Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge - Hawaii

Explore some of the finest remaining stands of native montane rain forest in Hawaii!

Located on the windward slope of Mauna Kea in the Big Island of Hawai'i, the 32,733-acre Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge supports a diversity of native birds and plants. The refuge was established to protect the habitat of populations of the endangered Akiapolaau, the Hawaii Akepa, Hawaii Creeper, Hawaiian Hawk, the Hawaiian Hoary Bat and many others, as well as to help sustain the naturally evolving mid-elevation rainforest and allow for long-term maintenance of native plants, birds, and animals. Currently, the Maulua Tract of Hakalau Forest is open to the public for bird watching, hiking, and photography on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, but permission is required prior to entry.

The Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge is located between the 2,500-and 6,600-foot elevations on the windward slope of Mauna Kea approximately 12 miles NW of Hilo. Go west from Hilo via State Hwy 200--The Saddle Road. Turn right (N) on the paved road leading to the Mauna Kea observatory for 2 miles. Turn right again on the Keanakolu Road, and continue for 6 miles. Keanakolu Road is adjacent to the refuge's upper, or Mauka, boundary.