Get ready for stunning views of lush mountains and the H3 as you kick off the AIEA LOOP TRAIL. It’s like stepping into scenes from Lord of the Rings on this moderate loop hike.
In this blog post, I’ve got you covered with all the deets on the trail, plus a video I whipped up to give you a sneak peek of the hike and what’s in store. Trust me, this loop trail is a blast! Some parts of the scenery will have you feeling like you’ve stepped right into the magical world of Lord of the Rings
Our Experience
H2: Watch YouTube video
What to Expect
Embark on a delightful nature walk that adds a bit of incline towards the end. Picture-perfect spots for snapping photos are scattered throughout! My top pick? Gazing out at the H3 highway framed by lush greenery.
As you roll in, spot the first parking lot, but keep the momentum to the 2nd parking lot. That’s where you’ll find the trailhead marked “AIEA LOOP TRAIL” (check out the pic for reference). I stumbled upon comments on the AllTrails app about families tackling this hike, even with kids and a sprightly 70-year-old grandmother.
I almost skipped the snacks, but boy, am I glad I didn’t! The AIEA LOOP TRAIL is tagged as “moderate,” mainly because it’s a longer trek. The first stretch is entirely flat, with handy benches for pit stops. The incline kicks in around the middle, but compared to ridge hikes, it’s a breeze.
Once you reach the end, you’ll find yourself at Campground 4. From there, we strolled an extra 0.4 miles back to the trailhead where we parked. Check the video for a visual tour!
Quick heads up: I relied on the AllTrails app linked to Google Maps. The hike is labeled 4.8 miles (7.7 km), but my AllTrails PRO recording clocked it at 6.6 miles.
Distance from WAIKIKI: 14 miles, roughly a 25-30 minute drive.
Parking: Easy peasy! There’s a dedicated parking lot in the area.
Pet-friendly: Yup! Dogs are cool here, just keep ’em leashed.
Restrooms: You’re covered. Lower facilities at the 1st lot are OPEN, but the upper ones at the 2nd lot are CLOSED as of June 5, 2020.
What to Pack
Gear up for Aiea Loop Trail with these essentials:
- Hydration: Bring at least 16oz/500ml of water, but I’d recommend packing 32oz/1L for a solid trek.
- Backpack: Opt for a small one to keep your hands free. Ditch the side bags, totes, or purses.
- Comfortable Attire: Sport your go-to workout or hiking clothes for a comfy journey.
- Footwear: No need for heavy-duty hiking shoes; trusty tennis shoes or runners will do just fine. Skip the spikes!
- Snacks: Don’t underestimate the power of a good snack. You’ll be glad you brought some fuel.
- Camera/Phone: Capture the scenic moments. The lush mountains and H3 views are Instagram-worthy!
- Trail Map: While the trail is well-marked, it’s always handy to have a map, especially if you’re a first-timer.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Stay sun-safe, especially if you’re hitting the trail on a sunny day.
- Bug Repellent: Keep those pesky bugs at bay with a bit of repellent.
- Personal ID: Always a good idea to have some form of identification handy, just in case.
Remember to pack light and enjoy the hike!
FAQs
FAQs for Aiea Loop Trail
- Is Aiea Loop Trail difficult?
- Not really! It’s labeled as “moderate” due to its length, but the terrain is mostly flat, with a bit of incline in the middle.
- Are snacks necessary for the hike?
- Absolutely! It’s a good call to bring snacks for this 6.6-mile journey.
- What’s the distance of the hike?
- Officially listed as 4.8 miles (7.7 km), but our AllTrails PRO recording showed it’s actually 6.6 miles.
- How far is it from Waikiki?
- Around 14 miles, approximately a 25-30 minute drive.
- Is there parking available?
- Yes, there’s an easy-to-access parking lot in the area.
- Can I bring my pet?
- Sure thing! It’s pet-friendly, but your furry friend must be leashed.
- Are there restroom facilities on the trail?
- Yes, the lower facilities at the 1st parking lot are open, but the upper ones at the 2nd parking lot are closed (as of June 5, 2020).
Conclusion
To wrap it up, Aiea Loop Trail delivers a fantastic mix of nature and exercise. Considered a moderate hike mainly due to its length, this trail treats you to flat stretches, inviting benches, and a mild incline that’s a walk in the park compared to ridge hikes.
The trail ends at Campground 4, and a short walk brings you back to the trailhead. Make sure to pack snacks, and don’t let the app confusion fool you – it’s a satisfying 6.6-mile journey. With easy parking, pet-friendly vibes, and restroom facilities (with a heads-up on closures), it’s a solid outdoor adventure just a short drive from Waikiki. Lace-up those hiking shoes and hit the trail!
I’m Matthew Porter, the creative mind behind “Go Hawaii US.” I’ve been having a blast discovering all the cool things the Hawaiian islands have to offer. At Go Hawaii US, we’re all about turning your trip into a vibrant, eye-catching adventure. Let’s make your time in Hawaii unforgettable—join me in the excitement at Go Hawaii US!
