Hiking in Lanai

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Back to Outdoors & AdventureLanai, Hawaii Hiking Trails

A Leisurely Morning Hike

The 3-hour self-guided Koele Nature Hike starts by the reflecting pool in the backyard of The Lodge at Koele and takes you on a 5-mile loop through a cathedral of Norfolk Island pines, into Hulopoe Valley, past wild ginger, and up to Koloiki Ridge, with its panoramic view of Maunalei Valley and Molokai and Maui in the distance. You're welcome to take the hike even if you're not a guest at The Lodge. The trail head isn't obvious -- just keep going mauka (inland) toward the trees -- and the path isn't clearly marked, but the concierge will give you a free map. We suggest doing this hike in the morning; by afternoon the clouds usually roll in, marring visibility at the top and increasing your chance of being caught in a downpour.

The Cahllenging Munro Trail

This tough, 11-mile (round-trip) uphill climb through the groves of Norfolk pines is a lung-buster, but if you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Molokai, Maui, Kahoolawe, the peaks of the Big Island, and -- on a really clear day -- Oahu in the distance. Figure on 7 hours. The trail begins at Lanai Cemetery along Keomoku Road (Hwy. 44) and follows Lanai's ancient caldera rim, ending up at the island's highest point, Lanaihale. Go in the morning for the best visibility. After 4 miles you'll get a view of Lanai City. The weary retrace their steps from here, while the more determined go the last 1.25 miles to the top. Diehards head down Lanai's steep south-crater rim to join the highway to Manele Bay.

A Self-Guided Nature Trail

This self-guided nature trail in the Kanepuu Preserve is about a 10- to 15-minute walk through eight stations, with interpretive signs explaining the natural or cultural significance of what you're seeing. The trail head is clearly marked on the Polihua Road on the way to the Garden of the Gods. Kanepuu is one of the last remaining examples of the type of forest that once covered the dry lowlands throughout the state. There are some 49 plant species here that are found only in Hawaii. The Nature Conservancy (tel. 808/565-7430) conducts guided hikes every month; call for details.

Guided Hikes

The Lodge at Koele (tel. 808/5657300; www.lanai-resorts.com) has a 2 1/2-hour Koloiki Ridge Nature hike through 5 miles of the upland forests of Koele at 11am daily. The fee is $15.

The Manele Bay Hotel (tel. 808/565-7700; www.lanai-resorts.com) has a 1 1/2-hour fitness hike along an old fisherman's trail at 9am Tuesday and Friday, led by Joe West, wildlife and outdoor photographer extraordinaire. Bring your camera and ask Joe for photographing tips. The fee is $15.