Pali Hiking Trails
Beyond the Lookout: Nature Adventures in the Ko'olau Mountains
Written by a Local Hiking Guide
Leilani AkoBeyond the Lookout: Hiking Trails and Nature Adventures
For those inspired by the panoramic views and wanting to dive deeper into the natural beauty of the Koʻolau mountains, several hiking trails are accessible from or near Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout.
Pali Puka Trail
This relatively short but rewarding hike is about 1 mile round trip, takes about an hour, and involves 300 feet of elevation gain. It's generally considered beginner to intermediate level.
The highlight is a natural "puka," or hole, in the ridgeline that perfectly frames stunning views of the Windward Coast, including Kāneʻohe Bay and the towns of Kailua and Kāneʻohe.
📍 Finding the Trailhead
The trailhead is somewhat hidden but accessible from the Pali Lookout parking lot. Walk left (when facing the main lookout sign) along the parking lot toward a stone wall and look for an opening in the wall and trees.
An "Area Closed" sign may be present just beyond this opening, which marks the trail start. Note that this trail exists in a legal gray area, so hike at your own risk.
✅ Trail Highlights
- Natural "puka" viewpoint
- Panoramic windward views
- Unique photo opportunities
- Rope assists available
⚠️ Important Warnings
- Not for those with fear of heights
- Can be muddy after rain
- Narrow ridge sections
- Legal gray area - hike at own risk
The trail involves some steep climbs where ropes are often available for help, particularly useful if the path is muddy after rain. It crosses narrow ridges, though some of the most exposed sections have side trails through trees. This hike is not recommended for people with fear of heights or vertigo near edges.
🥾 Pali Puka Trail
- Distance: 1 mile RT
- Duration: ~1 hour
- Elevation Gain: 300 feet
- Difficulty: Beginner-Intermediate
- Trailhead: Pali Lookout parking
🎒 What to Bring
- Hiking shoes with grip
- Water (minimum 1 liter)
- Trail app or GPS
- Rain jacket
- First aid basics
Judd Trail (Nuʻuanu Judd Trail Loop)
For a longer and more immersive experience in Nuʻuanu Valley, the Judd Trail offers a loop of about 5 miles, taking 3-5 hours to complete, with 1,000 feet of elevation gain. It's also rated beginner to intermediate but is known for being very muddy, especially after rain, and involves at least one stream crossing.
Getting to the Judd Trail
The trailhead is located off Nuʻuanu Pali Drive (the Old Pali Road), not directly at the main Pali Lookout. Parking is typically along the roadside.
What to Expect
The trail meanders through lush forest, including sections of bamboo. It leads to the Nuʻuanu Lookout (a different, less developed viewpoint than the main Pali Lookout, offering views toward Honolulu) and eventually to Jackass Ginger Pool, a secluded spot with a small waterfall where hikers can swim.
The trail involves switchbacks and can be slippery. While generally well-marked with ribbons, using a trail app or map is recommended to avoid getting lost on intersecting paths.
🌿 Trail Features
- • Lush tropical forest
- • Bamboo sections
- • Stream crossings
- • Nuʻuanu Lookout
- • Jackass Ginger Pool
- • Swimming opportunity
⚠️ Trail Challenges
- • Very muddy conditions
- • Slippery when wet
- • Multiple trail intersections
- • Stream crossing required
- • 3-5 hour commitment
- • Limited roadside parking
🧭 Navigation Tips
The trail involves switchbacks and can be slippery. While generally well-marked with ribbons, using a trail app or map is recommended to avoid getting lost on intersecting paths. AllTrails or similar apps are highly recommended for this hike.
🌲 Judd Trail
- Distance: 5 mile loop
- Duration: 3-5 hours
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Beginner-Intermediate
- Trailhead: Old Pali Road
General Hiking Safety & Preparation
🚨 Safety First
- • Tell someone your hiking plans
- • Check weather before departing
- • Turn back if conditions deteriorate
- • Stay on marked trails
- • Respect private property
✅ Be Prepared
- • Bring more water than you think you need
- • Wear appropriate hiking footwear
- • Download offline maps/GPS
- • Pack snacks and basic first aid
- • Start early to avoid afternoon heat
Respecting the Environment
The Ko'olau mountains are home to fragile ecosystems and native Hawaiian plants. Practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and don't disturb wildlife or vegetation. These mountains hold cultural significance as well as natural beauty.
Remember: These trails offer incredible experiences, but they require preparation, respect, and caution. The Ko'olau mountains can be unforgiving to the unprepared, but they reward respectful hikers with some of O'ahu's most spectacular views and intimate encounters with Hawaiian nature.