Waimea Canyon

Dubbed “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” by Mark Twain, Waimea Canyon is the largest canyon in the Pacific and truly a dramatic sight to behold. The canyon measures ten miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,500-feet deep. It was carved thousands of years ago by rivers and floods that flowed from Mount Wai‘ale‘ale’s summit. Today it is the home of the Waimea River, so named for the red hue of the water. In fact, Waimea means “red waters.”

The red tint is caused by several natural processes that are breaking down the ancient rock inside the gorge. Like the Grand Canyon in Arizona, through the process of weathering (precipitation), mass wasting (gravitational breakdown), and erosion (the river) the walls of Waimea Canyon are literally being rusted, broken down, and carried out to sea over time. From space, you can even see the tinted runoff making its way into the ocean.

Before you begin your journey up Highway 550 be sure to check your gas gauge. The round trip is about 36 miles with an elevation change of 4,000 feet.

Take Highway 50 west from Hanapepe toward Waimea. Waimea Canyon Drive is on the right just past Mile Marker #23. The road travels through the canyon area and ends at Pu'u o Kila Lookout. Makaha Ridge Road runs off Waimea Canyon Road just before Mile Market #14 and travels to more scenic lookouts. Numerous lookouts and trails lead off of these two roads.

Location: Waimea Canyon is located in the West Kauai Region

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