Crouching Lion is a 0.4-mile hike with 216ft elevation gain located near Ka'a'awa, Oahu. This trail is a quick and steep climb to the top, one of the shortest hikes in Hawaii, for some of the island's most incredible views.
Getting There
There is a small parking area across the street from the trailhead; however, this fills up quickly. I recommend at least checking it out for spots before parking at Swanzy Beach Park. If parking at Swanzy Beach Park, be prepared to add a mile walk to the trailhead along a fairly busy highway with no sidewalks. Once at the trailhead, you will find several "Do Not Pass" and "No Trespassing" signs, hike at your own discretion here. A few steps into the wooded area, you will see the trail.
Our Hiking Adventure
Crouching Lion Hike is a quick, challenging, and extremely rewarding hike in Hawaii! Within 20-30 minutes of hiking and climbing, we were immediately rewarded with some of Oahu's most spectacular views. The top of the trail shows off incredible views of Kahana Bay, the town of Ka'a'awa, and the cliffs of Pu'u Manamana. There are a few other side trails and viewpoints to explore once at the top!
I highly recommend good hiking shoes, spikes, or shoes with good grip as this trail can be slippery due to loose gravel and rocks. Be sure to pack plenty of water, and do not attempt this trail in the rain or if it has recently rained. I do not recommend this hike for kids or dogs.
Yellow Kavu Sling Bag linked here.
Check out, "Best Hiking Trails In Hawaii" for other great hikes on Oahu (coming soon).
This trail is closed. The mountain and valley are both sacred to Native Hawaiians. Please do not be disrespectful to the host culture and cause damage to natural resources by attempting to hike on closed trails.