Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Hikes

Kaʻau Crater

Oʻahu, United States

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST HIKES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 11 2026
Kaʻau Crater

A loop trail in a residential valley on Oʻahu follows a water pipe and stream through jungle to three waterfalls and a crater rim. Fixed ropes lead up beside the third waterfall to a narrow, muddy ridge with steep drops on both sides.

Highlights

  • Three waterfalls
  • Rope climb at third waterfall
  • Crater rim ridge

Good to know

  • Full loop takes about 4 to 7 hours
  • Few parking spots in residential area
  • Mud and slippery sections, worse after rain

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