The best walks and hikes around Paauilo
4.4
(10)
62
hikers
7
hikes
Hiking around Paauilo, located on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers access to diverse natural landscapes. The region is characterized by lush native forests, including those within Kalōpā Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area and the Hāmākua Forest Reserve. Trails often navigate through varied terrain, featuring gulches and showcasing endemic Hawaiian plant species. This area provides a range of hiking experiences from easy walks to moderate trails.
Best hiking trails around Paauilo
- The most popular hiking route is Perimeter…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.5
(2)
16
hikers
6.22km
02:14
180m
180m
Hike the moderate 3.9-mile Perimeter Horse Trail Loop in Kalōpā Native Forest State Park, gaining 593 feet through shaded, fern-filled terra
4.0
(1)
6
hikers
1.39km
00:22
10m
10m
Hike the easy Kalōpā Nature Trail loop through a lush native Hawaiian rainforest, perfect for families and nature lovers.
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4.0
(1)
16
hikers
1.79km
00:28
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
12
hikers
4.68km
01:34
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Hāmākua Forest Reserve Jeep road navigates its way through very dense forest. The trail itself is pretty bumpy with a leaf floor, similar to a Pacific Northwest trail in the fall. A mountain bike or something with some 26x2.2+ tires would be ideal. This trail is best left to dry conditions due to the mud that can form.
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Look for the stunning blooms of naturalized Grevillea Robusta, or silk oak, trees if running on the Silk Oak Trail between September and November. Their flowering transform the reserve into a scenic wonderland during these months. Also called silver oak, their prominent presence lends beauty alongside the trail named for this Australian native.
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With no elevation gain, the easy and beautiful Kalōpā Nature Trail is ideal for runners seeking flat, smooth footing.
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Perimeter Horse Trail is the longest trail in Kalōpā Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area and has a length of about 2.3 miles. As the name indicates, this trail is designated for horses but can be used for hiking a well. If you switch to Ironwood Lane (and later to Gulch Rim Trail) when you reach the southern end of Perimeter Horse Trail, you can form a loop and don't have to hike back the same way.
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Kalōpā Nature Trail is a very easy hike in the Kalōpā Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area. The beautiful walk through rainforest does not include any elevation gain and is therefore suited for families. Along your hike you will spot many different forest trees, shrubs and ferns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Paauilo?
There are around 6 hiking trails in the Paauilo area, offering a variety of experiences through native forests and diverse terrain. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Paauilo?
Yes, Paauilo offers easy trails perfect for beginners or families. The Kalōpā Nature Trail loop in Kalōpā Native Forest State Park is a great option. It's a 0.9-mile (1.4 km) loop that takes about 22 minutes to complete, leading through a beautiful native forest with information about local flora and fauna.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on hikes around Paauilo?
Hikes around Paauilo primarily showcase lush native forests, particularly within the Kalōpā Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area and the Hāmākua Forest Reserve. You'll encounter diverse terrain, including gulches, and have the opportunity to see unique Hawaiian plant species.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Paauilo area?
Yes, many trails in Paauilo are designed as loops. For example, the Perimeter Horse Trail, Ironwood Lane, Gulch Rim Trail & Robusta Lane loop is a moderate 3.9-mile (6.2 km) circular route exploring the native forest of Kalōpā State Park. Another option is the Split Trunk Tree Trail – Kalōpā Nature Trail loop from Hāmākua Forest Reserve.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for on the trails?
The primary natural features are the preserved native forests themselves, especially within Kalōpā Native Forest State Park, which conserves endemic Hawaiian ecosystems. You might also encounter gulches and unique Hawaiian plant life. Specific trail highlights include the Perimeter Horse Trail and the Old Jeep Road in Hāmākua Forest Reserve.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Paauilo?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 8 reviews. Hikers often praise the opportunity to explore preserved native forests and the variety of trails suitable for different ability levels, from easy walks to moderate hikes.
Are there any attractions near the hiking trails in Paauilo?
While the focus is on natural beauty, you can find local points of interest. For example, the Hamakua Harvest Sunday Farmers Market is a nearby highlight where you can experience local culture and produce.
What is the typical duration for a hike in Paauilo?
Hike durations vary depending on the trail. An easy route like the Kalōpā Nature Trail loop can be completed in about 22 minutes. Moderate trails, such as the Perimeter Horse Trail, Ironwood Lane, Gulch Rim Trail & Robusta Lane loop, typically take around 2 hours and 14 minutes.
Are there any trails that combine different sections or features?
Yes, some routes combine different sections to offer varied scenery. The Split Trunk Tree Trail – Kalōpā Nature Trail loop from Hāmākua Forest Reserve is a moderate 3.4-mile (5.5 km) path that combines parts of both trails, providing a diverse forest experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Paauilo?
The Big Island of Hawaii, where Paauilo is located, experiences diverse climates. Generally, the weather is pleasant for hiking year-round, but it's always advisable to check local forecasts for rain, especially in rainforest areas, and plan accordingly.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for experiencing the native Hawaiian ecosystem?
Absolutely. Trails within the Kalōpā Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area, such as the Kalōpā Nature Trail loop, are specifically dedicated to conserving and showcasing the endemic Hawaiian ecosystem. These trails offer an excellent opportunity to see native plant species that existed before human contact.
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