Lulumahu Falls is definitely one of the most adventurous Hawaii hikes that I did. Not because it was long or difficult. At 2 miles, it’s a pretty short hike. But, the beginning was extremely muddy, and I almost turned back! It was so muddy that someone even lost a shoe, though, I’m not sure who thought they could make it through this hike in heels!

Technically, the hike is on private government property and you are supposed to get a permit, but no one ever seems to abide by this rule. You can get a ticket for not having one, though, so you’ve been warned! You find the hike on Old Pali Road by walking through a hole in the fence at the water supply board. See, I told you this is adventurous! Parking is where the Old Pali Road intersects with Nuuanu Pali Drive.

You then walk through a bamboo forest or rather a mud pit surrounded by bamboo. It’s very slippery and squishy, and this was my least favorite part of the hike. After making your way through the mud, you will come to a stunning mountainous open area that is a gorgeous Bali Hai type of Hawaii scene.

Make sure to look at the waterfalls coming down the surrounding Koʻolau mountain range.

This area was incredible. Everything was so lush, and there were gorgeous views in all directions. It really reminded me that I was definitely in Paradise!

The most famous marker on this hike is the graffiti wall which you will walk past, and the up the stairs to the right to the area where the stream begins.

There isn’t really an official trail, so you will find yourself crossing the stream quite often in search of the easiest route to the falls. The trail itself has you climbing over gigantic boulders on part of it, so I found it easier just to walk through the stream itself at times.

There are pink ribbons through the forest to help you find the waterfall. So if you get confused, just look for them. You will at times be climbing over fallen trees and sliding down muddy and slippery slopes, so be prepared.

The tranquility of the stream made this a special hike. Though for the most tranquil experience, you want to go early, as it gets pretty crowded later in the day.

Lulumahu Falls is 50 feet tall, so it’s pretty impressive. And, it had a lot more water flowing from it than Manoa Falls usually does. There is a very spiritual feeling to the area, even though there are a lot of people around. If you love chasing waterfalls, Lulumahu Falls is definitely one to add to your list.