Amid a steady rain, the chorus of native Hawaiian birds can still be heard. Jackson Bauer, with the DLNR Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program, identifies the sing-song chirp of the omao and then the elepaio, calling its own name. Such are the sounds of the native forest along the new Kaulana Manu Nature Trail on Hawaii island.
Add in the natural beauty of ohia and koa trees, and an intact profusion of native plants, shrubs and insects — one even known as the happy-face spider — and it lives up to its billing as a nature lovers paradise.
The less than 1-mile loop trail winds through a section of forest at the 5,500-foot elevation. On a clear day, Maunakea fills the view to the north from a viewing platform mid-way along the trail. The trail’s beginning, with tiny painted footsteps on the pavement, is one of the first signs, that this is a fun and educational place for all ages.
In the planning for 15 years, in addition to the trail and interpretive features, there’s a new comfort station and parking lot.
“This trail isn’t really just for birds. In Hawaii, our megafauna (large animals) are birds because large mammals didn’t evolve in the islands. Coming on this trail you see pretty much 100% native forest with common trees like, ohia, koa, olapa, and everything in between; ground ferns and a few beautiful, endangered plants and insects,” said Bauer, noting birders have long visited and explored the area.
In a short walk, and in as much time as one cares to devote, visitors will learn a lot about the flora, fauna, and threats to this and other native forest. The trail features nine interpretive panels and 25 small plant identification signs.
“Rain and drizzle are pretty typical here and the birds actually love that. We are in the presence of Laka (a goddess of the forest) and this mist is her lei hoaka adorning the trees. On a sunny day you might not hear too many birds, though you might be a drier hiker,” he said.
The trail is located at mile marker 21 on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway. The state Legislature provided $1 million to construct the comfort station and parking lot.