Waimea Canyon Lookout – Upper Waipo'o Falls loop from Halemanu
Waimea Canyon Lookout – Upper Waipo'o Falls loop from Halemanu
2.8
(3)
67
runners
Waimea Canyon Lookout – Upper Waipo'o Falls loop from Halemanu
01:29
10.8km
360m
Running
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Kōkeʻe State Park
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.24 km
Waimea Canyon Lookout
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.41 km
Upper Waipo'o Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
2.49 km
Waipoʻo Falls (Top of the Falls)
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
2.54 km
Canyon Trail, Kōkeʻe State Park
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.49 km
Picnic Table View of Waimea Canyon
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
7.48 km
Koke'e Hanemalu Trail
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
10.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.82 km
3.77 km
3.11 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
6.74 km
3.99 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,150 m)
Lowest point (930 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 18 June
27°C
21°C
37 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Waimea Canyon Lookout – Upper Waipo'o Falls loop from Halemanu is one of those challenging routes that delivers big on views, but demands respect for its terrain. This difficult 6.7 miles (10.8 km) jogging route packs in 1178 feet (359 metres) of climbing, with an estimated duration of 1 hours and 28 minutes, making it best suited for experienced trail runners looking for a serious workout in a spectacular setting.
What to expect on Waimea Canyon Lookout – Upper Waipo'o Falls loop from Halemanu
As you embark on this Waimea Canyon Lookout Upper Waipo'o Falls loop, you'll journey through what's often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." The trail winds through forested areas, where you might spot the bright red flowers of the ohia lehua tree, before opening up to expansive vistas of the canyon's vibrant red and green hues. While the route leads to the top of Waipo'o Falls, you'll see the stream that forms the falls and a smaller cascade, rather than a head-on view of the 800-foot drop. Be prepared for a dirt trail that can be very muddy and slippery, especially after rain, with loose rocks, exposed tree roots, and steep downhill sections. This route is definitely for confident hikers or experienced trail runners who are comfortable with varied and potentially slick terrain.
Planning your visit
Given the trail's challenging nature and potential for mud, sturdy shoes with good grip are essential. The trail starts from the Halemanu area, and while specific parking details aren't provided, it's generally advisable to arrive early at popular Waimea Canyon trailheads to secure a spot. There are no mentions of permits or public transport in the research, so plan for self-drive access. Checking weather conditions before you go is crucial, as rain significantly increases the difficulty and slipperiness of the Waimea Canyon Trail terrain.
Trail details
- Distance: 6.7 miles (10.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 1178 feet (359 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 28 minutes
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