Hawaii Forest and Trail Kohala Country Falls

There is a Hawaiian proverb - 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. And these same waters reveal the history and culture of Kohala.

The Drive: 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 Kona/Kohala coastline 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 Kapa'au, site of the life-size statue of King Kamahameha the First. At the end of the road a brief rest stop at the historic Kohala Mule Station offers one of Hawaii's most spectacular coastal views. And then the real fun begins with a bumpy but short four-wheel drive on an old cane road over private ranchland to our trailhead.

The Hike: Out of the van, you'll embark on a step back into the early 1900's, when the plantation owners began the construction of the Kohala Ditch Trail to bring much needed water to the sugar cane fields. Along the 1.5 mile loop trail you'll see the tunnels blasted and carved from solid rock, walk over the aqueduct on two bridges, and learn the story of the tremendous effort it took to build this irrigation system stretching over 40 miles. You'll delve into ancient Hawaiian history as well, visiting a former taro farming site just off the path. Seven beautiful waterfalls grace the trail, and you can take a refreshing dip in the last pool we visit, and actually sit under a cool rainwater cascade. With its stunning mountain panoramas, green valleys and pasturelands, and of course the abundant water, the Kohala Country Falls Adventure is a fascinating way for young and old to experience Kohala's "story of water."
Morning & Afternoon tours daily. 5 hours roundtrip from Waikoloa Resort. Easy. All ages.

Includes: Snack of fresh island fruit a variety of locally baked banana breads and pound cakes, juice, and soda