Aiea Loop Trail


Type: Trail
Length: 4.5 miles
Elev. Gain:  
Danger:  
Suitable for:  
Location:  
Topo Map:  
Access:  

Description
The Aiea Loop Trail is a 4.5 mile loop along a mountainous ridge in Aiea, west of Honolulu. Portions of trail overlook Halawa Valley, home of the new Highway 3 (H3). This trail offers spectacular views of almost the entire south shore of Oahu, as well as some breathtaking views of central Oahu. At one spot on the trail some airplane wreckage is in plain view, rumored to be left over from World War II.

Distance
4.5 mile loop. Run it twice for a difficult, 9 mile workout.

Environment
Hard packed dirt trail, with some roots, rocks and fallen trees to add excitement. This trail provides a run that feels tougher and takes longer than 4.5 miles should. Water and restrooms are available at the parking/picnic area.

To Get There From Honolulu
Take H1 West to Route 78 West (Moanalua Road -- exit 19B) to Aiea. Follow the "Stadium" exit straight up to the first intersection. Continue straight onto Ulune Street. follow Ulune Street to its end. Turn right up Aiea Heights. Follow Aiea Heights all the way to the top. Enter the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, and proceed past the camping area to the top of the parking area. Park near the restrooms.

Suggested Route
Enter the Aiea Loop Trail via the trailhead at the top of the parking area. After a short, steep downhill, the trail will seem to be a continuous uphill climb for a couple of miles. This is a loop trail, so it is almost impossible to get lost. Just keep following the clockwise loop to the right. After a couple of miles you will be at the top of the ridge above Halawa Valley. Catch your breath while you enjoy the excellent view of H3 as it winds its way through the valley and cuts through the Koolau mountains.

At this point your run will take you mostly downhill until you reach a small stream. Carefully cross the foot bridge over the stream and follow a series of short switchbacks up. As the trail opens up, you will once again enter the park. Follow the road back up to your car, to complete the loop.

Notes
This trail can be very muddy at times. It may be a good idea to take a towel to protect your car should you get muddy. If the trail seems sloppy at the start and you have on good shoes, think about turning around and running elsewhere. You are close to the Pearl City Bike Path, so give that one a try.