Aiea Loop Trail at Keaiwa Helau State Park – Oahu

The Aiea Loop Trail is a 4.8-mile trail starting and ending at Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area park. Though not as famous or flashy as some of Oahu’s other hikes, this trail is a great way to get some exercise and scenery.

The hike winds along the ridge on the west side of Halawa Valley, providing scenic views of O’ahu’s southern coastline, including Pearl Harbor (Pu’uloa), the Wai’anae Range, Honolulu, and Diamond Head (Le’ahi).

Aiea Loop Trail Details

Trail Length: 4.8 mile loop
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Terrain: Forested and Open Ridge
Elevation Gain: 900 ft

Hiking the Aiea Loop Trail 

Despite being a good 4.8 miles long, the Aiea Loop Trail is actually one of the least strenuous Oahu hikes we’ve done. Taking the loop clockwise, the primarily shaded trail remains relatively flat until it dips into a bit of a valley during the last third of the hike.

Like many other trails on the island, it’s important to watch your footing among the knobby tree roots and occasionally muddy patches.

The Keaiwa Helau State Park also boasts over a dozen geocaches, most of which are along the Aiea Loop Trail.

If you have some time to spare, searching for a few geocaches can be a fun way to add another dimension to your hike (check out our intro post on geocaching if you have no idea what we’re talking about).

We found 6 of the 7 caches we attempted, including the very first cache every placed in Hawaii and some creative ones, like this bird’s nest!

We really enjoyed this hike because of the peaceful setting. And we marveled at many of the impressive trees in the park.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aiea Loop Trail

Where does the Aiea Loop Trail start and end?

The Aiea Loop trailhead starts off the park road located at the upper eastern end of the park. It is near the parking lots, picnic pavilions and restroom.

Park your car in a marked stall and look for the trail sign. The trail will end at the lower campgrounds. Follow the park road to get back to your car.

Is Aiea Loop Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Aiea Loop Trail is beginner-friendly, with an easy-to-moderate difficulty level. The trail is one of the least strenuous hikes we’ve done on Oahu.

Are there restrooms along the Aiea Loop Trail? 

Yes, restrooms are located near the parking areas at the beginning and end of the trail.

Is the Aiea Loop trail open year-round?

Yes, the Aiea Loop trail is open year-round. However, the trail can get muddy and slippery after rain, so make sure to check the weather forecast before your hike.

Are dogs allowed on the Aiea Loop Trail?

Yes. Visitors can bring their dogs as long as they are kept on a leash and hikers clean up after their pets.

How long does it take to complete the Aiea Loop trail?

You can complete the Aiea Loop trail in around 2.5 – 3 hours, depending on your pace.

Tips for Happy Hiking Aiea Loop Trail

• Watch your footing among the knobby tree roots and occasionally muddy patches. Be sure you have good footwear with traction.
• Use a walking stick if you prefer more stability.
• Check the weather forecast and avoid midday hikes during peak heat.

What to Bring on the Hike to Aiea Loop Trail

Proper footwear. Wear sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes that provide good traction and ankle support.

Walking stick. If you prefer extra stability when walking through the knobby tree roots and occasionally muddy patches, you might consider bringing a walking stick.

Water. We recommend taking a reusable water bottle.

Sun protection. Wear sunscreen, especially when hiking mid-day. 

Bug repellent. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. Ranger Ready deet-free bug spray has scented and unscented options for up to 12hrs of protection from ticks and mosquitos.
*Take 10% off any travel-size bug spray at rangerready.com with code IntentionalTravelers10 >

* Access our free Hawaii packing checklist here *

If you have hiking plans for your Oahu trip, we’d love to hear about them! Let us know if you have any questions, or if there are hiking tips you think we should add to our list.

You might also like these posts:
Visitor’s Hiking Guide to Oahu
The Best Sunset and Sunrise Hikes on Oahu
Lanikai Pillbox Hike – Oahu, Hawaii  
Lulumahu Falls hike – Oahu
Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail – Oahu, Hawaii Hike  
One Week Oahu Itinerary
Where to Stay on Oahu
Is the Go Oahu Card worth it?
Honolulu Walking Routes Maps
Where to Stay in Honolulu Outside Waikiki

Like this post? Pin it for later or share with a friend!