Monday, August 24, 2009

What Biking in Hawaii Really Means

By Patricia Walker

One of the advantages to biking in Hawaii (besides the mild climate) is that no matter where you go you will be graced with some of the most beautiful scenery ever! Always have your camera ready, because you never know when youll top that hill only to discover a breathtaking view of the ocean! Here are some of Hawaiis finest bike trails just waiting for you to experience them firsthand.

Kaena Point is located between Haliewa and Waianae and offers many trails to choose from. There are trails for riders of all experience and skill levels. Steep climbs, fun descents, lots of rocks, and did we mention spectacular views of the ocean? There are a couple of things you should be aware of though. First of all, the trails are also open to ATVs, so it can get crowded, especially after a good rain when everyone wants to play in the mud. Also, most of the track is not shaded, so bring plenty of water. Always make sure to lock your car doors, especially at the Waianae trailhead.

Some people go to Hawaii for the scenery and trails, and there are people who go to Hawaii for the scenery and advanced trails. If you are more of the novice biker then you will want to make sure that you check out Kulioou Valley which carries trails for more of the novice rider. However, on these trails there are access to more advanced trails that lead to steep hills, fast declines, and jumps.

With that said, if you are more of the advanced biker and are looking for more of a challenge, then you will want to seek out Mililani. Mililani is a network of trails near Waipio and covers 3 valleys and ridges. The reason why these trails are more for the advanced biker are because they provide very steep hills, that lead to very steep downgrades at the crest of them. With that said, think about 30 mph steep that lead to valleys and such. You really need to know what you are doing in order to get through these courses but if you can, the scenery is unbelievable. These trails can be somewhat tricky to get to because there is a housing development nearby. The best way to get to them is parallel to the H-2 highway, in which there is a chain link fence there for easy access.

If you are looking for more of an endurance run instead of all the curves and jumps, you will want to check out the Aiea Loop. This is an endurance run that is still packed with very steep inclines and declines but also is a nice 4.5 mile ride. The most exciting thing about these trails is the view that you get with them. This is because the trail follows a ridge overlooking Pearl Harbor, Oahu, and the Halawa Valley which makes it very dangerous when wet so be careful.

Last but not least if you are looking for something that is more scenery than trail, you will want to check out the Kula Forest Reserve. This is a great place to ride and take in the exceptional views, but also comes with a few inclines and declines that are fun yet manageable.

By reading this article you have probably found out quick that biking in Hawaii comes with some of the most challenging courses, but also come with some of the most beautiful scenery as well. Make sure that you take advantage of some of these courses, and stop to take in the view.

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