Peepee Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Peepee Falls
Peepee Falls, located near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, is a picturesque waterfall known for its cascading waters and proximity to the popular Boiling Pots area. The falls are part of the Wailuku River State Park and are a popular spot for visitors seeking natural beauty.
The Setting
Peepee Falls sits at 823 feet along the Wailuku River, in the foothills of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Peepee Falls is a short and easy walk from the parking area. It is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors, including families with children. The trail provides scenic views of the surrounding lush vegetation and leads to a viewpoint overlooking the falls.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and scenic experience at Peepee Falls. The falls are surrounded by tropical greenery, and the nearby Boiling Pots area adds to the natural beauty of the location. The sound of cascading water creates a peaceful atmosphere.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Peepee Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Peepee Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The falls can be visited year-round, but mornings are typically less crowded. Visiting after rainfall may enhance the flow of the waterfall, but exercise caution as trails may be slippery.
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
Exercise caution near the water as currents can be strong and unpredictable. The rocks around the falls may be slippery, especially after rain. Stay on designated trails and observe all posted safety signs.
Current Water Conditions
256 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 96 years of record
4.24 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Wailuku River at Piihonua, HI (2 km away).
Today
Strong
403 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
383 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
376 cfs
8/10Fri
Strong
369 cfs
8/10Sat
Strong
418 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
446 cfs
8/10Mon
Strong
439 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — strong flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 8/10).
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 Wainaku 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 ground through the falls loses about 108 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 844 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 46 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 88 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 844 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 108 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Peepee Falls is located about 1.5 miles from downtown Hilo. Visitors can reach the falls by taking Waianuenue Avenue and following signs to Wailuku River State Park. The falls are accessible via a short walk from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking lot available near the falls, but it may fill up during peak times.
Elevation
823 feet above sea level
Coordinates
19.715226° N, -155.134232° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or holidays. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery after rain. 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.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
SCP Hilo Hotel
Hilo Reeds Bay Hotel
Somewhere over the Rainbow Loft with AC Hilo
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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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Peepee Falls, Hawaii on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, and the town of Hilo, which offers shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species and tropical plants. Visitors may also spot fish in the river.
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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