How to Find the Best Hawaii Region for Mountain Biking

Hawaii is best known for its awesome surf spots, big waves, and pipelines, but more and more people are starting to discover some of the other thrills that its islands offer. The Big Island, for one, is home to some fantastic places for biking. Its tropical climate combines quite perfectly with the breathtaking scenery, both of which create a truly memorable biking experience. You can find more popular routes in portals and websites that feature the best of mountain biking and other extreme sports, but the following are ones you shouldn’t miss when visiting the region:

1.   Kailua Kona to Hawi – This 50-mile route (one way) is the one used by the Hawaii Ironman World Championships. You will find a good riding shoulder throughout the route, with the added bonus of whales swimming and racing as you paddle, if you happen to ride from December to March.

2.   Kohala Mountain Road (13.7 miles, 2,960-foot elevation gain to the Summit) – You can pick up this mountain road from Hwy 20, across from the Island Short Stop service station on Akoni Pule Hwy (Kapa’au). This trail has a steady climb up to the 3,500-foot summit. Stunning views of the surrounding scenery and an exhilarating downhill return ride awaits mountain bikers, although the ride can be windy and wet. If you want to catch light traffic, schedule your ride on Sunday mornings.

3.  Old Mamaloa Hwy to Waipio Valley – Tex Drive Inn on Hwy 19 is the best base to find this route. It is a 4-mile, 1,000-foot climb that takes riders to beautiful rolling uplands that offer enchanting views of the Kohala and Mauna Kea mountains. Downhill Honoka’a, you will meet breathtaking views of the Waipio Valley, making this route an easy choice when you want exciting biking experiences on the Big Island.

Go online to get more information on mountain biking sports destinations and the countries where you can travel to and enjoy mountain biking!