The Hawaiian Islands are steeped in history, from the first Europeans visiting the islands in 1778 and the establishment of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1795 to Hawaii’s admittance to the United States of America in 1959. While you will find historical landmarks across the Aloha State, there’s plenty of history hiding in the shadows, including this little-known piece of history that dates back to World War II.
Often referred to as Digging Hill, Pu’u Ma’eli’eli is a short and sweet 1.5-mile trail that leads adventurers through the forest to gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and a slice of World War II history.
Richard Rehnkemper/AllTrails
Nestled on Oahu’s windward coast in Kaneohe, on the right side of Kahekili Highway near the Temple Valley Shopping Center, the Pu’u Ma’eli’eli trail is truly remarkable and deserves a spot on everyone’s Hawaiian hiking bucket list.
Jon Natalle/AllTrails
You’ll be surrounded by a lush, verdant forest sure to impress, and despite a few steep hills and slippery slopes as well as potentially muddy conditions depending on recent rainfall, the hike is quite relaxing.
April Marie/AllTrails
Along your journey and once you reach the summit, you’ll find jaw-dropping views of the the lush, emerald green Ko’olau Mountains…
Kirstin Bittel/AllTrails
…as well as the windward coast and the Pacific Ocean. Trust us: you won’t want to forget your camera on this hike!
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails
Now, for the history: at the summit of the trail, you will find a series of pillboxes that were once used for surveillance during World War II. Built from reinforced concrete, you will find these historic bunkers scattered across the Hawaiian Islands.
Mark Welch/AllTrails
The two bunkers you’ll find along Pu’u Ma’eli’eli were a part of Camp He’eia, a military training area, supporting approximately 4,500 military personnel during World War II.
Chelsea Wolsiefer/AllTrails
These historic bunkers have been reclaimed by nature throughout the last 70 years, and are truly fascinating to visit for yourself.
Melissa Hernandez/AllTrails
No matter what time of day or year you visit, you’re sure to find phenomenal views as well as a fascinating slice of Hawaiian military history.
Mark Welch/AllTrails
Have you ever hiked the gorgeous Pu’u Maelieli Trail? If so, share your experiences and opinions in the comments below. You can learn more about this one-of-a-kind hike on AllTrails.
Richard Rehnkemper/AllTrails
Jon Natalle/AllTrails
April Marie/AllTrails
Kirstin Bittel/AllTrails
Cat SmallEars/AllTrails
Mark Welch/AllTrails
Chelsea Wolsiefer/AllTrails
Melissa Hernandez/AllTrails
Then, click here to discover the forest trail in Hawaii that leads hikers to plane wreckage from 1944.
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