Hiking on Kauai - Popular Trails and Information
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Hiking on Kauai is well provided for with many hiking trails maintained for use by locals and visitors to the island. Exploring the island on foot is a wonderful way to experience Kauai's lush forests, mountains, secluded beaches, waterfalls and pools.
Many of the hiking trails are maintained and looked after, but some are overgrown and tricky to negotiate. This can be quite exciting but hikers should take care and need to be responsible for their safety. Parts of Kauai are fairly inaccessible but those with a sense of adventure should not be deterred. To access some of the trails it is advisable to have a four-wheel drive car to be able to reach the start of the trail by car.
Consider the weather conditions before setting out on a long hike. Floods are possible if there is a sudden rainstorm and some of Kauai's hikes become dangerous after rain. Rocky areas become slippery when there is heavy rainfall. It may be a clear, sunny day when you start out but that could change very quickly. Get advice on the local weather conditions and state of the trail from stores selling or renting hiking gear. Guided hikes are an option which can be a great opportunity to visit sights on private land.
What to take with you
Some of Kauai's hiking trails go to beaches or pools at the bottom of waterfalls so it is worth taking a swimming costume. It is important to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a large hat if necessarily. Waterproof gear may be appropriate at certain times of the year and certain areas of Kauai are wetter than others. Generally it tends to be wetter in the winter and on the west and north sides of the island but it varies. Take drinking water with you. Stout walking shoes or boots are required with soles which have a good grip so you won't slip on rocks. Insect repellent is a good idea, particularly in damp areas.
For more information on hiking in Kauai :
- Division of State Parks, tel: 1 808 274 3444
- Division of Parks and Recreation tel: 1 808 241 6660
Hiking Trails in Kauai
- The Poomau Canyon Ditch Trail in Kokee State Park has views over Waimea Canyon and is a beautiful trail. The trail starts down a dirt road called Mohihi Road off Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550) and is three and a half miles long (one way).
- The Pihea Trail starts at the end of Waimea Canyon Drive and has stunning views over Kalalau Valley. It passes through a swamp and can therefore get quite muddy. It is four miles to Puuo Kila Lookout over Kalalau Valley.
- The Canyon Trail takes you to Waipoo Falls and has impressive views over the canyon. It is a short but steep trail and there is a pool to swim in.
- The Kalalau Trail is the most well-known hiking trail in Kauai. It covers eleven miles and you need a permit for most of it. This trail is very strenuous and tricky in places so not for the faint-hearted.
- The Sleeping Giant Trail is a fairly difficult hike around Nounou Mountain aka the Sleeping Giant.
The island's striking topography, outstanding natural beauty, and plentiful wildlife make the island a Mecca for hikers.
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Kauai Travel Guide
