Peacock Flats

Peacock Flats is located in the Waianae Range on the west side of Oahu, Hawaii. To get into the Flats you must go through the gate at the Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station right across from Yokohama Bay. This is a U.S. Air Force installation so you must get a permit for your vehicle from the State DLNR (see last paragraph below). Peacock Flats, accessible only to four-wheel-drive vehicles, is popular with many of the off-roading clubs on the island and offers both easy and challenging trails over rocks and steep, deeply rutted trails. The condition of the trails will vary greatly with the weather. When wet, the trails are slippery, very treacherous, and almost impassable, however, when dry they can be almost tame. It is inadvisable to wheel at the Flats alone. Always travel with a group and ensure that you have, at least, a basic first aid kit. Cell phones rarely get reception and you may not be able to call for help, so you would be wise to have a CB radio installed. At a minimum, let someone 'outside' know where you'll be and when to expect you back.

Some trails, such as Jeep Eater, Fender Biter, and Initiator, have been known to cause severe damage and/or rollovers, so make sure you are equipped to make field repairs. Very few vehicles come out of Peacock Flats without some sort of damage, so be mentally prepared. Peacock Flats offers breathtaking views of Oahu's North Shore, beautiful landscapes, and a new respect for the ruggedness of the Hawaiian mountains.

At the top of the main trail is a camping area (if you intend to camp you must notate that on your permit) supplied with picnic tables and an outhouse. Please note that hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders share these trails.

To get access to Peacock Flats you must obtain a free permit through the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources in downtown Honolulu. The address is Kalanimoku Bldg., 1151 Punchbowl St., Rm. 310, Honolulu, HI 96813. Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]. Hours: Monday- Friday 8am - 3:30pm