ʻOloʻupena Falls

Hawaii

Oloku'i Natural Area Reserve SCA · SDNR

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About ʻOloʻupena Falls

Oloʻupena Falls plunges from the northeastern cliffs of Molokaʻi, dropping about 2,953 feet (900 m) and making it unofficially one of the tallest waterfalls in the world and the highest in the United States. The falls form where a short, seasonal stream spills over one of the planet’s tallest sea-side cliffs, carving a deep groove in the rock between the Pelekunu and Wailau valleys. The cascade’s dramatic height and remote coastal setting create a showpiece best appreciated from the water or the air, where the full tiered drop can be seen against the island’s rugged shoreline. The falls lie within the Oloku‘i Natural Area Reserve, owned and managed by the State Department of Land and Natural Resources (SDNR) and designated SCA. Because the area is coastal, steep, and protected, there is no developed or maintained public approach to the base—viewing is typically done from boats or aircraft. Visitors should respect the reserve’s managed status and plan any sea- or air-based trips with licensed operators who are familiar with local regulations and conditions.

Height: 900 feet

Trail Description

There is no maintained trail to Oloʻupena Falls; the falls descend sheer sea cliffs and are not accessible by a conventional hiking path. They can only be reliably viewed from the ocean or from the air. Some route information reported for approaches in the general area lists a 2.4-mile out-and-back distance with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a “moderate” difficulty rating, but this reflects unmarked, rugged terrain rather than an official trail surface or USFS-maintained route. In short: no formal surface, no signed grade/class data, and any land-based approach would be off-trail, steep, and potentially hazardous—plan to view by boat or air and follow local management guidance from SDNR.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect breathtaking views of one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, cascading down a sheer cliff face. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic coastal scenery. Weather conditions may affect visibility.

Accessibility

ʻOloʻupena Falls is not wheelchair accessible due to its remote location and the need for helicopter or boat access.

Seasonal Closures

There are no seasonal closures, but tours may be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the rainy season (November to March).

Safety Information

Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially during the rainy season. Helicopter and boat tours may be canceled or delayed due to safety concerns. Always follow the instructions of your tour operator.

Location & Access

Getting There

ʻOloʻupena Falls is located on the northeastern coast of Molokai, Hawaii. It is not accessible by road or hiking trails. Visitors typically view the falls via helicopter tours or boat excursions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is no parking available as the falls are not accessible by land.

Elevation

1289 feet above sea level

Coordinates

21.160655° N, -156.856410° W

Land Management

Oloku'i Natural Area Reserve SCA

Managed by SDNR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Book a helicopter or boat tour in advance to ensure availability. Morning tours may offer better visibility due to calmer weather conditions. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.