Beautiful trail and very easy to do. Majority flat so I'd rate it beginner. It's anywhere from 4.3-4.6 miles round trip depending on what paths you take. Definitely had to be careful after rain days since the trail can be muddy. Loved that the trail was well explained with multiple signs. Portable potty are located at the entrance from the community center and there are not bathrooms the whole way so be prepared. Well worth the trip since you get to check out stone dam at the end! Note - You must sign the google doc before entering since it's private property. Do it before you arrive online since signal is spotty! read more

See all

This peaceful walking trail/hike was perfect. It's an easy, approximate 4 miles of simple nature, beauty. The vegetation, flowers, horses, butterflies, and raindrops from the large trees are stunning. Shaded and easy for all ages. read more

See all

Never mind my last review's instructions. They changed the trail since then. The entrance is no longer through the rows of mahogany trees and they cut off the ability to loop around the farm. This is still a super easy hike. Yes very muddy in the rain but due to the flatness of it, remains one of my go-to hikes if it does rain. read more

This was a very enjoyable hike. The trail is almost entirely flat, so it is easy for everyone to go on. There is a fork in the trail at one point where you can go to the enchanted forest or take a shortcut. We went through the forest part on the way in and took the shortcut on the way out. It seemed like the shortcut saved a lot of time. We did get some bug bites, so bug spray is advised. The trail is about two miles in and two miles back. It was quite muddy the day we went, so if it has been raining, make sure to wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty. At the end of the trail is a gorgeous, lush area with a river, a dam, and a waterfall. It is really worth the trip! read more

See all

Great trail for families. Took my 2, 6, and 16 years daughters all had a great time! Pretty easy a lil muddy but overall great scenery and lush forest. Could take a dip in cool waters at dam, so take swimming clothes. FYI no lifeguard on duty so swim at your own risk. read more

See all

This was a fun little trail. It is a bit humid in this rainforest environment, and also muddy, so wear appropriate shoes! Views were great and it's easy to follow. Be sure to bring your phone and do the online waiver at the start of the trail to avoid any potential trespassing issues. Saw people of all ages on this trail on the way in and the way back out, so any relatively able-bodied person should have no problems. I'd do it again when I get back to Kauai. read more

This place is simply amazing! A tranquil piece of paradise in the middle of a dense Mahogany forest. The beauty of this place is the unsurpassed and the trek to the stone wall will take your breath away. We've been coming here since 2009 and it's a must see every time we visit Kauai. read more

See all

The Wai Koa Loop Trail takes you on a not very difficult walk through meadows and forests. Where most of the hiking trails close to Princeville are slick, muddy, and frequently closed, this one features a playground, and mini-golf course with garden lessons on each hole :-) The trail is set entirely inside a public park where you'll also find a coffee shop, a Mexican food truck, and a gift shop. It's a great place to spend a couple of hours! read more

See all

This private-owned plantation with groves of Mahogany trees and beautiful landscape is a trail fit for the entire family. The loop is 4.5 miles which is quite muddy but flat all throughout. Although there is a hose you can use to wash off the dirt from your shoes just outside the souvenir shop afterwards, I still wouldn't recommend light-colored shoes on this walk. Wear mosquito repellent as there are a lot of foliage and while many parts are shaded, there are also areas without any - sunscreen would be a must. Such a shame the dam with the waterfalls was closed due to the flooding in April last year but overall, there were many beautiful scenery to be enjoyed that made for nice photo ops. We even spotted several horses on the grounds. If anything, I wish we packed a lunch and brought a blanket for a picnic when we went. It's the perfect backdrop for one. Bonus was the farmers' market at the parking lot. We were able to get some papayas and rambutans that were freshly picked just the day before. Come in the morning so you don't miss this. read more

See all

Easy kid friendly hike. Took our 14month old. Did bring a carrier because she got a bit tired but pretty easy hike. We took the "short cut route" they have an enchanted forest route but we decided to opt out just in case it was too long for the baby. The shortcut route was probably 2 miles. You need to park at north shore dog park to access the trail read more

Wai Koa Loop Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kilauea, Hawaii

See all

Perfect hiking trail for anyone looking for a quick workout. Some areas are steep but the trail itself is pretty easy. There is a rope for those of you who need help pull you up or climb back down. Love it! read more

Wai Koa Loop Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kilauea, Hawaii

Yelp 100 Challenge 86 What a great hike! We signed our waivers at the mini golf and make a quick stop in their clean restrooms before setting out on our morning adventure. The man at the mini golf was so helpful, too. The hike took little over 2.5 hours. Such care is taken to the hiking area and surrounding land. It's private and we appreciated the ability to enjoy the property, too. I've never seen mahogany trees growing, let alone an entire forest of mahogany trees! Simply beautiful! There was also a lovely pond filled with blooming lily pads. The fragrance of wild ginger filled the air as we approached the old dam and gardens. This was truly the payoff of the entire hike. It looked like a postcard. Water spilled over an old rock dam cascading into the stream below. The grass was verdant green and tropical plants bloomed everywhere. On the hike we also saw horses, coconut and banana trees. Consider going early in the day as it does get hot. Part of the hike is shaded, however, you'll need a hat. On our way back we noticed the miniature golf place rents bicycles. Next time, I think I'd like to ride the trail, especially in the summer sun. For those with young children or otherwise unable to do the whole loop there is a second entrance which provides easier access to the dam area. Highly recommend. read more

See all

Beautiful, well kept trail! So lush and green, it was very relaxing! No bathrooms along the way so stop before getting there! The end with stone dam is a beautiful surprise! read more

So bummed that we spent a couple of hours on this trail. I wanted an easier trail since we were had big hikes planned for the next day in Waimea, so it checked that box. But with the dam/falls portion closed (April 2019) the loop was terribly boring. Just a slog. Seriously, you're on Kauai, with so many beautiful places to go and things to see. Good for kids only in that it's flat; they'll be bored, too... I wished we'd spent the time doing literally any other walk or hike or even napping at the hotel. Only made it 2 stars instead of 1 star as there is a cute gift store that could be interesting to some. read more

Wai Koa Loop Trail - This photo makes the path look nicer than it is. - Hiking Near Me - Kilauea, Hawaii

See all

Mellow walk, good for families. Pond at the end with a rope swing. Parked by the dog park.

This was our first trail of our trip and it was a great one to start off with. It was mostly flat, since it hadn't rained much, the ground was pretty dry. It took us about 1.5 hours, about 4 miles round trip. We only encountered a few people on the way. Otherwise it was quiet with beautiful views. It was awesome to see all those beautiful Mahogany trees. It was crazy to see that they were all lined up so perfectly making rows at whatever angle you were at. Don't forget to sign the waiver at the visitor center before you go on the trail read more

Thank you to the owner of Wai Koa plantation for allowing visitors to hike this easy 4.5 mile trail on a bucolic working farm. If you love walking, and I do, this trail is a gem. read more

See all

4.5 mile trail. Mostly around a planted forest of mahogany trees. About 90,000 of them! Beautiful as all the other Yelp reviewers said. Especially the stone dam area. I don't want to be a buzz kill but do be aware that while I was resting at the stone dam overlook a sketchy guy came out of the bamboo brush approached me and in a semi-menacing way wanted to know what I was doing. When he saw that there were several other hikers nearby, he just as suddenly disappeared into the brush. The guy was up to no good. So my advice: Do not hike this trail alone. Though crime is low on Kauai, there is a crack "ice" drug subculture on the island and robberies do happen. I was told this information by a native. Enjoy the walk. read more

Once upon a time, I journeyed far and wide to the mystical falls of ever lasting happiness. While on my journey I was struck by the goddess of rain, I walked through enchanted forests with centaurs & fairies, and came across the sacred fountain of youth. Praying to Buddha with the forest of bamboo as his protection, my loins were on fire with fertility. As I swung on the swing I was teleported into a whimsical world of enchanted beings, with the unicorn as my stead, we explored the waters of desire, in that moment I knew a magical seed was sprouting inside of me and the only way to experience this is to go on this journey. You're welcome. read more

Wai Koa Loop Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kilauea, Hawaii

See all

This is an amazing place for a trail hike through a botanical garden , in paradise! Not to mention a neighboring horse sanctuary. In the middle of it. If i lived here i would probably be here once a week. I had an amazing experience it was spiritual and unexpected. Then after a great hike to get to come back to a delicious shaved ice ...my flavors were P.O.G n tangerine dream, both amazing and perfectly poured i must say. And mini golf if you wanted, a taco stand and a boutique! Everything but the kitchen sink! Bottom line love this place , i think you would too read more

See all

Highly recommend taking this sweet walk! It will take as long as a 4.5 mile walk generally takes, but allow time to really savor the local beauty. It's a gentle path, mostly flat until you get to the Stone Dam. There are plaques along the way explaining the history, fauna, and views. The Stone Dam and gardens were a delightful surprise with Buddha strategically seated emanating peace toward all who pass by. So tranquil with the stream, bamboo, giant trees and remnants of times gone by. It's a perfect setting for a quiet picnic in the grass. It's not a party-place but a sweet cradle for contemplation and nurturing your soul. There's a pond above the falls and you may find a rope swing to take a dip. However, there are signs warning against swimming due to bacteria. Mornings are best before the sun starts to bake or late afternoons. Be sure to bring water and a snack. And there are no restrooms along the trail. read more

See all

An extremely amazing place to trail run. Head over to the wooden park area to get started on the trail. A good portion of it is blocked off because of a storm that happened a bit ago, but it's still wicked beautiful. read more

See all

Great, intermediate hike! 4.5 mile loop. Nothing treacherous, but one should wear athletic shoes, bring some water and maybe a little snack. I would say that even the keikis (little ones) 5 and up would be able to do this hike if they don't mind walking. Just be sure to bring water and snacks as afore mentioned. The scenery is beautiful, and the plantation layout of thousands of mahogany trees is amazing. There is a waterfall about 2.5 miles in. The best part is that it is FREE! Yep, free! Now get out of your hotel room or if you're lucky enough to be a local, your home, and enjoy the great outdoors of beautiful Kaua'i! read more

This trail is about a 5 mile loop and you can either walk or bike it. The facility has bikes and helmets available to rent, free parking, and well maintained public restrooms. There is no cost to enter the trail, but you do have to sign a one time waiver. The trail is well maintained and marked and overall easy. The stone dam and garden are beautiful! There's some benches within and overlooking the garden and can be great spots to relax or picnic. Highly recommend! read more

See all

This trail is truly beautiful! Heads up though, the waterfall portion of the trail is closed due to the floods in April which is a bummer. However, there's still a lot of amazing views! It's definitely more of a walk than a hike so good for people not wanting to do something difficult. Super muddy, would recommend against wearing your favorite pair of shoes. There also happened to be a farmers market when we finished the trail so we had some fresh coconut to end our afternoon. read more

See all

We absolutely LOVED this trail! We had a major down pour during the first part which was awesome and left most of the trail all to ourselves. It can get very muddy so make sure to bring proper shoes. The mahogany forest is magical and one of the largest in the world. At one point the trail opens up and there are horses roaming freely. I was in heaven and could have stayed there all day. Definitely add it to your hit list if you are in the area. read more

See all

Great hike that is very scenic, taking you through forest groves and passed a pretty Japanese garden. We did the loop that is 4.3 miles, and there was only gradual changes in elevation so made for a pretty gentle hike. It's really Steve to get down to the Japanese garden, but really picturesque us to walk around. Highly recommended if you're in the mood for a gentle nature walk. read more

Wai Koa Loop Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kilauea, Hawaii

Great little hike! I loved that this was a private rod, it was clean and people were quite friendly. I'd recommend this to anyone in the area. It wasn't a tough hike, but the views were great, lots of different interesting things to view. read more

This trail is a great family-friendly trail. It is a brisk 5 mile loop trail that is flat BUT can be very muddy at times. It's well-marked and just follow the signs that read "trail". Be sure to stay on the trail route as you will be passing near private property. Throughout the trail you'll be greeted with views of the mahagony forest. As you pass the forest, you'll walk past a farm, dog park, and residential homes. Eventually, you'll make your way to the stone dam. At the top of the dam, there was a rope so I'm guessing you could swim in there too. Unfortunately, the time I went, the water was dirty and murky. When you head back, be careful of where you step because there's horse manure everywhere. Overall, it's an easy and quick hike to do. Most of the trail is out in the open so be sure to bring water and sunscreen. The only covered part is the forest and wear insect repellent because I ended up getting bitten :( read more

You need to learn the history behind this "trail" and the area to appreciate it if the serene beauty of it isn't enough for you. read more

See all

This is a very easy loop with almost no elevation, and no technical challenges (there can be mud, but it is Kauai). While most hikers may ignore this loop, this is one of my favorite hikes on the island because of its sheer beauty and tranquility. If you are on the island, don't overlook this trail because it is "too easy". This is a great trail for the family, and is right by the mini golf course at Anaina Hou Community Park, so there is plenty to keep the family entertained before or after the hike. Check out the video from our hike with basic directions, and some gorgeous scenery. https://youtu.be/A0dbwuWaJEE read more

This picturesque 5 mile walk starts with signing a waiver at the Kauai Mini Golf desk. There are clean restrooms to use here as there are none along the trail. Walk through one of the largest mahogany groves in the world with perfectly planted trees creating rectangle windows at the end of the row. Whimsical signs along the road are sure to keep this walk upbeat. You pass a dog park where dog friends can play and chase each other. There were a few dogs playing in a kiddy pool when we passed by. And a community garden gives inspiration to plant some vegetables and herbs. The marked trial is easy to follow with "Trail" signs that lead you past avocado and lemon trees. We even met a nice lady with a German Shepard named Boulder and another dog named Duke. The cutest part was that she had an adopted 1 month old piglet named Winston! Now I truly have a smile on my face :) Pink lily flowers are in full bloom in the pond. Pass Mr. and Mrs. Tomato sculpture of the Kauai Fresh Farms. A stroll down to the tropical garden with brightly colored ti leaves and ginger flowers lead you to bridges and a path to the stone dam. On the top side of the dam is a platform and ladder for those wanting to dip in the water. The stone dam is about the halfway point of the trail. The way back takes you past horses, cows, and more mahogany groves. This is a really relaxing walk in the country where photo-ops abound. read more

This is a great trail to do in a few hours. It takes you through a beautiful plantation grove of mahogany trees, over some farmland and to a beautifully arranged botanical garden. It's all private land and it's amazing that they let you just walk the property free of charge. You need to go to the gift shop by the entrance though and sign a waiver before going in. But it's definitely worth visiting! read more

See all

EZ peasy walking trail with fantastic views and tropical foliage including the world's largest mahogany forest!!! We missed the dam and beautiful falls because of damaging floods the year prior. read more

Nice and easy trail. Pretty flat but still fun. No bathrooms whatsoever on the trail. read more

See all

Do not attempt this trail in December or after a rainy season. The pictures on line are quite deceptive. The beautiful pictures show the surrounding landscape around the stone dam which is CLOSED at the time of writing. You do see groves of mahogany trees and also wild horses but the rest of the walk is underwhelming and terribly muddy. Expect all your shoes to be ruined. Not kid friendly. It is also quite boring. Go somewhere else. read more

The loop was not worth the time. They have the waterfall closed and they didn't post it-only that the dam was closed but unless you're local you wouldn't know that means the waterfall. You walk thru woods and briefly thru a neighborhood around some horses and back to the woods. Seemed like some half thought out detours to make the trail long without going anywhere. read more

After trying some of the more challenging hikes on the island; i.e. Sleeping Giant, Kalahulu Trail. This 4.5 mile walk was perfect for my wife and I to enjoy the beautiful North of Kauai landscape. The reward at the furthest point of this hike made it even more awesome. read more

Due to the mud, we were directed to start at the dog park and then walk to the falls, and then back the way we came. 3 miles total. Walked past a hydroponic and solar farm. Only a few others were on the trail and views and bird watching plentiful. Went with my 75 year-old mom and she did just fine. read more

See all

We wanted to hike this yesterday with our kids. Unfortunately it's closed due to storm damage. I wish it would have been posted someplace (like their website) before we packed up and drove down there. I'm just posting this review so people know it's closed. The only way you would know beforehand is if you call. The lady on the phone said it would probably be closed for a couple more months. read more