The Kona Hiking Club will visit the Manuka State Park on Saturday, November 16. The park is 32 miles south of Kona between the 81 and 82 mile markers. The Manuka Natural Area Reserve covers 25,000 acres on the southwestern slope of Mauna Loa.

The name Manuka means “blundering” in the Hawaiian Language and was the name of the ancient land division ahupua`a that ran from a bay on the southwest side of the island up the slopes of the Mauna Loa volcano. The arboretum of 8 acres was originally planted in the mid 1800s with native and introduced plants. It now contains 48 species of native Hawaiian plants and more than 130 species of other exotic plants and flowers, and is surrounded by the 25,000-acre Manuka Forest Reserve.

A 2 mile Nature Trail loop will be the regular hike, with the more adventuresome hikers going an additional 3 mile loop exploring to find several large pit craters. The hikers going on the longer hike should carry extra water. This can be a strenuous hike due to the altitude and humidity and uneven footing. Good hiking shoes are required as the trails are very rocky in several places. Although it’s been dry lately, be prepared for rain and mosquitoes. There is ample shade with some open sunny areas. Participants must carry at least two liters of water per person. Closed-toed shoes, sun protection, lunch or snack, and hiking sticks are also recommended.

Visitors as well as residents are invited to participate in this hike. There is no charge, although carpoolers are encouraged to chip-in for gasoline. Carpoolers will meet at 7:45 a.m. and leave at 8:00 a.m. from Lanihau Center. There will not be a hike leader present, so prepare to organize carpooling with fellow hikers.  Please park well away from the businesses, in the corner of the parking lot near Swirl Tea. Others may meet at Manuka State Park at 9:20 a.m.

For more information, please call Kathleen at 557-9246.

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

The Kona Hiking Club will hike to Kiholo Bay on Saturday, October 19, 2024.
We will begin by hiking a 4WD road along the ocean following the coast north with an opportunity to swim in its beautiful lagoon and have our lunch/snack break. From there we will go back south along the coastline stopping at the Queen’s Bath to see this special feature. After our break those who want to continue on south will enjoy the views of some beautiful black sand beaches. We will then return to our cars. Those who wish to stay and hang out are welcome to plan to do so. The hike will be approximately 4 miles in length (round trip) over some sometimes rough, but moderate terrain.

Hikers will meet at 9:00 a.m. at the Loretta Lynn (round) house at Kiholo Bay. To get there take the unpaved public access road which is just south of the Scenic Overlook on the makai side between the 82mm & 83mm on Queen Ka’ahumanu highway. As you get closer to the ocean, the road to the left will take you to the round house. From here we will hike north along Kiholo Bay past the Kiholo fishponds to the lagoon. For more information, follow this link: http://www.letsgohawaii.com/beaches/kiholobay.html

Hikers should be prepared for very hot conditions. Each person must carry at least 2 liters of water. Also recommended are sturdy boots, sun protection, lunch, and a hiking stick. For those wishing to swim don’t forget your swim gear, towel, snorkel, reef shoes, etc.

Visitors as well as residents are invited to participate in this outing. There is no charge, although carpoolers are encouraged to chip-in for gasoline. Participants desiring to carpool from Kailua-Kona may meet at 8:15 a.m. at the southeast side of Lanihau Shopping Center near Swirl Tea. Park well away from the businesses. Carpoolers will organize themselves here and should depart no later than 8:30 a.m. It’s possible that one hike leader will be at the carpool location upon request. For more information/RSVP, call Kathleen at 557-9246 or email: konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

Saturday, September 21, 2024, the Kona Hiking Club will hike through Honuaula Forest Reserve Makaula O’oma Tract, a beautiful upland rainforest on Hualalai Mountain in Kaloko. The region is accessed via Kaloko Drive.

The hike will be about 4 miles total with an elevation change of about 750’. The surface is relatively good with some loose rocks and tree roots. The hike starts at Makahi Street, goes through Honuaula Forest Reserve and returns via “Jurassic Park Trail” to Makahi Street. This forest area does look much like something from the Jurassic times with its various ferns and other native vegetation. The occasional forest clouds rolling through and the singing birds make this a very special place.

Much restoration work has been done in this mesic forest by Tree Hawaii, Bike Works and volunteers to plant native trees and remove invasive species.

Hikers should meet at 8:00 am at the Makahi Street Trailhead off Kaloko Dr. Although, there is a sizeable parking area, carpooling is recommended due to the eroded road shoulders. Carpoolers can meet at the small parking lot mauka of the Costco gas station. While there is no charge for carpooling, anyone doing so is encouraged to chip in for gasoline. A hike leader will be at this location by request only. Be prepared to organize and leave by 7:30 am.

The weather on the mountain is somewhat unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, although sunny weather is possible as well. Hikers should wear closed toed shoes, carry hiking sticks and bring at least two liters of water, snacks, and sunscreen.

For additional information, contact Kathleen Johnson at 557-9246.
or email: konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

The Kona Hiking Club will take a shoreline hike from Kiholo Bay to the Kalaemano on Saturday, August 17th. The hike will be approximately 6 miles in length roundtrip, over diverse terrain that includes; rough, dry, barren lava, sandy beaches, pahoehoe and in some areas ancient Hawaiian trails. We will be hiking along beautiful coastlines for some fantastic photographic opportunities and several places for the prospect of gathering Hawaiian Salt. Our turnaround point is Kalaemano Cultural Reserve. Please visit their website and read their Community Rules.

http://www.kalaemano.com/

Hikers should anticipate hot, dry conditions and bring at least 2 liters of water per person, along with any snacks you may desire along the way. Sun protection, sturdy hiking boots, a hat and walking stick are highly recommended.

Visitors as well as residents are welcome to participate and there is no charge. Participants should meet at 8:00 a.m. at the “Loretta Lynn/round house” (south of Kiholo Bay). Driving North from Kailua-Kona on Queen Ka’ahumanu Hwy, turn left (makai) onto the gravel road between mile marker 82 and 83 (before the scenic view turnout). Follow the gravel road towards the ocean, eventually turning left a short distance – look for deserted, raised round house with parking area on the right.

Those desiring to carpool from Kailua-Kona may meet at Lanihau shopping center in the vicinity of Swirl Tea. Please respect the businesses and park away from the store fronts. Carpoolers should meet at 7:15 a.m. to organize and depart no later than 7:30 a.m. Carpoolers are encouraged to contribute towards gasoline costs.

For RSVP and additional information, please phone Kathleen at 808-557-9246 or email konahikingclub@gmail.com

On Saturday, July 20, 2024, the Kona Hiking Club will visit the Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The Forested Pit Crater Loop hike is about 4 miles roundtrip in length.
Here is a link to help you with your enjoyment of this newer unit of HVNP: http://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku_hikes.htm

The trail follows grassy (sometimes deep) pastureland roads lined some native plants with a gradual 400’ elevation increase.

The highlight of the hike will be the very deep Forested Pit Crater that is home to the Amakihi and Apapane native birds. We will have our lunch/snack break at this spot. Hikers need to be prepared for potentially warm, sunny weather and/or rainy weather. Wear closed-toed shoes, bring hiking sticks, binoculars, sun protection, lunch or snack and at least two liters of water per person. NO DOGS ALLOWED.

We will meet at 9:00 AM at the Kahuku gate at Kahuku Rd (mauka) located between 71mm & 70mm and park near the restroom to carpool to the trailhead.

Those wishing to carpool from Kailua-Kona can meet at 7:30 a.m. at Keauhou Shopping Center in Keauhou across from Long’s and depart no later than 7:45 a.m. Their will not be a hike leader at this location. Please park well away from the businesses. Visitors as well as residents are welcome to participate — there is no charge. Carpoolers are encouraged to contribute toward gasoline costs.
If you plan to carpool use the following contact info to let me know you are interested and I will ask if there are other hikers in your location.

For additional information, please phone Kathleen at 808-557-9246 or at konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to http://konahikingclub.com to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

On Saturday, June 15, the Kona Hiking Club will hike the beginning section of the Mauna Loa Trail.

We will meet at 9:00 a.m. at Kipuka Puaulu (Bird Park), located 1.5 miles up Mauna Loa Road, just past the tree molds. Mauna Loa Road is on the mauka side of highway 11, between mile markers 30 and 31. Park near the Bird Park Trailhead and we will carpool from there to the Mauna Loa Trailhead/Lookout at 6,650 feet elevation (about 13 miles up the Mauna Loa Scenic Road), as parking is limited.  Be prepared to either provide a carpool or ride in another vehicle.

From the Lookout, the trail leads to the summit of Mauna Loa, of which we plan on hiking approximately 6+ miles round trip. If the weather is clear, we will have views of Kilauea Crater, Halemaumau fire pit and the rest of the Volcano area. As we will be passing through some old native dry-land forest, we may see native forest birds.

Since we will be hiking at higher elevations (6,650 – 8,000) and there is less available oxygen encountered at high altitude – it is strongly advised that anyone with high blood pressure, heart or respiratory conditions not attempt this hike. Due to the ongoing activity of Kilauea Volcano, air and vog conditions can be unpredictable.

Temperatures at higher elevations can vary and be unpredictable. Hikers should be prepared for hot or cool weather and/or rain – layering clothes is advisable. Sturdy boots, a hat, rain jacket and hiking stick are recommended as well as sunscreen and sunglasses, as most of hike is exposed above the tree line. Two liters of drinking water plus a lunch is recommended. Drinking plenty of water keeps your body hydrated and helps to fend off the effects of altitude sickness. Binoculars for possible bird viewing are optional. No children or pets will be allowed.

Visitors as well as residents are welcome to participate, and there is no charge. Kailua-area carpoolers should meet at 6:30 a.m. and leave by 6:45 a.m. from Lanihau Center. Please park well away from the businesses, in the corner of the parking lot near Swirl Tea. Hike leaders will not be present at the Lanihau location. Carpoolers are encouraged to chip-in for gasoline. For RSVP and additional information, please phone Kathleen at 808-557-9246 or email konahikingclub@gmail.com

Saturday, May 18, 2024, the Kona Hiking Club will hike through Manuka Natural Area Reserve on Mauna Loa to a scenic ocean view. The hike on the Kaheawai traditional 12 mile round trip trail to the coast will be about 6 miles round trip total with an elevation change of about 1000’. Starting elevation is 1900′. The surface is relatively good, but rocky. Hike is moderate with a workout on the uphill return.

Meet at Manuka State Wayside Park parking lot at 8:30 a.m. Driving time approx 1 1/4 hour  from Kailua Kona.  NOTE: If you try to call on day of hike, there is usually no cell phone coverage at Manuka.

We will carpool from Manuka State Wayside Park then head south 2/10ths mile past 80mm and park on makai side of road close to trail head. This is a well marked trail: gradual down hill going, uphill return. The hike is through Ohia trees along a large gulch almost the entire way. About 1 1/2 hour into hike, we’ll come upon a view point of ocean and coast line where we can view the distant pu`u. Guesstimated distance: 3 miles each way. Return to cars about 12:30 p.m. Prepare to return to Manuka State Park for our lunch break.

DLNR’s NARS team is working in this area to control high priority invasive species and to restore native species.

Here’s a video of a hike done on this trail:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3czLyBoPsQ

Kona carpoolers can meet at the Lanihau Shopping Center near Swirl tea. Please park away from the businesses. While there is no charge for carpooling, anyone doing so is encouraged to chip in for gasoline. A hike leader will not be present at this location. Be prepared to organize your own carpool by 7:00 and leave by 7:15 AM.

The weather is somewhat unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, although hot, sunny weather is probable with hopefully some cloud cover. Hikers should wear closed toed shoes, carry hiking sticks and bring at least two liters of water, snacks/lunch, and sunscreen.

For RSVP & more info contact Kathleen Johnson at 557-9246
or konahikingclub@gmail.com  

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

On Saturday, April 20, Kona Hiking club will hike from to Kawa Bay to Honu`apo.  Approximately 4 miles one way.

The jet-black sand on the Kawa beach (true black, not gray, or salt-and-pepper) was created when the molten lava from Kilauea Volcano flowed into the cool sea causing the lava to break apart into tiny fragments that later washed up on the beach. Plenty of coconut palm trees provide shade and places to relax and enjoy this beautiful beach. One unique feature of Kawa is that the water is often a bit colder, and more exhilarating, than the average beach due to the freshwater springs in the area. The water then rises to the top since it is less dense than saltwater, forming a thin layer of ultra-cool water atop the sea.  

At Kawa Bay, swimming, fishing and surfing are all popular in this spot. Fresh springs feed into the ocean, both from the inlet and the bay itself. Be aware at all times for sharks, which are known to enjoy areas where freshwater mixes with salt water.  The undeveloped shoreline at Kawa protects nesting areas for the critically endangered Hawaiian hawksbill turtle. The land includes the two-acre Ka’alaiki intertidal fishpond, estuary, and spring system-the second largest on the island.

Located on the ridge just above Kawa Bay is an ancient Hawaiian Ke’eku Heiau (luakini), one of the largest intact heiau in the region. (a protected historical site) located on the ridge just before we reach Kawa bay. Do not disturb the rocks.

The Ka’ū District, in this area, is usually sunny and dry. Expect hot, beach-type conditions with relatively little shade. This area can, at times, be quite breezy.  Bring reef shoes for the stream and tidepool crossings or wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet.  Bring lunch or snacks to enjoy a day at the beach.

Participants should wear suitable shoes (both for lava rock surface and water crossings), hats, hiking sticks, carry 2 liters of drinking water, a picnic lunch/snack, and swim gear. This can be a sunny, hot hike so be sure to use sunscreen/sun protection.

Carpoolers will organize their own carpool (no hiking leader will be present) and will leave at 7:00 a.m. from the Lanihau Center in Kailua-Kona, in the vicinity of Swirl Tea and should park well away from the businesses. There is no charge, but riders are encouraged to chip in for gas. Others may meet at 8:30 a.m. at the left side parking lot at Honu`apo (Whittington Beach). We will shuttle from there to Kawa Bay access road.

If you have any questions, please phone Kathleen @ 557-9246, RSVP to konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. We typically hike rain or shine. However, if weather is severe, check the website for updates. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

The Kona Hiking Club will hike part of the Ala Kahakai Trail along the coast from Puako Boat Ramp north to Spencer Beach Park on Saturday, March 16.

The hike will be approximately 4 miles in length one way. Although the hike is considered moderately easy, we will be hiking at medium to low tide over wet coral/lava and across some exposed red dirt jeep trails. Also, we will be hiking the beaches past many major resorts.

For more information about the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail: http://www.nps.gov/alka/parkmgmt/upload/ALKA_CMP_low-resolution.pdf

Hikers will meet at 8:30 a.m. at the first Spencer Beach parking lot directly ahead as you enter the park. Take the Spencer Beach Park Road off Kawaihae Road.

This will be a one way hike so be prepared to offer to be a shuttle vehicle or to transfer to another shuttle car to get to the Puako trailhead.

Hikers should be prepared for both hot and/or windy conditions. Each person should carry 2 liters of water. Also recommended are sturdy boots, sun protection, lunch, and a hiking stick. For those interested in swimming at Spencer Park or at a beach along the trail remember to bring your swim gear. We will take a break partway through for a swim/snack break.

Participants desiring to carpool from Kailua-Kona may meet at 7:00 a.m. at Lanihau Center, in the vicinity of Swirl Tea, but on south side well away from the businesses. A KHC leader/representative may not be present. Be prepared to offer your own car for carpool if necessary. Carpoolers are encouraged to chip-in for gasoline.

For carpool/hike info/RSVP contact Kathleen @ 808-557-9246.
or konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Konahikingclub.com website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!