Whether you are a novice hiker or avid adventurist, the diverse landscapes and environments of the Hawaiian Islands make for the perfect escape into paradise. From breathtaking views from the top of Leahi (aka Diamond Head State Monument), one of Hawaii’s most iconic natural landmarks, to embarking on a journey through the majesty of Haleakala National Park, visitors to the Islands will uncover the Aloha State’s undeniable beauty and adventure wheriever they go.
On the island of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers more than 10 official hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult.
Showcasing everything from coastal views to lush rainforests and lava landscapes, the trails invite visitors to activate all their senses and indulge in the beauty of nature. This year, for the first time since 2013, an active lava flow from the park’s Kilauea volcano reached the ocean. Various activities partners on the island offer the rare opportunity to embark on a hike to the lava flow (called 61G) to witness its power firsthand. Though hikes to the flow are guided, they are strenuous. Interested participants are encouraged to check with a local tour operator prior to participating.
Visitors to Maui always acknowledge the beauty of Haleakala National Park. Home to numerous hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, a visit to the park at sunrise or sunset offers endless photo opportunities and picture-perfect moments. Travelers in search of tropical indulgence are encouraged to check out the Iao Needle Lookout Trail, a paved walking trail meandering through an ethnobotanical garden with a scenic viewpoint of Kukaemoku (the towering natural lava remnant known as Iao Needle).l
Affectionately referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon on the island of Kauai is a definite bucket list item for those visiting the island. Visitors are encouraged to explore the less-traveled vistas of Waimea Canyon State Park from the Kukui Trail (which descends 2,000 feet to the canyon floor) or the Iliau Nature Loop Trail.
Travelers looking for a casual hike are encouraged to trek the Diamond Head Summit Trail on the island of Oahu. With paved footing and handrails located throughout the trail, beginning hikers and clients seeking a more easygoing hike will enjoy their escape into nature and stunning views of the island’s south shore from the top of the natural landmark. Those up for the challenge of a moderately advanced trail should seek out the Waahila Ridge Trail, which rewards with views of native forest and birdlife.
No matter your fitness or hiking level, there is a path for you to find your adventure on in Hawaii.
Content/ photo credit: Hawaii Tourism
Want to read more on GREAT hiking places? Here is an article from Boot Bomb, https://bootbomb.com/info/hiking-trails/top-50-long-distance-hiking-trails-usa
Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.
She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds. Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind. She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember. With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.
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