For such a small island, Oahu's dirt-biking terrain is tremendously varied -- you'll zip your bike over everything from bone-dry post-volcanic badlands to lush tropical forests. The trails suit bikers ranging from beginner to expert enduro athletes, so there's no reason not to strap on a helmet and roll back the throttle.
Ride Kahuku Motocross Track
- Viral videos abound of the high-flying hijinks at the Kahuku Motocross Track. The dirt track buzzes with bikes flying over the natural terrain at freeway speeds, sending motocross daredevils high into the air over towering dirt features. Luckily, visitors don't have to be sponsored athletes to join the fun: The track is actually suitable for all levels, allowing even thrill-seeking rank amateurs to try out man-made whoops, tabletops, triples and doubles. Very small riders and their parents can head over to the on-site peewee track. On the weekends, expect crowds.
Find Your Own Trail
- Check out the list of trails under the auspices of “Na Ala Hele,” the State of Hawaii's Trail and Access Program. Na Ala Hele administers unpaved trail systems over all the state's islands, maintaining 39 trails on Oahu. Some of these -- concentrated on the mountainous, forested northwest side of the island -- are seasonally explorable via dirt bike. The longest trails are the Mokuleia & Kuaokala Firebreak Roads, which collectively cover more than 10 miles and take in excellent ocean views. Check the organization's Website for routes, current conditions and accessibility.
Take a Tour
- If you're not in the mood to blaze your own trail, hook up with Dirt Bike Hawaii, a local operation that has ridden Oahu's trails for two decades and has helped to build several of the Na Ala Hele community-access trails. DBH offers one-day and two-day tours for all levels, bringing two-wheeled tourists all over the island to sample the terrain best suited to their abilities. All tours include bike rental, safety gear, bike transport between trails, gas, snacks and drinks.
Stay Safe and Respectful
- No matter where you ride, stay on signed, managed trails that have been maintained and designated for public use. Other than the dangers inherent in venturing into cliffy jungle territory, access issues abound. Public access to Oahu's trail system always hangs in a delicate balance between the needs of the state and private landowners, and the latter often moves to revoke access when private lands are disturbed by off-trail activities. In the interests of safety and keeping trails open to future bikers, it's vital to respect designated routes.
