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Hiking

Kaua’i’s Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon and interior mountains offer many opportunities for hiking and spectacular views. Because of high levels of erosion and difficulty maintaining trails in the tropical climate, it is recommended that you check trail reports before beginning any hike. For those that do undertake trails of any length, spectacular and awe-inspiring views await. We’re happy to share with you some of our favorites!

**Please note: For any day hike, bring extra food and water, and be sure to check current trail conditions and weather reports before departing.**

Sleeping Giant Trail (3-5 miles round trip) EASY – MODERATE

Also known as the Nounou Trail, this east side hike can be started at any of 3 trailheads in Kapa’a- they are labeled as Sleeping Giant Trail, Nounou West, and Nounou Kuamoo. The east side trailhead (Sleeping Giant Trail) is found in the Wailua house-lots at the summit of Haleilo Road, near a water pump station. This trailhead does start with a 1,000 foot elevation gain, but is generally drier than trails from the other trailheads. All the trails meet up about 1/4 mile from the top.

The Sleeping Giant Trail receives its name from the shape of the mountain, which looks like the profile of a giant lying down. A great sunrise hike, the Sleeping Giant is a fairly easy yet rewarding hike with views from Anahola to the south shore.

Kuilau Trail (4.5 miles round trip) EASY-MODERATE

One of the easier East Shore hikes, this trail is great for enjoying the varied plant life of Kaua’i and features a picnic table with views of the lush valleys and interior mountains at about 1 mile.

The trailhead is in the Keahua Arboretum along Hwy 580. There are parking spots for 3 cars just past the trailhead, and other parking is available a little further down the road.

This and the Moalepe Trail (below) are part of the state Na Ala Hele Trail system, and share usage with equestrians and mountain bikers. The two trails can be linked to create a through hike if you leave a car on each end.

Moalepe Trail (4 miles round trip) MODERATE

One of the easier East Shore hikes, this trail is great for enjoying the varied plant life of Kaua’i and features a picnic table with views of the lush valleys and interior mountains at about 1 mile.

The trailhead is in the Keahua Arboretum along Hwy 580. There are parking spots for 3 cars just past the trailhead, and other parking is available a little further down the road.

This and the Moalepe Trail (below) are part of the state Na Ala Hele Trail system, and share usage with equestrians and mountain bikers. The two trails can be linked to create a through hike if you leave a car on each end.

Okolehao Trail (5 miles round trip) STRENUOUS

Captivating views of Hanalei Bay and Valley, Kiauea Lighthouse and the Napali Coast are visible from this North Shore hike. The trail head is located in Hanalei near the end of Ohiki Road. Be prepared with a stout walking stick, as this trail features a 1,250 foot elevation gain. Two plateaus along the trail offer stunning views, and a bench at the top will allow you to rest before your descent.

Hanakapi’ai Beach (4 miles round trip) & Waterfall (8 miles roundtrip) STRENUOUS

*Reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Ha’ena State Park, including hikers accessing the Kalalau Trail. Plan accordingly as reservations are only sold in advance. www.gohaena.com

These first two miles of the world famous Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast are among the most beautiful and popular hikes in Hawaii. Starting from the trailhead at Ke’e beach, this hike takes you to Hanakapi’ai Beach at 2 miles with the option to continue to Hanakapi’ai Falls for an additional 2 miles. The breathtaking views do come at the cost of a steady elevation gain for the first mile. This hike will challenge even veteran hikers, though the pay off is sweeping views of the coastline.

Kalalau Trail (22 miles round trip) STRENUOUS/ADVANCED

*Reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Ha’ena State Park, including hikers accessing the Kalalau Trail. Plan accordingly as reservations are only sold in advance. www.gohaena.com

Consistently ranked among the most dangerous and beautiful hikes in the world, the Kalalau Trail is an 11 mile stretch of the Napali coast following the original trail of the Hawaiians who lived in Kalalau Valley and other valleys along the coast. It is the only land access to this beautiful region. Camping permits are required to continue past Hanakapi’a Valley (4 miles). Hiking the full trail requires careful planning, proper gear, and good conditioning. For those prepared for the journey, the rewards are well worth it. Go to https://camping.ehawaii.gov/ camping/welcome.html for camping and permit information.

Limahuli Garden’s Nature Loop (3/4 mile) EASY

Take a glimpse back in time and learn about Kaua’i’s history and present-day conservation efforts on this leisurely, self-guided hike. This trail is within the 17-acre Limahulie Garden, which does have a $20 entry fee for adults over 18. Children under 18 are free.

The Kalalau Valley via Koke’e State Park (various distances) EASY – STRENUOUS

Located on the west side, Koke’e is a free state park featuring 7 trails that offer a variety of overlooks and access to the NaPali coast and Waimea Canyon.