🌈 Aloha Trans & Non Binary ʻOhana!
Join us for a community hike to celebrate nature and each other!
🏳️⚧️ Who It’s For:
First Sunday hikes are created by and for trans and nonbinary folks. If you’re cis, we kindly ask that you hang back, unless you’re showing up as support for a solo trans or nonbinary hiker or joining with your trans or nonbinary partner. This keeps the energy safe, grounded, and focused on us.
🌿Hike Details:
This peaceful out-and-back trail climbs through a dense canopy of guava, eucalyptus, and koa, culminating in beautiful views of Mānoa Valley. The trail is mostly shaded and dog-friendly.
Distance: ~1.9 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~600 ft
Level: Moderate (muddy, uneven with lots of roots, some climbing)
Pace: Relaxed, with plenty breaks
📍Meet at: Puʻu Pia Trailhead, Mānoa (End of Alani Drive)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/USFvtiiiNDbodCr17
🕙10am | Sunday, September 7th
🚗 Parking: Street parking is limited along Alani Drive. Please carpool or use Uber if possible, as the trailhead is located on a narrow residential road.
Carpool sign-up:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m3-oj7VbV0wgNibWselvwcCj_8vozSTzSJ9v5UkylsM/edit?usp=sharing
🎒A few recommendations for the trail:
-Grippy, closed-toe shoes recommended (it can be muddy, slippery, lots of intertwined roots)
-hiking pools/walking stick
-1–2 liters of water
-Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
-Bug spray
-Snacks or lunch for the top
🦎 Moʻolelo & ʻĀina
In ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, puʻu means “hill,” and pia refers to the arrowroot plant, cultivated for food and still used today in desserts like haupia. This trail, located within the ahupuaʻa of Waikīkī, climbs to a grassy lookout with expansive views of Mānoa Valley and the Koʻolau Mountains.
Mānoa Valley is also home to kupua, or supernatural guardians of the land. One such being is the moʻo, a powerful shapeshifting water spirit often described as a giant lizard. Mo'o is said to dwell in streams and waterfalls, ensuring the fertility and balance of the valley. (Source: Pukui & Haertig, Tales from the Night Rainbow, 1974)
To learn more about the cultural and ecological significance of this area, check out:
📽️ Exploring Plants & Place: Mānoa Valley – https://www.youtube.com/live/JPkoLYe0in4
Looking forward to hiking with you! -Alex
Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Waikiki.