Are there fees or permits required for Aimoo Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Aimoo Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Aimoo Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Aimoo Falls.

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Aimoo Falls near Kukuihaele, Hawaii, showing about 523 feet of drop, a single sheer drop, facing southeast

LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP

Nearby gauge (Alakahi Stream) · 14 ft³/s · Higher than usual

Aimoo Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Aimoo Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Aimoo Falls.

Hawaii

By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Kohala Forest Reserve SCA · SDNR

About Aimoo Falls

Aimoo Falls is a tucked-away cascade set within the Kohala Forest Reserve on Hawaiʻi Island, managed by the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (SDNR). Nestled in a lush tropical setting, the falls are a quieter alternative to better-known island attractions, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy forest shade and the sound of falling water. Specific measurements for the falls’ height are not well documented, which adds to its off‑the‑beaten‑path appeal for explorers who prefer less-trafficked destinations. Access to Aimoo Falls is via SDNR lands designated as an SCA and overseen by the department, so visitors should respect local rules and any seasonal closures. The approach is an engaging, moderately paced hike through native vegetation; because the route is managed by SDNR rather than the U.S. Forest Service, there is no USFS trail number for this site. If you like quiet forest hikes and a bit of discovery, Aimoo Falls rewards visitors with a serene Hawaiian waterfall experience.

The Setting

Aimoo Falls sits at 1,959 feet within Kohala Forest Reserve, in the hills of Hawaii.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Hiʻilawe Falls (1450 ft) lies 1.5 miles to the east.

Hiʻilawe Falls

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

Difficulty: moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Official surface, grade, and USFS trail class data are not available for this SDNR-managed route in the Kohala Forest Reserve. Expect a natural forest track with uneven footing; the moderate difficulty rating reflects the steady elevation gain rather than steep technical climbing. Because detailed surface and class information aren’t published, come prepared with sturdy footwear, water, and basic navigation tools, and check with SDNR for any access guidelines before heading out.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil environment with lush greenery and the soothing sound of cascading water. However, due to limited information, the conditions of the trail and accessibility may vary.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Aimoo Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Aimoo Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

The waterfall may be accessible year-round, but visitors should consider visiting during dry weather to ensure safer trail conditions.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Heavy rains during wet season (November through March) bring higher flow but can make trails slippery.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, sudden weather changes, and unmarked trails. It is recommended to hike with a companion and inform someone of your plans.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Roaring

These readings come from the USGS gauge on Alakahi Stream, 3.6 miles away, not on Aimoo Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.

14 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

0 1 5 17

Based on 60 years of record

2.47 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

Alakahi Stream near Kamuela, HI

USGS 16725000

3.6 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 1 sq mi

Altitude: 3,900 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Alakahi Stream near Kamuela, HI (6 km away).

High confidence

Strong right now

6 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Roaring

7 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Roaring

7 cfs

6/10

Tue

Roaring

9 cfs

6/10

Wed

Roaring

8 cfs

6/10

Thu

Roaring

10 cfs

6/10

Fri

Roaring

11 cfs

6/10

Sat

Roaring

8 cfs

6/10

Best window: Today — roaring flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 6/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid June to late July, peaking in July.

How we calculate this

This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Kukuihaele hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR

Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.

The laser survey finds one clean step here: roughly 523 feet of drop concentrated at the brink. Elevation at the pin is about 1,967 feet.

The whole reach is steep: about 420 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 518 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Aimoo Falls near Kukuihaele, Hawaii, for comparison with the lidar view

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 1,967 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 523 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: Southeast; Catches soft morning light.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

The exact location and directions to Aimoo Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local guides or resources for accurate directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. It is recommended to check with local authorities or nearby facilities for parking options.

Elevation

1,959 feet above sea level

Coordinates

20.094002° N, -155.620241° W

Land Management

Kohala Forest Reserve SCA

Managed by SDNR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring appropriate footwear and supplies, as trail conditions and access details are unclear. It is also advisable to check weather conditions and consult local resources before visiting.