Hiking on Oahu on the Kahana Valley Trail

For the first five years of my life, I lived in Kaaawa on the Windward side of Oahu. About a mile in the Kahuku direction (north) of Kaaawa is a picturesque bay and valley called Kahana. While I had fished, camped, and swum at Kahana Bay many times, I had never ventured inland into the valley until I was in my mid-30s. I'm glad I did, for Kahana Valley is a place of wonders.

Parking is available at a lot just off of the main road-Kamehameha Highway. The hike begins with about a mile or so of road walking. Once that is out of the way, the investigative hiker will find himself wandering through a valley that has yet to be ravaged by developers, dirt bikers and the like.

The trail system available consists of an eight-mile double loop that crosses Kahana Stream several times. Other trails exist, though, and following them can take you to spots deep in the valley, including a trail that leads to a dangerous hike up Pu'u Ohulehule, the pyramid-shaped peak in the far left hand corner.

I am always amazed by the abundance of hala (pandanus) trees along the trail. In fact, the path is carpeted with hala leaves for much of way. As I hike in Kahana, I have visions of ancient Hawaiians gathering the hala leaves for mats, sails, and other items they used.

Keep in mind that mud is very likely on the outing. Watch your footing and be prepared to take an occasional (or sometimes repeated) flop. Watch for trail ribbons to lead the way. If you find yourself disoriented, turn around and head back the way you came. The old hiking adage says that you are not lost if you know where you came from and can retrace your steps there.

There are several spots to go swimming on this hike, so bring a towel and swimsuits if you are interested in taking a dip.

And beware of the mosquitoes!! When I hike the trail and stop to take a swig of water (not from the stream, of course), a squadron of the pests swarm on my legs and other exposed body parts. Thereafter, it's best to keep moving, stopping only when you need to glance at a trail guide. By the way, I'd recommend taking along Stuart Ball's book-The Hiker's Guide to Oahu-for there are several key junctions where one could go astray.

If you want to explore a huge, undeveloped valley with a gently flowing river that has several nice swimming holes, try the Kahana hike.