Hiking with junior can be tricky in the islands. Many trails are extremely exposed to the elements or unstable and in dangerously steep terrain. This trail is almost made for kids. It starts in the back of Maunawili Valley, a rural hamlet 10-minutes from downtown Kailua on the Windward Coast. The trail gently through a lush, flat-section of fern forest before arriving at the main attraction, the falls.

These 15-foot waterfalls cascade into a green swimming hole and the burbling waters of Maunawili Stream are soothing, cool and wonderful for the feet. Swim at your own risk: Leptospirosis is a major hazard in the islands. The trail can be extremely muddy so best not to attempt it in the rain or after a particularly rainy stretch.

Hiking Links for Oahu

* Na Ala Hele State Trails System
* Photo Guide to Oahu Trails (some illegal)

—Alex, 07/26/06