Program Space Rental Information

Land Activities

Low Ropes Challenge Course

Bond Historic District

Photos of Iole

History

ANNOUNCEMENT

In 2009, the New Moon Foundation created Sweet Water LLC dba Iole as a separate legal entity dedicated to the responsible and sustainable stewardship of our lands and buildings. All land activities and programs are conducted by Iole. The Iole website is under construction and will soon become available. For more information, please call the Iole office at 808-889-0615 or come to the office on Mon-Sat. 8:00am - 4pm.

Trails of 'Iole Ahupua'a

Waianaia Gulch Trail

2+ miles

Moderate/Difficult

The Waianaia trail begins by traveling eastward, across Hawaii’s largest organic macadamia nut orchard. Trail arrows then lead north, pointing makai (or toward the ocean) as the trail descends on an old grassy road, parallel to the gulch. At the bottom of the hill, the trail crosses Waianaia’s seasonal streambed and ascends mauka (or uphill) through the lush and wild ravine. Finally the trail emerges from the gulch and heads north, makai (or downhill) again for a short distance before returning west through the mac nut trees toward the ‘Iole offices.

Bond Forest Trail

Approximately 1 mile

Moderate

This trail commences at top of the Upland Loop Trail and runs through the whispering ironwood and fragrant eucalyptus trees of the Bond Forest.  Along the pine-needle covered forest pathway, hear the call of the I’o (or Hawaiian Hawk) as it soars through the sky or perches watchfully in tree branches.  Follow the trail-marker ribbons through the forest and then, finally, back into the macadamia nut orchard. The Bond Forrest trail concludes by returning to top the Upland Loop Trail.

Upland Loop Trail

3 miles

Moderate

The Upland Loop trail follows old sugar cane roads up the steady elevation of ‘Iole ahupua‘a.  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 (or uphill) through organic macadamia nut orchards, taking in views of Maui and the vast Pacific along the Kohala coastline.  Pass the trees of Bond Forest, and keep toward Upland Loop trail markers, heading west over the road and through ironwood trees.  Finally, turn north or makai (toward the ocean), following the road back to the trailhead entrance at the top of ‘Iole Road.

Pali Akamoa Gluch Trail

1.2 miles

Moderate

A short “wilderness” hike with brief steep elevations as it enters and exits the Pali Akamoa Gulch, this trail starts out under a canopy of banyun trees, heading mauka (or uphill) toward Kalahikiola Church, originally built with stone by Father Elias Bond in 1855.  From the church, the trail turns west and then descends into the gulch and meanders downhill through dense vegetation along a dry streambed area. Finally, the trail emerges from the gulch near the Historic Bond Homestead, where buildings date back to 1841.

GUIDELINES:

• Obtain a Land Access Permit and trail map from the office Monday through Saturday,  8am to 4 pm.Trails are closed on major holidayS.

• Check with staff for updated trail closure information. Closures occur due to tree falls, heavy rains, high winds, or other weather conditions.

• Carry a small pack with more water than you think you need, basic first aid materials, energy snacks, cell phone, rain gear, and plastic bag for rubbish (to dispose in the cans located next to this kiosk).

• Wear covered, sturdy footwear with good traction.

• Use plenty of  insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Remain on signed, managed trails.

• Hike with a companion. Be aware of each hiker’s physical limitations and energy levels.

• Keep track of time; return before dark. If you are uncertain about the correct direction while on a trail, turn around and return the way you came.

• If you are injured, lost, or darkness falls, stop moving and call 911.

• Dogs on leash are welcome!

• Donations are appreciated and will be used to maintain the trails for everyone’s enjoyment.

Step lightly, and with love,

on the land.

The Trails...