Wailupe Loop

Today, I had the privilege of experiencing the magic of forest bathing, and it's a feeling I just have to share with all of you. As I ventured into the heart of the forest, I left behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by towering trees, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the symphony of birdsong, I felt an incredible sense of peace wash over me. In that moment, time seemed to stand still. I realized that we often get so caught up in the rush of our daily routines that we forget to pause and truly connect with the world around us. Nature has this incredible way of grounding us, of reminding us of the beauty that exists in the simplest of things. It's a reminder that life is not just about the destination but the journey, the moments we take to savor and appreciate the world's wonders. So, I encourage each and every one of you to take some time for yourselves, to immerse in the tranquility of nature, and to let it heal your soul. Whether it's a park, a beach, or your own backyard, go out there and savor the beauty that surrounds us. Let's remember to cherish these moments, for they are the ones that truly nourish our spirits and bring us closer to the essence of life itself. #NatureLover #ForestBathing #Mindfulness #FindYourPeace #NatureTherapy #hawaiinaturaltherapy

Just happened to decide to go hiking with a bunch of folks here shortly before sunset and it was interesting. We had all the gear we needed and lights so we know where to go in the dark. It was surreal.Definitely be careful if you do go hiking after dark. Don't want to end up in the 10pm news and the morning after newspapers. With that said, my first time here at the Wailupe loop trail was interesting on a brisk Friday evening. We ran as we could in the daylight before sunset fell and we ended up walking a bunch before night fell. The brush was picture perfect, but we were mindful to stick to the main trail before something dangerous or disastrous could occur. The beauty of east Oahu is in full display once in you are near or at the top of the tail. Picturesque views of Aina Haina are at your perview when you reach the top. During my time here at the Wailupe loop trail, my experience here was physical, mentally and spiritual cleansing, while having a good time with friends. During the COVID era, best bet is to wear masks and tread lightly on the trails. My friends and I managed to make it to the top of the trail and it was very surreal and amazing at the same time, where the wind was gently pushing your back at 8:30pm, physically tired from the evening's hike, and you can see the island below your feet in the dark. This is what adventure is made out of. The scenery was epic, especially at night, knowing that during the day is easier than doing it at night. Not recommended, if you're not experienced hiking in the dark. The overall experience here at the Wailupe loop trail was very nice and looking to go back sometime soon. Maybe in the daylight hours. Haha. The trail itself can be challenging, no matter what time of day, but obviously, 100 times more when you're in the dark even with headlamps on. With that said, the views were nice on the way up and quite awe inspiring. There's nothing like the wind in your heair and the sheer addrenaline rush that can be felt while just being out in nature this way. For the most part though, the experience with friends taught me trust is the most important thing and safety while hiking at night is a priority. Hiking during the day as well, but its definitely heightened during the night hours. The Wailupe loop trail is located in the back of Wailupe Valley in east Oahu. The physical address is the 1000 block of Hao Street in Aina Haina. Best bet would be to come and go via private car or maybe and Uber or lyft. Street parking is sometimes a challenge to find, since it's basically residential street parking.If you are like me, only bus route 1 comes through the area and stops along East / West Hind Drive. After getting off, you're on foot - traveling either on Hind Uka Drive, then Ani Street, then Hao Street, or find Hao street and walk towards the back of the valley. The walk itself is about 1.5 miles from East / West Hind Drive one way. Be sure to carry the essentials when walking or running the trail and mind your footing when you're on the single track portions on the trail. Many parts of the trail has dangerous drop zones, if you misstep and can cause a lot of hurt or pain - or worse. Carry water and essential aid in case of trouble, along with your phone and a spare battery, if necessary. My experience here at the Wailupe Loop trail took about 3 1/2 hours roundtrip, majority of it was in the dark. It was good fun with friends, but don't recommend it in the dark unless you are really knowledgable about hiking in the dark. Enjoy the scenery during the day and you'll be good to go. Best kept secret in east Oahu. Hidden hiking gem for sure.5.0 stars for the overall experience.Support local!A+

Trees and more trees, bushes bushes lots of trees among shrubs, nice hike with green plants and some dead trees but it good

This review is for the Wailupe Valley trail. We were planing on doing the loop trail and missed the marker and went right instead. If you want to do the Wailupe Loop trail make sure you keep left and follow the pink ribbons. However, we did enjoy the Wailupe Valley trail. It was mostly shaded, well maintained, and lightly trafficked. Hiking though the cool bamboo forest was my favorite part. The negatives are no views and abrupt end. Total length was about 2.5 miles, so about half the distance as the loop trail. Parking: Street parking available at the end of Hao street.Start of trailhead: Entrance to the hike is at the very end of the street. There is no sign but you can't miss it. We will come back some over time for the loop trail.

HTMC (Hawaii Trail Mountain Club) just cleared this trail, so there are many pink ribbons on the trees to guide you. You are able to see the north, east and south side of the island from the summit. The views are amazing.

Wailupe Loop is a demanding hike! Intermediate++ Parking is easy and plentiful. Head into the hike at the trailhead, and after about 15 mins you'll head right. Make sure you begin going up the ridge, and not on the (also) marked "Valley Trail". The Wailupe ridge is intense. Very narrow at times and lose footing. It is quite a climb! At the summit you'll have a beautiful view. Then head east on the KST. It is NARROW. It is STEEP. Do not do this unless you are prepared. The next summit is Wiliwilinui. The views there are breathtaking! Next, head down Wiliwilinui Trail. You'll go down a few steep stairs and use ropes at times, walk the dirt roads some, then you'll see double orange markers on the left, heading into a narrow trail in the trees. That's where you start heading down into the valley. This is a steep descend. I lost a toenail even with my good boots on. The continuous pressure of the steep incline was just too much. This section alone took an hour. Then you'll be in the valley and start heading back on the road you started on. It's about 7 miles and can be done in about 5 hours. But it took me 6. I suggest you only do this hike with someone who's done it before. Lastly - hiking tips: http://www.hawaii.com/travel/oahu/things_to_do/hiking_and_walking_tours/article/83/hiking_safety_tips.php