Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Waiale Falls
Waiale Falls is a lush, picturesque waterfall in Hawaii known for its tranquil setting and verdant surroundings. Visitors come for the scenery and the sense of escape; the site sits within the Homuula–Upper Piihonua Hawaiian Home Land and is overseen by the tribal manager (TRIB) with land ownership listed under DESG and a TRIB designation. That stewardship gives the area a local, community-managed character—visitors should be mindful and respectful of the land and any posted access guidance. Accessing the falls involves a short but rewarding hike rather than a roadside viewpoint. The approach is an out-and-back route covering 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate; the walk weaves through native vegetation and offers multiple vantage points before you reach the main viewing area. Because this is tribal land, check local guidance before visiting and leave no trace to help preserve the setting for the community that manages it.
The Setting
Waiale Falls sits at 955 feet within Homuula-Upper Piihonua Hawaiian Home Land, fed by the Wailuku River, in the foothills of Hawaii.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Kulaniapia Falls (120 ft) lies 0.6 miles to the northeast.
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
Trail type: out-and-back. Distance: 2.4 miles round trip with approximately 350 ft of total elevation gain. Difficulty: moderate. No U.S. Forest Service trail number or detailed USFS surface/grade/class data is listed for this route; trail users should expect a natural footpath of varying tread and use appropriate footwear and water. Follow posted signage and respect any access rules set by the Homuula–Upper Piihonua Hawaiian Home Land manager (TRIB).
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic view of Waiale Falls surrounded by lush greenery. The falls are part of the Wailuku River, and the area is often quiet, making it a great spot for photography or relaxation.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Waiale Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Waiale Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The falls can be visited year-round, but mornings are typically less crowded, and the lighting is ideal for photography.
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 river, as the Wailuku River is known for strong currents and sudden flash floods. Stay on designated paths and avoid entering the water.
Current Water Conditions
96 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
2.99 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
Moderate
104 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
102 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
93 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
93 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
102 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
127 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
114 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, scattered rain showers (trip score 5/10).
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
Location & Access
Getting There
Waiale Falls is located along Waianuenue Avenue, just a short drive from downtown Hilo. The falls are part of the Wailuku River State Park, and visitors can access the viewing area from the roadside.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the falls. Visitors should exercise caution when parking and walking along the road.
Elevation
955 feet above sea level
Coordinates
19.715365° N, -155.140406° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, as roadside spots are limited. Be cautious of traffic when parking and walking along the road. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
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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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Nearby Attractions
Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, and the town of Hilo are nearby attractions worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species and tropical flora. Visitors may also see fish in the river.
Cities near Waiale Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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