The best traffic-free bike rides in Hāmākua Forest Reserve

The Hāmākua Forest Reserve offers a diverse range of terrain for no-traffic touring cycling. You'll encounter lush rainforests and dense ʻōhiʻa forests, often providing shaded paths. Many routes feature dramatic coastal views and sea cliffs, while others wind through deep gulches. Expect a mix of paved scenic roads, like sections of the Old Mamalahoa Highway, and potentially some unpaved sections, especially on routes like the Old Jeep Road via Honokaʻa.

While the Hāmākua Forest Reserve offers stunning scenery, many of the dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes, such as the Old Jeep Road via Honokaʻa and the Old Mamalahoa Highway loop from Puu Pulehu Reservoir Dam, are rated as 'difficult' due to significant elevation gain and distance. The Waipi'o Valley Road Trail is rated 'moderate' and is shorter, but still involves considerable climbing. For families with younger children or those seeking very easy rides, it's best to consider shorter, flatter sections of the Old Mamalahoa Highway or explore other areas of the Big Island.

Cycling in Hāmākua Forest Reserve offers breathtaking natural beauty. You can expect to see lush rainforests, dramatic sea cliffs, and sweeping ocean views. The region is famous for its deep gulches and spectacular waterfalls, such as the iconic ʻAkaka Falls and Kahuna Falls, which are accessible via short hikes near some cycling routes. The Waipi'o Valley Road Trail leads to the stunning Waipiʻo Valley Lookout, offering unparalleled vistas of the valley's cliffs and black sand beach.

Yes, there is a notable loop route available for no-traffic touring cycling. The Old Mamalahoa Highway – Old Mamalahoa Highway loop from Puu Pulehu Reservoir Dam offers a challenging 38.5 km ride with significant elevation gain, allowing you to experience the scenic beauty of the region in a circular fashion without retracing your steps.

The Hāmākua Forest Reserve experiences high annual rainfall, contributing to its lush environment. While cycling is possible year-round, the drier months from April to October generally offer more consistent weather for touring. However, even during these months, be prepared for occasional rain showers, as the rainforest climate can be unpredictable. The cooler temperatures during the 'winter' months (November to March) can also be pleasant for cycling, but you might encounter more frequent and heavier rainfall.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Hāmākua Forest Reserve range from moderate to difficult. There is one 'moderate' route, the Waipi'o Valley Road Trail, which is shorter but still involves significant climbing. The other two routes, the Old Jeep Road via Honokaʻa and the Old Mamalahoa Highway loop from Puu Pulehu Reservoir Dam, are both rated 'difficult' due to their longer distances and considerable elevation gains. These routes are best suited for cyclists with good to very good fitness.

Yes, the town of Honokaʻa, which is a common starting point or passes through some routes, offers amenities. You can find local foods and produce at the Hamakua Harvest Sunday Farmers Market in Honokaʻa. Other small towns along the Hāmākua Coast may also have cafes or small shops where you can refuel and resupply. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes, as services might be sparse between towns.

While cycling through the lush rainforests and coastal areas of Hāmākua Forest Reserve, you have a good chance of spotting native Hawaiian birds. The dense ʻōhiʻa forests are home to various species. Keep an eye out for endemic birds like the ʻApapane or ʻIʻiwi. Along the coast, you might also see seabirds. The rich biodiversity of the humid, wet environment makes for an immersive natural experience, but larger mammals are not typically found here.

The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Hāmākua Forest Reserve vary in length and elevation. The shortest route, the Waipi'o Valley Road Trail, is about 6.2 km long with approximately 300 meters of elevation gain. The longer routes, such as the Old Jeep Road via Honokaʻa, cover around 21 km with about 560 meters of climbing, and the Old Mamalahoa Highway loop from Puu Pulehu Reservoir Dam is approximately 38.5 km with over 630 meters of elevation gain. Be prepared for significant climbs on most routes.

Public transport options directly to the trailheads within the Hāmākua Forest Reserve are limited. The Hele-On Bus system operates on the Big Island and can connect you to towns like Honokaʻa, which is a common starting point for some routes. However, bringing your bike on the bus might require specific racks or adherence to certain rules. For direct access to the more remote no-traffic routes, personal vehicle transport is generally the most convenient option.

Yes, guided bike tours are available along the Hāmākua Coast, including options for e-bikes. These tours often cover areas leading to the Waipiʻo Valley, offering panoramic views, ocean cliffs, rainforest scenery, and opportunities to see hidden waterfalls. While not strictly 'no-traffic' in all sections, they often utilize scenic roads with lower traffic volumes and provide a supported way to explore the region's beauty.