Aerial view · USGS
Lauiole Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
3D terrainAbout Lauiole Falls
Lauiole Falls is a peaceful, lesser-known waterfall in Hawaii, tucked into lush tropical forest and offering a quiet retreat away from busier sights. The falls’ flow can vary with recent rainfall, which only adds to the sense of discovery when you arrive. The setting feels intimate and verdant, making it a favorite for hikers who prefer a more secluded nature experience. The waterfall sits within the Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve and is managed by the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (SDNR) with the site designated as an SCA.
The Setting
Lauiole Falls sits at 1,325 feet within Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve, in the foothills of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Difficulty: moderate. The route climbs and descends through forested terrain and is best suited for hikers comfortable with steady, moderate effort. Detailed information on trail surface, grade, and an official trail class/name/number is not provided in the available data; for up-to-date trail conditions, signage, or access rules, contact SDNR as the managing agency for the Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil and scenic environment with lush greenery typical of Hawaii's tropical landscapes. The waterfall's flow may vary depending on recent rainfall, and the area may be slippery or muddy.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lauiole Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lauiole Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The falls can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit may be after recent rainfall to ensure a stronger flow. Avoid visiting during heavy rain due to potential safety hazards.
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
Trails may be slippery or muddy, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting during heavy rain or flash flood warnings. Always stay on marked trails if available.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Wailuku River, 0.5 miles away, not on Lauiole Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
168 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
3.60 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Wailuku River at Piihonua, HI (1 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
181 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
177 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
186 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
203 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
218 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
213 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
175 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 4/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid May, peaking in April.
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 Hilo hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Lauiole Falls Frozen?
Updated about 6 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Lauiole Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 74°F to 63°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 180 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain Around Lauiole Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location and access details for Lauiole Falls are not well-documented. Visitors may need to consult local guides or hiking resources for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should plan ahead and check with local resources for parking options near the trailhead or access point.
Elevation
1,325 feet above sea level
Coordinates
19.709752° N, -155.157225° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for potentially muddy or uneven terrain. Bring insect repellent and plenty of water. Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rain can make trails hazardous.
Where to Stay
SCP Hilo Hotel
Somewhere over the Rainbow Loft with AC Hilo
Grand Naniloa Hotel, a Doubletree by Hilton
Hawaii Magic Skies B&B Farmstay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Nearby Attractions
Hawaii offers numerous natural attractions, including other waterfalls, beaches, and hiking trails. Consult local guides for recommendations.
Wildlife
The area may feature native Hawaiian flora and fauna, including birds and tropical plants. Be mindful of the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
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