Judd Trail & Jackass Ginger Pool Honolulu
Escape into Oahu's lush jungle on the Judd Trail, featuring bamboo forests and a refreshing natural swimming hole.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfall flows best
Judd Trail & Jackass Ginger Pool Honolulu
Best Time
Waterfall flows best
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape into Oahu's lush jungle on the Judd Trail, featuring bamboo forests and a refreshing natural swimming hole.
"Muddy shoes, bamboo groves, and jungle vibes—Judd Trail is your secret escape into Oahu’s wild side."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Muddy and slippery! Closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential. Water shoes are great for the pool.
🚫 Secure Your Car
Car break-ins are reported. Never leave valuables in your vehicle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jackass Ginger Pool
Base of the trail
A refreshing natural swimming hole and waterfall, perfect for a cool dip after your hike. Can be a bit murky but offers a serene escape.
Bamboo Groves
Along the trail
Wander through enchanting bamboo forests that create a magical, secluded atmosphere. A photographer's dream!
Natural Water Slide
Near the pool
If conditions are right, discover a fun natural water slide for an exhilarating experience. Requires careful navigation to find.
Planning Your Visit
Tread Lightly: Mud & Slippery Trails
Secure Your Valuables: Parking Precautions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Muddy and slippery! Closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential. Water shoes are great for the pool. 
🚫 Secure Your Car
Car break-ins are reported. Never leave valuables in your vehicle.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the bamboo sections.
💧 Check Waterfall Flow
Go after light rain for the best waterfall experience, but be cautious of slippery conditions.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Muddy and slippery! Closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential. Water shoes are great for the pool.
🚫 Secure Your Car
Car break-ins are reported. Never leave valuables in your vehicle.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the bamboo sections.
💧 Check Waterfall Flow
Go after light rain for the best waterfall experience, but be cautious of slippery conditions.
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
Trails can be unmarked. Google Maps can help you stay on track.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Judd Trail for its beautiful natural scenery, including bamboo groves and a refreshing swimming hole. It's a great spot for a short, immersive hike. However, many caution about the very muddy and slippery conditions, and the significant risk of car break-ins in the parking areas.
"A good old ginger pond connected to Judd loop trail in Nuuanu. Literally a chill spot to just go for a swim and refresh there. The first time I hiked the trail connected to this, I didn’t pay attention to the path on the right that goes down until I attempt it the next time I did it. Was well worth it exploring the ginger pond. Bring sunscreen, bug repellent, food/ water 🤙"
Jerome Aroni
"Happy Earth Day! 🌎 🌱🌳🌲On the way to Lanikai Beach (Windward/Eastern Side of Oahu) I decided to pull over to see a waterfall near ginger pond. This stop is right off of the freeway heading east. My girl and I are both earth signs so she wanted us to experience nature for Earth Day and I was lucky enough to choose this particular place. It’s not an official stop so we pulled over on the side of a very narrow two-way road so be careful. Also, I spotted broken car window glass all around (*see note at the end). There’s a hike to the pond that takes less than 1 min from the side of the road and it was quiet and secluded. We saw a few other tourists but there’s enough space to have your own moment with nature. After seeing a family appear out the middle of nowhere, we asked and they informed us of the waterfall about 10 mins away. Bethany and I decided to take our shoes off and cut across the pond to
Make the trip shorter but ended up hiking 5 mins to a dead end- we should have went the way that the family came. Regardless, it was a very natural experience to roll out pants up and hike through the pond and back. Next time we will find the waterfall. Just don’t get lost and don’t leave anything in your car. [*our car ended up being fine after leaving it unattended for 45 mins- we also encountered similar evidence of car theft at multiple places in Oahu so I think you’re fine during the day but I wouldn’t get caught out at night and definitely do not leave your car parked in secluded areas overnight]"
California Jones
"DO NOT LEAVE YOUR VALUABLES IN THE CAR. THEY WILL GET STOLEN.The natural water slide is here!! Is was fun and worth it if you enjoy hiking and small thrills. We did park and hike a ways to get there. The trail to get there is a bit treacherous once you get to one certain point and it kind of looks like the trail goes over a giant rock and a fallen tree and pops up again after you climb over. You could also step on the rocks in the stream to make it around, but they could be very slippery. Once you make it, the "water slide" is on the left side of the stream and a little bit lower than the top of the mini waterfall."
Natalie Osborne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Waikiki, you can drive towards Nu'uanu Valley. The trailhead is often accessed by parking on the side of the road near the entrance to the trail. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Parking is typically along the side of the road. Be aware that this area can be prone to car break-ins, so secure all valuables.
The main trail is relatively easy to follow, but side paths can be unmarked. Using a navigation app like Google Maps is advised to avoid getting lost.
While buses run in the general vicinity, direct public transport to the trailhead is not readily available. Driving is the most convenient option.
Jackass Ginger Pool is connected to the Judd Loop Trail. The most direct access is often by following the trail from the main parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Judd Trail is a free public access trail. There are no entrance fees or tickets required.
Judd Trail is an outdoor natural area and does not have official operating hours. It's generally accessible during daylight hours.
Swimming at Jackass Ginger Pool is free of charge. It's a natural spot for locals and visitors to enjoy.
It is not recommended to hike Judd Trail at night due to potential hazards like slippery terrain and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours for safety.
No permits are required for general hiking and swimming at Judd Trail and Jackass Ginger Pool.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Judd Loop Trail is approximately 1.2 miles. However, many visitors opt for an out-and-back route to the swimming hole, which is shorter.
Yes, Judd Trail is considered suitable for children, especially toddlers, due to its short length and shady paths. However, the terrain can be slippery.
The trail is often muddy and can be very slippery, especially after rain. It features roots, rocks, and creek crossings.
Yes, swimming in Jackass Ginger Pool is a popular activity. The water can be refreshing, but be mindful of the slippery rocks.
There are no official restrooms or facilities at Judd Trail. Be prepared to go without facilities during your visit.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Judd Trail. You'll need to travel back towards Honolulu or other areas for food options.
Absolutely! It's highly recommended to bring your own snacks and plenty of water, as there are no concessions available.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic responsibly. Remember to pack out all trash.
Nu'uanu Valley itself is primarily residential and natural. For a wider selection of food, you'll want to head towards downtown Honolulu or other nearby neighborhoods.
It's best to plan your meals before or after your hike. Popular areas for dining near Nu'uanu Valley include Kaimuki and Kapahulu.
📸 📸 Photography
The bamboo groves offer stunning, ethereal shots. The waterfall and the natural pool also make for beautiful, serene photographs.
The trail can be muddy and slippery, so be careful when maneuvering with your camera. The natural beauty, however, makes the effort worthwhile.
Morning light filtering through the bamboo can be magical. Consider going after a light rain for a more dramatic waterfall.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in natural areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lush scenery. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to the water and potential mud.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
+1It's crucial to come prepared. Water shoes are highly recommended for little ones to navigate the potentially slippery creek beds and muddy patches. Bringing extra snacks and water is also a must, as there are no facilities on site. While the trail is generally considered safe for kids, adult supervision is essential, especially near the water and on steeper, muddier sections.
+1🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
+1If you're hoping to capture the waterfall, visiting after a light rain is your best bet for seeing it flow robustly. However, always prioritize safety, as the trail will be even more slippery. The natural pool also offers picturesque opportunities, especially with the surrounding greenery. Remember to bring your camera gear, but be mindful of the muddy conditions.
💧 Adventurous Swimmers
For the truly adventurous, there's mention of a natural water slide near the pool. Finding and safely using this feature requires careful exploration and an understanding of the slippery, rocky terrain. Be sure to assess conditions before attempting any slides.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Judd Trail: A Hiker's Guide
Beyond the main loop, the trail leads to the Jackass Ginger Pool, a natural swimming hole fed by a small waterfall. This is often the main draw for visitors seeking a refreshing dip. Some reviews mention a natural water slide near the pool, adding an element of adventure for those who can find and safely use it. It's important to note that while the trail is generally well-trodden, side paths can be unmarked, and getting lost is a possibility for the unwary. Using a navigation app on your phone is a wise precaution.
Key Takeaways for Hikers:
* Footwear is paramount: Prioritize grip and water resistance.
* Be prepared for mud: It's almost a guarantee.
* Stay on marked paths: Or use a reliable navigation app.
* Enjoy the natural beauty: The bamboo and the pool are highlights.
Safety and Security at Judd Trail
Beyond property crime, the trail's natural conditions present their own set of risks. The slippery and muddy terrain can lead to falls, especially if you're not wearing appropriate footwear. The creek crossings, while often shallow, can be treacherous on wet rocks. Visitors are encouraged to exercise caution, especially when navigating these sections. Additionally, bug spray is highly recommended, as mosquitoes can be quite active in the dense foliage, particularly in the bamboo sections.
Essential Safety Tips:
* Secure all valuables: Do not leave anything in your car.
* Wear appropriate footwear: For grip on slippery surfaces.
* Be mindful of your surroundings: Both for personal safety and to avoid getting lost.
* Use insect repellent: To ward off mosquitoes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit