Old Pali Highway
Abandoned highway through Ko'olau razor ridges
The Old Pali Highway cuts through Oahu’s razor-sharp Ko’olau Mountains on the original route before tunnels made travel safer. This abandoned section starts behind Nuuanu Pali Lookout and drops through dense rainforest and crumbling pavement toward Kailua, with washouts and landslides creating technical obstacles. The route passes through the haunted Pali Notch where ancient Hawaiian warriors were driven over the cliffs.
Difficult rating due to steep grades, loose rock, and sudden weather changes that turn dirt sections into slick clay. High-clearance 4WD mandatory with recovery gear recommended for the steeper descents. Accessible year-round but best during dry season (April-October) when streams are lower. No permits required but respect private land boundaries. The payoff is solitude and views that tour buses never see, plus a piece of Hawaiian history under your tires.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 8 mi / 12.9 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1200 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Honolulu, Hawaii |
| Land manager | Hawaii Department of Transportation |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Old Pali Highway?
Yes, but you'll need high-clearance 4WD and experience with technical terrain. The broken asphalt, washouts, and steep grades will test your undercarriage and approach angles.
Is Old Pali Highway accessible during Hawaii's wet season?
Winter months (November-March) bring heavy rains that create dangerous mudslides and washouts. Best access is April through October when conditions are more stable.
Do I need permits to drive the old Pali Highway?
No permits required, but the Hawaii DOT considers this an abandoned roadway - you enter at your own risk with no maintenance or emergency services.
What's the most challenging section of the trail?
The mid-section washouts where the old highway collapsed completely, requiring technical rock crawling and steep descents through unstable terrain.
Are there water crossings on Old Pali Highway?
Yes, several stream crossings where runoff cuts across the abandoned roadbed. Depth varies by season but they're typically shallow except during heavy rains.