Lyon Arboretum

Welcome to the Lyon Arboretum, a breathtaking, one-hundred-and-ninety-four-acre sanctuary nestled in the upper reaches of the Mah-no-ah Valley. This is not merely a park; it is a functioning, world-renowned botanical research…

As we begin our walk up the main path, surrounded by towering trees, let us discuss the visionary intellect behind this incredible transformation: Dr. Harold Lyon. …

We now enter a remarkably important cultural section of the Arboretum: the Bernie Krause Hawaiian Ethnobotany Garden. The term ethnobotany refers to the scientific study of the intricate relationships between people and…

Just beyond the primary ethnobotany exhibits, you will notice deeply terraced, flooded fields containing broad, heart-shaped leaves resting just above the water's surface. This plant is kah-lo, universally known elsewhere as taro. …

As we ascend further along the trails, we enter the dense Bromeliad Garden, leading toward a secluded overlook known as Inspiration Point. Take a moment to examine the bromeliads closely. …

We now transition toward the Native Hawaiian Garden section. This area highlights a critical distinction in the botanical world: the profound difference between introduced species and endemic species. …

Our journey through the arboretum eventually leads us to a smaller, deeply shaded trail that connects to the Aihualama Falls. The ground here becomes noticeably more rugged, choked with twisting roots and incredibly slick, wet…

As our extensive tour of the Lyon Arboretum concludes and we make our way back down the winding paths toward the entrance, let us reflect on the profound vision of Dr. Harold Lyon. …