It takes about 30 - 45 minutes, but the walk back up will take anywhere between 1 - 1.5 hours depending on your level of physical fitness. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. The cliffs of Pololu and valley are unspoiled and have been natural until the first arrival of humans into the valley around the 15th Century. Super fun, a bit challenging, but totally worth it. The vertical distance from the overlook point down to the valley floor is 490ft (150m). Michele Falzone/Getty Images. The rest of the gulches follow in order from: Parking is You'll hear from me shortly. Make sure you find parking even from a distant walk to the entrance of the trail since parking is limited right at the entrance. Maybe its best to think of this as a half day activity. The hike down the side of the cliff to the valley floor is short but steep: ~420 ft in 0.6 miles (126 meters in 1.0 kilometers) and takes about 20 to 25 minutes for the average hiker. If you would like to learn more about living here, be sure to check out my Moving To Hawaii Resources for Hawaii Island. In my very limited experience (twice at Waipio, three times at Pololu), I've actually found Waipio more crowded. You will find the trailhead near the parking lot. Various sections of the trail, which runs in a steep zigzag down the vegetated cliff face, have been rebuilt - read article.. Shop around on. Subscribe to receive 5 emails in 5 days: Call us for advice! CARDIO!! Dont worry, there is plenty of time on the beach to take a breather! Cool max - Light weight shorts and shirt/ hoodie. Saturday February 26th - sign on road at Honokaa town - sign on road 7 miles before the hike starts saying Road CLOSEDNo hikers!!! From there you can look back into the valley seeing waterfalls unseen from other side. Useful 3. Josiane St Pierre / Getty Images. 6.12 km. After taking more photos with the reflection of the still water, I began the climb up to the trailhead. March 3, 2023. Since this hike will likely take 3-4 hours, here is what I recommend you bring with you on the Pololu Valley Hike: The trailhead is at the end of a dead-end road and very easy to find! Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Pololu Valley was formed over 250,000 to 300,000 years ago when the Kohala Volcano experienced a huge collapse and landslide with a large part falling into the ocean and creating this massive gulch and valley that we see today. #1. Someone generously placed a new bench which conveniently turns into a table and seating area with magnificent views down the Honokane Nui. On either side of the valleyare cliffs reaching almost 2000 feet in elevation with numerous cascading waterfalls. I could not tell in person which way it went from the lookout, so if you are planning to go further, you will have to do additional research. The huge sea cliffs paralleling a beautiful black sand beach were simply amazing to look at. Sustainable Travel guide and itineraries for the Big Island of Hawaii. This is a gorgeous walk with stunning views and one of our 5 favorite hikes on the Big Island! The trail is Very steep. Please treatt hem with aloha and follow their directions. You continue through the village of Hawi (good spot for a bite & beverage), on narrow, winding roads with one-land bridges. We revisited the Pololu Valley and hiked down to the bottom once more. Noel Morata is the creator of This Hawaii Life along with a small team of contributors. Wild horses, stray dog that followed us at the hip and protected us, amazing views, a river crossing, wild fruit along the way (pomelo). During or after rains the trail can be slippery and because of the relatively steep average grade of the trail (13%) we rate the difficulty as moderate. Pololu Valley as seen from the trailhead. Theme by 17th Avenue. It is located on the west side of the island. Pololu Valley is the northernmost of the Seven Valleys of the Kohala Mountains, accessible from the Pololu Valley Trail. Once at the bottom take the road to the right. stream inland ends and is mostly private lands that are off limits to explore. The trail, sometimes referred to as Awini Trail, that leads down to the black sand beach ( Pololu Valley Beach) takes approximately half an hour to hike. This magnificent wild valley is at the head of the Kohala Coast, the oldest part of the island with deep valleys and picturesque beaches. Both times, the parking area was packed. I'm kind of leaning toward Pololu for that reason. Copyright 2020, BigIslandHikes.com. Thanks for visiting This Hawaii life and checking out this post on a Big Island hike to Pololu Valley. There is a trail that leads through the canyon gulch at a distance but visitors are not allowed to pass beyond a certain area since it is private lands. This is a good spot for a picnic and a shower after hiking down into Pololu valley. The ascent on both ends of this hike will test your cardiovascular system but are well worth it. From the valley floor it is a short and easy stretch to the beach. A short way across you will come to a stream. There is often a possibility of rain at any moment. The string of gulches on the Hamakua and Kohala side of the island starts at Polulu and ends up in Waipio valley on the other side of the island. BRYCE CANYON UT The stretch between the Pololu valley lookout and the black sand beach is only the first part of a more extended trail. How long does the Waipio Valley hike take? This hike starts at the parking lot near the Waipio Lookout. I have done both several times. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. Aloha and enjoy This Hawaii Life. the Kamehameha statue in Kapaau at the Kohala civic center sits the original Dont venture too far inland to avoid trespassing and disturbing sites that shouldnt be disturbed. . The waves here are gnarly, and I wouldnt recommend swimming here, but it is beautiful to see. At the Pololu Valley floor, you will see a stream with large trees. The hike up was a bit strenuous, but it was only a mile long so we made it up the steep bits in about 30 minutes. More of the, many black sand beaches on the Big Island, Hawaii packing list: THE top things to pack for Hawaii. There is a bench at the end of the trail overlooking the Honokane Nui Valley. The drive between these two valley lookouts is around 1.5 hours. If you love sightseeing, the shuttle tour is a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon on the Big Island. My phone died part way through so I dont have photos of the horse. If youre interested in Pololu Valley, you may also be interested in these great Big Island activities: ROAD TRIP AMERICA 1/22/2023. Continuing on to the Z trail provides more solitude, I'm sure. Tagged with: waipio, waipi'o . Park at the end of the highway at the Polol Valley overlook. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Its a rewarding view that allows you to get away from the crowds that do the Pololu Valley Hike. There are no bathrooms near the Pololu Valley trailhead. Never drink the water and do not swim with open cuts. Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 0 guests. WIND CAVE SD The Pololu Valley Lookout; The hike into Pololu Valley; The black sand beach; Continue hiking to the next valley: the Honokane Nui trail; How to get to Pololu Valley; Things to do close to Pololu Valley; Pololu Valley history. All of the land upriver is privately owned. EVERGLADES FL It is considered one of the steepest roads in the world down to an . The only ones that can be hiked are Waipio Valley near Waimea, Waimanu Valley (from Waipio) and Pololu Valley, which must be approached from the west side. Bring enough water with you and keep in mind that there are no restroom facilities in the valley or at the lookout. The trail itself offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the valley and the black sand beach on the valley floor. Even now, the natural beauty of Pololu looks untouched in the ages with the rugged cliffs, black sand beach and huge ocean waves crashing on the beach. the fertile Pololu . We would love to see things that are truly unique to big island; we have hiked (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The views from the ridge are stunning into Honokane Iki and the trail leading downhill is relatively easy but note that the property on the valley floor is entirely private property and access is not permited (unless you know the owner) on the valley floor unless you can find the trail beyond which is not feasible at the moment because of over grown conditions. The Volcano Van - Big Island Volcano Tours, Holualoa Inn-Big Island Bed and Breakfast, Latitude: 20.20033933 Its a shame that they dont realize that hiking one or two switch-backs down toward Polol Beach provides a much better photo vantage. Also it can be more of a last minute hike, as well as being much easier. Near the top of the ridge you'll reach a small plateau with a large rock. If you hike- especially after rainy season- wear waterproof sneakers. From scenic overlook, hike down steep rocky trail to beautiful black sand and rocky beach with views of the Hamakua coast. Trailhead: Take Hwy. It should be remembered that you have to return the same way. It is split by the sublime Waipi'o River. further out and then walk to the end where the trail begins. The hike at Pololu down to the beach is shorter than the . I settled on Pololu Valley, a similar hike to Waipi'o, but with a few less people. Let me know in the comments! Hike Pololu Valley Big Island, Hawaii. A gorgeous visit to Polulu Valley on the west side of Hawaii. You won't get 2-3 hours of hike, 45 minutes down and up. What locals living near Pololu Valley would like you to know! Seeing so many people doing this, it can be seen as a form of disrespecting the land. If you are visiting in the winter months (from ~December to ~March) this is a great place to try and see humpback whales. The river has to be crossed, which is best done at low tide and . The vegetation is so thick that you do not get a view of the ocean. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. It seems like the path is not maintained regularly, so be prepared for it all steep sections, muddy sections, areas with debris, confusing side trails, etc. Polol valley is the most northern of the impressive valleys that are carved into the Kohala volcano at the lush green pastures of the Kohala region on the Big Island. 1:00-2:00: Drive to Waimea. Hawi sounds like the kind of place I'd enjoy stopping along the way. A gorgeous hike from the top to the gorgeous black sandy beaches of Pololu Valley, the drive alone and panoramic views of the cliffs and coastlines impresses the moment you park on the end of road. and is the oldest of 5 volcanoes that make up the Big Island. The Pololu Valley and this coastline are particularly beautiful for the steep, greenery-covered valley walls and dramatic cliffs that fall into the ocean. Image by: Floyd Stewart/Flickr. Users of the website may print or download any content for personal use, but no one may reproduce this content (whether text or photographs) for any purpose in print or online without explicit permission from BigIslandHikes.com. The third guich is higher in elevation and some of the trail is very tricky with barely any trail walking the sides of loose slope but with some helpful ropes to keep you from sliding down hill. Waipi'o Valley hike time: The hike will take a total of 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the fitness level of the group and time spent exploring the valley floor. May 11, 2018 Alice Kao. THEODORE ROOSEVELT ND From the beach facing the ocean, looking right (SE) we could see Kaluahine Falls funneling water into the ocean. Leave before 12, or youll be stopping a lot to share the road. SNORKELING SHIRTS He went on our last day, we were leaving on a red eye and I decided not to do it. One of the most magical experiences Ive had in Hawaii. 6. You'll end up in Waimea, perfect place to have a beer (or whatever) and savor your day. SOUTH DAKOTA 1 Year, 2 Kids, 800 Sq Ft [PDF Download] $ 20.00. I recommend stopping to take a look and photos at the switchbacks as the views are phenomenal. The Muliwai Trail begins by making a challenging ascent of 1,200 feet in less than a mile on switch-backs cut into the wall of Waipio Valley. People are starting the hike, ending the hike, and simply coming to admire the views. 2022 Closure Notice On February 25, 2022, the County of Hawaii issued an Emergency Rule announcing the closure of Waipio Valley Road to visitors as a precautionary safety measure and to further assess and mitigate . The small town of Kapaau has inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. ZION UT You can even camp in the Pololu Valley. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Before you know it, you will have made it to the Pololu Valley floor. Living on the Big Island and traveling regularly to the neighbor islands, Noel and team actively search and share the latest information and updates to Hawaii travel, food, adventure and various lifestyle activities on the islands for your planning and vacation. To get there you have to follow the Akoni Pule Highway (highway 270) until it ends ends 8 miles east of the town of Hawi at the Pololu Valley lookout. Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley Waipio Valley or Pololu Valley. We were devastated to hear that this access road may remain closed until 2025! I ran out of water. During my recent trip to the Big Island, I opted to do the Pololu Valley Hike. So, Have you been to Polulu and want to go back again? Did this the last visit before I had this app and were heading down again this visit but its closed till probably 2025. I have done both several times. Sharing road/trail with trucks and hikers would be irritating. The "beach" is nothing but boulders usually, and the view isn't worth the extra work. Sign up today on the latest for your slice of paradise! So I guess I do believe in miracles. My favorite spot on the island so majorly bummed. There are no roads that cross this area south to north of the island. Trailhead: Take Hwy. 02:09. However, rough surf and the occasional appearance of Portuguese Man-o-wars make it not the ideal beach for swimming. If you enjoyed the post, please do share it with any of the social media buttons on the left side of the page. 5. Duration: 10 to 11 hours. 4 Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall. Lots of wildlife near the trail. He said there is a rock fall risk and it wont be opened again until repairs are completed. P.O Box 4849 TRAIL CONDITIONS. Lots of great scenery but you can experience that on the drive. Losing and forgetting things seemed to be the common theme for our trip. WHAT TO WEAR SNORKELING This is a great place to bring a picnic. FLORIDA, U.S. NATIONAL PARK SITES Colleen is correct about Pololu Valley, it's beautiful and drive there is as well. The Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls were nice, but not really hikes. Longitude: -155.7274313. Re crowding at over look, much more at Waipio as area of over look is much bigger, not so much at Polulu. So going to Pololu Valley requires a time commitment. And you are at the Pololu Valley lookout! Hiking Distance: 1/2-1 mile round trip. If youre challenged to extend your hike, consider going beyond to the next valley on the Honokane Nui trail to reach the Honokane gulch. From there its s another 8 miles until you hit the end at the Pololu Valley Look out point. Be careful when it rains, very slick. This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. After one more switchback inland, you emerge from the trees to see the view at Honokane Nui Lookout. MAUI The cliffs of the Kohala coastline were formed during a catastrophic landslide between 250.000 and 300.000 years ago during which a large part of the volcano slipped into the ocean. Starting at the Waipio Valley overlook (photo above), the hike down to the black sand beach on the valley floor is about 1.5 miles or 2.4 kilometers. Enjoy the views, the walk, the beach. (You can reach it from the beach, but it involves walking over lots of rocks.) And if it becomes a big problem, thats when there may even start to be more serious talks about limiting visitors to visit such places like Pololu Valley. Locals only. One thing my hubby and I really enjoy on vacation is a scenic drive with some character (we are obsessed with Road to Hana--if we're in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Can these both be done on the same day? Be prepared for the parking area to be busy when you arrive! 18. There is a rugged, inaccessible coastline filled with lush scenic valleys on the northern coast of the Big Island. Getting There. We just share the best of Hawaii travel, food, adventure and lifestyle to you in our updated posts and newsletters. Camping is not allowed at Pololu since it is on private land and permits only issued for specific research studies. It is drier than Waipio and lacks waterfalls, but it is lovely in its own way. You can also make it a one day Big Island valley beach hike kind of day and make this day on the Big Island a "Waipio Valley + Pololu Valley" kind of day. I did this once alone, probably took 4 hours. The dirt and root trail can be steep in places, but the various views of the valley along the way make even part of the walk worth it. Great info Colleen and RJ. Saw one fisherman on the beach, and four vehicles passed us while hiking the paved section. I have wondered if the Awini Trail connects the the . Although the lookout provides a fabulous view, nothing compares to making into down into the valley. See more ideas for planning out your days on the Big Island. There are several levels of visiting Pololu valley. 1. Keep in mind though that the land further back is privately owned and that there are sacred burial sites deeper in the valley. This is a popular spot, so go on off times! where Julie and I were fortunate enough to see flowing lava While Waipi'o Valley was the easternmost of the valleys in the Kohala Mountains in northeast Big Island, Pololu Valley was the westernmost of these valleys. The Pololu Trail Steward program is a recent initiative in which one or more local stewards are present at the Pololu Valley trailhead to inform and educate visitors as they arrive, as well as monitor the trail and beach. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Theres a small parking lot at the end of the road.