Wahiawa Ditch Trails

This fun water hike has falls and swimming holes to enjoy.  I used to love the jumping spot above the creek but after a storm in late 2013 the a tree fell into the hole right where you would land.  Not to mention the hole was not that deep for a 40 foot drop.  So, anyway, you go to the water tank at the end of California Ave. and the trail starts at the water tank.  Hike in about 200 yards and you will see a very steep hill descending on your left.  Take this and enjoy a loop that is worth the effort.  You stay on the mail trail and it takes you to the small falls hidden in the taro patch.    This cute swimming hole is your first spot to really relax and jump a bit.  Don’t worry it gets even better once you’ve enjoyed this spot.  Head up the hill on the same trail and the trail will top out on a hill with a three way intersection.  Up takes you around the loop.  this section will take you around the creek and up down to the creek about 1.5 miles back.  It will have a couple of crossings and then ascend the next ridge where you will parallel the creek for about a mile before descending back to the swimming holes.

 

I’d take the lower right hand trail that looks more used.  It’s the short cut to the swimming hole.  It takes you on a nice jaunt of about 500 yards then comes to an intersection with a steep downhill trail.  take this and descend to my favorite swimming holes.  You have can take floats and enjoy the creek from a tube.  It will take you all the way back to Lake Wilson if you have time and are up for a fun float.  If not enjoy the swimming hole and spend an afternoon jumping form the cliff above the hole.  The hole is usually crystal clear and 8-10 feet deep but always check for debris that gets carried downstream.  On a rainy make sure you check before jumping as I’ve seen trees washed into the swimming hole.

 

The small falls by the taro. It’s fun to swim and jump here.

Juju at the creek. Bring your tubes!

Victoria was having fun riding the rapids.

When you are done you can go back or cross the creek and ascend the trail to hit the loop.  I’m told along the trail at one point there is the old ditch trail that will take you through some tunnels but I’ve not found it yet.  If you do the loop plan on 4 hours or more for the entire loop trail.  Pack a lunch and make it a picnic day.  Hike on.