Kuliouou Trail Division of Forestry and Wildlife

Description

Kuliouou Forest Reserve. The trail begins about 0.2 miles in on the Kuliouou Valley Trail and proceeds up the ridge to the summit of the Koolau Range. About two-thirds of the way up the ridge, there is a shelter with two picnic tables. From this point, the trail becomes steeper.  While following the ridge, the trail is only occasionally maintained and may be difficult for inexperienced hikers. The trail ends at the summit with a spectacular view of the windward side of Oahu and Waimanalo. Return is by the same route. The trail traverses through an assortment of exotic vegetation typical of arid areas: Christmas berry, haole koa, formosa koa, ironwood, Norfolk pine and guava. Beyond the shelter and the guava forest, the trail breaks out of the canopy and into uluhe-o`hia-koa-lama forest. This upper section of trail offers an almost 360 degree view of the island. Caution should be exercised on this trail since it is also open to mountain bikers and hunters. This trail traverses a public hunting area - hikers should exercise caution. Wear bright colored clothing and be aware that you may encounter hunters who may be hunting off trail - stay on the trail.  Campsites not designated.  Camping is allowed anywhere within the trail corridor (10 feet from center line), but camping at the trail shelters is preferred.

Know before you go! All Forest Reserves will be closed during Tropical Storm and Hurricane Warnings.  Keep informed on weather conditions and forecasts.

NO GROUND FIRES.  Camp fires must be in a container such as a hibachi or 50 gallon drum.  Almost all wildfires in our Forest Reserves are caused by campfires.  Make sure you put it our before you hike out!

See the brochure, Hiking Safely in Hawaii

No changes will be accepted to an existing permit less than seven (7) days prior to the check-in date.  Permits are not transferable. No refunds will be given if requested within 15 days of your first scheduled camping day - all payments will be forfeited.  Permit must be printed, signed and in your possession while camping.

Location

From Kalanianaole Highway heading east, take a left on Kuliouou Street.Drive mauka towards the back of the valley. Follow the curve to the left, and take a right on Kuli`ou`ou Road.Proceed mauka (towards the mountains) on this road, turn right on Kala`au Place. Find street parking along Kala`au Pl. Do not park at the end of the cul-de-sac where it says “no parking.” Proceed on foot to the end of the road and past the cable gate on the access road. The trail begins on the right of the access road at the hunter/hiker check in station. Campers must find legal parking in the adjacent neighborhood.  Please park responsibly and do not leave valuables in your vehicle.

Campsite Map PDF

Special Conditions

Caution should be exercised on this trail since it is also open to mountain bikers and hunters. This trail traverses a public hunting area - hikers should exercise caution. Wear bright colored clothing and be aware that you may encounter hunters who may be hunting off trail - stay on the trail. Campsites not designated. Camping is allowed anywhere within the trail corridor (10 feet from center line), but camping at the trail shelters is preferred.

Park Rules and Regulations PDF

Photos