Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Poakana Falls
Poakana Falls is a tucked-away cascade on Hawaiʻi Island set within the Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve, managed by SDNR and designated as an SCA. Framed by lush tropical vegetation, the falls offer a quieter, more intimate experience than some of the island’s higher-profile sites—perfect for hikers who prefer a short, peaceful outing rather than a long trek. The approach is approachable for most abilities: the hike to the falls is a short 0.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 100 feet of elevation gain and is rated easy. Because the falls sit on state-managed reserve land, visitors should respect posted rules from SDNR and leave no trace; sturdy shoes are recommended for uneven or wet sections near the stream.
The Setting
Poakana Falls sits at 2,041 feet within Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve, fed by the Wailuku River, in the hills of Hawaii.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Length: 0.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~100 feet. Difficulty: Easy. The official records list this as a short, easy out-and-back route on land managed by SDNR within the Hilo Watershed Forest Reserve (SCA). Surface type, grade, and any USFS trail class or trail name/number are not specified in the available data, so expect a brief, mostly natural path and follow on-site signs and SDNR guidance.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and secluded waterfall surrounded by dense tropical foliage. The area may be less developed and could require navigating through natural terrain.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Poakana Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Poakana Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Poakana Falls can typically be visited year-round, but the best time to visit may be after recent rainfall when the waterfall's flow is stronger. However, heavy rains can make trails slippery or hazardous.
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 changes in water flow, and potential flash flooding during heavy rains. Always check weather conditions before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
49 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 96 years of record
2.39 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
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.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Poakana Falls is located near Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Access details are not well-documented, and visitors may need to inquire locally for directions or use GPS coordinates. The falls may be located on private property or require permission to visit.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should check locally for designated parking areas or safe spots to leave their vehicles.
Elevation
2041 feet above sea level
Coordinates
19.706125° N, -155.191041° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check with local guides or residents for the most accurate directions and access information. Wear sturdy footwear and bring insect repellent, as the area may have mosquitoes.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
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Nearby Attractions
Hilo town, Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls
Wildlife
The area may feature native Hawaiian birds, insects, and other tropical wildlife.
Cities near Poakana Falls
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