Hawaii is the 50th and most recent state to join the United States, situated in the central Pacific Ocean. An archipelago of 137 islands and atolls, Hawaii is renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich Polynesian culture. The eight main islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe — each offer a distinct personality and experience.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Diamond Head Summit Trail
Climb the iconic tuff cone volcanic crater above Waikiki via military tunnels and spiral staircases to panoramic coastal views. Hawaii's most famous hike.
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2
Kalalau Trail
Hawaii's most dramatic and legendary trail hugs the sheer Na Pali cliffs to the remote Kalalau Valley, passable only on foot. The 11-mile one-way journey delivers extraordinary coastal scenery.
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3
Pipiwai Trail
Trek through a magical bamboo forest cathedral to 400-foot Waimoku Falls. One of Maui's best hikes, inside Haleakala NP's Kipahulu District.
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4
Kilauea Iki Trail
Descend into a volcanic crater that last erupted in 1959 and walk across the hardened lava lake floor, peering into steaming vents. An unforgettable geological experience.
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5
Manoa Falls Trail
A lush rainforest walk through Honolulu's Manoa Valley to a 150-foot waterfall. Frequently muddy and often involves rainfall — a quintessential O'ahu jungle hike.
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6
Sliding Sands Trail (Keoneheehee)
Descend from Haleakala summit (10,000 ft) into the volcanic crater across rust-red cinder desert, past silversword plants found nowhere else on Earth. The return ascent is demanding.
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7
Koko Head Crater Trail
A relentless climb up 1,048 steps of a WWII military railroad track to Koko Head crater summit. Brutal ascent rewarded with 360-degree East Oahu views.
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8
Haiku Stairs (Stairway to Heaven)
Note: Currently closed to the public. The 3,922-step staircase up the Ko'olau ridge offers legendary views when accessed legally during occasional permitted events.
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9
Awa'awapuhi Trail
A spectacular ridge trail from Kokee State Park ending at a knife-edge overlook with views 2,500 feet straight down to the Na Pali Coast and ocean below.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.