Likeke Falls Trail - Windward Coast - Oahu

 

We seem to really enjoy this nearby hike. For Windward hikers and residents, this is an easyhike to access. You can increase the difficulty by starting your hike at the Pali Lookout and hiking the 8 mile roundtrip to the Likelike Highway. By starting at the Koolau Golf Course parking lot you can create a nice quick walk to take novice hikers on to see a waterfall.

This trip report encompasses several visits. I enjoy bringing along my thirty-three month old on this hike. If you start at the Pali Lookout, your little ones can run/walk down the Old Pali(Hawaiian word for cliffs) Road and cross under the new Pali (with assistance) and continue to walk the trail. This leg is all downhill and mostly paved. They will enjoy the views as well as all the foliage that is over taking the old road.




Once you hit the turnoff that takes you off the paved road you will follow a couple switch backs that get a bit steep for your children. Watch them closely or keep them in your carriers. Mind your footing and balance as well.


After traversing a couple ridges on nicely maintained trails you will find yourself on the ancient Pali Road. I use ancient loosely for this stone road is circa 1800's. Yes it is a notable and historic road, but I typically think ancient as being hundreds of thousands of years past. You will travel this road for a few minutes before you will notice an offshoot trail to the left. You will have to step down off the ancient Pali Road and follow the trail for another 5 minutes before reaching the falls.
This is a great place to cool off and have a snack with the kids. My son loves the shallow pools at the base of this falls. This is also a great trail for dogs.




This last trip was full of ripe fruit. The forest dripped with the smell of sweet strawberry gauve, mountain apples, mangoes, and passionfruit.
Remember to bring plenty of water. Take out what you bring in... In other words do NOT litter!!


Directions from Honolulu:
Take H1 east bound from Waikiki. Then take the Pali Highway, Route 61, via Nu'uanu Pali Drive. Follow the signs to the Lookout.

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