Lulumahu Falls Hike

1.6 miles 931ft elevation Out & Back Trail Moderate

The Lulumahu Falls Hike is a hidden jungle adventure leading to a beautiful 50-foot waterfall tucked deep in Nuʻuanu Valley. This moderate hike is perfect for those looking for a scenic, off-the-beaten-path waterfall experience with a mix of bamboo forests, stream crossings, and lush mountain views. Important Notes: Not an official trail: The hike is on Hawaiʻi Board of Water Supply land, and a permit is technically required. Multiple stream crossings: Be prepared for wet feet! The hike begins off Pali Highway, near the Kaniakapūpū Ruins (King Kamehameha III’s Summer Home). You’ll walk through a bamboo forest, which feels like something out of a movie. The trail is unmarked, so GPS navigation is recommended. Mid-Hike: After passing the old water supply structures, the trail follows a stream uphill. Expect rock hopping and muddy sections, especially after rain. The path narrows as you approach the falls, with lush green ferns and towering cliffs. The 50-foot waterfall cascades into a shallow pool, surrounded by mossy rocks. A beautiful, peaceful spot to take in nature—but expect other hikers, as this trail is popular. Swimming isn’t ideal here due to shallow water and rocks, but it’s a great place to cool off. Descent & Return: Retrace your steps back to the trailhead, being careful on slippery sections. The total hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, depending on stops.

Tips for Hiking

Best Time: Morning or Midday.
Early Morning: Fewer crowds, cooler temps.
Midday: Best lighting for photos, but more people.
Late Afternoon: Beautiful lighting, but avoid getting caught in the dark.
Avoid hiking after heavy rain: Flash floods and slippery conditions can make the trail dangerous.
Permit Required: Yes (technically) Since the trail is on Hawaiʻi Board of Water Supply land, hikers are supposed to obtain a permit from Nā Ala Hele (Hawaiʻi Trail & Access Program. Check online for availability. The trail entrance is off Pali Highway (Route 61), near Nuʻuanu Reservoir. Look for an unmarked dirt path leading into the bamboo forest.
Parking: Park along Old Pali Road, near Nuʻuanu Reservoir. Do not block gates or driveways, this area is monitored.
Wear waterproof hiking shoes: Stream crossings & mud are unavoidable.
Bring bug spray: Mosquitos are common in the jungle.
Use offline maps: The trail is unmarked and can be confusing.
Pack extra socks: Your feet will get wet.
Respect the area: Do not enter Kaniakapūpū Ruins, it is a sacred Hawaiian site.

Thoughts from my Hike

Overall this was a pretty descent hike. I did get off track a little in the beginning, so I cut over to the left into the clearing. The lack of trail markers again, led to a little confusion, for me anyway, as there were multiple trail off-shoots. Definitely pay attention to the AllTrails App if you have it. The falls were running pretty good. I climbed up to all three levels.. The first two levels were a pretty moderate climb. The third level was a little dicey doing by myself, as there was no ropes and I have to always think about falling backward and really hurting myself with no one around. I had the falls all to myself for about 30 minutes. The hike back was okay, but again, pay attention, because I ended up backtracking a little bit a couple times. At the end, instead of cutting back through the forest back to the trail head, I followed the dirt road all the way out and ended up at the left side of the parking lot, which was fine by me.