Aiea Loop Trail | 'Aiea, O'ahu

Keaiwa Heiau Loop Trail, better known as 'Aiea Loop Trail, is located just west of Honolulu. As the name states, it is a loop trail. You park at the top where the trail head is located and you'll make almost a complete loop...more like a 'C'...and end up at the lower parking lot.

Starting at the top, the trail has its share of ups and downs but is fairly flat for the most part with a steady decline in elevation. The trail is approximately 4.8 miles and is covered most of the way by tall trees and foliage. There are a few peep holes showing nice views of the island, but if you are looking for a scenic hike, this is not it. what makes this trail a nice workout is its length.

muddy...don't wear your "good" shoes!

view: looking west.

battling the mosquitoes.

view: H3 freeway and the ko'olau mountain range.

elf doors.

tiny water stream to cross.

view: overlooking pearl harbor & arizona memorial

if you are hiking the trail after rain, it will be very wet and slippery in some areas, so use caution and good judgement.  

the trail can get narrow in some areas with steep drop-offs.

lots of fallen trees to crawl over and under.

tall trees.

are scenic lookouts a must for you?

or are you more interested in a good workout?

see my periscope videos of aiea loop trail on katch. also here and here.

*          *          *

must see: no

entrance fee: no

parking: yes, free

bathrooms: yes

good for kids: yes because it's fairly flat; no because it's long.

(you know your child best)

concession: no

approximate time needed: 3-4 hrs round-trip,

depending on trail condition

suggested items to bring: insect repellent, water,

light snack (esp. for kids)

tip 1: for a more challenging workout,

start at the bottom and hike up.

tip 2: since the trail ends at the lower parking lot, you will have to walk back up to your car. it's not a big deal, but if you're tired after 4 hrs of hiking, you'll wish you had a ride up. if your party has more than one car, leave one at the bottom lot so that you can drive everyone back to the top after this long hike.

what to do after: shave ice at ice garden

99-1849 Aiea Heights Drive | Aiea, HI | 96701