just pay a bit of attention and keep your eyes open for some colored ribbons in the trees (marking the trail) that appear infrequently here. The real payoff of this trail though and the reason you probably want to come here? For that, after crossing the creek, take the trail on the far right. You'll not go far at all but as you go you'll be beside that creek. Quite soon you'll find the ginger pools to wade in, with the small cascading falls as a backdrop. The one I was with got in up to his neck and I think that's what you should come here for. It created the sort of video footage that, when shared with others, caused them to say "I want to go there next time I'm in Hawaii" and start asking for very specific directions. Because I'm all about the reward I'd recommend you do the hike first then reward yourself with a soak in the ginger pools. Good things come to those who wait, so wait. A pretty easy hike followed by a soak in the pools won't take up much of your day.

    Heidi B.

    This review is for the Nuannu trail, which has the same trailhead as Judd trail. - Should have known better knowing this trail is in Nuannu. Very VERY muddy. I've done my fair share of Manoa trails and this trail exceeded all of them in muddiness. That's because most of it is canopied and Nuanuu barely ever see the sun so the trail doesn't dry out. Do it on a sunny day if you can find one. - Not much elevation gain so nothing to write home about in terms of views. You're surrounded by a lot of vegetation - it's one of the greenest trails I've been on - but that's about it and things get old quickly after a mile or so. - The Alltrials distance and time estimate are off more than marginally. Budget more time especially on a rainy day.

    my feet were drenched in mud

    ......so much mud.. maybe 2 hours to do a full loop but just way too much mud- there is a nice stream +waterfall and lots of paths/loops

    Judd Trail
    Scott F.

    Nice and short, it feels like one of those hikes you go on when camping in a forest. There are a few ponds and a waterfall along the hike.

    Sirena L.

    LOVED THIS HIKE!!! Super easy and has a cute waterfall you can swim in- make sure to wear bug spray bc the mud/water attract them pesky mosquitos

    Joe C.

    It's a pretty nice trail. It's starts right off with a tiny waterfall and some interesting banyan trees. You have to cross a stream right away so you'll get your feet wet. You come to the fork for the look and you can either follow the muddy Nuuanu stream or head up the hill to this pine forest which just looks interesting with its height and it's even arrangement. The cool part of this trail is that it links up to a larger network of trails which was my intent initially. I went on a very wet day. My goal was to take the Judd to Nuuanu to Aihualama this Manoa Falls. Unfortunately due to heavy rain the Nuuanu leg which heads pretty steeply up a bamboo covered hill to the ridge was extremely muddy and slick. No traction at all. I need to try again on a dry day

    Good morning 6.24.17
    Dave F.

    Judd trail is a great spot for photography. A flowing stream with picturesque trees with exposed roots extending into the water. As far as the hiking trails are concerned, I've never really had to venture too far into it for what my purpose is. I do, however, see a lot of families that take the hikes into the forest beyond. One word of caution though, streams are very beautiful, but one downpour upstream can unleash a torrent of water cascading down from the hills above. This can turn a beautiful, serene environment into a very deadly area. So just be mindful of the weather before you venture out and never cross fast flowing streams. If you do get stranded on one bank, wait it out, it's better than getting hurt. My purpose here is photography. There are many areas that offer everything from portrait backdrops to long exposure type of shots. There's definitely something for every level of photographer. Be mindful of other photographers and never enter their shot. Extend common courtesy to them as they were there first and just wait till they're done. A little common sense goes a long way and you'll gain the respect of other fellow photographers. I've had several occasions where rude/obnoxious photographers will just walk right through your shot, if you accidentally do this, a simple apology goes a long way and you'll probably even be making another friend. The only bad part about this spot is the parking and the rain. If you're fortunate enough to snag a parking at the entrance to the trail, count your lucky stars. Otherwise it's wherever you can find parking along the street. If you have a big vehicle, it may be challenging at times versus having a small car that can hug the side. Be mindful of your choice though, there have been break ins reported along this stretch of road. Also, be careful if it's been raining. The ground gets really soggy and slippery, so have the appropriate footwear and clothing. Mosquito repellant is a must! Other than that, have fun and take in the beauty of this special place! Four Stars * * * *

    Great trial. You will get muddy. Make sure you wear wet shoes or proper sandals for hiking

    a moment of a fantasy trail
    Amy Y.

    It's haunted!!! If you plan to hike here, you better read those reviews! Apparently, its a loop hike. You definitely can get lost because the trees all look the same. OMG! I may have overreacted a lil bit there. But a place with no signal on your phone, and not that much people around, darn creepy. However, it was a really nice hike. Taking pictures here are beautiful. Parking can be a little complicated and confusing because people park anywhere near the entrance (as long as you don't block the cars coming). You have to cross a river, hopping on rocks to get to the other side...the beginning of the hike. There are a lot of signs to tell you where to hike, but it goes both ways. WTH?! Around 15-20 minutes hiking, you should be able to see/hear a mini waterfall at the bottom. It's really small, but really nice. Like a secret mini Tarzan land. Make sure to spray some insect repellent because I got so many bites. Scratching all over the next day. Quite irritating! argghhhh! I really don't know if I would hike here again. Oh yea, there's also a Nuuanu trail along the way, don't take that unless you wanna hike a loooooooong one.

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    One of my favorite trails, only ten minutes from my house. CANT STRESS THIS ENOUGH: BUG SPRAY!!!! Mosquitos ate me alive last hike.

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    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

    4.8(173 reviews)
    2.9 mi

    Visiting Pu'u Ualaka's State Park is on my top ten favorite things to do in Honolulu. The Park…read moreoffers spectacular views of the entire Southside of the Island. I travelled up Mount Tantalus to the Park yesterday with my daughter. We travelled through beautiful dense forest at the Park entrance. At the highest overlook, we could see everything and more from Diamond Head out to (and beyond) the airport. We could see all of Honolulu. I felt like we were on top of the world! Plaques offer fascinating overviews of the history and geology of the landmarks below. We could even see inside the famous tuff cone, Punch Bowl! Nearby is the first macadamia nut orchard in Hawaii. The overviews are paved with railings and easily accessible. The Park offers picnic areas with a couple pavilions and picnic tables. There is a charge for non-resident parking of $7 that can be paid electronically. Resident parking is free. Parking is limited, but there are several parking areas. We had no trouble finding parking mid week. Warning signs tell guest not to leave valuables in the car. Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park is only two miles from downtown Honolulu (maybe a couple more miles to the top). The Park is an easy 5 star and worth a visit.

    Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Park offers some of the best views of the greater Waikiki and Honolulu area…read more It's well worth the drive up for the panoramic vista that stretches from Mānoa all the way to Diamond Head, and out toward Honolulu Airport and Pearl Harbor. The park officially closes at 6pm, but I've walked in after hours before to enjoy the city lights, and the views are just as impressive at night. It's a bit off the typical tourist path, so it doesn't get overly crowded. Highly recommended if you want a different perspective of Honolulu.

    Photos
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
    Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park

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    Mānoa Falls Trail - Receipt given, put this on your dashboard when you park.

    Mānoa Falls Trail

    4.4(1.3k reviews)
    1.2 mi

    This is a great little hike that is not difficult at all. The trail seems mostly maintained for the…read moremost part. It was raining when we went, so it got super muddy, but that is to be expected and was totally fine. My only real disappointment was that you cannot actually get into the water to swim anywhere along the trail or at the falls. Also, be aware that they charge for parking, though they do offer a military discount if that applies to you. Overall, it is a nice, accessible walk through nature, just do not bring your swimsuit expecting to dive in.

    Service- 3 stars Ambiance- 5 stars…read more I usually hike this trail once a month to put myself out in the jungle and get away from concrete and I love it every time. This trail is located deep and all the way in Manoa valley- past the gym, Manoa elementary school where the road becomes pretty much a one lane street until you get around to the stop where you pay the attendant. I think this part is what disappoints me the most is because kama'aina still have to pay to hike this trail. Geez. If you are kama'aina, you have to present your ID to the attendant where you will have to pay $4. Not sure what the cost is for tourists or non-residents. There are lots of spaces to park when you past the attendant. You have the option to park at your first right past the old Treetops restaurant or further down. There is a restroom and little convenience shop if you want to purchase a souvenir, ice cream, water, etc for your hike. This trail can get super muddy and dangerous after rainfall so I would use caution if you choose to hike during wet season. There are big rocks you will have to step over all throughout the trail so be sure to go with proper hiking shoes with good grip. The waterfall at the very end isn't much but a good little reward as a picture opportunity. Folks can no longer go into the water due to leptospirosis. I highly recommend visiting this spot if you're a hiking person and nature lover!

    Photos
    Mānoa Falls Trail - Spectacular!

    Spectacular!

    Mānoa Falls Trail - Water fall behind me and my boo 3

    Water fall behind me and my boo 3

    Mānoa Falls Trail - Lonely self

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    Lonely self

    Lulumahu Falls

    Lulumahu Falls

    4.5(360 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    A beautiful day for a hike! Every time I do this hike it's a little different. Today the waterfall…read morewas cold and bracing and there were a lot of people hiking the falls. We started out around 8:45 AM and by the time we reached the waterfall, it was getting full of families and pairs of hikers. I recommend go early to skip the crowds. The hike itself isn't too technical and there are only a few places where you have to step up high over a rock or scramble through a stream.

    Lulumahu Falls was definitely one of the hikes I've wanted to do for a very long time…read more I've passed by it a number of times, so I knew exactly where it was. If you've driven up Pali Hwy - Kailua-bound, then you've passed by it. The parking and entrance is right at the intersection of Nuuanu Pali Road, you'll see plenty of cars parked. While there's no true entrance, cars do somehow figure out a way to park. You technically do need a permit to visit here as you are accessing State Forest Reserve land, which you can purchase at - https://trails.ehawaii.gov/camping/ - website. It's very easy to set up an account and make your reservation. It's only $2.50 for your entire party (not per person!). Print at least two copies (1 for your car and 1 with you). This hike is not as easy as a good amount of reviews make it out to be. It's not that kid friendly either. The main entrance is at the center of the parking lot. There is also another entrance to your right, near the road. The beginning part is fine. Flat and well maintained, graveled path through a bamboo forest. It's after your first jump or hop over a streamlet that can be more difficult because the hike is essentially gradually going up towards the mountain while crossing over the Lulumahu Stream multiple times until you reach the waterfall. Crossing the stream, you'll need to jump or climb from rock to rock, go under tree branches, step on slipper rocks (or just step in the water), and etc. You shouldn't get lost here as long as you hear the stream and stay near it. The objective is to follow the stream while looking out for those bright neon ribbons. But there are situations where you don't see any ribbon with multiple paths you can take. Being that it was my first time here, I probably took a few paths that was the more difficult one, but eventually made it at the end without any difficulties or setbacks. This seems to be a popular hike as it was quite busy at the waterfall. There were hardly any places to stand, and the "safe" areas are further away from the waterfall while if you want to get closer to get that under the waterfall photo, you'll need to pass some slippery rocks, jump here and there, and pass through narrow spaces. Of course, you can just put your shoes and feet into water to bypass. In the end, it was quite a nice waterfall and an interesting journey to get there. Wish it was less busy, but it wasn't overcrowded. There's no main path, so you can end up going through many difficult paths. I can upon a family of 4 literally walk up the stream, knee high in water. No clue where they came from, but I pointed to the direction I went. On the way down, you can take a different path. I went towards the right, and went down to the watershed. Look for the cement wall with graffiti. You can keep going down the walkway, and there is an opening at the corner of the fence towards the end, which will lead you back to the beginning, bamboo forest path. Overall, this was a fun and interesting hike! It wasn't easy, but not difficult or long. A good test of your balance to not get your socks wet! It takes about 45-60 minutes both ways depending on your level and path taken. Unless you want to swim and climb up stream. Hope to come back soon!

    Photos
    Lulumahu Falls
    Lulumahu Falls - Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

    Crossing through the stream - hopping on the rocks

    Lulumahu Falls - Enter here

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    Enter here

    Diamond Head State Monument - Shaved Ice

    Diamond Head State Monument

    4.5(2.2k reviews)
    6.3 miDiamond Head

    We made a reservation to come to Diamond Head for 7AM, paid advance online. They checked tickets…read morewhen we arrived. Lovely area, and nice hike and somewhat steep walk up for beautiful views. Unfortunately we saw some people slip and fall a bit as it was sprinkling the day we went. A lot of people were struggling and were out of breath as well. It was a great workout hiking up Diamond Head. I took the opened steep stairs way up, got to the dark areas and the stairs there were really rusty and got on my skin, but it was pretty fun. I then took the scenic route down and experienced the views one more time. If I go back here, I'll jog it cause why not :)

    Along with Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head State Monument is arguably the premier reason to visit…read moreHonolulu over any of the other seven islands in Hawaii. The views are breathtaking, the ambiance is abundantly peaceful, and due to the sheer scope of the hike, hiking Diamond Head is a superb way to get your steps in for the day without question. Even though many locals suggested my brother and I try hiking Diamond Head closer to the sun rising or setting, we still had a blast hiking here in the afternoon (12 PM - 1:45 PM) since it wasn't particularly packed during our hike. That said, I would strongly advise planning in advance because everyone wants to check it out, and reservations on the official website do fill up quickly. I generally hike every Sunday morning, so Diamond Head was not a particularly challenging hike to me at all, but I would still recommend bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, a sun hat, and possibly a portable fan if cardio-based workout aren't in your wheelhouse. You absolutely will sweat and pant basically as soon as you get started on the trail, so you'll want to ensure you have the proper hiking gear and equipment to actually enjoy the trail. Be prepared to stop regularly as there are many amazing photo opportunities on Diamond Head scattered throughout the entire hike. Pace yourself once you get here, and you'll enjoy what is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in the world.

    Photos
    Diamond Head State Monument - Top of the crater

    Top of the crater

    Diamond Head State Monument - Super Mommy and Son Son

    Super Mommy and Son Son

    Diamond Head State Monument - Blue-billed White-Terns

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    Blue-billed White-Terns

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Bench where you can relax!

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

    4.3(38 reviews)
    3.0 mi

    Did this amazing hike again starting at a different location with an alteration due to a closure of…read moreone section of the trail. I love the combination of this trails because the variety of beautiful views, landscapes, type of surfaces. Dense lush rainforest to dryer areas with a variety of foliage. Started at the Makiki Arboretum trail, taking the loop to the right on the Maunalaha Trail. This section will get the blood flowing as you climb upward over a very rooted trail. Once you arrive at an area with metal benches there is an intersection of multiple trails. Take Makiki Valley Trail to the Right. After a short hike take the Moleka Trail to the Left. The Moleka trail becomes the Manoa Cliff trail which you stay on for a number of miles. If you struggle with narrow trails with drop offs this section may not be for you. There are beautiful views of Manoa Valley from the trail. Some sections of this trail can be muddy. In the past Hike once you go through the gate the Manoa Cliff trail takes a sharp turn to Left at Intersection of other trails. In our case there was a recent landslide and there was a warning sign not continue on the Manoa Cliff Trail. No problem we took Pauoa Flats Trail until we reached Kalawahine Trail and took a Left on it. Take this trail until you reach a paved road, take a right down the road until you see the next trailhead, Nahuina Trail which zig zags its way down. When you come to Makiki Valley trail go left. When you reach Kanealole take it to your right. This trail will take you back to trail you started on. Since there are so many different trails to do this loop I suggest using Alltrails download. We clocked over 10 miles. I'd rate it as intermediate. Bring plenty of water, I carry crampons in case there are muddy slippery areas. Would not do if heavy rain or strong winds expected.

    Afternoon hike at Manoa Cliff, Kalawahine, and Makiki Valley Loop…read more Great trail, awesome views. Best if you can download the map as you loose service in several areas of the trail. My trail map also showed I hiked 7.3 miles and my husband stated 6.4, but either way it is long. Just be ready for a good long hike. We started in the rain so yes mud was around, and yes places were pretty slippery. But all in all not too bad to get around. Just wear good hiking shoes. Conditions: bugs, muddy, easy parking, great views, dog friendly, well maintained, wild flowers

    Photos
    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Son son and mommy

    Son son and mommy

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike - Mommy and son son

    Mommy and son son

    Makiki-Manoa Cliffs Hike

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    Lanikai Pillbox Hike - Sunrise overlooking the Mokes

    Lanikai Pillbox Hike

    4.6(996 reviews)
    6.5 mi

    The Lanikai Pillbox hike is right around the corner from our place in Lanikai so we really don't…read morehave an excuse not to hike it. We didn't have to worry about parking so that made things a lot easier. The cars circle around our road looking for beach and hiking parking but if you start around 6-7am on a weekday you will probably be ok. You can also park at the Kailua beach parking lot and walk to the start of the hike. It's not a relaxing hike but it's definitely beautiful and unique once you get to the pillboxes. The views are so stunning! Definitely would recommend it for an early weekday hike.

    A short, intensive but gratifying hike!…read more Maybe it was because it was 11:30am and I was wearing not the best shoes but this very short hike humbled me. It only took about 25 minutes to get up (and about 20 down) but everyone else is right, it is very steep on about 70% of it. If it has rained at any point in the previous 24 hours I would say climb at your own risk. Most people should relatively be fine but don't be afraid to take breaks and watch your step esp if you have little tread on your shoes. Also if you suffer from any sort of vertigo I'd say don't do this. The beast thing about this hike is not that the view is the final destination but there the entire time! You don't have to reach the top if you don't want too. I can assure you that you can stop on the side and see the coastline at any point. I would say there was a fair amount of people on the trail but not crowded. Parking is available on the side of the road in the residential which wasn't too difficult. Totally worth the trek!

    Photos
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike
    Lanikai Pillbox Hike

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    Koko Crater Trail - Sept 2025 - Top view of the city

    Koko Crater Trail

    4.6(920 reviews)
    9.2 miHawaii Kai

    2nd time on this trail. First time was over 15 years ago and most recently 1 month ago…read more Really great hike that can be done within 1-1.5 hrs out and back. 2 areas where it's not a solid trail- holes between the wooden planks that you can fall through if you're not careful- but I found out there are bypasses that you can do off your the right when going up and on the left when you are coming down. Always people overestimating their abilities and when we were there, someone had to be taken away by an ambulance... I think just make sure to start early if you aren't in good shape and take breaks along the way. Also, bring plenty of water and electrolytes. Great views from the top!

    If you know, you know. Koko Head is an absolute beast, and let's be real....this trail is not for…read moreeveryone. Looking up from the bottom doesn't seem that bad, but once you start climbing those railroad ties, reality hits quick. It's a straight-up vertical leg burner. My biggest advice is that slow and steady wins the race. This isn't a sprint. Don't worry about the people flying past you; just find your rhythm and take breaks. Most importantly: be careful and hydrate. There is zero shade out there and the sun will absolutely cook you. Bring way more water than you think you need and wear good shoes. Once you finally crawl to the top, the views of Hanauma Bay are insane and worth every agonizing step. Just take your time coming down because your legs will feel like Jell-O. Even if you have to climb slowly, just be careful...Don't worry about anyone else except you.

    Photos
    Koko Crater Trail - Gorgeous view from the top

    Gorgeous view from the top

    Koko Crater Trail - It's 1048 steps some of them are distant of each other some also higher steps at the endend

    It's 1048 steps some of them are distant of each other some also higher steps at the endend

    Koko Crater Trail - Sept 2025 - Are you ready?  That's how high you will go...all the way up that mountain :)

    See all

    Sept 2025 - Are you ready? That's how high you will go...all the way up that mountain :)

    Judd Trail - hiking - Updated August 2026

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