Jungle Hiking Trail & Waterfall

[Na Ala Hele]

I must confess, I'm not your typical hiker. Don't get me wrong; I have a profound appreciation for nature—it's one of the reasons I live in Hawaii. But lacing up hiking boots for a miles-long adventure? That's not quite my style. I'm more of the "short stroll through the woods" type. So it never fails to surprise my friends and family when I insist on taking them on a walk through Manoa Valley to witness the much-talked-about 150-foot waterfall.

This family-friendly, dog-friendly hike is a 1.7-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu, with an elevation gain of around 800 feet. It's a gentle yet invigorating climb through a lush jungle humming with life, as if whispering the secrets of its past and future. The best part? It's just a quick 15-minute trip from downtown, taking you from city to neighborhood to rainforest in the blink of an eye.

The well-maintained paths are accessible even on muddy days, and although I typically opt for sneakers, it's not uncommon to see fellow hikers sporting Tevas or slippers. The trail more than lives up to its reputation, and upon reaching the falls, one can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. It's a journey worth taking and a sight worth seeing—especially for a non-hiker like me.

Did you know? With its dramatic landscapes and otherworldly ambiance, Manoa Falls Trail is a favorite among filmmakers, serving as the backdrop for many movies and TV shows, such as 50 First Dates, Jurassic Park, and Lost.

The symphony of birdsong that accompanied me throughout my hike was an unexpected delight, as native species such as the ‘ōma’o, ‘elepaio, and ‘apapane provided a melodic soundtrack to my journey.

So, yes, I hiked the Manoa Falls Trail, and I lived to tell the tale. I may not have started as a fan of hiking, but I'll be damned if I didn't walk away with a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors. And who knows? Maybe I'll even lace up my hiking boots again someday – but only for a worthy destination like Manoa Falls.