Bird Trail in the Works to Connect West, East Hawai’i

Later this year, a trail will be unveiled connecting East and West Hawai’i for bird lovers.

The Hawai’i Island Coast to Coast Birding Trail, a 90-mile trail extending from Kona’s coast through to the Hilo coast, will link various habitats through diverse terrain.

Ranging from ocean to mountain tops and rainforest to lava plains, the trail will highlight Hawai’i’s unique nature while modeling after similar trails in North America.

The trail system will include various sites for bird watchers to enter and leave the route to their liking.

Beyond just birds, the trail will also highlight plants, trees, geology, and history, as well as scenic viewpoints.

According to the HICCBT website, the trail will link a National Park, two State Parks, Forest Reserves, two County Parks, a National Wildlife Refuge, and several public trails, along with local businesses.

“Hawai’i Island is a worldwide treasure combining both endemic species and introduced birdlife from five continents. We want to make sure people in Hawai’i and around the world have the tools and accurate information to experience these wonders in a way that is safe and culturally and environmentally appropriate,” said HICCBT Steering Committee member Rob Pacheco, who is also the owner of Hawai’i Forest & Trail.

The trail project was created through a team of volunteers on the island, including traveling industry professions, logistics experts, and interpretive planning specialists.

Government and nonprofit organizations have also expressed interest in the trail, and according to HICCBT, they will be included in the planning process.

It is anticipated that the trail will open in September, kicked off by the inaugural Hawai’i Island Festival of Birds on Sept. 24 and 25.