Flume Road

Flume road is one of a few access routes into the Upper Waimea Forest Reserve in South Hilo (another being Tree Planting Road), primarily used by hunters. The road goes through thick forest, connecting the Stainback Highway on the South with Saddle Rd on the North.

We approached from the south side, parking just off the Stainback Highway. We only did the southern half of the road, so I can’t speak to the conditions of the Northern half. The part we saw (covered in the linked GPX track) was a pleasant, cool, easy and flat path with thick shade from the forest, with only occasional edge-to-edge puddles that we could mostly work around while keeping feet dry.

Charlie’s notes: It’s a bit of a treck to get here from most major towns, and if I had to choose, I’d probably pick the longer and more technical Tree Planting Road to see this forest. But I enjoyed the run we did, and if you’re in the neighborhood it could provide some variety.

Laura’s notes: This track was delightfully cool and completely deserted. If you don’t mind a bit of a drive or getting your feet wet in some puddles, this is a fine option, and wide enough to run next to a partner in most places.