DESCRIPTION
Immerse yourself in stunning private waterfalls, tranquil streams, scenic coastlines and rugged valleys on this North Kohala adventure. Kick off the fun with an off-road drive to an exclusive trailhead.
Ola i ka wai a ka opua - that tells us "there is life in the rain." Rain also gives us the resplendent countryside and plentiful waterfalls of Kohala. Nowhere in Hawaii is the importance and story of water more evident than here in the lands of Kamehameha. In its eternal cycle, water continues to shape a dramatic landscape of valleys, streams and cliffs. These same waters reveal the history and culture of Kohala.
The tour begins with a wonderful drive of contrast and change from the dry-side resort area to the lush green country of Kohala. Along the way you'll journey up the North Kona and Kohala coastlines over lava flows from Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea and the Kohala Mountains. Often from the shoreline you are able to see splashing spinner dolphins or in the winter months, breaching humpback whales. You'll pass through the quaint plantation towns of Hawi and Kapaau, site of the life-size statue of King Kamehameha I. At the end of the road we pass through a locked gate onto private property, and the real fun begins, with a bumpy but short off-road drive (10-15 minutes) in a 4 wheel drive Mercedes Sprinter on an old cane road.
Out of the van, you'll step back into the early 1900's, when plantation owners began construction of the Kohala Ditch Trail to bring much needed water to the sugar cane fields. Along the 1 mile loop trail you'll see tunnels blasted and carved from solid rock, walk over an bridge, and learn the story of the tremendous effort it took to build an irrigation system stretching over 22 miles. You'll delve into ancient Hawaiian history as well, visiting an historic taro farming site. Several beautiful waterfalls grace the trail. You can take a refreshing dip in the last pool we visit, and play under a refreshing cascade. With stunning mountain panoramas, green valleys and pasturelands, and of course the abundant water, the Kohala Waterfalls Adventure is a fascinating way for young and old to experience Kohala's "story of water."
HIGHLIGHTS
- Ramble off-road in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to the trail head
- Take a relaxed, guided walk through a private nature reserve
- Cool off with a swim under one of several cascading waterfalls
- Enjoy a private picnic lunch with views of soaring seacliffs and remote valleys, at one of the islands best scenic lookouts
INCLUSIONS
- Deli-style lunch prepared by Christine's Deli with assorted beverages.
- Please bring your own reusable water bottle (we provide refills)!
- Gear Provided: Walking sticks, day packs, rain jackets, bug repellent, extra sunscreen
- Knowledgeable Guide
GOOD TO KNOW
- Availability: Moday - Saturday
- Time: pick up betwen 6:30 and 7:30 am,return between 2:30 and 3:30 pm
- Location: departs from Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters, Waikoloa Queen's Marketplace or The Shops at Mauna Lani
- Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours
RESTRICTIONS
- Physical - Guests should be able to walk over neven and muddy terrain.
- Doctors approval required for all expecting mothers due to the risks of off-road driving.
- Age - For adventure seekers of all ages!
- Booster seatsrequired for children under 8 years of age. Carriers require for children under 3 years of age.