Hawaii Eco Tour - Kohala Country Falls Adventure

Your morning begins with a scenic drive through the lush green Kohala countryside, and over the old lava flows from Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea and the Kohala Mountains. You'll pass through the quaint plantation towns of Hawi and Kapa'au, site of the life-size statue of King Kamehameha I. At the end of the road, you'll make a brief stop at the historic Kohala Mule Station for one of Hawaii's most spectacular coastal views.

Then, the real fun begins! Four-wheel drive down an old sugar cane road to the trailhead, located on private ranchland. You'll feel as if you've stepped back into the early 1900's when the plantation owners began the construction of the Kohala Ditch Trail to bring much needed water to the sugar cane fields.

As you begin your walk along the 1.5-mile loop trail, you'll pass tunnels blasted and carved from solid rock, and cross two bridges over the aqueduct. Your guide will share the story of the tremendous effort it took to build this irrigation system stretching over 40 miles. You'll delve into ancient Hawaiian history as well, and visit a former taro farming site just off the path. Seven beautiful waterfalls grace the trail, and you can take a refreshing dip in the last pool and actually sit under a cool rainwater cascade. With its stunning mountain panoramas, green valleys and pasturelands, and of course the abundant flow of water, the Kohala Country Falls Adventure is a fascinating way for young and old to experience Kohala's "story of water."

Rated: Easy walking - A great family activity and easy for all ages.

Naturalist Guides: Established in 1993, Hawaii Forest & Trail has been featured numerous media including National Geographic Traveler, Town & Country, and the Frommer's Guide. The staff has come from all different walks of life, education, and place, but share the same passion for Hawaii and sharing the natural world of Hawaii with others. Their vision is to share the evolutionary splendor of Hawaii through their commitment to excellence in interpretive natural history tours.

Location: Kohala, North Hawaii

• Check-in outside of the Roy's Restaurant at the Kings Shop in Waikoloa, Hawaii

Time & Duration: *The times are approximate and are subject to change

Days of Operation: 7 days a week

Transportation: N/A