Waihee Ridge

The trailhead to this hike is not an easy one to find. Beginning at the intersection of Iao Valley Road and Honoapiilani Hwy in Wailuku, where Kahekili Hwy. begins, proceed North approximately 5.25 miles. You'll pass through the town of Waihee (the trail head is about 2 miles from Waihee) on your way to the Maluhia Boy Scout Camp. Just before you reach the camp there is a turnoff on the landward side of the road. There is a gate that must be opened and closed. Proceed up the dirt road about .25 miles to the top of a hill near a long concrete driveway. Park at the top of the hill.

The Waihee Ridge Trail is a 2.5 mile trail winding it's way up the Waihee Ridge from sea level to about 3000 feet. The trail offers a wonderful opportunity to have a look at Wailuku from the hills above. There is a abundance of native plants, especially ferns, along the trail.

The hike is fairly short, but there is a pretty good elevation climb. The weather can be wet in this location sometimes too. A change of clothing might be handy.

This is a intermediate to advanced hike. The Waihee Ridge is a wonderful hike if you're reasonably fit, there is a 3000 foot elevation climb. You start out in a pasture area, walking up the concrete driveway. You begin passing through Guava tree stands, then some eucalyptus trees. The trail begins to climb slowly, the scenery changing a bit with every few hundred feet of elevation. A hiker will pass from a somewhat dry lowland area into a misty, cool upland environment.

If it has been raining the path will be slippery and messy, the boggy area at the end of the trail will be quite soaked. Wear at least tennis shoes, preferably light hiking boots. It is also wise to carry along at least a liter of water and a change of shirt and a jacket, the climate will change a bit as you move up and down the mountain side.

This is a chance to see a lot of native vegetation in a area seldom traveled. It helps if you have someone along, like a botanist, who can help identify the local flora. Bring a camera.

Along with the usual cautions about over exertion, slippery trail paths, and getting exposed to the weather, there is an additional caution.

Near the top end of the trail there are interesting, and potientially dangerous geologic features. Sink holes. Occasionally you'll see a fairly deep depression or 'sink' several yards off the trails. These depressions look solid, they often have vegetation, a pool of water, and some rocks at their bottom. Often this is just a 'plug' resting over a long vertical lava tube, sometimes deeper than 100 feet. The danger is walking on the 'plug' and having it give away.

The parking lot is generally safe, I haven't heard of any break-ins here. It is still a good idea not to leave your things unattended in your car.