There’s no doubt about it: the Hawaiian Islands is easily one of the greatest hiking destinations in the country — and maybe even the world. With miles and miles of trails that ascend mountains, traverse ridgelines, and lead to breathtaking natural beauty, Hawaii is truly a hiker’s paradise. And while we love the islands’ most popular trails as much as the next person, sometimes you need to get away from it all and take the trail less traveled. If you love getting off the beaten path, this forest trail is for you.
Tucked away on Oahu’s north shore behind Dillingham Airfield, the Kealia Trail leads hikers on an unforgettable journey up the side of a mountain via a series of switchbacks to nearly 2,200 feet above sea level.
Soo Soo/AllTrails
The trail is rated as moderate, and though it isn’t extremely steep, it is lengthy and features a steady incline. For nearly the entire hike, you’ll be pushing yourself uphill and feeling the burn. Luckily, there’s always a beautiful view waiting for you to take a few seconds to cool down and have a sip or two of water.
James Harwood/AllTrails
When you make it up the 19 mountainside switchbacks — at approximately the 1.5 mile mark and 1,000 feet in elevation — you will be confronted with a seriously stunning view of Oahu’s north shore, including the vast Pacific Ocean, sheer cliff faces covered in lush greenery, and an old rock quarry that has become a large, man-made lake.
Matthew Koop/AllTrails
After you’ve made it to the top of the Kealia Trail, which is marked by this picnic structure, you can either turn back or continue hiking along the Kuaokala Access Road. As long as you have enough water and aren’t too worn out, we suggest the longer trail.
David de Boer/AllTrails
As you continue hiking uphill along this access road into the Waianae Range, you will find a noticeable change in the environment. Forests of pine and eucalyptus trees welcome you to this mountainside paradise sure to enchant you and transport you to a place far, far away from the tropics.
Bon Hen/AllTrails
If you follow the trail signs and ridgelines to the very end, you will be rewarded with a view of the vast, verdant Makua Valley, a remote part of Oahu most people will never see up close.
James Harwood/AllTrails
Don’t forget to bring your camera! Whether captured on a cellphone or a fancy DSLR, the views found along the Kealia Trail are sure to drop your jaw.
Jean-Philippe Boeschlin/AllTrails
Not only will the entire return trip be downhill, but you’ll be inundated with a new, gorgeous view around every turn. We could stand here for hours admiring the waves crashing against the shore.
James Harwood/AllTrails
So, what are you waiting for? Adventure — and surreal views — await on the Kealia Trail.
James Harwood/AllTrails
The Kealia Trailhead is located at the end of Farrington Highway behind Dillingham Airfield. For more information, check out the hike on AllTrails. Have you ever hiked the Kealia Trail? If so, share your experiences and opinions in the comments below. Then, click here to learn about another, much shorter, Oahu forest trail with a phenomenal view.
Soo Soo/AllTrails
James Harwood/AllTrails
Matthew Koop/AllTrails
David de Boer/AllTrails
Bon Hen/AllTrails
Jean-Philippe Boeschlin/AllTrails
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