If you’re looking for something a little more strenuous or adventurous check out my other Hawai’i hiking blog posts and find a trail that fits your speed!

HAWAI’I HIKES

Before getting into my favorite Hawai’i hikes there’s some things you should know.

• PARKING
  • Parking can be very difficult! Sometimes it would be worth it to Uber because most of these trails start just off a neighborhood, which are already lined with cars. You can be circling for a while trying to find an open spot or may have to walk further than expected.
• SMASH AND GRABS
  • Unfortunately, smash and grabs are pretty common on Oahu. It is very important to make sure that you leave nothing valuable in your vehicle. Some will tell you to leave your car unlocked to avoid a broken window. That choice is yours. We may or may not have done that and allowed someone to steal a cooler, work scale, and home health equipment like gloves and masks, etc…
• HIKING WITH ALOHA
  • Now using this phrase on every hike! Be sure to hike with Aloha. Meaning, be respectful, be courteous, be self-aware. Make sure to leave no trace and no trash. Listen to nature instead of music. All land should be respected but go the other extra mile on these Hawai’i hikes and hike with Aloha.

Now let’s get into it!

KO’OLINA BEACH PARK WALKING TRAIL

If you’re already planning to vacation in Oahu, then Ko’Olina is probably already on your list of places to visit. It’s a great tourist attraction, with hotels, restaurants, gift shops, a golf course, you name it, it’s there. Ko’ Olina Beach Park is the perfect place to be any time of day! Sunrise, mid-day, or sunset. It’s all great!

The trail itself is 2.6 miles long with an elevation gain of only 173 ft. Most likely, you won’t even walk the whole thing. You’ll find a perfect spot in the sand along one of the 4 lagoons, let your kids play in the water, grab lunch at the numerous restaurants nearby, and then find yourself at a gift shop picking up chocolate covered macadamia nuts and an Aloha t-shirt.

HOWEVER, if your goal is to go for a walk, maybe you have stroller, or kids who need to get their energy out, this is the trail for you! Beautiful views, excellent walking path, and a place to cool off after working up a sweat.

MAKAPU’U POINT LIGHTHOUSE TRAIL

If you only have time for one easy Hawai’i hike, I suggest Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. This trail is perfect for the family! Epic views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline, paved path for strollers and little legs, great potential for whale sightings, and only 2.5 miles with an elevation gain of 475 ft round trip.

The hike takes about an hour to hour and a half to complete. Great for a late morning stroll! But don’t forget your sunscreen, hat, and water. You’ll also want to bring binoculars in case you see whales off in the distance! During humpback whale migrating season (November-May), the whales will be very active and the chance to see them are very high!

And of course, you will see Makapu’u Point Lighthouse. This lighthouse was built in 1909 and sits on a 600ft sea cliff. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Molokai and Lanai from here!

This is a must-do easy Hawai’i hike!

MANOA FALLS

Manoa Falls Trail is one of those easy Hawai’i hikes that must be done when visiting Oahu. It’s a popular tourist attraction, so the trail can get crowded! But if you’re wanting to see a waterfall, this is your chance. This out and back trail is 1.8 miles long with an elevation gain of 577 ft.

Before setting off on the trail, you will have to pay a fee to park. Try and arrive early to not get turned around due to lack of parking. There is a visitor center and bathrooms located in the Paradise Park Building near the parking lot. Be warned, the service is very spotty. Try downloading the trail or a map beforehand.

Manoa Falls Trail is relatively easy and can be done with children. Like most hikes in Oahu, trails will muddy. So, be sure to wear proper foot wear . The hike itself is beautiful! Bamboo lines the well-worn trail and lush tropical greenery envelope you as you make your way to the waterfall. Sadly, you cannot swim in this waterfall and there is a barricade once you reach the end. Due to the amount of people and the narrow viewpoint, you will have to wait in line until it’s your turn if you would like to take a picture in front of Manoa Falls. Please be respectful of other people’s time and space but be sure to enjoy the beauty of Manoa Falls.

PU’U MA’ELI’ELI TRAIL

Just north of Kaneohe sits Pu’u Ma’eli’eli Trail. This out and back is 2.4 miles long with an elevation gain of 600 ft. Getting to the trailhead is a little odd, as you will park in the McDonalds parking lot and walk along side of the highway (guardrail in between you and traffic) to reach the trailhead. It’s not a far walk at all and there is a narrow trail to the side of the highway that makes reaching the trailhead a breeze.

I would advise checking the weather to make sure there’s no rain in the forecast as this trail stays pretty muddy year-round. If there was a recent rain it could still be extremely muddy. Just proceed with caution. The trail begins pretty steep and then gradually takes you up and down as you make your way closer to the pillboxes.

Towards the end, you will come across two bunkers used in WWII that are neat to explore, with one being your final destination. You’ll get sweeping views of the coastline and paddlers and boaters making their way out to Kaneohe Sandbar.

All in all, this hike is fairly easy, albeit muddy, but your kids will love exploring the bunkers and the trail is shaded the majority of the time.

WAIMEA VALLEY TRAIL

Another must do easy Hawai’i hike on Oahu is Waimea Valley Trail. Located inside the cultural and ecological nature preserver, Waimea Valley. Upon entering the preserve, you will be required to pay an entrance fee, which varies between adults, seniors, students, children, military, and group prices. If you choose to forgo the hike, but wish to see the waterfall, you can purchase a shuttle for an additional price.

If you choose to hike the trail you won’t be disappointed. You’ll walk 1.9 miles (round-trip) through the rainforest with an elevation gain of 249 ft. The path is paved the whole way, which is great for those with a stroller. At times you will encounter an 8% grade, but nothing too difficult to manage.

The trail will pass by cultural sites, ponds, flora & fauna that are unique to Hawai’i and Hawai’i only. Walking through Waimea Valley will give you an appreciation of the Hawaiian people and their culture. The trail is not only beautiful, but it’s educational as well. With displays scattered throughout the forest with descriptions of the history, plant species, and techniques used by the local people. A perfect trail for the history buff.

And for the sightseeing buff, a waterfall at the end of the trail will leave you speechless. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a life vest and jump in! The water is cold, but swimming up to the Waimea Falls in the heart of Oahu is a once in a lifetime opportunity that shouldn’t be skipped!

Oahu, Hawai’i has some of the most beautiful hikes in the world and these easy Hawai’i hikes are just a glimpse. Be sure to check out our other Hawai’i hiking posts for even more beautiful views!

Hi! We’re Paige & Adam

Thank you for joining us on this journey! We’re passionate explorers who are dedicated to keeping our bodies moving until we’re old and grey. Through our travel guides and expert travel physical therapy advice, we empower future travelers with the tools and inspiration to embrace adventure every step of the way. Your support means everything. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have! Have fun, stay safe, and happy hiking!

The post EASY HAWAI’I HIKES ON OAHU THAT ARE FAMILY FRIENDLY appeared first on Trails of a Travel PT.

If you are in fact looking to spend a whole day hiking or up for a more exhilarating experience, check out my blog post HAWAI’I HIKES: 6 DIFFICULT HIKES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS. Or maybe you have children and these moderate Hawai’i hikes are a little too strenuous for you, check out my blog post EASY HAWAI’I HIKES ON OAHU THAT ARE FAMILY FRIENDLY.

HAWAI’I HIKES

Before getting into my favorite Hawai’i hikes there’s some things you should know.

• PARKING
  • Parking can be very difficult! Sometimes it would be worth it to Uber because most of these trails start just off a neighborhood, which are already lined with cars. You can be circling for a while trying to find an open spot or may have to walk further than expected.
• SMASH AND GRABS
  • Unfortunately, smash and grabs are pretty common on Oahu. It is very important to make sure that you leave nothing valuable in your vehicle. Some will tell you to leave your car unlocked to avoid a broken window. That choice is yours. We may or may not have done that and allowed someone to steal a cooler, work scale, and home health equipment like gloves and masks, etc…
• DANGEROUS RAINFALL
  • When it rains it pours on the island. For these difficult Hawai’i hikes, I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND avoiding going after a heavy rainfall or if you are expecting rain later on. The mountains on Oahu are very steep and because most of the rain stays in the mountains, the trails can be extremely slippery and muddy. The difficult trails are narrow with steep drop offs. With many deaths and frequent airlift rescues reported on these trails, it is better to be safe than sorry. Therefore, just avoid these hikes under rainy circumstances.
• HIKING WITH ALOHA
  • Now using this phrase on every hike! Be sure to hike with Aloha. Meaning, be respectful, be courteous, be self-aware. Make sure to leave no trace and no trash. Listen to nature instead of music. All land should be respected but go the other extra mile on these Hawai’i hikes and hike with Aloha.

Now let’s get into it!

KA’ENA POINT TRAIL

Ka’ena Point Trail starts at the westernmost point on the island that you can go. There is only one highway to get there, Farrington Hwy. You will follow this highway all along the western coast of Oahu, passing through small towns, home to mostly locals. Once you reach the end of Farrington, you can park anywhere along Keawaula Beach. I would avoid parking at the very end, in the roundabout, due to smash and grabs.

Ka’ena Point Trail has multiple options of completion. Round trip, from the end of the Farrington on the West coast to the start of Farrington on the North shore is 10 miles with an elevation gain of 675 ft. However, you can turn around at any point. We decided to just walk to the very tip of the island which was about 6.5 miles long with an elevation gain of 515 ft. There is no shade on this hike, so hiking as early as possible would be best! Dogs are also not allowed on this hike because a majority of it is an enclosed bird sanctuary to the Laysan Albatross.

If you’re a bird guy like me, then making it to the sanctuary is a must! Watching the Albatross in their element was the highlight of the hike for me. And this trail had some pretty epic views too!

PU’U O HULU TRAIL (PINK PILLBOX)

One of the most popular moderate Hawai’i hikes we heard of was the Pu’u O Hulu Trail aka Pink Pillbox Trail. This out and back trail is only 1.3 miles long with an elevation gain of 613 feet. It is a steep climb to the top considering how short of a hike it is. But the views are worth it! The Pink Pillbox hike would be a great hike for those who are looking for something quick and efficient, but one that doesn’t lack epic views!

You’ll begin this hike by parking on Kaukama Rd. From there following the trail is quite easy. It is also a highly trafficked trail, so getting lost shouldn’t be an issue. Once you reach the top you’ll encounter multiple pillboxes, including the famous Pink Pillbox. You’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the coastline, Waianae and Nanakuli, and on a clear day, Mount Ka’ala (the tallest mountain on Oahu).

The ridge does get quite narrow and rocky, so if you are hiking with littles (which is doable) just keep an eye on them. I would recommend hiking early in the morning or later in the evening (before sunset). The west side of the island is much drier and hotter, and this trail offers little to no shade. Even though this trail is a heavily trafficked trail, it is a great one and I would highly recommend adding it your list of moderate Hawai’i hikes!

WAIMANO FALLS TRAIL

You can’t go to Hawaii and not hike to a waterfall. It is a must do. There are waterfalls everywhere, but not all waterfall hikes are swimmable. Waimano Falls Trail is one of those great moderate Hawai’i hikes that doesn’t take long to complete, gives you a great workout, and allows you to play in the refreshingly cold water!

This out and back trail is only 2.9 miles long with an elevation gain of 800 ft. It’s technically classified as a hard hike, due to the fact that the majority of the elevation gain happens all within half a mile. However, the trail is short and aside from one steep section, the rest is a breeze.

Before starting the trail, you’ll have to find parking along Komo Mai Dr. It can be challenging because this is a residential area, and cars are already lining the streets. Uber would be a great option as it would drop you off right at the trailhead.

Once you begin the hike, the first mile is pretty laid back. The trail is well marked, plenty wide, and has great viewpoints along the way. You’ll eventually come to a fork in the trail and will want to continue RIGHT to begin your descent to the swimming hole. Here is where the hike starts to get a little more difficult. You’ll encounter that steep descent, some rope sections, and muddy/slippery rocks and roots. But before you know it, you’ve reached Waimano Falls!

THE SWIMMING HOLE

Waimano Falls isn’t a ginormous waterfall by any means, but it’s a beautiful waterfall to spend an hour or so playing in. There are two sections, the top section and the bottom section. The top section where the main waterfall flows into has a large, but shallow swimming hole. You are able to walk right up to the base of the waterfall and get about waist deep. I would recommend bringing sandals/water shoes because it is very rocky.

The bottom section has a much deeper, but smaller swimming hole. And there is a rope swing! We spent about two hours at the falls jumping from the rope swing, swimming, and watching others work up the nerve to jump. It was quite entertaining! The jump is small, but so is the swimming hole. We had a lot of fun here and I would highly suggest taking the plunge before beginning your trek back.

LANIKAI PILLBOX

When researching what moderate Hawai’i hikes were best on the island, the hike that was mentioned the most was Lanikai Pillbox. Everyone raved about how this was the perfect hike to watch the sunrise and get great 360 degrees views of Oahu. It took us 9 months to finally get around to completing this trail, but the reason for that was because most of the “most popular” hikes are usually WAY over-crowded, parking is a nightmare, you may have to make reservations, or even pay a small fee to complete the hike. We tend to stay away from these sorts of hikes. Crowds and parking usually make the hike not worth it. HOWEVER, please don’t let the negatives stop you from completing this hike, because Lanikai Pillbox is totally worth it, and I can’t believe it took us 9 months to understand that!

PARKING

Parking for Lanikai Pillbox is a little difficult. Recently, street parking was no longer allowed, and the best option would be to park in the Kailua Beach Boat Ramp Parking Lot. Or down the street even further at Kailua Beach Park. From Kailua to the trailhead is about a half a mile walk. So, if you are wanting to make it to the top to enjoy the sunrise be sure to give yourself extra time for parking and walking.

THE CLIMB

Once arriving at the trailhead, the ascent begins immediately. Lanikai Pillbox is an out and back hike with a short distance of 0.7 miles. Because there are two pillboxes on the trail you could extend your hike to the second, which would make your hike 1.6 miles total and with an elevation gain of 623 ft. The hike itself will take less than an hour, but the climb is decently steep and can be challenging for kids or for those who don’t hike often.

360 VIEWS

I would highly suggest making the climb before sunrise. Just be sure to pack a headlamp or flashlight! If you get there early, you may be lucky enough to claim a seat on one of the two pillboxes. But if not, there are plenty of areas along the trail that are just as perfect to watch a new day begin. The views are unreal! Not only of the sunrise, but of the Ko’olau Mountain Range, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding towns. Watching the early morning rowers, whales off in the distance, the soft glow of the sunrise, and the mountains turn green is the perfect way to start your morning!

Moderate Hawai’i hikes can be over-crowded, but I promise Lanikai is worth it!

KOKO CRATER TRAMWAY

Another “most popular” hike in O’ahu is the Koko Crater Tramway to Koko Head Lookout. This hike is 1.6 miles long with an elevation gain of 912 ft. Hiking to the lookout consists of over 1,000 railroad tie steps that run straight up the side of the crater, which was previously used by the military in WWII for transporting supplies to the lookout. Now, people from all over the world come to Oahu to make the trek up this crater and I would suggest you give it a go as well!

Most of the time we like hiking for the adventure, the views, the conversations, the nature, but sometimes we like hiking purely for the workout itself. And this was one of those times. We arrived at the Koko Head parking lot and were in awe at the stairs that stretched straight up the side of the crater. We started early because there is no shade, and the sun would soon be beating down on us. Within 30 minutes we made it to the top. The hike doesn’t take long, but that doesn’t mean it was easy! Our legs were shaky, our backs were sweaty, but we accomplished Koko Crater, and the views were worth it!

The hardest part may have been the descent. With your legs already tired, the steep grade and gravity forcing you down, it took a lot of control to not go tumbling down the mountain. Accidents and evacuations happen all the time on this hike, so please be careful, know your limitations, and trust your instincts.

HONORABLE MENTION: MOKOLI’I ISLAND TRAIL

Last but not least, Mokoli’i Island Trail is a must do moderate Hawai’i hike! The hike itself is an out and back that is only 0.2 miles, and 206 ft of elevation gain. Incredibly easy right? Wrong. What makes this hike moderate, but not hard is getting there. This trail is located on Mokoli’i Island aka Chinaman’s Hat.

To get there, first park at Kualoa Regional Park at Kualoa Point. Grab your kayak, paddleboard, canoe, what have you, and head towards to the ocean. I would advise going on calmer days for safety purposes. Once you’ve reached the island, about a 15-minute paddle, find a good place to tie up your vessel. Then begin your 206 ft ascent to the top of the island. In all honesty, it was quite harder than I imagined.

Our feet were wet, we were wearing sandals, the gravel and dirt was loose, there were no ropes, we had to rock climb some sections and navigate this “trail” to the top. It didn’t take too long, but it was a little more challenging than the stats make it out to be. However, we would do it again in a heartbeat for views like this! 360-degree views, stunning mountains, and perfectly blue water made Mokoli’i Island Trail one of our favorites yet!

Oahu Hawai’i has some of the most beautiful terrain to hike in with the most epic views! These moderate Hawai’i hikes gave us memories that will last forever and views that will play on repeat in our minds until the end of time. I highly recommend completing as many as you can and experiencing the awe that is Hawai’i.

Hi! We’re Paige & Adam

Thank you for joining us on this journey! We’re passionate explorers who are dedicated to keeping our bodies moving until we’re old and grey. Through our travel guides and expert travel physical therapy advice, we empower future travelers with the tools and inspiration to embrace adventure every step of the way. Your support means everything. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have! Have fun, stay safe, and happy hiking!

The post 5 MODERATE HAWAI’I HIKES THAT ARE WORTH YOUR TIME appeared first on Trails of a Travel PT.

HAWAI’I HIKES

Before getting into my favorite Hawai’i hikes there’s some things you should know.

• PARKING
  • Parking can be very difficult! Sometimes it would be worth it to Uber because most of these trails start just off a neighborhood, which are already lined with cars. You can be circling for a while trying to find an open spot or may have to walk further than expected.
• SMASH AND GRABS
  • Unfortunately, smash and grabs are pretty common on Oahu. It is very important to make sure that you leave nothing valuable in your vehicle. Some will tell you to leave your car unlocked to avoid a broken window. That choice is yours. We may or may not have done that and allowed someone to steal a cooler, work scale, and home health equipment like gloves and masks, etc…
• DANGEROUS RAINFALL
  • When it rains it pours on the island. For these difficult Hawai’i hikes, I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND avoiding going after a heavy rainfall or if you are expecting rain later on. The mountains on Oahu are very steep and because most of the rain stays in the mountains, the trails can be extremely slippery and muddy. The difficult trails are narrow with steep drop offs. With many deaths and frequent airlift rescues reported on these trails, it is better to be safe than sorry. Therefore, just avoid these hikes under rainy circumstances.
• HIKING WITH ALOHA
  • Now using this phrase on every hike! Be sure to hike with Aloha. Meaning, be respectful, be courteous, be self-aware. Make sure to leave no trace and no trash. Listen to nature instead of music. All land should be respected but go the other extra mile on these Hawai’i hikes and hike with Aloha.

Now let’s get into it!

KAHEKILI TRAIL

Out of all of these difficult Hawai’i hikes, I would say Kahekili is the most difficult. There are many aspects that can make a trail difficult, whether that is a steep incline, lots of scrambling/climbing, overgrown or muddy terrain, long distances, and/or level of fear due to exposure. Kahekili Trail has it all. This trail was both mentally and physically challenging and it was less than 4 miles long. An out and back trail with an elevation gain of 1,791 ft, Kahekili was no joke.

PARKING & CAUTION

To access the trailhead, you will park just down the road from the Ka’a’awa fire department at the Swanzy Beach Park. You will then walk ~0.3 miles to the start of the trailhead by turning left just past the fire department and continuing on Huamalani St. The trailhead begins between the two houses at the end of the cul-de-sac. Please be courteous as you’re walking directly through a residential area.

There is a sign at the beginning of the trailhead warning you just how dangerous this hike is and how everyday people are being rescued from the Crouching Lion Trail, the connecting trail. When we finished our hike, we saw three people get rescued via helicopter. Therefore, be cautious and be smart. If you are unsure of your ability to complete a hard and dangerous hike, sit this one out. It is important that you are sure footed, won’t become paralyzed due to a fear of heights, and have the strength and endurance to complete this hike. If you feel confident and I didn’t scare you off yet, then you should totally hike Kahekili Trail because it is AMAZING!

THE ASCENT

For the first half a mile you are hiking through the forest ascending towards the tree line. There are already quite a few rope sections, and you will most likely encounter mud even if it hasn’t rained recently. Once making it out of the tree line the real fun begins! The trail will become very narrow and have steep drop-offs on both sides, but the views are incredible! There are about 4 points where you can stop to take a break, catch your breath, and soak the views in without feeling like you’re going to fall of the mountain.

During this mile stretch, there are more rope sections, high step-ups, and lots of scrambling. I felt like the majority of this hike I was on my hands. Using the 3 points of contact method was a MUST during the steep climbs for safety. The hike is difficult but oh so worth it to see views of the Kualoa Ranch and valley, the mountainside, and an ocean that stretches for miles.

SAVE YOUR LEGS

Although the hike does continue on to eventually meet up with the Crouching Lion Trail, I would suggest turning around before descending back into the forest. If you were to complete the trail, the next half a mile to mile is pretty brutal. The trail is very muddy with little to no ropes, the brush is overgrown, and there’s very few “epic” views. The trail descends back down into the forest and there is a small waterfall to see. But, in my opinion, save yourself the time, struggle, and scratches by turning around after finishing the exposed ridge line.

KULI’OU’OU RIDGE

Many Hawai’i hikes can go from sea level to 3,000 ft quickly. But, if you’re looking for something a little friendlier but still packs a punch, Kuli’ou’ou Ridge is the perfect trail!

PARKING

Parking for the Kuli’ou’ou Ridge isn’t too bad. You will have to park in a neighborhood and maybe walk further than anticipated, but you should be able to parallel park somewhere along Kalaau or Kuli’ou’ou Road.

TRAIL SPECS

This trail can be done one of two ways. An out and back with a distance of 4.4 miles and 1,666 ft or a loop at 4.6 miles and 2,211 ft composed of hiking two different ridge lines. (All Trails elevation gain may be a little off.)

We chose to do the out and back because it had rained earlier in the week and the loop offers more of an exposed route which could be a little more dangerous in wet conditions. The trail is very well maintained and has a consistent gradual incline throughout the whole hike. Yes, it is still difficult and has some steep sections with a little bit of scrambling but overall, it is a great trail with great views at the top!

CHALLENGING BUT REWARDING

The reason this trail is difficult is purely because of the incline. There are no rope sections, exposed cliff walks, or an unmanageable distance. The trail itself is really nice and would be great for those looking for something more challenging than they may be used to, with a great reward at the end. With sweeping views over the entire southeast corner of the island, it’s a sight to see, especially early in the day! I highly recommend this difficult hike!

MOUNT KA’ALA

Not only is Mount Ka’ala a must do because of the hike itself, but also because it is the highest mountain on Oahu! What a cool accomplishment to be able to say you hiked the tallest mountain on the island! Mount Ka’ala is a 6.8 mile out and back with an elevation gain (according to All Trails) of 5,311 ft, which is definitely incorrect considering the peak is only at 4,025 ft. I think we clocked in an elevation gain of around 3,500 ft. But regardless, it is a difficult hike!

PARKING

Parking for this trail is a little difficult. It’s kind of a lose/lose. Some say Uber will not drive back the entirety of the road to drop you off at the trailhead, but also this is a popular destination for those smash and grabs. So please make sure to leave your car empty of all valuables. Even things you may not think are valuable, will be valuable to someone else. You have been warned!

CONQUERING THE TALLEST MOUNTAIN ON THE ISLAND

The first mile of the hike is pretty laid back. You’re walking on pavement the majority of the time until you reach the forest. From there you will finally start making your ascent. It does get steep pretty fast. For the next two miles you’ll be in the trees. The bugs are bad, so bring bug spray if you can. You may even see a wild pig or two!

Once you get past the tree line, the real fun begins! For the next mile you will have insane views of the valley, the ocean, and the North Shore. You also get to do some scrambling, which we always enjoy. I would recommend bringing gloves with you. There are quite a few rope sections. You may not need them much going up but coming down we found them to be very useful! This section is a lot of fun, but also probably the most dangerous. There are a few sections where you are on the edge of the cliff. There is a fence and/or ropes to hold on to if needed. But just be cautious of foot placement and you’ll be fine!

INTO THE RAINFOREST

The last mile of the ascent towards the top is what makes this hike really unique. You’ll enter the rainforest. Because this is the tallest mountain on the island, the majority of the time it is covered by clouds. There is a thriving rainforest at the top, Mount Ka’ala Natural Area Reserve. It is a gated section, so be sure to close the gate behind you to keep out any unwanted critters that could affect the habitat. You’ll follow a narrow boardwalk that leads you right to the top of the mountain. If you’re taller, like me and my wife, you may have to crouch most of the time because of the hanging branches, but nevertheless still awesome!

Unfortunately, the summit is anticlimactic. You’re surrounded by trees, so you don’t have the great views like you did at other sections of the trail, BUT you just summited the tallest mountain on Oahu Island and that’s pretty awesome!

MOUNT OLYMPUS (‘AWA’AWALOA)

Before moving to Hawai’i and doing any research on Hawai’i hikes, I had a buddy tell me I had to conquer Mount Olympus. He said that it was the best hike on the island but not for the faint of heart. So naturally, I had to check it out for myself. He wasn’t lying. Mount Olympus was challenging but very rewarding in more ways than one.

PARKING

Finding parking for Mount Olympus couldn’t be easier! The trailhead starts in Wa’ahila State Park. There is a really big parking lot, so as long as you get there decently early you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a parking spot! Wa’ahila State Park is absolutely stunning and reminded me a lot of Washington State. Even if you’re not completing Mount Olympus you should definitely visit this park for a picnic or shorter stroll.

THE MUDDY CLIMB

Mount Olympus, or ‘Awa’awaloa, is a 6 mile out and back with an elevation gain of ~2,000 ft. Again, our specs were different than those listed on All Trails. Nonetheless, the beginning of the hike is fairly easy and great for those with kids. The trail starts just off the parking lot and for about half a mile you’re walking on a very wide path in the forest. You’ll eventually break off to the left where things will start to get steeper and rockier. I think this section is still doable with kids. It’ll just be a little slower going. After about an hour of hiking you will come to your first viewpoint. If you are hiking with children, this is where I would suggest you turn around. From this point on, the hike gets steeper, narrower, and much much muddier.

The rest of the hike is a steady climb towards the top. Although, it is insanely muddy! Luckily, the trail wasn’t super narrow that we feared slipping and falling. We ended up embracing the mud and had a really fun time climbing towards the top! You will eventually reach the Kolowalu junction and can choose to turn around here if you’d like, continue to summit Mount Olympus.

In order to summit the mountain, you will encounter a more exposed and narrower trail. There are also many rope sections which can be difficult due to the steep grade. You will get muddy, no doubt about it. So, for those of you who like to hike in white Nikes, this may not be the hike for you… or your shoes. After climbing and clawing your way to the top you are rewarded with 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, the Manoa and Palolo Valley, and Diamond Head Crater.

A fantastic hike packed with adventure, scenic views, and a great challenge! Highly recommend!

MOUNT OLOMANA (THREE PEAKS)

All of these Hawai’i hikes are difficult for different reasons. Mount Olomana (“Divided Hill“), aka Three Peaks, is difficult for many reasons. The elevation gain, the upper body strength needed to do countless rope climbs, and the mental fortitude needed to psychologically overcome this hike.

Mount Olomana is another hike in which many people have succumbed to death or injury. It isn’t a joke. This hike is cruel and should only be completed by experienced hikers. Like all other difficult Hawai’i hikes, if it has just rained or is going to rain, PLEASE avoid this hike! The majority of the trail is exposed and at some sections you are completing a technical 4th-5th class scramble. However, if you’re capable and willing to complete this hike you won’t regret it!

PARKING

There is no parking at the start of this trailhead, and you will be required to walk about a half mile to find parking. Some suggest parking at Maunawili Valley Neighborhood Park, I however wouldn’t suggest that. There are multiple signs stating you will be towed if you are not using the parking lot for the park itself. We parked along Auloa Road and didn’t have a problem. However, there are not designated parking spaces, and your car must be COMPLETELY off the road/sidewalk. Again, there are multiple signs saying you will get a ticket if you violate those rules. In fact, we saw a cop issuing many tickets to the vehicles that were even slightly parked on the sidewalk. I’m pretty sure they camp out there knowing this is an issue. Therefore, maybe uber to the trailhead, or park at your own risk.

GETTING TO THE TRAILHEAD

After finding legal parking, or catching an Uber, you will have about a half mile hike to the start of the trailhead. You’ll walk along Auloa Road towards Kalaniana’ole Hwy. From there you will take a right onto Loop Road. You’ll follow this Road until you meet the start of the trailhead. This is also the entrance to the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club, so be mindful of the coming and going traffic and avoid walking in the middle of the road.

You have now reached the start of the trailhead and are met with an ominous sign letting you know that there have been many deaths on the trail and to hike at your own risk.

PEAK 1

Honestly, from the start of the trailhead to the first peak isn’t that difficult or scary. There is one section where you have to do a vertical rope climb, and then at the summit of the first peak you will be exposed to the elements and steep drop offs. But getting to this first peak is only difficult because of the elevation gain. The majority of the time you are in the trees trekking towards the summit.

This section of the trail was mild-moderately trafficked. There are some big step ups and a little bit of scrambling, but overall, not too bad. Once you reach the summit the view is incredible! And if you decide to turn around at this point, which most hikers do, you’ve still completed a great hike with a great reward of a view of the second and third peak and surrounding mountains. Turning around after the first peak would be a great hike in itself and one I would highly recommend!

PEAK 2

As I said, most hikers stop after reaching the first peak. If you are not comfortable with heights and/or narrow trails on a mountain ridge with steep drops offs, now would be the time to turn around. If this doesn’t bother you, then keep trekking towards the second peak.

I personally didn’t think the trek from the first to the second peak was physically challenging. The hardest part is being completely exposed to the elements, walking on a narrow ridge line, and finishing with the exposed rope climb to summit the second peak. So, mentally it is a little more challenging if you have to overcome that fear of heights. But if you’re up for the challenge and you’re a confident hiker then I think summiting the second peak is totally doable for you!

You are again met with 360 views, just like the first peak, but this time you get to look back on what you’ve already completed which was a cool experience!

PEAK 3

Here is where things go from a physical and mental level of moderate difficulty to an extreme level of difficultly. Summiting the third peak is where accidents happen. Where people have fallen to their death. Please do not take this lightly. If the weather conditions are not *perfect*, if you physically or mentally are not in the right space then please turn around. The last section of this hike takes immense concentration, foot/hand work, full body strength, and both physical and mental endurance. Now is the time to decide to continue on or turn back. We continued on…

It was a decision that we didn’t take lightly. We went into this hike not knowing if we would complete it in its entirety or not, we wanted to make a game time decision, see how we were feeling and take things one step at a time. We both felt great and were ready to tackle the third and final peak.

At this point, the traffic was non-existent. We didn’t know how many people were in front of us and we couldn’t see anyone behind us. This allowed us to take our time and ensure proper footing and hand holds. You will be met with many rope sections at this point, some of which you will you have to put your full body weight into. Just pray those ropes are tightly secured! Especially during the initial 70 ft rope repel to start your descent towards the third peak. Throughout the rest of the hike from peak two to peak three you are walking along the narrowest ridge line, holding onto rocks and ropes for dear life.

Fortunately, I was able to finish the hike in its entirety which was an incredible experience! Being able to look back at the other two peaks to the North, see the Ko’olau Mountain range to the West, and the vast blue Pacific Ocean to the East was an incredible view that made the hike worth it in so many ways!

KNOWING YOUR LIMITATIONS

My wife on the other hand didn’t finish. We ended up running into those who were now on their return from the summit, and a large group had snuck up behind us. With about 10 people on a ridge where only one person can fit comfortably, she was a little shaken up. She no longer felt comfortable and sure footed and decided it was best to stay put and allow me to finish. I think that was a great decision for her knowing what the weight of continuing on a hike when mentally shaken up can cost people.

If you ever don’t feel confident in your ability to continue on it is perfectly acceptable to turn around and try again another day. You should be proud of whatever you can accomplish and take solace in the BREATHTAKING views you’ve already witnessed!

HONORABLE MENTION: KAMAILE’UNU RIDGE

Kamaile’unu Ridge holds a special place in my heart. It was the very first hike my wife and I completed after moving to the Island. It was also the mountain that sat in our backyard. So, for 9 months every day we looked outside and thought to ourselves, “We climbed that, b****”, which is pretty cool.

PARKING

Getting to the trailhead was easy for us because we just had to walk half a block to get there. But for those who don’t live at the base of the mountain you will most likely want to Uber there. Like most Hawai’i hikes, parking and break-ins are a constant battle. If you’re lucky enough to find a place to park, great! But on the flipside of that you may get your window smashed…

FROM MAKAI TO MAUNA

Once you’ve arrived at the trailhead, you have to find the start of the trail. The majority of this hike is overgrown. Therefore, navigating on the “trail” is very subjective. Just start climbing. For a little over a mile, you will climb up 1,587 ft. This out and back is a scramble towards the top, with overgrown brush, jagged lava rocks, and steep step ups. I would highly recommend starting early because there is no shade, and the rocks can get very hot throughout the day. Once you make it to the top though, the view of the valley is just incredible! Our first real hike from Makai (sea) to Mauna (mountain) was breathtaking.

You can continue on this hike towards the taller peaks, which I would recommend doing! It flattens out for a little while before climbing straight up again but you will be rewarded with more awesome views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

SHORT, STEEP & SWEET

The reason I decided to include this hike under difficult hikes is because of the incline, navigating the trail, and the amount of scrambling needed to be done. Kamaile’unu Ridge is a really short hike that offers stunning view of Waianae Valley but navigating this trail and the elevation gain make it a difficult climb. It’s short, steep and sweet!

These difficult Oahu, Hawai’i hikes are some of the best hikes you will do in the country! They are unbelievably challenging, both mentally and physically. Yet, they also feel like an adult jungle gym with the rope climbs and scrambling. These hikes are not for the weak and if you really want to push yourselves give these a go! Just please whatever you do, lead with caution, safety, and that Aloha spirit. Have fun out there, friends, and good luck! Aloha!

Hi! We’re Paige & Adam

Thank you for joining us on this journey! We’re passionate explorers who are dedicated to keeping our bodies moving until we’re old and grey. Through our travel guides and expert travel physical therapy advice, we empower future travelers with the tools and inspiration to embrace adventure every step of the way. Your support means everything. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have! Have fun, stay safe, and happy hiking!

The post HAWAI’I HIKES: 6 DIFFICULT HIKES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS appeared first on Trails of a Travel PT.

*Note: I did these hikes between June and October of 2023. Be sure to check the National Park Website for trail closures/updates.

DEWEY LAKE TRAIL

Ironically, the first on this list just so happens to be one of the first hikes we did in Washington. Dewey Lake Trail technically isn’t in Mount Rainier National Park, it’s located in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. However, for a brief moment, the trail does cross over into the National Park and is located just outside of the park’s entrance sign. Therefore, I’m counting it.

Dewey Lake Trail is a moderate 6-mile hike with an elevation gain of 1,282 ft. Most of the elevation gain happens on the way back from the lake, so be prepared for an uphill return. Dewey Lake Trail stood out from all the other Mount Rainier hikes because for the 3 miles hiking down to the lake every turn you take is yet another breathtaking view. The hike itself sits on a ridge where the thin dirt trail carves its way through the mountain. This creates a magical path that guides you along towering evergreens, colorful wildflowers, and mountain views that go on forever.

Even though this hike was one of the first hikes we did upon arriving in Washington, it truly felt like we were transported to a different realm. The greens were brighter, the lakes were bluer, and nature was thriving. If you didn’t want to hike to Dewey Lake I would still recommend this trail. You could stop at the first lake which is about one mile in and only an elevation gain of about 500 ft. You’ll still benefit from the gorgeous views!

*If you are hiking during the summer, do not forget bug spray! The bugs were only bad at Dewey Lake specifically.

MOUNT FREMONT LOOKOUT TRAIL

From our first Mount Rainier hike to our last Mount Rainier hike, Mount Fremont Lookout Trail via Sourdough Ridge Trail. This trail is a MUST! Be sure to hike this one before it’s too late as the trail will close due to weather. We were cutting it close but got it in just after the first snowfall, which we weren’t mad about. The snow added a certain ambiance to the hike that we had yet to experience in Washington. It made it that much more special with it being our last hike in the park.

Mount Fremont Lookout Trail is located at the Sunrise Visitor Center. This out-and-back trail is 5.7 miles long with an elevation gain of 1,108 ft. It takes an average of less than 3 hours to complete. Along the trail you will see different terrains, possibly some marmots, and of course Mount Rainier. When we first started this hike, the fog was so thick you couldn’t see very far, but as soon as we got to the fire lookout the sky cleared and there was Rainier in all her glory. It was a breathtaking moment to witness the volcano seemingly appear out of thin air. We had no idea just how close we were to the mountain. Thankfully, we got some incredible shots of Mt. Rainier, the fire lookout, and the never-ending mountains beyond.

Mount Fremont Lookout Trail was the perfect trail to say goodbye to Washington and Mount Rainier National Park.

SKYLINE LOOP TRAIL

If you want to get up close and personal to Mount Rainier, I suggest the Skyline Loop Trail. This is the perfect trail to not only have great views of the active volcano but also great views of the surrounding mountains, including Mt Adams, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Hood.

Skyline Loop Trail is 5.7 miles long with an elevation gain of 1,768 ft. This is a more challenging hike, but feel free to stop at Panorama Point to shorten it. Skyline Loop is one of the most popular hikes in the park. You will access the trailhead at the Paradise Visitor Center. Make sure to arrive as early as possible because parking fills up FAST. From the trailhead, you immediately start your ascent. The first two miles are a doozy, but after that, it’s all downhill.

Along the trail, you will potentially see quite a bit of wildlife. We had a marmot come right up to us! You’ll also have great views of waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain peaks. The perfect hike that features just what Mount Rainier hikes are all about!

SNOW LAKE TRAIL

If you’ve spent any time hiking in Washington, you know that this state is FULL of beautiful crystal clear lakes high in the mountains. And I was on a mission to do as many alpine lake dives as possible during my time there. This is what drew me to the Snow Lake Trail, as this lake features 2 great lakes in a short 2.2 miles.

On this trail, you will not only be hiking to Snow Lake but you’ll also pass by Bench Lake. As its name suggests, Bench Lake is on the side of the mountain with a quick drop-off on the back end, creating a “bench”. This creates an “infinity pool” effect at the edge of the lake, with Mt. Rainier as the backdrop.

As you hop back on the trail and continue to Snow Lake, you will traverse through a couple of lush green meadows, a seemingly perfect place to spot a bear (don’t forget the bear spray). Upon arriving at Snow Lake, you will meet a fork in the road. For the best view, you will want to take a left and head towards the Snow Lake Camp. The view from this side of the lake has the best view of the surrounding mountains. Right before you get to the camp area, you’ll make a right towards the lake, and boom, there’s the view (see below). As you can see by my towel, I had to jump into this lake when I got there. As expected, it was very cold (see the snow on the opposite side of the lake).

SUMMIT LAKE TRAIL

Hiking Summit Lake was a turning point for me. I knew Washington was amazing and all of the Mount Rainier hikes were great thus far, but hiking Summit Lake Trail solidified that Washington and Mount Rainier National Park are the best of the best. I’ve been to many states and National Parks, but these win hands down. While Summit Lake trail might not exactly be in the Park, you do have astounding views of Mount Rainier, so again I’m counting it.

Summit Lake Trail is an out-and-back that’s 5.8 miles long with an elevation gain of 1,417 ft. The trail is a steady climb to the top, mainly below the tree line, until just before the summit where you have perfect views of the lake, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding mountains. We decided to backpack this hike with friends. Because it’s not technically in the park, you do not need a permit. Be sure to have a National Forest Pass or National Park Pass displayed on your car dashboard though. Getting to the trailhead was a little bit of a bumpy ride, so I would recommend 4-wheel drive and a high clearance vehicle. Take it nice and slow because the road is very narrow and not easy to pass oncoming traffic.

Once you get close to the summit there are multiple great camping spots available on a first come first serve basis. Get there as soon as possible if you want a spot with a view, they will go fast. Once you’re all settled, you can finish the climb to the top or stop at this viewpoint. The actual summit just offers a different view of the lake and not so much of Mount Rainier. There is one picturesque spot located just to the left of the photo shown below where people tend to gather for the “perfect photo”. We of course had to snap a few, but then let others have their turn. Try and be mindful of the people around you, if any. We caught many people hogging the ledge unaware of others wanting a turn, and that’s just bad hiking etiquette.

Summit Lake Trail is the perfect hike for beginner backpackers! Short enough to get comfortable with the weight of the pack and not long enough to need the essential items you may have forgotten. This hike is also a great sunrise hike! We were fortunate enough to have one of the best sunrises of all time following a wet, dreary, and non-visible day prior.

*Fun (not so fun) Fact: Paige broke her foot hiking down this trail. Gotta watch out for the tiny rocks and slippery tree roots!

TOLMIE PEAK FIRE LOOKOUT TRAIL

Okay…where do I start with Tolmie Peak Trail? To put it simply, this was hands down one of my favorite hikes of all time, for obvious reasons. Multiple lakes to jump into, vast panoramic views, and a long hike through the dense forest. This view of Mt. Rainier will forever be on replay in my mind when I think about our time in Washington.

This hike starts at the Mowich Lake campground, which is inside Mt. Rainier National Park limits. Parking is spread out along the roadside and frequently monitored by Park Rangers. So be sure to have a day pass or display your annual park pass so you do not get a ticket. The road getting to the trailhead is a long gravel road, though not quite as rough as the road to Summit Lake. We handled it just fine in our 2WD Chevy Equinox.

The views on this trail start immediately with the trail running right alongside the shoreline of Mowich Lake. The trail then ascends into the thick forest. Hiking through the forest for me is an adventure in itself. Hiking among giants, some of which have been around for centuries, gives you a quick reality check to help you realize just how small you are in this world. A feeling that I frequently felt during Mount Rainier hikes. You will also get a chance to spot endless fungi if the time is right, as well as a chance to see some wildlife. We were lucky enough to see a blackbuck just off the trail near the second lake on the trail.

Upon exiting the forest, you will come across Eunice Lake. Atop the rocky backdrop behind Eunice Lake, you will see the fire lookout. From here you will ascend the final 600ft in less than a mile. A quick climb to the top reveals a purely unforgettable view of Rainier and the surrounding foothills. You can even see out to the Puget Sound from atop the lookout!

If you’re as lucky as us, you may get some curious critters wanting to introduce themselves at the top. With many hikers frequently taking a snack break at the summit, a resourceful group of birds await their fair share of crumbs to fill their bellies. If you’re patient and inviting enough, one may even just land right in your hand! We do not suggest feeding wildlife as this disturbs the natural order of things in the wild. Keep nature wild and be kind to our furry and feathered friends out there!

I’ve done a lot of hikes in Washington and Mount Rainier Park, and I can honestly say these 6 are by far some of the best ones out there! I’d love to hear about your favorite Mount Rainier hikes and what you think of these 6 in particular. Comment below and let me know!

Hi! We’re Paige & Adam

Thank you for joining us on this journey! We’re passionate explorers who are dedicated to keeping our bodies moving until we’re old and grey. Through our travel guides and expert travel physical therapy advice, we empower future travelers with the tools and inspiration to embrace adventure every step of the way. Your support means everything. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have! Have fun, stay safe, and happy hiking!

The post 6 OF THE BEST MOUNT RAINIER NATIONAL PARK HIKES appeared first on Trails of a Travel PT.

BLUE LAKES

If you could only go do one alpine lake hike then I would highly suggest hiking to Blue Lakes. The hike itself is 8.7 miles long with an elevation gain of 2,529 ft. On this trail, you will see THREE lakes, lower, middle, and upper blue lakes. Don’t be like us and think there are three different viewing points of the lower lake and decide to stop hiking and turn around because we were satisfied. However, we were told that Lower Blue Lake is the best lake! So, if you do want to stop after the first one then you should, but there are TWO more lakes you could see if you kept on going.

Now that we have established that there are THREE lakes on this trail, let’s just talk about the Lower Blue Lake. I mean…what an incredible site! Look at this!!!

Never have we ever seen a lake this color before. It is God’s finest work, and we get to witness it! So cool! The trail is an out-and-back, located in Ridgway, Colorado. There are great dispersed campsites around the area that would be great to stay at if you can! Once you get to the lower lake there is an epic view of Mount Sneffels. And if you’re feeling brave you can continue to hike a little over 7 miles and up almost 4,000 more ft to summit this beautiful mountain!

Blue Lakes is a sight to behold, and even though the hike can be a little challenging for some, it’s totally worth it! This hike will change the way you think about alpine lake hikes.

ICE LAKE

Although Blue Lakes was life-changing for us, Ice Lake Trail was our favorite! Everything about this trail and our experience for the whole weekend was just one for the books. The views, from not only the lake, but the entire mountainside are just breathtaking!

Ice Lake is located in the San Juan National Forest (also a must-see) in Silverton, CO. The trail is a doozy, but it’s worth it! At 8.3 miles long and with an elevation gain of 2,877 ft this out-and-back features waterfalls, creeks, and those sweet, sweet mountain views.

Because this is a very popular trail, I would advise getting to the trailhead early to ensure a parking spot. If you decide to go the night before there is a great campground just across the street. South Mineral Campground is first-come, first-serve with a cost of $34 per site. It is a seasonal campground which is only open May-September. The campground is absolutely beautiful, located at the base of red and grey streaked mountains, but still plenty shaded by the towering pine trees. If you aren’t lucky enough to claim a spot, there are free dispersed campsites around the area. The parking lot is located just across the street, so in the morning you should have no problem claiming a spot!

ISLAND LAKE

The great thing about Island Lake is that it is located on the same trail as Ice Lake! This way you can knock out two birds with one stone. Even though they are only minutes away, the views are so different! Less than a mile away from Ice Lake sits Island Lake. The trail does get steep and follows a narrow path, but I promise it’s worth the extra work. Island Lake is named after the small island that sits in the middle of the lake. Original, right? You could potentially swim to the island, but I would advise letting the water warm up as much as possible because the lake does sit at the base of a 13,000 ft mountain. Ulysses S Grant Peak is a stunning mountain that does have a trail that leads to the top, but beware, it looks intense!

After taking in the green lake, going for a dip, and enjoying a PB&J, you could either go back the way you came or continue down from Island Lake creating a lollipop trail. I would highly suggest this way! Who doesn’t love a change of scenery while hiking? Whichever way you go, this trail deserves 5 stars! It was an incredible hike with so many beautiful views and a hike that will go down as one of our all-time favorites!!

MIRROR LAKE

Are you up for a challenge? Because I have the PERFECT hike for you! Mirror Lake & Crater Lake via Cascade Creek Trail. This is a whopping 16-mile hike with an elevation gain of 2,368 ft. I know what you’re thinking… 16 miles?! No, thank you. But please I promise you will not be disappointed! This trail is top 5 for us for sure!

Mirror Lake is located in Arapaho National Forest at the base of Lone Eagle Peak. A magnificent mountain that makes the trail worth it even without the lake! This out-and-back trail could be done in a day but is also a popular destination for backcountry camping. So, if you feel like there’s no way you could do it in a day or just simply want to take your time there are so many beautiful spots to camp just off the trail!

The trail starts from Monarch Lake Trailhead, just outside Granby, another beautiful lake that would be great to enjoy a short hike, picnic, or even fishing! The trail is very gradual and never too steep, which is always a plus! This hike features beautiful scenery, such as wildflowers, open fields, waterfalls, and stunning views of Lone Eagle Peak. After 8 miles you finally reach Mirror Lake. A small, blue lake with a perfect reflection of the mountain. There are plenty of spots to sit, enjoy lunch, and take in the views. Whenever you’re ready and before you head down you MUST take a short walk over to Crater Lake because you’ve already come so far and to miss yet another epic lake would be a tragedy.

CRATER LAKE

What’s better than alpine lake hikes? An alpine lake hike with TWO lakes! Crater Lake is just past Mirror Lake on the opposite side of Lone Eagle Peak. You get such a different view of the peak and also the surrounding mountains. This lake is much bigger but just as clear.

Thank you to the people who told us to keep going because once again we almost missed this one! If you do decide to do this hike in one day, which is totally doable, just make sure you are prepared. Pack plenty of water and food, extra socks, headlamp, etc. Because by the end of this hike, we couldn’t feel our feet…worth it though!

Hi! We’re Paige & Adam

Thank you for joining us on this journey! We’re passionate explorers who are dedicated to keeping our bodies moving until we’re old and grey. Through our travel guides and expert travel physical therapy advice, we empower future travelers with the tools and inspiration to embrace adventure every step of the way. Your support means everything. Feel free to contact us with any questions you may have! Have fun, stay safe, and happy hiking!

The post THE BEST ALPINE LAKE HIKES TO DO IN COLORADO appeared first on Trails of a Travel PT.

If you travel directly West from my home in Missouri, after hours and hours of corn or bean fields and cattle ranches, one of the first peaks you’ll see WAYYY in the distance is Pike’s Peak. To truly appreciate the size of this mountain is to see it from the road and then continue to drive HOURS before ever actually getting there. For many of us road-tripping Midwesterners, the Colorado Front Range is the first chance to get a glimpse at these grandiose geological “master-peaks”.

The Colorado front range is one of the most beautiful places to visit any time of year, especially for all the hiking enthusiasts out there. We lived in Longmont, Colorado from January-April 2021, and during that time we got to check off many great Colorado hikes in the surrounding area.

If you’re looking for even more incredible Colorado hikes, check out our blog post THE BEST ALPINE LAKE HIKES TO DO IN COLORADO.

COLORADO/MANITOU SPRINGS & THE SURROUNDING AREAS

THE INCLINE & BARR TRAIL

The infamous Incline trail is a very well-known Colorado hike. If you’re looking for an incredible challenge that won’t take you all day to finish, this is the hike for you. The nearly 2000ft elevation gain is all completed in 1 mile of continuous steps going directly up the side of Pike’s Peak. After completing all 2,744 steps you can choose to continue on to summit Pike’s Peak, hike back down the stairs (which would be rough), or trek down the more friendly switchback Barr Trail.

Although The Incline is a hard trail, it’s a great feat and one I highly recommend if you have the courage.

GARDEN OF THE GODS

You can’t pass through Colorado Springs and not stop by the Garden of the Gods. This iconic location is free to the public and full of incredibly unique red rock formations, easy hikes, fun activities, and lots of wildlife!

This loop trail will take you around the majority of the large formations that everyone wants to see. You will hop on three separate trails that all combine to make one epic and easy trail throughout the park. The 4-mile hike will take about an hour and a half to complete in total, which gives you plenty of time to explore the rest of the park by car or partake in other fun experiences the park offers, such as rock climbing.

PAINT MINES INTERPRETIVE PARK

If you have time, I would highly recommend making the one-hour trip East of Colorado Springs to the Paine Mines Interpretive Park. The Paint Mines are a smaller version of the Badlands, an area of colorful exposed layers of eroded Earth that date back to almost 9,000 years ago! This park is free to public, but does not allow dogs, animals, or drones. I wouldn’t recommend this hike following a heavy rain or snow as it’d likely be very muddy, but otherwise, this is a great spot for some instaworthy pics!

This easy loop trail will guide you along colorful rock formations, slot canyons, and more. It’s the perfect hike if you have kids or are looking for an easy hike away from crowds!

GOLDEN

HUNTSMAN GULCH TRAIL

The Huntsman Gulch Trail is a quick steep hike outside of Golden that will surely get your heart rate up! The hike offers great views of the winding roads weaving through the Colorado Rockies, as well as a chance to spot some mountain terrain wildlife. This is a perfect trail to get away from the crowds, get a great workout in, and enjoy some incredible views!

DENVER

RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATER

Most people have heard of the Red Rocks Amphitheater, an incredibly unique venue for concerts, theatre, and more performances just outside of Denver, CO. This area also offers great hikes to view more red rock formations, similar to Garden of the Gods. The amphitheater seating is free and open to the public when not in use. The stairs themselves make for a great thigh-burning workout or calming place to practice yoga. It also offers a great place to sit down and have a picnic following your hike.

Red Rocks trading post trail is an easy hike that features incredible red rock formations, wildlife, and on a clear day, views for miles. This trail can be easily adjusted to suit your time frame, whether you’re looking for a longer or shorter hike, you can connect/disconnect to the other trails nearby to fit your needs.

BOULDER

CHAUTAUQUA & BLUEBELL TRAIL

This family-friendly trail is great for a quick hike with stunning views of the Flatirons, Boulder’s beautiful backdrop. Parking can be a bit tricky, so get there early if you want a spot at the trailhead. This trail can also be great for sledding following a big snow!

ROYAL ARCH

This trail stems from the Chautauqua-Bluebell loop mentioned above. A moderate/hard hike due to its fairly steep incline for most of the trail, but the effort is worth it as it leads to an incredible natural arch rock formation that opens up to reveal a great panoramic view of Boulder and the expanse of the Great Plains extending for miles at the cusp of the Front Range.

ENCHANTED MESA & MCCLINTOCK NATURE TRAILS

Across a small valley from Chautauqua Park are the connecting Enchanted Mesa and McClintock trails. These trails offer similar, just a bit more distant, views of the Flatirons with less traffic and a section of trail that passes through beautiful large pine trees. Again, a great family-friendly hike or place to get a quick jog in.

FLATIRONS VISTA TRAIL

This trail is unique in that it allows you to traverse through an open to the public cattle ranch, where you have a chance to walk side by side with some friendly bovine beauties while admiring a silhouetted view of the Flatirons and the surrounding peaks. Please be careful if planning to bring a dog on this trail as it may spook some of the cattle and cause harm!!

LONGMONT

MCCINTOSH LAKE

This lakeside trail has minimal elevation gains, offers views of some beautiful Colorado homes, mountains in the distance, and traverses past several prairie dog towns. A well rounded, family-friendly and easy trail.

FOOTHILLS SOUTH TRAIL TO OLD KILN SPUR TRAIL

Just as the name suggests, this trail sits along the foothills of the front range. It can be a great trail to spot some deer or bighorn sheep on the mountainside. Furthermore, it’s got a dog park nearby for all the dog owners or dog lovers out there.

LITTLE THOMPSON OVERLOOK

Tucked into the Rabbit Mountain Open Space, Little Thompson Overlook is a great little trail to feel the transition between the vastness of the Great Plains and the pure magnitude of the Colorado Rockies.

EAGLE WIND TRAIL

The Eagle Wind Trail shares a trailhead with the Little Thompson Overlook trail. Everything that was said for that trail could be said for this one, as well. Depending on how much time you have, this trail gives you the option of a bit longer distance tacked on to your hike.

FORT COLLINS

SOUTH RIDGE & HORSETOOTH ROCK TO HORSETOOTH MOUNTAIN

This is a MUST DO Colorado hike for those in the Fort Collins area. Horsetooth Rock/Mountain was aptly named by the Native Americans for its appearance. Its historic and spirit-filled nature can be felt atop this rocky geological landmark. Be sure to drive down around Horsetooth Reservoir to relax following your hike.

LYONS

BITTERBRUSH SHORT LOOP

If you want to take the EXTRA scenic route to get to Estes Park, I highly recommend taking Highway 7 from Lyons towards Allenspark. We drove this highway countless times just to appreciate the views; however, off this highway is the Hall Ranch, a public open space for hiking. This space is great because it offers many different trail options with varying lengths and difficulties. We only had time for the Bitterbrush short loop, which overlooks many rolling grasslands and sandstone buttes. But if you’re looking for a longer more challenging hike you could continue on to the Nighthawk trail or branch off onto the Antelope and Nelson loop trails.

ESTES PARK

MOUNT OLYMPUS

This hike was one of my favorite Colorado front range hikes. As you are driving into Estes Park on Highway 36 from Lyons, you will run into the Estes Park welcome sign. From there look North beyond the sign and you’ll see Mount Olympus. This hike provides a moderately difficult challenge considering the quick elevation gain. The summit offers views overlooking Estes Park, Lake Estes, Longs Peak, and many of the other peaks packed into Rocky Mountain National Park.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

DREAM LAKE TRAIL

This trail is likely the highest-trafficked trail in RMNP and for good reason! This trail offers some of the best up-close views of the unique glacier-carved peaks. At the trailhead is Bear Lake for those looking to just relax at a great alpine lakeside location. And along the way to Dream Lake, you will pass Nymph Lake. Because Dream Lake Trail has so much to offer you may have to wait in line just to park, even in the dead of winter. So, either arrive early or be prepared to wait your turn.

THE LOCH VIA GLACIER GORGE TRAIL

As I stated earlier, we lived in the area from January-April, thus many of the high-altitude hikes were closed for the winter OR you had to snowshoe in. Hiking to The Loch was my first snowshoe experience. I expected to feel weighed down when wearing the snowshoes, but it was honestly the opposite. The feeling of walking atop snow that you know is several feet deep, like Legalus on Lord of the Rings, I’ve never felt cooler. I have not done this hike in the Summer, but the views of the surrounding peaks are incredible. If given the chance, I’d recommend attempting a snowshoe hike on this trail if up for the challenge.

*I would consider this trail hard if you are snowshoeing.

COLORADO FRONT RANGE HIKES ON OUR TO-DO LIST

We hope to return to Colorado soon and continue to check many of these trails off our to-do list but for now, I figured I’d at least share the other trails I was interested in throughout the Colorado front range that would likely be worth a visit.

• Longs Peak in RMNP
• Roxborough State Park – South Rim and Willow Creek Loop Trail
• Chair Rocks via Colorado Trail
• Palisade Mountain– near Fort Collins
• Lake Haiyaha in RMNP
• Battle Mountain in RMNP
• Cascade Creek Trail to Mirror Lake and Crater Lake
• Green Mountain– Boulder, CO
• Rattlesnake Gulch Trail as well as Eldorado Canyon Trail in Eldorado Canyon State Park
• Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail– Loveland, CO

This is by no means an all-inclusive list, but rather OUR top hikes that we got to do. If we missed any, please leave a comment below with YOUR favorite hikes in the area. Feel free to contact us for any questions about these Colorado front range hikes or you can email me. Have fun hiking!!

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