Great Places to Ride Your Bike in Hawaii
If you have never been to Hawaii I am sure that you have friends or relatives that have been there, to tell you how gorgeous it really is. Hawaii is a place that a lot of people dream about going on vacation. However, lying on the beach with mai tai's isn't the only thing Hawaii is good for. If you are an avid biker, you will be quick to find that there are some of the most beautiful trails in Hawaii, of anywhere in the country.
Kaena Point is located between Haliewa and Waianae and offers many trails to choose from. There are trails for riders of all experience and skill levels. Steep climbs, fun descents, lots of rocks, and did we mention spectacular views of the ocean? There are a couple of things you should be aware of though. First of all, the trails are also open to ATVs, so it can get crowded, especially after a good rain when everyone wants to play in the mud. Also, most of the track is not shaded, so bring plenty of water. Always make sure to lock your car doors, especially at the Waianae trailhead.
Now if you are near Hawaii Kai, then you will want to travel to Kulioou Valley which carries a somewhat easy trail, but has access to a few very challenging trails. The challenges that they provide you are, steep climbs for endurance, fast descents, switchbacks, and jumps. But if you can get through the trail you will be amazed at the scenery it provides.
Mililani is a network of trails near Waipio and covers 3 valleys and ridges. There are a number of trails and loops to choose from, but most are for the intermediate to advanced biker. There are some pretty steep hills that lead to really fast descents (think 30 mph!) and even a really awesome short valley jump! Getting to the trails can be a bit tricky because there is a housing development and correctional facility nearby. The best place to gain access is parallel to the H-2 highway. There is a chain link gate on the left side of the road. You might want to wear long sleeves and long pants, because the tall California grass that lines the trails can leave you itching! Also, the trails can be quite treacherous when wet, so avoid riding right after a heavy rain.
If you are looking for more of an endurance run instead of all the curves and jumps, you will want to check out the Aiea Loop. This is an endurance run that is still packed with very steep inclines and declines but also is a nice 4.5 mile ride. The most exciting thing about these trails is the view that you get with them. This is because the trail follows a ridge overlooking Pearl Harbor, Oahu, and the Halawa Valley which makes it very dangerous when wet so be careful.
Another great place to ride will be the Kula Forest Reserve. The Kula Forest Reserve is packed with some dynamic scenery, and comes full with all the inclines and declines you are looking for. Just make sure that you stop on the trail to take in some of that beautiful scenery.
As you can probably tell from the descriptions above, biking in Hawaii is not for the faint of heart. There are not a lot of places for the beginner or novice biker. However, you wont find more adventurous biking anywhere else! Happy trails!
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