Nā Ala Hele is Hawaiʻi's official State Trail & Access Program, managed by DLNR's Division of Forestry & Wildlife. It maintains and provides public access to a network of hiking, historic, and off‑highway routes across all islands. This page focuses on Hawaiʻi Island, showcasing trails traversing diverse ecosystems—from wet Hāmākua valleys to dry Kona forests and lava‑ruffled Mauna Loa terrains—alongside cultural and ecological storytelling.
Learners and educators can:
Explore interactive trail maps via the Nā Ala Hele platform to discover hiking routes, trail length, and ecological zones.
Plan a field trip: choose trails that connect with humid forests, lava fields, or cultural sites, and prepare a participant guide with safety and environmental themes.
Investigate ecosystems and culture: map trail habitats (e.g., ohia forests, kiawe woodlands) and link to Hawaiian stories or history.
Participate in stewardship: volunteer for trail maintenance or citizen science events organized through DLNR.
Create site-based presentations: students design posters or slideshows featuring trail access points, native plant communities, and safety considerations.
Island ecology: surveying wet and dry environments, lava flows, watershed regions.
Trail design and recreational access: understanding trail planning, maintenance, and safe use of OHVs.
Cultural landscapes & shoreline pathways: exploring historic ala loa (e.g., Puna historic trail), ahupua‘a landscapes, and community traditions.
Conservation and public land management: connecting trails to natural area reserves and ecosystem authority roles.
Outdoor safety and ethics: promoting Hike Pono principles, permits, Leave No Trace, and stewardship responsibilities.
