Location: West Kauai

Koke'e and Waimea State Parks are two of the premier parks on the island of Kauai. Inside these adjacent state parks exist some of the most stunning trails that exist in all of Hawai'i, and the diversity of the trails is unmatched.

Using the list below, you should be able to select the trails that interest you most. We have included the trail name, total mileage, time estimate, and a brief description with each listing. In the event we have photographs readily available for a specific hike (or have a third party source we like), we'll also direct you to the appropriate gallery.

Additionally, some of the major trails in Koke'e and Waimea State Park we'll post about in greater detail, so be sure to check our Kauai Hiking Trails section for additional information on these hikes (i.e.; Alakai Swamp Trail, Pihea Trail, Kukui Trail, etc).

Kokee and Waimea State Park Map
If you're looking for a good map of the area, we've created one (a PDF document) for you to download and print out at home. The Koke'e Lodge and Museum will also have maps available, but we'd definitely advise you to go ahead and review the map and become familiar with the area. The crisscrossing of trails and 4x4 roads can be confusing at first, but once you select your routes, it's not too bad. We'll be improving the map as time allows, and we'll also add additional maps here in the near future. Feel free to contact us if you have specific questions.

Download: Kokee and Waimea State Park Trail Map

Location: West Kauai

After two miles on the Pihea Trail is the junction with Alakai Swamp Trail. The scenery drastically changes from open valley to rainforest as you head into Alaka‘i Swamp, the world’s highest rainforest and swampland fed by the abundant precipitation on Wai‘ale‘ale’s slopes. The trail is said to be the highlight of many visitors’ journeys to the island, and it’s one of our favorite hidden gems as well. As a bonus, in the last few years the trail has been greatly enhanced with boardwalks. No longer do hikers have to trudge through the mud to reach the magical lookout of Kilohana at the end of the journey.

Location: Central Kauai

The Blue Hole is at the base of Wai'ale'ale, which is known as the wettest spot on earth. The 'Blue Hole' is not a physical hole per se, but a rather large pool fed by two streams and a waterfall. Locals refer to this location as the Wailua river headwaters; it's where you see the springs coming down the wall. The 'Blue Hole' rests just outside the cylindrical cavity of what was once a much larger and taller volcano - one that possibly dwarfed the biggest volcanoes on the Big Island today. This beautiful "weeping wall" (as some call it) glistening with waterfalls is what remains - not too bad if we may say so ourselves.

At the end of Highway 580, Kuamo‘o Road will end abruptly at a spillway. We believe for most travelers this is where you should park and begin your hike. The drive beyond the paved highway is very rough, bumpy, often muddy, and dangerous in spots (especially when crossing streams).

Location: Na Pali Kauai

Labeled "the" hike on Kauai, the Kalalau Trail is a 11 mile trek into paradise. A vast array of verdant valleys, waterfalls, sea caves, and gorgeous vistas lay ahead of you. If spending 3-5 days to hike the entire trail isn't exactly on the agenda, then consider the popular day hike to Hanakapiai Beach, approximately 2 miles along the trail (four miles round trip).

Ke`e Beach to Hanakapia`ai Beach
2 miles (4 round trip)

As you begin the trail you'll traverse through a lush jungle-like scene of pothos and other philodendron. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, but trust us - it's the climb you'll notice most. Use extreme caution in any wet portions (granted, it's almost all wet along this stretch), and expect mud if it has rained recently. After the first leg of the climb, at about half a mile, you emerge on a red dirt path that borders the cliffside overlooking the gorgeous Na Pali coastline. Azure blue waters lie beneath you to the right overlooking Ke`e Beach below. You've climbed to the highest point between Ke`e and Hanakapi`ai; about 500 feet above sea level. The short portion of the trail to this point can be a lot of work, but this is one of the most gorgeous views of the hike. If you can't or don't want to day-hike to Hanakapi`ai Beach, at least try to make it to this overlook (one mile round trip). During the winter months you will be rewarded with views of outstanding waves, while in the summer you may see a group of kayakers floating along the current on the calm seas.

After you finish your first mile you'll really start to be rewarded with stunning view of the Na Pali coast. You're well on your way down to Hanakapia`ai beach now, and be sure to enjoy the trek down - it's mostly uphill on the way back.

Just shy of two miles, the trail dips steeply downward through several switchbacks and you'll soon find yourself at Hanakapia`ai Stream. Use extreme caution crossing the stream and if it's rained recently and the flow is high, do NOT cross at all. If you want to cross without getting your feet wet, you can sometimes skip across the rocks if you head inland a few meters; otherwise use the rope to help guide yourself through the stream.

After crossing the stream, to your right is Hanakapiai Beach. Some pit toilets, that leave much to be desired, are also to your left (near where the trail continues and/or heads back to Hanakapi`ai Falls). In the summer months, there is plenty of sand on the beach, but in the winter you'll be surprised to see only lava boulders at times. Every year the current carries the sand into the ocean only to return it in the spring! Do NOT swim at the beach here, the rip currents are deadly (you probably saw the sign on the way down totaling all the drownings here). Total elevation gain (going and returning along all inclines) between Ke`e and Hanakapi`ai is 1060 feet and the hike takes approximately an hour and a half at a moderate pace.

Hanakapia`ai Beach to Hanakapi`ai Falls
2 mile side hike (4 round trip)

As a side trip (extended day hike) you can follow the un-maintained Hanakapiai Falls trail upstream for two more miles to reach this spectacular 100-foot high Hanakapiai Falls. Please note this is an additional 2 miles (4 miles round trip) not included on the Kalalau Trail. It can take up to two hours just to reach the falls, and requires numerous stream crossings. If it's rained recently, don't go. Total elevation gain to the falls from Hanakapi'ai beach is 760 feet. This is a fairly strenuous hike

Location: Na Pali Kauai

After hiking two miles of rugged terrain to Hanakapiai Beach along the Kalalau Trail you may be tempted to turn back and head back towards Ke'e Beach. But if you aren’t too tired and have some time, consider taking a two-mile (four miles round trip) hike inland to see Hanakapi‘ai Falls. It can take up to two hours just to reach the falls, and requires numerous stream crossings. If it's rained recently, don't go. Total elevation gain to the falls from Hanakapi'ai beach is 760 feet. This is a fairly strenuous hike.

The trail can be rough in spots, but the 300-ft waterfall at the end is worth the trek. Take notice of the native plant life as well as the small bamboo forests you will pass through. The trail crisscrosses the stream several times, so be mindful of water flow. Make sure to pack rain gear because showers pop up frequently and carry drinking water since it is not safe to drink stream water.

Location: West Kauai

Pihea Trail is located in Koke'e State Park starting at the Pu'u o Kila overlook (the end of Highway 550). At the beginning of this incredible trail it skirts along the Kalalau Valley starting passing through forest of Ohi‘a trees, ferns, koa, and other native vegetation. This is an excellent place to bird watch if time allows, you might even catch a glimpse of the ‘I‘iwi, a gorgeous red bird. It is medium-sized with a curved peach bill. As you finish the first mile of the trail a short but extremely steep side trail leads to the Pihea Vista. It’s pretty, but it’s not worth the effort, especially since you’ve only just begun the trail. Beyond this point, the Pihea Trail is covered mostly with boardwalk.

Location: West Kauai

The Awa'awa'puhi Trail is yet another Koke'e trail which promises sweeping views and a trek through dense jungles and dry landscapes. Even though this trail is fairly even, we recommend sturdy hiking boots. Awa'awa'puhi gets off to a slow start but picks up steam about half way. The only thing to make the first part interesting is a series of marked plants. If you pick up the "Awa'awa'puhi Botanical Trail Guide"at the Koke'e museum it will guide you through the maze of native and introduced plants.

The trail starts at approximately 4,120 feet and ends at the lookout around 2,500 feet. Hiking out you'll no doubt respect each and every foot of that; especially if you're concluding this hike as a part of the Nualolo Trail / Nualolo Cliff Trail "loop."

After the first mile the forest begins to dissipate only making guest appearances once in awhile as the barren terrain of Na Pali comes into view. You get your first glimpse of the Awa'awa'puhi Valley at about 1.75 miles. Use caution and do not go too close to the edge as some of the view points are eroded.

Location: East Kauai

This is one of three Nounou Mountain Trails. It is referred to as the "Sleeping Giant Trail" because you will be hiking right across the big guy's chest. The "giant's" profile is most easily seen from nearly anywhere in Kapa'a - it's easiest to spot his chin first. The "Sleeping Giant Trail" is a gently ascending stroll through forested mountains with excellent views.

The trail begins with several switchbacks through a shady forest of ironwood, guava, and silk oak to name a few. Along your path you are treated to stunning views of Kapa'a and Waipouli. You begin to gain elevation steadily past .75 miles. After a brief trek over a lava outcropping you will begin again switchbacking up the mountain as you get views of Kalepa Ridge, Wailua Bay and the Hoary Head Mountains.

Location: West Kauai

Kukui Trail offers some absolutely gorgeous views of Waimea Canyon. The first part of the trail descends sharply, switch backing through the forest, at first, and then out in the open along the side of the mountain. Expect the trail to be eight inches wide on slippery dirt with nothing to one side of you in places. It's not really that dangerous, but just be careful.

Location: West Kauai

For the Nualolo Trail you will start at Koke'e Ranger Station. It wouldn't hurt to check the board at the station for closures, information, etc. If you're looking for a full day hike, consider making the Nualolo trail the first part of a three-trail-trek. Near the end of this trail is the Nualolo Cliff Trail which will take you over to Awa'awapuhi Trail (another great hike). If you plan to hike this "loop" trail, please make note that the trail heads are 1.5 miles apart. So the distance between should be added to your total mileage unless you are able to catch a ride between them. If you are hiking between the trail heads, we are now advising hikers to park at Awa`awapuhi trailhead and hike the road down in the morning BEFORE they start their hike; thus allowing them to conclude the hike at their vehicle (versus having to then hike the final stretch at the end). Either way, it's definitely wiser to hike the trails in a clockwise manner, ending at Awa`awapuhi so as to ensure you are uphill from the Nualolo trailhead and can hike down to your vehicle.