Top 15 Kauai Hiking Trails You Should Explore
Are you an adventurous person who likes hiking? Kauai’s hiking trails will not disappoint you.
Kauai hiking is famous for its marvelous cliffs, rich landscapes, native flora and fauna, cultural sites, pristine beaches, and more.
Kauai hiking is the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world. Whether you’re an expert looking for a challenging trek or a beginner willing to start a hiking journey, Kauai has suitable hiking options for everyone.
Kauai hiking trails include unforgettable adventures such as rich valleys, the beauty of the Na Pali Coast, and views of the Pacific Ocean. Get ready to explore the natural beauty and diverse landscapes that make Kauai a hiker’s paradise.
Top 15 Kauai hiking trails
Kauai hiking trails are renowned for rich valleys, natural beauty, stunning vistas, and amazing ocean views. Here’s a list of the top 15 Kauai hiking trails.
1. Hanakapiai’s beach Trail
Overview
- Location: Na Pali Coast
- Distance: 4-mile round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Beautiful coastal views, isolated beaches, lush valleys
Statistics
The Hanakapiai Beach Trail is situated on the north shore of Kauai, at the end of Highway 560. The trailhead starts at Ke’e Beach in Haena State Park.
This trail is a 4-mile round trip. The hike is rated moderate to challenging level, with an elevation gain of approximately 378m, and takes nearly 2-3 hours to cover.
Highlights
After reaching the Hanakapiai Beach Trail in Kauai, you will enjoy eye-catching views of the Na Pali Coast and the Pacific Ocean. The trail contains native plants like bananas, ginger, and several Ti plants.
In Hanakapiai Valley, you will find knotted vines and the fresh waters of the Hanakapiai Stream. The beach is famous for sunbathing and exploring caves and rocks. If you are willing to explore more you can extend the hike for another 2 miles to reach Hanakapiai Falls.
2. Hanakapiai Falls Trail
Overview
- Location: Begins at the Kalalau Trailhead
- Distance: 8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Hanakapiai Beach, Hanakapiai Falls, river crossings
Statistics
The Hanakapiai Falls Trail is a popular hiking trail situated on the north shore of Kauai at the end of Highway 560 (Kuhio Highway). The round-trip trail is approximately 8 miles and takes nearly 4 hours to cover it.
The trail is rated as moderate to challenging due to its steep and often muddy and slippery paths. It’s an elevation gain of approximately 750m.
Highlights
At Napali Coastline you will enjoy the stunning view of the coastline. After arriving there you will discover rich vegetation including beautiful flowers, tall trees, and slopes with greenery.
As the trail moves, you will hear the sound of water from Hanakapiai Falls. The trail ends at Hanakapiai Falls, a stunning 300-foot waterfall surrounded by rich greenery.
3. Mahaulepu Heritage Trail
Overview
- Location: Poipu
- Distance: 4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Cultural sites, coastal cliffs, limestone formations
Statistics
The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is famous for its coastal hike located on Kauai’s south shore. The trail begins near Shipwreck Beach and it’s a 4-mile round-trip trail with moderate to challenging levels. It takes an average of 1.5 hours to complete and has an elevation gain of approximately 91m.
Highlights
This trail begins near Shipwreck Beach and provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rich coastal landscapes. While hiking, you will discover rocky outcrops and sandy pathways, as you cross the coastline.
There is a native flora and fauna, including seabirds soaring overhead and sometimes Hawaiian monk seals resting on the shore. At Mahalepu Beach, you can sit, relax on pristine sand, and dip in the crystal-clear waters.
The peaceful ambiance and stunning vistas of the Mahalepu Beach Trail hike will give you a memorable adventure.
4. Nu’alolo Trail
Overview
- Location: Koke’e State Park
- Distance: 7.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Highlights: Na Pali Coast views, bird watching, challenging trail
Statistics
The Nu’alolo Trail in Kauai, starting near the Museum and Koke’e Lodge at an elevation of approximately 731m, gives you a unique hiking experience. The 7.6-mile round-trip trail begins with a short uphill climb along switchbacks and takes an average of 4-5 hours to complete.
Highlights
At Nu’alolo Trail, you will dip into a dryland forest filled with ohia trees and native koa, as well as karaka nut trees and eucalyptus. This region is great for birdwatching and also gives you the chance to see the ‘I’iwi bird and the playful Elepaio.
At the two-mile mark, you will see the vegetation changes as the rainfall decreases and reveals the stunning ocean vistas, which include the Lehua and Niihau islets. You can extend the hike via the Nu’alolo Cliff Trail to the Awa’awapuhi Trail is a worthy option.
5. Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain) East Trail
Overview
- Location: Kapaa
- Distance: 4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Scenic ridge views, forested areas, the “Giant’s” head
Statistics
The Nounou Trail, also known as the Sleeping Giant Trail, is located on the Eastern side of Kauai. It’s a 4-mile round-trip trail of 383m in elevation with moderate level making it a must-visit place for adventurous people and nature lovers.
Highlights
The terrain on the Nounou Trail is diverse and exciting and you will find out why it’s called the Sleeping Giant as it looks like a giant person lying down! The path goes up steep slopes, over rocky ground, and through rich vegetation.
At the top, you can see the rich greenery of Kauai, the sparkling Pacific Ocean, and the winding Wailua River.
The trail ends at a picnic shelter on the “chest” of the Sleeping Giant within the Nonou Forest Reserve. This spot offers breathtaking views of the ocean coastline, the Wailua River, and Mount Waialeale.
6. Awa’awapuhi Trail
Overview
- Location: Koke’e State Park
- Distance: 6.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Panoramic views of the Na Pali Coast, dramatic cliffs
Statistics
The Awa’awapuhi Trail is on the western side of Kauai, within the Koke’e State Park. It’s a 6.2-mile round-trip trail with moderate to challenging levels. It’s an elevation gain of approximately 568m and it takes an average of 3.5 hours to complete.
Highlights
This trail is not just an ordinary walk it’s an adventure! You will find yourself surrounded by stunning views of the island as you trek along.
The trail starts near the Pu’u o Kila Lookout in Waimea Canyon State Park, as you move forward, you will discover vistas of the Na Pali Coast and other deep valleys.
Once you reach there, you will be surprised by one of the most jaw-dropping views of the Awa’awapuhi Valley with the magnificent cliffs of the Na Pali Coast.
7. Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls
Overview
- Location: Waimea Canyon
- Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Waipoo Falls, canyon views, native plants
Statistics
If you want to experience serious beauty then you must visit Waipoos Falls. The Canyon Trail starts near Highway 550 is situated in Waimea Canyon.
It’s a 6.2-mile round-trip trail with moderate to difficult levels. It’s an elevation gain of approximately 240m and it takes nearly 1-2 hours to complete.
Highlights
At Canyon Trail, you will see beautiful views of the canyon, the rich Kokee Rain Forest, and native plants. The view of an 800-foot waterfall is incredible to see. If you are planning to hike in the summer, you might get a swimming hole along the way.
8. Kukui Trail
Overview
- Location: Waimea Canyon
- Distance: 5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Canyon views, descent to the canyon floor, challenging terrain
Statistics
Kukui hiking Trail is a scenic trail down the west side of Waimea Canyon. It’s an elevation gain of approximately 674m Kukui Trail starts at 550 Highway. It’s a 5-mile round-trip trail with challenging levels and it takes an average of 3-4 hours to complete.
Highlights
There are amazing views of waterfalls, and the Waialae Falls trail takes you into Waimea Canyon. The trail offers hikers a lot of landscapes, from rich forested areas to dry, rocky terrain. For camping, you need permission from authorities as it’s not for commercial use.
The Kukui hiking Trail is a rewarding hike that offers Kauai’s natural beauty. You might spot wild goats on the canyon ridges. Remember to carry bug spray for safety.
9. Ho’opi’i Falls Trail
Overview
- Location: Kapa’a
- Distance: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Two waterfalls, lush forest, swimming opportunities
Statistics
Ho’opi’i Falls is located in Kapa’a on the East side of Kauai. The trail begins in a residential area and leads down to a stream. It’s a 2-mile round-trip trail with easy to moderate levels. It’s an elevation gain of approximately 48m.
Highlights
The trail begins in a residential area and leads down to a stream where you will find the first waterfall and a spot for cliff-jumping. At Ho’opi Falls you will find the first waterfall at a very short distance. This area is popular for cliff jumping.
Continuing down the trail, you will find a larger waterfall with a swimming area, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Be aware that some internet sources report E.coli in the water here, possibly from old septic systems and nearby farm drainage.
10. Kuilau Ridge Trail
Overview
- Location: Wailua
- Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Highlights: Lush rainforest, views of Mount Waialeale, picnic area
Statistics
The Kuilau Trail is located in the Keahua Arboretum. It’s a 4.5-mile round-trip trail rated with easy to moderate levels. It’s an elevation gain of approximately 208m and it takes an average of 1-2 hours to complete.
Highlights
The hike starts on an old road that transforms into a trail, leading to stunning views of the Makaleha Mountains. You will find a grassy field bordered by an Ohia forest, the perfect picnic spot. You will enjoy beautiful views of mountains, rich green valleys, and more.
11. Kalepa Ridge Trail
Overview
- Location: Koke’e State Park
- Distance: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Overlooks of Kalalau Valley, dramatic landscapes
Statistics
Kalepa Ridge trail is situated at Koke’e State Park, which has beautiful views, different terrain, and native plants. It’s an unofficial, unmarked trail that starts to the left of the lookout area. It’s a 2-mile round-trip trail with moderate levels. It takes an average of 1-2 hours to complete.
Highlights
The trail begins at the Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast, Kalalau Valley, and the Pacific Ocean. The vistas are one of the attractions on Kauai.
You will experience different kinds of terrain, and open ridges, including dense forests. The trail is filled with native Hawaiian plants and birdlife.
12. Pihea Trail
Overview
- Location: Koke’e State Park
- Distance: 3.7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Alakai Swamp, Kilohana Lookout, diverse bird species
Statistics
Pihea trail is located at the end of Koke’e Road (Highway 550). The trail has an elevation gain of around 133m. It’s Approximately 3.7 miles round trip (to Pihea Vista and back) with moderate level.
Highlights
The main attraction of the Pihea trail is Kilohana Lookout. The trail offers stunning views of the Kalalau Valley, Na Pali Coast, and the lush surrounding rainforest. You will see a variety of native Hawaiian plants and birds, making it a great trail for nature enthusiasts.
13. ALaka’i Swamp Trail
Overview
- Location: Koke’e State Park
- Distance: 7 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Boardwalk through swamp, unique flora, Kilohana Lookout
Statistics
The Alaka’i Swamp Trail, located in Koke’e State Park on Kauai, The trail begins at the end of Mohihi Road and spans approximately 7 miles round-trip. It’s an elevation gain of approximately 375m and it takes an average of 3-3.5 hours to complete.
Highlights
The Alaka’i Swamp Trail offers a unique hiking experience through one of the highest swamps in the world. there are boardwalk sections crafted to preserve the ecosystem.
As you reach the Alaka’i Swamp Trail you will discover the breathtaking views of the Kilohana Lookout with Wainiha Valley and Hanalei Bay.
14. Okolehao Trail
Overview
- Location: Near Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii.
- Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Historical Significance, Flora and Fauna, Scenic Views
Statistics
The trailhead is located near the Hanalei River Bridge, just off Ohiki Road. It’s a 2.5-mile round-trip trail with moderate to challenging levels. It’s an elevation gain of about 281m.
Highlights
The Okolehao Trail provides breathtaking views of Hanalei Bay, the Hanalei River, and the surrounding rich valleys and mountains, with clear days offering vistas to the Na Pali Coast.
You can enjoy a rich diversity of native plants and wildlife along the trail, including mangoes, guava trees, and various tropical birds.
15. Moalepe Trail
Overview
- Location: Kapaa
- Distance: 6.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Stunning views, link to Kuilau Ridge Trailrolling hills,
Statistics
The Moalepe Trail on the East Side of Kauai offers you wonderful views of the green, jagged ridges of Makaleha, and beautiful ocean vistas. It’s approximately 6.5 miles round trip with moderate level.
Highlights
At the start of your hike, you’ll enjoy ocean views, sights of the Anahola Mountains, and close-up views of the Makaleha Mountain Ridge.
After about a mile, you will enter the Halelea Forest Reserve, where the Moalepe Trail narrows and becomes dense with foliage. The Moalepe Trail is part of the Na Ala Hele Trail System and is also popular among mountain bikers.
Safety Tips for Hiking in Kauai
Kauai’s remote areas show you some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. By planning and being prepared, you can make your Kauai hiking trip one of your best experiences in Kauai.
- Weather: Check the weather before moving to hike, sometimes it could be wet.
- Water: Carry your water bottle in your hand and drink small amounts often. Drink one-half to one full quart of water every hour to keep yourself hydrated if you are hiking in the heat.
- Food: Carry high-energy, salty snacks as well as meals. The hike out is much easier when you provide your body with enough calories to support the extreme physical activity you are engaged in.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy footwear especially in rainy times as the paths can be muddy and slippery. The best advice is to wear what is comfortable for you.
- First Aid: It is important to carry first aid essentials. Do not open wounds in between the trail.
- Clothing: Wear a comfortable and appropriate dress for hiking so you can protect your skin from the tropical sun. Wearing a cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen is recommended. Also, carry a light rain jacket.
- Others: Carry a flashlight, compass, and map for a more safe trail.
Additional Information
- Department of Land & Natural Resources: Hiking in Kauai
- A reservation and permit are required to hike the trail. For more information, you can visit Permits & Guidelines
- Now, reservations are mandatory for all visitors (except the state of Hawaiʻi residents). For reservations and information visit https://www.gohaena.com
- For information on the Kauaʻi Advisory Council, contact Nā Ala Hele staff.
- To see basic info and find a link to that trail’s use details on the HawaiiTrails hawaiitrails.hawaii.gov
- For a map visit hawaiitrails.ehawaii.gov
- You are confused about where to hike in Waimea Canyon visit The Kōkeʻe Museum
FAQs
1. What is the most famous hiking trail in Kauai?
There are numerous trails to explore but the most famous hike on Kauaʻi is the challenging 11-mile Kalalau trail along the Nāpali Coast.
2. What is the easiest hike to a waterfall in Kauai?
You actually can’t hike from the top of the falls to the bottom due to overgrowth and other possible dangers, but the lookout provides a rather spectacular view of the Wailua River. Opaekaa Falls is widely considered the easiest waterfall to get to on Kauai.
3. How many hiking trails are there on Kauai?
AllTrails has 90 hiking trails, mountain biking routes, backpacking trips and more. Discover hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you.
