‘Aihualama Trail traverses through bamboo forests on a series of switchbacks, skirting the upper west side of Manoa Valley. Hikers may use ‘Aihualama Trail to access other trails in the Honolulu Mauka Trail System, including Pauoa Flats Trail. ‘Aihualama Trail offers great views of Honolulu, Diamond Head Crater, and Manoa Valley.
The ‘Aihualama Trail starts at the signed junction on the Manoa Falls Trail just before the falls viewing platform. At the junction turn left and up and contour in and out of three gulches through bamboo groves and past huge banyan trees. Climb the side of Manoa Valley on fourteen switchbacks. After the eighth switchback are two concrete posts. Between nine and thirteen a dense stand of cinnamon trees blots out much of the light. At the top of the ridge enter a bamboo forest and turn right on a muddy, rooty trail. Reach the end of the ‘Aihualama Trail at signed junction with the Pauoa Flats Trail. Turn right to reach an overlook of Nu‘uanu Valley overlook.
Descriptions for route, history, plants and birds were provided by Stuart Ball, author of The Hikers Guide to Oahu and other hiking books.
