Koke`e Wonder Walks

Into the mists of Koke`e at Lehua Maka Noe, a bog of miniature plants. Photo by Anne E. O’Malley

Article and photo by Anne E. O’Malley

Delve into the uplands of Koke`e State Park on a guided Wonder Walk. With a skilled hike interpreter to point out native plants and bird sounds, you’ll learn cool legends and breathe in the fragrant mountain air.

Some hikes stay tucked in deep forest pockets; others walk into vistas that beg for a Kodak moment. Koke`e, combined with its sister park, Waimea Canyon, totals 6,182.4 acres of preserved land that await your exploration.

Walk a trail at Waimea Canyon’s edge that takes you to the top of Waipo`o Falls. Or take the easy Kaluapuhi Trail that meanders through pockets of native forest and includes a fascinating tale of a giant eel with a gargantuan appetite.

That same Kaluapuhi trail lands you on a road at the end, and from there, it’s just a short hop, skip and a jump to the stunning Kalalau Overlook, a must-see on anyone’s bucket list.

All hikes are on Saturdays through September 8 and meet at noon on the meadow outside Koke`e Natural History Museum. Click here for the schedule.

Click here to read a bit about the trails you’d like to experience.

Get more information or make a reservation by calling (808) 335-9975, or email kokeemuseum@earthlink.net.

From simple to challenging, there’s a hike for everyone’s taste. Be sure to wear a hat, use sun block and carry plenty of water — and have a great time!