The Haunted Banyan Trees on Manoa Falls Trail

On the popular hiking place, Manoa Falls Trail, the haunted legends have accumulated over the years. But how much of the ghostly tales of ancient warriors marching and strange haunting surrounding certain trees are actually true?

In the lush, verdant hills of O’ahu, the Manoa Falls Trail is a popular destination for hikers seeking to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii. The 2.6 km long trail takes you into the green lushness of Hawaii with the spectacular view of the 150 foot Manoa Falls at the end of the trail.

The trail has been used as a filming location in Jurassic Park, Hunger Games and Lost, but it is also known for being haunted by the spirits of the ancient warriors of Hawaii.

Read More: Check out all ghost stories from the USA

Beneath the canopy of tropical foliage and the sound of cascading water lies a chilling legend that has sent shivers down the spines of many who dare to tread this path. The trail is said to be haunted by the Hukai’po, or Night Marchers—spectral warriors of ancient Hawaiian lore.

On the popular hiking place, Manoa Falls Trail, the haunted legends have accumulated over the years. But how much of the ghostly tales of ancient warriors marching and strange haunting surrounding certain trees are actually true? — **Mānoa Falls Trail:** The trail leading up to a 150-foot waterfall along the Manoa Falls Trail in Honolulu, Hawaii. Many tourists are attracted to the waterfall and the scenery throughout the trail leading to it. Swimming in the pool below the waterfall is highly discouraged because there is a threat of becoming infected with Leptospirosis.

The Haunted Banyan Tree

A massive banyan tree marks the beginning of the Manoa Falls Trail, said to be the place where the haunting seems to be concentrated. Even before starting the trail a sign says:

“Before entering the forest, we chant a pule pale (prayer of protection) to Laka, asking for her guardianship.”

It is from this Banyan tree, under the sprawling roots and branches, that many have reported encountering the eerie presence of the Night Marchers. The tree itself is a silent sentinel, its gnarled limbs reaching out like the fingers of the past, holding secrets of ancient rites and spectral passages.

The Legend of the Night Marchers

The Night Marchers, or Hukai’po, are the ghostly processions of ancient Hawaiian warriors. According to legend, these spirits are the guardians of Hawaiian royalty or even gods, and they continue their eternal vigil along sacred paths, including the Manoa Falls Trail. These spectral warriors march in formation, carrying torches, and their presence is heralded by the beating of drums and the blowing of conch shells.

Hikers have shared spine-chilling tales of their encounters with the Night Marchers. It begins with a sense of foreboding, a sudden stillness in the air, and the unmistakable sound of distant drums. The rhythmic beating grows louder, accompanied by the mournful wail of conch shells being blown. As the sounds intensify, an ethereal glow can be seen moving through the dense forest—torches carried by the ghostly procession.

Those who have had the misfortune of witnessing the Night Marchers describe them as spectral figures with no legs, gliding silently along the trail. Their eyes burn with an otherworldly fire, and their faces remain stern and unforgiving. The most unsettling aspect of these encounters is the sense of imminent danger, as if one wrong move could provoke the wrath of these ancient guardians.

Rules of Survival the Hukai’po

According to Hawaiian lore, commoners were not allowed to look directly at the royalty, and the Night Marchers, as their protectors, would enforce this rule with deadly precision. To see the Night Marchers and to be seen by them is to invite certain doom. Therefore, those who hear the approach of these spectral warriors are advised to take immediate action:

Lay Down: If you hear the drums and conch shells, immediately lay flat on the ground.

Close Your Eyes: Do not look at the Night Marchers as they pass.

Remain Silent: Any noise or movement could draw their attention.

By following these steps, it is believed you can avoid the fatal gaze of the Night Marchers and live to tell the tale.

The Truth About the Night Marchers at Manoa Falls Trail

But how true are the claims of the Night Marchers that are said to travel the trail? According to one of the foremost paranormal storytellers and native, Lopaka Kapanui, there seems to be some doubt that this story comes from old legends but rather newer stories from modern times.

Read More: Check out Huaka’i Pō – The Night Marchers of Hawaii for the full lore

According to him, the Night Marchers that go through the Banyan Tree are made up by a hiker or blogger, and that they march in group procession, never alone. Although today, the Banyan Tree is a stop on many ghost tours. But if it is not the ancient Night Marchers, then who could be haunting the trail?

The Ghosts of Hikers Haunting the Trail

There are not only holy spirits of the ancestral warriors of Hawaii said to traverse through this path. There are also reports about other hikers who fell from the dangerous cliffs along the trail that are said to haunt the place.

Although a short path the track can become slippery as you approach the falls and flash floods are also common in the area. Even swimming in the falls is considered dangerous because of the risk of deadly bacteria in the water.

Thousands of hikers take the trip each year, and each year there will be some that won’t return.

A Word of Caution

While the Manoa Falls Trail offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature, it also carries the weight of history and legend. Those who venture into this beautiful yet haunted area are urged to respect the stories and traditions of the land. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, the tales of the Night Marchers serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii and the spirits that continue to guard its sacred places.

So, the next time you find yourself on the Manoa Falls Trail, remember the legend of the Night Marchers. Listen for the drums, heed the warning of the conch shells, and should you encounter the ghostly procession, lay down, close your eyes, and hold your breath until the ancient warriors have passed.