Well worth the 6 mile round trip hike. None of us are obese, nor do we work out regularly. I hiked on a Sunday afternoon and only passed people in the opposite direction. 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. When Jason Momoa was 15 or so, a group of adult climbers invited him on an ice-climbing trip. We wore shorts and short-sleeved shirts and were fine, but I did have a bumpy, itchy rash on my legs for the next 24 hours. He was thrilled. Hawaii's official trail and access website administered by the N Ala Hele Trails and Access Program, Division of Forestry and Wildlife, State of Hawaii The trailhead for the Awa'awapuhi Trail is off Kokee Road. THE WEEKLY #309: 6 YEARS AS A TRAVEL BLOGGER, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHATS IN MY BACKPACK. The 3.25 miles down to the valley is almost all downhill. Definitely slippery going down but fine, especially if you have poles. Seeaosite for updates. One of the best here. All rights reserved. Because the Awaawapuhi Trail drops you so low, you feel like you are almost down in the valley looking up towards the top of the other ridges. If you are allergic to grass, wear or bring long pants. These affiliates don't cost you anything extra and help me keep the site going. Do not underestimate the effects of heat and humidity and it only takes one fall to hurt your back, hips or anything else. If you are in good shape and up for a challenge, there is the option continuing onto the Nualolo cliff trail and then Nualolo trail, making the total hike 10 miles. You will have to hike the full distance (0.9 miles) to the trail junction. For the first mile and a half, you will be descending through the forest. Other trails or roads that branch off from the public features may be on private property, and are not managed for any public recreational use. The Awa'awapuhi trail is a great option for those who want to enjoy the N Pali Coast but don't feel like braving one of the most dangerous trails in the world to do that. If you'd like to help even more, be sure to check out my Patreon as well. Length 11.0 mi Elevation gain 3,461 ft Route type Loop. muddy but doable. When I visited Kauai last fall, I had a chance to hike a few trails in Koke'e State Park on the west side of the beautiful Garden Island. This trail starts about a half mile up the Waimea River from the bottom of Kukui Trail. We took it to be our run for the day, and jogged the flat trail portions. Footing is extremely unstable, and the drop to the valley floor below is over 2,000 feet. The first mile of the trail can be muddy and slippery after recent rain. Silent Beauty Synonyms, And of (All equipment on The Awaawapuhi trail is a heavily trafficked hike to a viewpoint of the famous Na Pali coastline. This trail is muddy and step although I consider myself in shape I was very sore for about 3 days after and my wife just had to push through it and swore to me that she would never do this again. Thanks for sharing this alternative!! For the first mile and a half, you will be descending through the forest. Hikers follow the trail under a large tree limb at the back of the parking area and must keep on the lookout for ribbons marking the way. You get your first glimpse of the Awa'awa'puhi Valley at about 1.75 miles. Logistics: The Nualolo Ridge Trail is a 7.5-mile hike inside the Kokee State Park. If you only have time for one hike on the west side of Kauai, this is your trail. Must do in Kauai! Awa'awapuhi Trail. Republishing this articleand/orany of its contents (text, photography, etc. We were standing in the Napali Coast. The view was special and now that were done with it we fell a sense of accomplishment, however in the heat of survival on the trail none of us can say we actually enjoyed it. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Due to the extremely muddy conditions we found it a most difficult hike. Our website uses cookies. This trail gives you a clear overview on the west side of the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon area. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 3. This trail isnt too difficult, won't take up too much of your day, and it brings you to breathtaking views, overlooking the Nualolo and Awa'awapuhi valleys. One of our favorites is the Awa Awa'apuhi trail. Awa'awapuhi Trail Distance: 6 miles out-and-back Total Ascent: 1,800 feet Difficulty: Moderate Length of Time: 2 to 4 hours Nua'lolo Trail + Nua'lolo Cliffs Trail + Awa'awapuhi Trail (the Full Loop) Distance: 11.9 miles Total Ascent: 3,200 feet Starting Elevation: 3,700 feet Highest Elevation: 4,100 feet Lowest Elevation: 2,300 feet Its a 6.4-mile round trip, with an almost 2,000-foot elevation change each way, but the payoffs are incredible. If you have any questions about how to hike the Nualolo Trail and Awaawapuhi Trail Loop, or if you want to share your experience, let us know in the comment section below. The hike is moderately difficult and traverses the Npali-Kona Forest Reserve. If you are new to hiking or are curious about what you should bring on a hike, check out our Hiking Gear Guide. [KAUAI] Kkee State Park - Beginning TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2023, road repair work will be conducted along Kkee Road between the meadow/lodge area and the first Kalalau Lookout. GREAT HIKES FROM AROUND THE WORLD: For more great hikes, check out our article listing the 20 Best Day Hikes in the World. There are a few steep sections but for the most part, its a gradual climb. But some of us used stick and it helps. We completed this trail on the 24th. The hike back up wasn't as bad as we thought it would be. Its drop is a massive 2,425ft whereby contrast Niagara Falls only drops 156ft. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. Maybe thats just because we have done so many hikes around the world that our standards are a bit different now. Awaawapuhi Trail (Kekaha) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. The hike would be out of the question for the length of our trip. In consideration of being permitted to use the OHV trails promoted and maintained by Lewis County, I expressly acknowledge: PARK UPDATES: 4/30/21 - [OAHU] - The Makapuu Lighthouse Trail and parking lot at Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline will be CLOSED May 4th through May 6th (Tuesday-Thursday) from 7:00am to 11:00am for maintenance of the trail. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai , Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations , Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. The Nualolo Trail + Awaawapuhi Trail Loop. It boasts amazing coastlines and lush valleys filled with waterfalls. It's all downhill (which means all uphill on the way back) to the grassy point that overlooks the sheer cliffs of Awa`awapuhi and Nualolo valleys resting 2,000 feet below. Kokee State Park is in the northwest of Kauai; the closest popular tourist area is Waimea, to the south. However, be forewarned - it's a tough hike. A walking stick is a great help and you are sure to find them at the trail head, it took us 2 hours to the lookout, we stayed about an hour which did help with rest then it took us 3 hours to get back out we were passed many times by young fast hikers. Unfortunately, our view at the end was instructed by sea mist, but we did get a glimpse of the canyon on one side and some mountain goats. The hike isn't too bad and wasn't muddy when we went. The hike took us about 2.5 hours each way. For the majority of the first part of this hike, you will be descending as you hike out towards the coast. Kauai Shores Hotel Luxury (but value also):A luxury feels with the resort-style property, palm trees, and a beautiful pool area. KAUAI: Plan your visit to Kauai with our guide to the Best Things to Do in Kauai. Do I need a permit/ reservation to enter the park (or just to park my vehicle)? We walked the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail, on the north end from Ke'e Beach. I have a 12 year old and 16 year old daughters and myself and my wife who are in a mid 40's. Visitors will be treated to diverse tropical flora and fauna along the trail as well as spectacular views of the ocean and Napoli Coast. But the views are much better than those from the Awaawapuhi Trail. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! The Honopu Ridge trail is not well kept, so it is somewhat more difficult to follow, moderately strenuous but much shorter in length. trying to illustrate the steep drop-off on the unofficial extension trail and.. mostly failing? My father and I had were sitting on the porch of our condo looking over the Hanalei Bay, trying to decipher what we should do for the day. At 3.75 miles, you reach the end of the trail. Way back, I checked out the Nu'alolo Cliffs trail to the stream crossing 0.3 miles in - hoping to frolic in a waterfall. Be smart and be safe for the safety of all. Dramatic green cliffs set against a deep blue sea. It's a steady descent along a narrow path through a jungle. Water and snacks. We learned a lot, not just about the trail, but about hiking in general, which carried on through later experiences. The trail is quite wide in most parts and even though it had been raining a lot, the trail was in good condition. The hardest part of the hike is over. I towered over the view, soaking in the sounds of the waves crashing and watching waterfalls slither down the folds in the cliffs. If you get lucky, maybe some nice person will drive you back to the Kokee Museum parking lot. Longitude: -159.6486396. It has incredible drop-offs and epic views down to the Na Pali Coast. The best part about this hotel is that it is right on the beach. Copyright 2023 Journey Era | Mediavine Trellis Child - Journey Era on Trellis Framework by Mediavine. The trail begins right off Kokee Road at an elevation of 4,120 feet. How was it on our second hike? The way to the left is where the Nualolo Cliff Trail links with the AwaAwapuhi Trail. This trail gives you a clear overview on the west side of the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon area. Are there many hikers there? Permits cost $35 per person per night and must be reserved ahead online. Overall we are glad we choose this hike but disappointed to miss out on the stunning views of the coast. Covid-19 Protocols: Wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and be respectful of others. Kauai is the oldest island in the Archipelago and these cliffs have been shaped over thousands of years. It was a steady climb back to the car, but easier footing. By Nualolo Trail (between cabins and Kokee Lodge), or Awaawapuhi trail near 17 mm (past Kokee Lodge). Found solitude along this somewhat rugged trail but no flowing water at the stream. There is a sign on either side of the trail at this point marking the start of the Nualolo Cliff Trail. You'll seea series of marked plants along the trail and if you pick up the "Awa'awa'puhi Botanical Trail Guide" at the Kokee Museum it will guide you through the maze of native and introduced plants. PRO HIKING TIP: If you are afraid of heights, this trail could be very challenging. Ill be in Kauai on April 7-12. Awesome!! It does have 3 little sections, after you go to the first landing you can venture out to a second then a third. Beach gear to use! It only takes about an hour and a half each way along the total of six miles out and back journey. Starting at 4,120 feet youll descend to 2,500 feet to the trails endwhich concludes at a cliff with broad views of the valleys and the immense Pacific ocean. Here are my hiking essentials. Even though this trail is fairly even, we recommend sturdy hiking boots since it gets quite slippery when it has been raining. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/kauai/awaawapuhi-trail Awaawapuhi Trail Kauai. BY JIM DOOLEY - The state has agreed to pay $15.4 million to settle a civil lawsuit filed by the families of two hikers who fell to their deaths on a Kauai hiking trail in 2006. Kauai's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Kauai's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. The views along Nualolo are reputed to rival Awaawapuhi. At this point, you have hiked 6.6 miles. Please practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace: plan ahead, stay on the trail, pack out what you bring to the hiking trail, properly dispose of waste, leave areas as you found them, minimize campfire impacts, be considerate of other hikers, and do not approach or feed wildlife. Although I cant compare it to the Kalalau Trail, the Awaawapuhi Trail was a major highlight of our Kauai trip and led to one of the most beautiful coastal views Ive ever seen. However, if you plan to hike that loop, we recommend you hike down Nualolo and back up Awa'awapuhi. For the Awaawapuhi Nualolo Lookout continue straight ahead to the end of the trail for spectacular panoramic views and great picnic area. Most of the time, you are in the trees with very little view. The settlement, reached just before a damages trial was to begin next week, must be approved by the Legislature. The sheer cliffs of the Napali Coast may look daunting from the ground but that's because they are best viewed from the summit of the Awa'awapuhi Trail. As user akeldamach87who hiked the trail in 2009shares in a comment, its up to hikers to keep themselves safe: If you have little time and have to choose one trail, then this is your trail!Getting ThereFrom Lihue, take Kaumualii Highway 50 to Waimea. As of now, the trail is closed for the foreseeable future. Momoa was working at an outdoor shop in Des Moines, Iowa, and after he agreed, the crew packed into vans and headed off. SeeSand Island site for updates. For Days 1 and 2 click here. During summer only (May 15 Sept 7) kayak landings are allowed ONLY with a valid camping permit. The trail has a fairly steady and moderate grade all the way down to the viewpoint, which is great, given the aforementioned extreme mud. The entire trail is also forested, with only a few hints of a view before you reach the end of the trail. There are pesky trail markers at every 0.25 miles, which is mildly infuriating, showing you your slow squelchy progress through mudpit after mudpit . It's an easy hike (gentle incline - not flat) with the best views looking straight down a deep valley and right back up the other side. A long climb awaits. And trust us when we say that with a guided tour, you get to see and experience things in a way you simply cannot do independently. There were no signs or other indications of the closure. Unlike the neighboring Awa'awapuhi Trail, there are no facilities or even trailhead signs. Note: This post contains affiliate links. Be sure to spray and wipe your shoes before and after at the trailhead to do your part in mitigating Rapid Ohia Death! The Awaawapuhi Trail Hike I would not go so far as buy cleats but if you have them then they would be a great plus. The views along Nualolo are reputed to rival Awaawapuhi. Weird Things is proudly powered by When you reach the falls, you will be in awe of its size and beauty. Kauai's Awa'awapuhi Trail is a moderately difficult hike which starts in Kkee State Park and traverses the gorgeous Npali-Kona Forest Reserve. Walk-ins permitted. For the first 2 miles, you will be hiking downhill, either through a forest or through dense brush and grass. My wife and I (both 57) and our 22 year old daughter hiked the trail in late October 2020. The Awaawapuhi Trail will take you on an ultimate journey as you ascend from 4,120 feet elevation in the Kokee State Park to the valley rim of Nualolo and Awaawapuhi valleys at 2,500 feet. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. The view from here is very nice, but its not nearly as good as that from the Nualolo Trail. Growing up in the small town of Norwalk, on the outskirts of . A GPS device that has trail maps makes it a lot easier to hike the Nualolo Cliff Trail. Awa'awapuhi Trail in Kkee State Park - Hawaii This trail is located near Kekaha Hawaii on the small island of Kauai (famous for its beautiful mountains!). The one portion of the Cliffs trail that connects the Nualolo and the Awa'awapuhi is narrow--it is a very short section. The beginning of the trail is a relatively mellow stroll through the high forest. Mahalo! Entire family made it all the way to the top. I tip-toed around the muddy trail with my brand-new hiking sandals at first. If you are doing this hike as a loop, you will need to backtrack up the trail for 0.9 miles until you get to the Nualolo Cliffs Trail. We found the trail to be fairly muddy and we took our time going down as it was rather slippery. The plant life growing along the trail was very overgrown in spots when we did this, so expect to push your way through if it hasnt recently been bushwhacked. Hawaii's official trail and access website administered by the N Ala Hele Trails and Access Program, Division of Forestry and Wildlife, State of Hawaii The beautiful nature and mountains that rise up from the sea, are a must see on Kauai. The first part of this hike is relatively easy since its pretty much all down hill. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. We had the viewpoint all to ourselves for a bit. The end of the trail leads to cliffs on the sea side. Of the two, I think the Nualolo Trail is the better choice. Hike down the road first, then do the loop. Muddy, moderate workout totally worth it! Perhaps it is the view of the folding spires of NaPali that makes this trail so exceptional. Mar 3, 2019 Matthew Henderson. Its easy to wander off the trail here and you can double check your position with the GPS. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. It is narrow in spots and can be slippery. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/kauai/awaawapuhi-trail As user akeldamach87who hiked the trail in 2009shares in a comment, its up to hikers to keep themselves safe: The trail skirts the upper rim of the precipitous Nualolo Valley and permits a loop route from the head of Awaawapuhi Trail to Kokee State Park Headquarters or vise versa. It has the LARGEST pool in all of Kauai with beautiful, natural-style landscaping throughout the pool areas. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The trail does need some clearing done at the end of the trail. Total hike time for us was 4 hours but we took our time. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Awa'awapuhi Trail is a spectacular hike, with the most magnificent views of the Na Distance: 6.5 miles, round-trip Location: West side, Kohe e State Park Difficulty: Moderate. Bring a minimum of 3 liters of water per person, although 4 liters is better. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. The views from the end of the trail are just as they sayspectacular. However, if you plan to hike that loop, we recommend you hike down Nualolo and back up Awa'awapuhi. Take your time: Enjoy the experience and take time to take in your surroundings. Access is subject to adjacent landowner approval, and if used without authorization, you will be trespassing and possibly putting yourself at risk. Take your time and watch your step; in some of the narrower sections you could slip and fall off of the trail. Have lunch at the Kokee Museum. The Awa'awapuhi Trail starts at 4,120 feet and descends gradually to 2,500 feet over 3.25 miles to the viewpoint, and returns uphill. My only question was. Koloa Landing Resort Luxury (high-end): I was lucky enough to spend three nights reviewing Koloa Landing Resort and honestly the place is just phenomenal. The photo below shows the location of the Awaawapuhi Trail vista point. This was a moderately difficult hike but 110% worth it for the view of the NaPali Coast and ocean. If you dont have hiking shoes please purchase one unless you want to discard your shoes after the trip.Those with any kness, lower back or ankle issues please be careful you will slip and fall so a trekking pole is highly recommended especially for those who are older.Also, the heat and humidity is quite intense and it will make this trail alot more difficult than it actually seem based on specs. And just note that there is no cell service along the trail, so dont expect to text, send photos, or be able to contact friends or family by phone while hiking this trail. Magnificent vista at the end! The walk through the forest was really interesting as we viewed the different vegetation and listened to the various birds. Here are some of our favorite Kauai guided tours, as well as helpful maps to get you oriented. However, Hawaii can experience sudden changes in weather throughout all seasons, so youll need to plan your hike for a day when the skies are mostly clear. Awa'awapuhi Trail. T he Awa'awapuhi Trail on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, is a single track hike not for those with a fear of heights. Change), the watchman and mt mcloughlin as seen from our backcountry campsite at crater lake this weekend , some good kings mtn light from a while back , finally made it to silver falls. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. And the views at the end were spectacular. Make sure you have plenty of water and wear cloths that you don't mind getting muddy, that means shoes. The trail is only 2 to 3 feet wide in some spots. It is considered a moderate hike on paper, but it can be difficult due to the elevation gain and loss. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. The trail descends sixteen hundred feet over three miles through a rainforest to the rim of the Nualolo and Awaawapuhi valleys. Cheers, Julie, Your email address will not be published. 3 miles down with nothing to see but trees and bush but it's worth it at the end of you are not afraid of heights and go past the gates. Good closed toe hiking/trail shoes are required, and bring extra dry socks. Loved this hike! Download all free or royalty-free photos and vectors. We wore shorts and short-sleeved shirts. While the end viewpoint can get quite dangerous and steep if you venture down, the majority of the trail is well defined and quite straightforward. Awa'awapuhi Trail, Kaua'i - September 6, 2015 What an amazing view in Kaua'i. Heading down the Awaawapuhi Trail might give you some false confidence about how easy the hike will be. We briefly stumbled off the trail twice and I have heard of others doing it too. a moderate hiker age 40 from socal pretty fit and medium build.Please check the gain and loss in elevation. On day three, head up the coast to Hanalei Bay. If you are young and healthy, it is probably only mildly challenging. You can read more about the "loop" on ourNualolo Trailentry. Awaawapuhi Trail is one of the more popular hikes in the Kokee Park and subsequently has a large, signposted parking lot. Best Defenders In Premier League 2019-20, Kauai the day of the heaviest rainfall in a 24-hour period, 2019 Havasu Falls Hiking and Camping Travel Guide, The trail is well-marked with .5-mile markers. Awa'awapuhi Trail & Napali Coast access? Muddy but vista is epic. Not much to see until then. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. The rocks can be very crumbly and no step is certain on the ridges out in Kokee State Park. Clouds started to sock us in around 2pm. Downhill most of the way uot and be ready for gradual climb the whole way back. [OAHU] UPDATED 4/12/22: Sand Island State Recreation Area WATER OFF,camping and comfort stationsCLOSED. Absolute favorite hike on the Hawaiian islands. First off my family of four did the trail after much reading about it, it was very hard for all of us who do not hike on a regular basis. Ride ONLY on designated trails and obey all traffic controldevices. Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. (LogOut/ We have been doing the Awaawapuhi trail when we come here. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. This is a long, tough, hot day hike. The trailhead is on the left of the parking lot. What would you like to know about this attraction? Its also more crowded than the Nualolo Trail. The Awaawapuhi Trail will take you on an ultimate journey as you ascend from 4,120 feet elevation in the Kokee State Park to the valley rim of Nualolo and Awaawapuhi valleys at 2,500 feet. I do workout a lot on a peloton but my wife does not. Tried this 10 years ago and got to the end to see a cloud from the inside. Do i need a permit? It starts in Koke'e State Park and snakes down and back up the steep walls of the N Pali Coast Forest Reserve and offers stunning views of the shoreline and the ocean, given there's no cloud cover. It really helps to have a GPS device here that has the trail map on it, whether it is a Garmin GPS device, a hiking watch, or All Trails. Most people stop on the grassy/sandy cliffs at the turn-around point for lunch as they offer great views of the coastline.