Kalalau Trail

This trail is the bucket list for people world-wide. It is on a number of “best” and “most” lists from most dangerous to most beautiful. It starts at the end of the road and follows the rugged pali (cliffs) on the Na Pali Coast of Kauai. Above is Mount Waialeale, the wettest spot on the planet. If you hike the Kalalau Trial, you want to go in good weather. On the last time we went along this trail, the County of Kauai was declared a disaster zone from torrential rains and washouts. The trail was closed because a hiker had been killed on the trail crossing a stream (the day before). (We hiked it anyway).

The trailhead is at the end of the Island Road. Drive north to Hanalei and continue along the narrow road, crossing 7 single-lane bridges to Ke’e Beach Park. The trail starts on the hillside and climbs to a viewpoint, and then contours along the steep cliffs covered with tropical jungle vegetation. Drop-offs are frequent and stream crossings are required. At 2 miles, the trail comes to Hanakapi’ai Stream (where the hiker had been killed). Wading across the stream was reasonable, but would not be safe after a downpour. A few wilderness campsites sit above Hanakapi’ai Beach. A sign tallies the number of deaths from drownings on this dangerous beach (70+). A side trail climbs 2 miles up to Hanakapi’ai Falls, and the trail beyond follow the pali winding through 5 valleys to Hanakoa (4 miles past Hanakapi’ai), and then beyond to the Kalalau Valley. The entire trail is 11 miles each way. The route climbs up and down, often has steep drop-offs and the heat and humidity can be exhausting. Backpackers can make it all the way in one day. The Kalalau Velley is a destination requiring backcountry camping, but it is worth the effort. It was once a remote inhabited valley farmed with terraces for taro until 100 years ago. There is a beach, sea caves, a waterfall, and spectacular views. Most visitors only see it from above.