Heather overlooking the Waipio Valley. Big Island Hawaii. |
Waipio Valley is located on the northern Hamakua coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. The valley is named after the river that runs through the valley (wai-piʻo means curved water in Hawaiian).
Waipio Valley, Big Island Hawaii |
Waipio was once a densely populated place and home to some of the former Kings that have
lived on the island but but it has become a magnificent valley with a beautiful rain forest and rich in history.
Waipio Valley, Big Island Hawaii |
There are a few people that live in the Valley itself but the main attractions are the waterfalls that people can hike into, the black sand beach on the coast that people can drive right up to ( if you have a 4x4), and access to the Muliwai trail which leads to the Waimanu Valley.
Heather hiking down the road Waipio Valley, Big Island Hawaii |
Hiking down the Waipio starts off with a steep road leading directly into the valley floor. This road is one of the steepest roads inside the United States and only 4x4s can endeavor to take on the road.
Heather about to cross the river in Waipio Valley, Big Island Hawaii |
Once down at the bottom, there is a dirt road that takes you to the black sand beach and the river crossing that needs to occur in order to access the Muliwai trail.
Waipio Valley, Big Island Hawaii |
continuing on the beach you will have excellent views of the waterfalls from a distance and beautiful views of the valleys actual depth. it is quite impressive to be down in there.
river crossing in the Waipio valley. Big Island Hawaii |
We continued on to the Muliwai trail and started our ascent up the dirt and switch backed trail
which took us to some amazing views of the Waipio Valley and the top of the plateau.
Heather overlooking the Waipio Valley. Big Island Hawaii. |
We continued on to the Waimanu valley which was one of the best hikes that we have ever encountered and I highly recommend everyone venture out there to see this place!
Waipio Valley. Big Island Hawaii. |