Contemplative Education Center
(CEC)
Program Space Rental Information
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Low Ropes Challenge Course
Bond Historic District
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History
Trails |
Trails
New Moon Foundation Presents...
Trails of 'Iole Ahupua'a
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New Moon is please to share three trails of the 'Iole Ahupua'a. To ensure safety, we require all visitors to complete a Land Access Permit. Permits are available at our office.
Hours of Operation
Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 8a.m. - noon |
New Moon Foundation stewards over
2,000 acres in the North Kohala region of the Big Island of Hawai`i.
Extending from the Pacific Ocean to the Kohala Mountains, the land
contains much of 'Iole ahupua'a, a traditional Hawaiian
land allocation, and the 56 acre federally registered Bond Historic
District.
The land stewardship principles that guide New
Moon Foundation are respectful of this sacred setting and the people
of this land. Our commitment is to promote and sustain the land's
natural beauty and vital integrity for many generations to come.
With this spirit, we welcome individuals, groups, and families to
learn more about land stewardship and to appreciate its natural
gifts in several ways:
- TIMELESS TRAILS. Find yourself immersed
in the timeless beauty of nature as you walk ancient pathways.
With a historian's careful eye and the passion of a lover of
the land, Dr. Richard Stevens is spearheading our efforts to
uncover ancient Hawaiian trails and enhance the natural pathways
of this land. (Please note: For your safety, some trails
may be closed in inclement weather. Please check with the staff
and/or our Outdoor Kiosk for updated notices on trail closures
before walking on the land. Mahalo.)
- GUIDED HIKES and WALKS. Around the Spring
and Fall Equinox, we offer guided hikes of New Moon's lands,
led by local experts. For information about joining us on our
next hike, please visit the 'News & Events: Calendar of
Events' page of this web site. If you would like to receive advance
email notification of upcoming hikes, please email your request
to:programs@newmoonfoundation.org. There is no fee for these events.
- YOUTH PROGRAMS. We welcome teachers, schoolchildren
and community youth groups interested in educational nature
walks or other outdoor activities. We are happy to work with
you to help arrange a meaningful visit. Please email your program
request to programs@newmoonfoundation.org.
The Trails...
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1. Pali Akamoa Gulch Trail
1.2-mile "wilderness" hike with brief steep elevation.
2. Wainaia Gulch Trail
2-mile more strenuous "over the edge" hike with some steep elevation and creek crossing (seasonal)
3. Upland Loop Trail
3-mile "moderate" hike, half with steady elevation gain |
1. Pali Akamoa Gulch Trail (1.2-mile)
Trail leaves from the NMF Information Kiosk and heads west through mac nut trees, then south along the gulch’s edge. Descend at the trail marker into the gulch, noting the old rock wall beside the trail. Trail follows Pali Akamoa streambed, passing ancient Hawaiian agricultural areas, a Hawaiian agricultural heiau (temple), and sugar plantation-era Portuguese bread ovens. Climb the steep gulch side through “jungle” vegetation, and emerge near Bond Historic Homestead.
2. Wainaia Gulch Trail (2-mile)
Trail departs from the NMF Kiosk and travels east through organic macadamia nut orchards. Follow trail markers north along Wainaia Gulch; then descend on the Old Road and visit the Old Bridge. Trail parallels and crosses Wainaia streambed, ascends, and runs at treetop level below gulch’s edge. Watch for “Kamapua’a’s Pass” and the “Mo’o Log.” Return thru mac nut orchards.
3. Upland Loop Trail (3-mile)
Trail leaves from the NMF Kiosk and travels south up ‘Iole Road. Pass through the pedestrian gate at the top of ‘Iole Road and follow trail markers bearing east for a hundred yards, then south along a row of Norfolk Island Pines. Continue mauka through macadamia orchards, with views of Maui and the vast Pacific along the Kohala coastline. Notice ahead historic Bond Forest, still used to provide Sweet Gum Eucalyptus lumber to restore the former Kohala Girls’ School buildings at the CEC. Follow trail markers and old cane-haul roads west through ironwood trees, then north to descend to the trail head entrance at the top of ‘Iole Road.
*To print or view a larger image of the map please click here: NMF Trail Map
BEFORE YOU GO:
- Come to the NMF Office during regular business hours (Mon-Fri. 8am—5 pm) to read and sign our Land Access Permit.
- Signer agrees to visit the NMF Information Kiosk before hiking, to ensure the trail is safe and currently open. Closures occur due to tree falls, heavy rains, etc. Other valuable information is available at the Kiosk, picnic tables and public restrooms are located nearby, and there is a large map.
- Inform someone at home or hotel what trail you’ll take, and when you plan to return.
- Accurately assess your and your companions’ capabilities. Be aware of physical limitations, skill, and energy levels.
- Carry a small pack with more water than you think you need, basic first aid materials, energy snacks, cell phone, plastic bag for rubbish, and rain gear.
- Wear sturdy shoes with good traction. Use a walking stick.
- Please keep your dog on a leash. This protects guests' dogs, guests, domestic animals and wildlife.
- There is no smoking permitted on New Moon Foundation lands.
- There are no fire arms permitted on New Moon Foundation lands.
WHEN YOU ARE OUT THERE:
ALWAYS STAY ON SIGNED AND MANAGED TRAILS!
- If you are uncertain about the correct direction while on a trail, turn around and return the way you came.
- Hike with a companion.
- Keep track of time; return before dark.
- If you are injured, lost, or darkness falls, stop moving and call 911.
- Step lightly, and with love, on the land.
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