Waimanu Valley, Remote valley with waterfalls on Hawaii Island, United States
Waimanu Valley is a remote valley on Hawaii Island featuring multiple waterfalls that cascade from Kohala Mountain. The main water features drop from around 900 m elevation and create an impressive series of streams flowing through the terrain.
Ancient Hawaiians settled in this valley and developed land management practices using a traditional system called ahupua'a to organize resources. The small settlement shaped the region's history for centuries before the area became increasingly remote and isolated.
The name Waimanu means 'bird water' or 'river of birds' in Hawaiian, reflecting the natural characteristics of this northeastern coastal region. Visitors can still experience this connection to nature today through the variety of birds that inhabit and define the area.
Access to the valley requires hiking the Muliwai Trail, a challenging journey with steep climbs and multiple stream crossings along the way. Bring plenty of water and supplies since there are no facilities on the route and weather can change quickly in the mountains.
A system of volcanic dikes channels substantial groundwater from trade winds into the valley, creating numerous cascading waterfalls throughout the area. This geological feature ensures the valley carries water even during drier seasons.
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