Hiking The Muddy Maunawili Falls Trail

I took a break from unpacking and doing work today to try hiking up the Maunawili Falls trail. Unlike Diamond Head, this isn't close to where I am living, so I got a chance to see some of Oahu's mountainous regions. The drive was really pleasent and only took about 30 minutes. A majority of the trip was without houses or other signs of civilization and several places offered spectacular views.

The above photo came from a spot some 8 minutes away from the trail. You really get a feeling for just why everyone always talks about vacationing here. It is something you don't get a chance to see anywhere else.

This other photo comes from about 3 miles away from the trail head. It really captures the unspoiled grandure of Hawaii's natural ecosystem.

And then you step back and realize that someone decided to build their house right there. Seriously, I don't know how much it cost, or what sort of paperwork they had to sign, but I would love to own this place. It amazes me that someone actually received permission to build here. It may be a long way away from town, but it would definitely be worth it.

This is right at the trail's start. You have to park on the side of the road in a nearby neighborhood and walk here. This seems like a pretty standard hike at first. Just dry ground, occasional roots, easy enough.

About 1/5 mile into the hike you start upon this stream. It will be your near constant companion as you hike toward the waterfall. Make sure not to drink out of it since bacteria are known to showup fairly often and you will get sick. As long as you don't drink from it you'll be fine though.

While the canopy overhead usually provides a good bit of protection from the sun, occassionaly you'll run into clearings like the above. Sometimes there will be rough outlines of trails too. I'd recommend staying to the main trail unless you know what you're doing.