Koloa Kaipapa’u
A short and invigorating workout with good views mauka and makai. We will go up Koloa ridge, then cut across and go down Kaipapa’u ridge. An optional extension to three WW2 bunkers keeping watch over the Hau’ula coast adds one mile, a few hundred feet of climbing, and great views of the Leeward Coast.
A $5 donation is requested for each non-member, age 18 or over.
Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft.
Trail Conditions: narrow sections, steep drop offs, ironwood needles and cones, loose material, watch your footing.
Trail Features: scenic views, bunkers.
Trail Route: Loop
Native Plants: Naupaka kuahiwi, ‘Ohi’a Lehua, Noni, Ulei
Moku & Ahupua’a: Ko’olauloa & Kaipapa’u, La’ie Malo’o
Hawaiian Name Meaning: Koloa = the big cane; Kai Papa’u = Shallow sea
Historic Information: This trail was created by HTMC member Lloyd Talcott in 1966.
* The club takes no responsibility and disclaims any liability for the contents of hike descriptions including any inaccuracies, omissions, errors, misleading statements, incompleteness, or incorrect information (click here to read our full disclaimer).
Permissions and Permits
Hawaii Reserves requires each person who participates in a hike or trail maintenance on their land to have a permit. To obtain the permit, do the following:
- Complete (and sign/date) the form https://www.hrihelp.com/_files/ugd/d737f5_820e2bd9947d4e07a60943b1e9d7c10d.pdf .
- Check either Laie Falls Trails or Koloa Gulch Trails (depending on the hike/clearing you would like to attend)
- Scan the form
- Email the form as an attachment to: hiking@hawaiireserves.com
- Body of Email should be short and courteous, as follows: Aloha, I am requesting a permit to hike on trails located on Hawaii Reserves lands. Mahalo
- You will get a return email from HRI Team with signed and dated copies of your Hiking Access Agreement & Permit.
- Print your permit and carry it with you on the day of the hike