The best MTB trails in Honolulu Forest Reserve
4.0
(2)
48
riders
4
rides
If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking in Honolulu Forest Reserve, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails, it's tough to figure out which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best mountain bike trails in Honolulu Forest Reserve, saving you the guesswork.
Mountain biking here is all about lush, tropical forests, steep ridges, and deep valleys that define Oahu's critical upland watershed. You'll find everything from shaded rainforest paths to routes with significant elevation gain, offering a real mix of easy cruises and more demanding rides. It's a place where the natural beauty is as much a part of the ride as the trail itself.
If you only do one route, we'd start with the Pearl Harbour and West Loch Bike Path. At 17.1 miles (27.5 km), it's an easy, popular choice that offers great views without too much climb. For something a bit more challenging with varied scenery, the Lanikai Beach – Kailua Beach Park loop from Maunawili is a top favourite, covering 20.3 miles (32.7 km) of moderate terrain. With more than 54 mountain bikers already exploring these routes with komoot, you're in good company.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
1
riders
27.5km
01:27
90m
90m
The Pearl Harbour and West Loch Bike Path offers a distinctive mountain biking experience, blending easy riding with a fascinating historical landscape. As you cycle, you'll encounter close-up views of naval ships in Pearl Harbor's West Loch and pass through wetlands that are home to endangered Hawaiian waterbirds. The terrain is a mix of paved and stable unpaved sections, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed ride where the scenery, rather than technical challenge, is the main draw.
This easy 17.1-mile (27.5 km) route, with only 287 feet (87 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes to complete. It's a family-friendly mountain bike trail that doesn't require permits, and parking can be found at various access points along the path. Consider an early morning or late afternoon ride to enjoy cooler temperatures, especially during warmer months.
What truly sets this Pearl Harbour bike path apart is its unique blend of military history and unexpected natural habitats. You'll observe massive, mothballed battleships alongside green patches and taro farms, reflecting Oahu's diverse past. The path also integrates into the larger Leeward Bikeway project, offering a glimpse into efforts to connect communities from Wai'anae to Pearl Harbor.
2
riders
75.1km
05:02
1,070m
1,070m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
24
riders
11.3km
01:02
270m
270m
The Ohana Trail offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, winding through a lush native forest with diverse singletrack. You'll navigate challenging switchbacks and enjoy flowy sections with berms, all while catching sporadic glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, the Olomana Peaks, and the Kailua and Waimanalo coastlines. The trail provides a balanced ride, combining technical features with enjoyable descents.
This 7.0-mile (11.3 km) route, with 892 feet (272 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete. While Komoot rates it as easy, the trail is generally considered intermediate due to its demanding switchbacks and undulating terrain. It's best suited for riders with moderate mountain biking skills and fitness.
Maintained by the Oahu Mountain Bike Ohana (OMBTO), the Ohana Trail is a well-regarded destination on Oahu. It can be busy on weekends, so consider a weekday ride for a more peaceful experience. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially after rain, as this can add to the challenge.
2
riders
32.5km
01:53
300m
310m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
20
riders
28.2km
02:35
640m
640m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This park encompasses almost one-quarter of all the beaches in Waikiki. The park portion (set slightly off the beach) has handicapped-accessible paths, and beach wheelchairs are available for rent. You'll also find restrooms and showers at opposite ends of the beach,
0
0
The legendary Waikiki Beach stretches three and a half kilometers along the coast of Honolulu in the Waikiki district. The white beach is lined with palm trees and is the ideal place to sunbathe, swim and relax during your Honolulu vacation. Waikiki Beach is also considered a surfing hotspot with a lively nightlife. The beach became increasingly important in the mid-19th century. At that time, the Hawaiian royal family chose the Waikiki coast as their favorite beach residence. The kilometer-long stretch of beach is divided into eight other beaches such as Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach Park and San Souci Beach. https://www.tourlane.de/nord Amerika/usa/gehenswuerdigkeiten-hawaii/#waikiki-strand
3
0
There are stone signs along the Pearl Harbor Path that indicate how far you are from the Honolulu Rail Depot.
0
0
This bike path is a great spot to get off the main road and get up close to some war ships in Pearl Harbor's West Loch!
0
0
Ohana Trail has a great series of switchbacks. The trail is bidirectional, so be ready for a technical climb or a fun descent.
0
0
Ohana Trail is a popular hiking, running, and biking destination. The trail travels through lush native forest with sporadic overlook views. This is a great weekday trail for some solitude as its a bit more crowded on the weekends.
0
0
The point takes its name from the fishing shrine, a natural stone formation, on the ridge above. Alāla means 'awakening' since for decades, beach houses in Lanikai were mainly used as a retreat/return to nature spot from Honolulu. However, in the 1950s, the area began to develop into a more suburban residential area.
0
0
This spot on the coast is the closest public beach access to see the Big Mokolua and Little Mokolua Islands. During high tide, the water comes all the way up to peoples backyards, but there is still enough room to enjoy the view.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when mountain biking in Honolulu Forest Reserve?
The Honolulu Forest Reserve features a diverse natural environment with steep ridges, deep valleys, and dense, often mist-shrouded cloud forests. You'll encounter varied terrain, including shaded rainforest paths, challenging ridgelines, and stream crossings, offering a network of paths with different elevations.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Honolulu Forest Reserve?
Yes, there are easy mountain bike trails available. For instance, the Pearl Harbour and West Loch Bike Path is an easy 27.5 km route that takes about 1 hour 27 minutes to complete, offering scenic views of the Pearl Harbor area. Another easy option is the Ohana Trail, which is 11.3 km long.
Are there any challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, the reserve offers moderate routes for those seeking more challenge. The Ohana Trail Switchbacks – Ohana Trail loop from Kailua High School is a moderate 28.2 km trail with significant elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours 35 minutes. Another moderate option is the Lanikai Beach – Kailua Beach Park loop from Maunawili, a 32.7 km path winding through varied coastal and inland scenery.
What natural features or attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails?
While mountain biking, you can experience the reserve's native forest ecosystems, home to koa and 'ōhi'a lehua trees. The terrain also features spectacular water streams and offers panoramic views of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and the surrounding ocean from various points along the trails.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Honolulu Forest Reserve?
The routes in Honolulu Forest Reserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 54 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often appreciating the diverse natural environment and the mix of easy and moderate paths.
Are there any loop mountain bike trails in the Honolulu Forest Reserve?
Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the Lanikai Beach – Kailua Beach Park loop from Maunawili is a moderate 32.7 km route. Another popular loop is the Ohana Trail Switchbacks – Ohana Trail loop from Kailua, which is 19.2 km long.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Honolulu Forest Reserve?
The Honolulu Forest Reserve is characterized by a tropical climate. While specific seasonal recommendations for mountain biking aren't provided, it's generally advisable to be mindful of trail conditions, as some areas can be slippery, especially in shade or after rain. Checking local weather forecasts before your ride is always a good idea.
Are permits required for mountain biking in Honolulu Forest Reserve?
The Honolulu Forest Reserve is primarily a watershed protection area. While general information suggests that access rules can vary, visitors interested in mountain biking should verify current regulations and designated mountain biking trails. Permits may be required for certain deeper watershed zones or restricted conservation areas.
Is the Honolulu Forest Reserve suitable for family-friendly mountain biking?
For families, the easier routes like the Pearl Harbour and West Loch Bike Path offer a less strenuous experience. These paths are generally flatter and provide a good introduction to mountain biking in the area, allowing families to enjoy the scenery together.
What should I know about trail conditions in the Honolulu Forest Reserve?
Given the reserve's dense forest and tropical climate, trails can be slippery, particularly in shaded areas or after rainfall. The varied terrain includes steep ridges and stream crossings, so riders should be prepared for changing conditions and exercise caution.
How many mountain bike routes are available in the Honolulu Forest Reserve?
There are several mountain bike routes available in the Honolulu Forest Reserve, offering options for various skill levels. Currently, there are four distinct routes listed, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Most popular routes in Honolulu Forest Reserve
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
