Visit Kahuku: Glover Trail

Discover native forest birds and towering ʻōhiʻa trees

NPS Photo/M.Watanabe

This part of Kahuku was once a vast wilderness, thick with vines and towering trees. At the beginning of the ranching era, forests were cleared and replaced with grass for herds of cattle. This hike takes you through scenic pastureland and culminates on the edge of a huge pit crater that provides a glimpse into the past. The crater shelters a pristine Hawaiian rainforest protected by its sheer walls.

 

• Trailhead: ROD Quarantine Gate. Hikers need to account for the 1.2-mile (1.9 km) one-way walk from the ROD Quarantine Gate to the Glover trailhead.
• Distance: 3.2-mile (5 km) loop with a 320-foot (98 m) elevation change. Add in the 2.4 miles (3.8 km) to and from the trail head for a total of 5.6 miles (8.8 km) round trip.
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Duration: 3 - 5 hours

• Bring: Water, snacks, sturdy footwear, and be prepared for sun, rain, heat or cold. 

You must spray the soles of your shoes with rubbing alcohol (provided) at the ROD (Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death) decontamination station. 

Details

Duration

3-5 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Upper Paddocks Above the Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD) Quarantine Gate

Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD) quaratine gate blocking the road. Pasture lands with large native trees in the area.

Reservations

No

Time of Day

Day

Kahuku Hours are from Thursdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Accessibility Information

Trail is on uneven grassy terrain, with significant elevation gain.