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Manoa Cliff Trail
Hikes

Manoa Cliff Trail

Central Oahu / Honolulu Mauka

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Mānoa Cliff Trail follows the upper rim of Mānoa Valley through the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve, providing an outstanding combination of rainforest scenery, native forest restoration areas, and dramatic overlooks above Honolulu. Rather than climbing directly to a summit, the trail gently contours around Tantalus Crater before ending at the Kalāwahine Trail junction.

This hike is a favorite among local hikers and trail runners because it offers spectacular scenery with relatively modest elevation gain. It can be completed as an out-and-back or combined with nearby trails to create longer loops through the Tantalus and Makiki trail network.

Why Roamwise recommends this

Mānoa Cliff Trail is one of Oʻahu's premier rainforest hikes, combining lush native forest, dramatic overlooks above Mānoa Valley, and a remarkably gentle route through the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve. Whether completed as a scenic out-and-back or as part of a longer trail network adventure, it offers one of the island's finest forest experiences just minutes from downtown Honolulu.

Rainforest hikingBirdwatchingTrail runningPhotographyNative forest explorationModerate half-day hikes
Hazards / conditions:
Moderate distance; Mud after rain; Roots; Narrow sections near cliffs; Humidity
Safety notes:
Best season: Year-round
Best arrival time:
7:00–10:00 AM

Reviews: Google MapsYelp

Local tips

  • •This trail is often much quieter than Mānoa Falls despite being only minutes away.
  • •Morning light creates the best views into Mānoa Valley.
  • •Wear waterproof footwear if rain has fallen within the previous day.
  • •The trail connects to numerous routes.

Pairs well with: ʻAihualama Trail, Makiki Valley Loop Trail, Waʻahila Ridge Trail, Puʻu Pia Trail, Pauoa Flats Trail, Morning Glass Coffee + Café, Andy's Sandwiches & Smoothies, Off the Hook Poke Market, Morning Glass Coffee + Café, The Curb Kaimukī, Waikīkī Beach, Ala Moana Beach Park, Mānoa Falls, Pauoa Flats Trail, Kalāwahine Trail, Puʻu ʻŌhiʻa Trailhead

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