Muliwai Trail to Waimanu Valley

Important: Access to Waipio Valley is restricted under Hawaii County's 21st Amended Traffic Emergency Zone Declaration, in effect since February 2022. Waipio Valley Road is closed to the general public. Vehicle access is limited to Hawaii County residents, permitted tour operators, and Native Hawaiians. Pedestrian access is prohibited. Hikers must use an authorized shuttle or tour service to reach the valley floor before beginning this trail. The emergency road closure has been extended over 20 times. Check with Hawaii County Parks & Recreation for the latest access updates.

Waimanu Valley If you are eager to explore the beauties that lie beyond Waipio's far ridge, you can continue along Muliwai Trail (Z-Trail) and down into Waimanu Valley. If only it were as easy as it sounds. This trail is not for the novice hiker. Once you reach the top of the ridge, it is another eight miles of hiking through gorges and over hills to reach Waimanu Valley. Do not attempt to do this hike in a single day. You will have to cross 13 streams along the way, so it is not advised during the rainy season where unbelievable amounts of mud and swollen streams will make the trek dangerous and significantly less enjoyable. The descent into Waimanu can be tricky. Once you reach the end of the switchbacks, cross the stream to the campsites on the other side. Do not drink the water straight from the stream. It must be purified to be suitable for drinking. If you are one of the adventurous to make the trip, you will likely have the valley to yourself. Waimanu has all the charm and beauty of Waipio without the people. At one time several hundred people lived in Waimanu until a tsunami made them leave for good in 1946. You may encounter some of the ruins on your exploration. Waimanu is bursting with waterfalls, including the spectacular Wai'ilikahi Falls on the far side. Camping permits are required. It is worthwhile to make your visit last at least a few days. Your permit will allow you to stay for a maximum of five consecutive nights. Get one well in advance by booking online at the DLNR reservation system (camping.ehawaii.gov) or by calling the State Division of Forestry and Wildlife in Hilo at 808-974-4221. If you do camp overnight, park your car at Waipio Valley Artworks for a small fee. No overnight parking is allowed at the lookout, plus your car will be safer on their lot. The store is located on Kukuihaele Road which branches off to the left when you are leaving the Waipio Valley Lookout. 

MULIWAI TRAIL MAP You can view our Muliwai Trail Map on the Map tab above or view our larger Muliwai to Waimanu Valley trail map.