The Very Best Hikes and Most Challenging Trails in Kauai
Over 90% of all of Kauai is best accessible on foot. Therefore, hiking is the ideal way to experience the entirety of Kauai. This makes perfect sense, then, why the island is nicknamed “the garden island.”
Suffice it to say, that hiking is a great way, if not the only way, to see all the sites and truly experience Kauai. Read on for some of the best hikes on Kauai and trails to explore when in the Kauai area.
Kalalau Trail
Difficulty: Difficult | Length: Entire trail 22 miles (roundtrip) | Elevation Gain: 5,000 to 6,500 feet.
The trail’s starting point and ending points are near sea level, but it goes up and down considerably throughout various paths. You can take smaller trails, dividing out this larger hike for an easier go of things. Generally, this longer hike is a notorious trail for experienced hikers only and should be approached with caution. It is one of the most famous footpaths, and is the only land access to the NaPali Coast.
Be prepared for muddy treads, flooded crossings, and a remote existence. You will need a permit to take overnight in order to hike this trail in its entirety. The Kalalau Trail begins at the northern end of the coast, from the general area of Haena State Park at Kee Beach.
If you want to enjoy this hike but don’t want to commit to the difficulty or the overnight stay, you can instead opt for the Kalalu Trail to Hanakapiai Beach in Haena State Park. This trail is only two miles roundtrip and is considered easy in terms of difficulty. Access this trail at the Haena State Park parking lot. The trailhead is to the right of the lot.
Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail (Coastal Trail & Cave Poipu)
Difficulty: Easy | Length: 4 miles (roundtrip) | Elevation Gain: 300 to 400 feet
This fun hike begins off of Poipu Road near the coast, going towards Gilligan’s beach. There is also an official parking lot at Shipwreck Beach where this trail can be accessed. This is not a super-challenging hike, which makes it an ideal add-on to a day already full of adventure.
The trail consists of two main materials, red clay and sand, and it alternates back and forth. Although it is generally an easy hike, it can be rocky and there are a few steep drop-offs, though most of it is flat.
The Mahaulepu cave, which is part of this hike, is the largest limestone cave in all of Hawaii. Make note that this cave does close in the late afternoon, so visit early if this is something you want to explore in more depth.
Hanakapiai Falls
Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 7.6 miles | Elevation Gain: 2,381
This route to the falls is rugged and unmaintained, so be aware. The pathway can become even more treacherous when trees have fallen or rocks have slidden out of place. Be prepared for muddy conditions and even flash floods after heavy storms. This shorter trail is part of the larger Kalalau Trail. You do have to acquire a permit to hike beyond Hanakapiai Beach, which includes the trail to the falls.
The pace at which you reach the falls will vary based on your hiking experience and overall fitness level. Some have been known to finish the trip in as little as four hours; others take over six.
This is also affected by trail conditions, obviously. Make sure to work into your trek time to rest and simply enjoy the falls. Give yourself two hours to go up and down the waterfalls as it is slippery, rocky, and challenging. However, previous guests claimed the beauty of the falls is well worth the effort to reach.
Waimea Canyon: The Canyon Trail
Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 4 miles (roundtrip) | Elevation Gain: 3,976
Named the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” by Mark Twain himself, this canyon is a true wonder, without having to fight the crowds like you would have to do to view the one in Arizona. In addition, this hike into Waimea Canyon includes some towering waterfalls that you reach on red, sandy trails.
The canyon itself, which is more than 2,500 feet deep, is the main attraction for this hike, as you would likely imagine with the name Waimea Canyon Trail. The interesting geographical layering creates a stacked look featuring greens and browns that appear similar to what you might find in one of those bottles with colored, layered sand.
Of course, this is much more impressive. Access this trail at the Waipoo Falls Parking Lot. The start of the trail is deceptively easy, and the cliff point with the view is accessible about 15 minutes into the hike.
Sleeping Giant on the Nounou East Trail
Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 3.6 miles | Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Nicknamed the “sleeping giant”, Nounou Mountain is a distinctive ridge that overlooks the Coconut Coast and the Wailau River. It resembles a titanic being snoozing the day away, hence its name.
There are three different trails to access this area, but the Nounou East Trail is considered the best to summit this giant.
Access the steadily upsloping trail of the Nounou East Trail at the parking lot off Haileilio Road. Be sure to wear sun protection and bring water as the majority of this trail is exposed to the sun, with only minimal tree coverage for part of the hike. The path can also become muddy and slick after rain.
Awaawapuhi Trial
Difficulty: Difficult | Length: 6.2 miles | Elevation Gain: More than 1,000 feet
Break out of the shrubland with a grassy overlook view of the cliff-walled valley of Nualolo and Awaawaphuhi. This trail will offer you one of the best settings and backdrops for a fantastic picnic. The Awaawaphuhi trailhe ad is accessed at Kokee State Park along Highway 550.
The trail can be tricky to navigate, thanks to tree roots and muck. Be sure to fuel your body well and bring along extra water and sustenance as this hike will involve an elevation gain of more than 1,000 feet.
Although the trek back up to where you came in can be demanding, the views of the rugged green peaks, waterfalls, and cliffs are worth the effort. Many claim that the entire hike is pretty fast, completed in around four hours. Just give yourself time to hang out and enjoy the views. This is a remote area, and you should only attempt this hike if you are experienced.
Best Hikes in Kauai and Amazing Trails
The above are six of the best hikes and trails in Kauai. Keep in mind, though, that nearly all of them demand a high level of experience and physical ability when compared to more mundane hikes and trails.
At The Parrish Collection Kauai, we recommend you check with local experts before starting out on any trail to ensure you are well-prepared. Otherwise, we encourage you to enjoy all the surrounding beauty on the “Garden Isle”.
