Kalepa Ridge Trail Reviews

4.8

90 of 312 Best Attractions in Kauai


Reviews

By CozumelLover2011 |

We hiked to the point and it is only about 1mile each way, but it is strenuous. You are definitely on the edge, but the views are uncomparable. We saw goats along the way. It's best to go early since the clouds roll in by late morning. The hike back is difficult. Would not trade the experience for the world.

By Ashley S |

We debated between this trail & a longer trail & are so glad we chose this trail! It’s a short hike but difficult because it’s very muddy.The trail does go along the ridge line out to the point where you see views of the Na’pali coast. Beautiful hike, highly recommend

By Sarah Haselwood |

Bring. Your. Camera. We drove to the Kalalau Lookout within the park which offers beautiful views of the ocean and the Na Pali coast. While looking out to the ocean, on the left there are numerous signs along the fence line alerting you that there is no trail and not to attempt it. If you walk to the left you will see a small footpath that leads you around behind the fence and to where there is indeed a trail. ***Let’s talk safety. This is not an official trail, the State Park does not deem is safe enough for public use. If you are out of shape, clumsy, young and reckless, or just have bad luck; maybe skip this one. If you are none of those things, be prepared for a strenuous yet VERY rewarding hike. The hike is about 1.88 miles total (out and back) and has a 600 foot elevation drop in the beginning which you then have to re-climb up on your way back. My heart rate was in the 180s for this last part just to give you an idea of the difficulty. Once you make it past the drop you are placed along the ridge which has some serious drop offs and stunning vistas.

By Samuel H |

We didn't have much time, so we went with this hike that wasn't in the Kauai Revealed book. Took us about an hour, at a leisurely pace, to get from the Kalalau lookout out to where the trail ends (clearly a few people continue but risk level goes up significantly), with drop dead views of Kalalau Beach below, Kalalau valley on the right and Honopu valley on left. Incredibly bright double (could it even be a triple?) rainbow. Sunny then rainy then sunny. Ferns were not that bad, I wore shorts and a tee-shirt and it was the right clothing choice, 70 degrees at the top. I didn't bring hiking shoes on trip so I just wore my reef shoes and they were not perfect, but more than up to the job, particularly after rain started.

There is more exposure then your average Na Pali hike and the grade is steep at times, but nothing I would consider dangerous for a modestly experienced hiker. Great bang for the buck in terms of variety of views and excitement with a total excursion time of 2 hours, including lunch. Best in the morning when clouds are less.

By kingmama |

Kalepa Trail
This is not an official Park Trail. At the Kalalau Lookout, when facing the railing/canyon, follow the railing left to the end and there’s a gate. That’s the start. There are no railings on trail and there are places where its not wider than 3 ft and then it gradually drops off 4000 ft! I am afraid of heights but I was mostly ok because it’s not straight down. However, I would NOT take young children on it (told my 15 & 17 yr old sons NO messing around) though I saw folks who did, and the first downhill part is very steep with roots for steps, so would be very tough for elderly (down and back). Otherwise, anyone in decent shape will be fine.

We left Lihue at 7:45, drove straight to top lookout, arrived at 9:15. Came back down to Kalalau Lookout, found the bathrooms closed (it was a Sunday, but still!) and started the trail by 9:45 latest I’m guessing. There were no crowds, only passed a handful people who had gone out before us and were on their way back later in the trail. Very peaceful, AMAZING views. Around every turn you think this view is better than the last, or the sun is now on it, or that cloud has moved, and take another pic.

We were disappointed to find NaPali Coast Kalalau Trail was closed because of the horrendous rain / floods a few months ago. This trail ends out at the coast so we got a glimpse of what we missed (will be back when it’s restored in a couple years!). There is a large, wide plateau about 15 min before the end at the coast. Lots of people stop there (my hubby and sons did) because there’s a very steep, narrow section right after that where you get low, hold unto roots/grass to ensure you don’t slip. If you go all the way to the end/coast, it just stops on a ledge, no railing, just dirt. Got low and held my camera out to take a pic – I wasn’t getting that close to the edge, 4000 ft straight down.

Took an hour over to plateau, less back. Bring enough water. Check forecast and plan to come when less clouds (and check temps – it’s a bit cooler at the top – nice in summer!). The last ¼ back there were A LOT more people heading down, glad we got there early. We LOVED this trail.

By sweet_karma1978 |

Not at all dangerous is you are careful. Go early before the clouds come in (we started at 8:30). The most beautiful hike in hawaii with the best views. It is good that the hike is not well advertised but for anyone in average shape, this will be the best hike you can do in hawaii.

By Zain J |

This was another trip highlight. However, only do this trail when it is dry. Moreover, you must go early. If you're not on the trail by 8:30, chances are you're gonna get socked in by clouds and have no view. The trail isn't particularly strenuous when dry, but it was super challenging when wet. If you're super scared of heights, stop at the first or second grassy point. If you can get to the end, the view is incredible. The drop-off isn't so so bad, just walk carefully. I would recommend hiking boots since the dirt on the trail can be somewhat loose in the more dangerous areas. Round-trip for us was an hour and a half. I would recommend going to Waimea Canyon after your hike.

By bjhempowers |

My relatives call this "The Top of the World" hike. And it was truly an amazing hike. It gets you right out on the tip of a ridge that overlooks the, Kalalau Valley and also the beach for that valley. Fun fantastic hike

By Sarah H |

I read a lot about this trail before going but still wasn't sure what to expect when I got there. It was tricky but totally worth it.

The trail is permanently closed but, as everyone else mentioned, you can still access it but do so with caution! I really wanted to do the hike so that I could get a little slice of the Napali heaven with the road to the north and Kalalau trail still being closed. Begin by going around the green fence all the way on the left. I would just assume it is ALWAYS muddy since it is wet pretty frequently up there. On the way down it is steep and slippery. My husband bailed about 10 minutes in but I went on. I was wearing Keens and still slipped and fell about 5 or 6 times just because the ground was so wet. They were pretty funny "laugh out loud" falls so I am sad no one was with me to enjoy the humor. It gets worse before it gets better and there are lots of parts that are hard to navigate- that is just because of the mud. While doing the trail I did not feel nervous at all about being close to the edge. After about 25 minutes things start to level off and you get to see the beautiful and breathtaking view. I stopped about every two feet to take photos and videos. The way back is MUCH easier since you can get some traction in the mud. I zipped back up in no time! Highly recommend but be ready to go slow and probably fall..

By agneeri |

This might be my best hike ever! Not too long, not too hard, you have mountains, waterfalls, valley and ocean! We were lucky with conditions, since it was dry. Hike was fairly easy, I am sure in muddy conditions it may be challenging, but over all it is not bad at all. And mostly after 10-15 min of hiking down valley starts opening up and you are awarded with most breathtaking views! we went all the way till the end and it was amazing. Again if trail is super muddy or it is raining I would not want to hike it, but if it is good I would do it over and over again!

By cjwendt |

This is not a hike for the faint of heart. The views are fantastic, but a misstep to either side of the narrow trail could be tragic. I would only recommend adventuring out on this unofficial trail with an experienced local guide on a clear morning.

By abyss64 |

If you're in good shape, I'd actually rate this hike as easy. I'm in my 40s and ok shape, and I found it to be easy/moderate. It is definitely MUCH easier than the Nualolo and Awa'awapuhi trails.

The trailhead is at the Kalalau Lookout. Parking is $10 per car, plus $5 per person. Once you buy the parking pass, it can be used at all the other lookouts for the rest of the day. Head to the left and you'll find the dirt path that is the start of the trailhead. There are two paths. Stick to the one on the right, which hugs the main fence. If you have a fear of heights, there's an alternate path that goes along what appears to be a newly constructed chain link fence, which is on the left. This will keep you well away from edge and will also get you to the end of the trail, but the downside is that you'll miss all the awesome views along the way.

The entire trail is surprisingly very well maintained for it being an "unofficial" trail. The trickiest part is the beginning because of the mud. When I went, there wasn't a ton of mud, but it was enough to make it very slippery. I actually slipped a couple times, so you need to go carefully and slowly in the beginning. The "three points of contact" rule definitely should be utilized here. The mud eventually cleared up and by the time I reached the section where you walk along the edge of the cliff, the trail was completely dry. I would NOT do this trail if it's been raining heavily.

Regarding the views, there is nothing more I can say that the other reviews haven't already covered. Simply amazing! If you can do only one hike up in Waimea/Koke'e, I would recommend this one. I have also done the Nualolo and Awa'awapuhi, but this one is MUCH easier, shorter, and less steep than those, and also has better views, imo. Don't get me wrong, the others are also great, but this one has much better bang for your buck.

On the way back, there are some steep sections, but they are short and very doable. I was surprised how quickly I made it back.

This hike is not to be missed!

By Andrew K |

I stumbled across the Kalepa Ridge trail when I was at the Kalalau Valley Lookout. At the lookout, follow the fence to the left to the gate and go through it. This is the start of the trail and you return the same way.

I began this trail thinking it was a short lookout, when somebody told me it is actually a hike. I asked my wife if she didn't mind me doing it (she would never do such a precarious hike) and she said it was okay to go. I ran to the car, grabbed my hiking shoes and started.

If you think the views of the valley are good from the lookout, just wait until you go on this trail. This trail offers the biggest bang for your buck for a good view than any I have ever been on (I hike a lot!). The trail is short and can be completed in an hour if you go quickly like I did (likely going to take 2 hours if you stop a lot, which you will!).

I basically hiked the trail with my jaw on the ground the entire time. I cannot believe how beautiful this hike is and I am STUNNED it is not one of the most popular trails in Kauai, it is that good. It can get a little precarious with the trail close to cliff edges that would result in certain death if you fell, just be careful with your footing and make sure to wear appropriate shoes. If it is muddy and slippy (it was dry for me), it may not be a good idea to go unless you are very confident of yourself. I also wouldn't do it with children or if you aren't very mobile.

The hike leads downhill for the most part so is actually a little trickier on the outward journey but far more tiring on the return leg. There are innumerable lookouts along the way that keep getting better and better. But do not stop until you reach the very end! You are rewarded with a complete view of the Na Pali coast, beaches and all! You can also get a photo of yourself with nothing but sky in the background.

Honestly, do this trail. It is relatively easy, quick and the views are out of this world. This was the BEST thing I did in Kauai, hands down.

By Savvytravelist2 |

Great hike past the Kalalau lookout.
As the trail progresses the views get better and better. Not a great hike for those that are afraid of heights. The end of the trail has some of the most beautiful views from the top of the NaPali cliffs. 3500ft above the Ocean. Trail is narrow and borders the cliffs edge for much of the hike.

By Laura W |

My husband and I had 5 hours without our kids during our week in Hawaii, and I'm so glad we did this hike. I would avoid it if it's been rainy recently (even during a dry period, I slipped toward the beginning and ended up with a muddy butt), but otherwise it didn't feel dangerous for two reasonably fit 40-somethings. The views are so incredible that you feel like you're staring at a green screen. I wish we hadn't spent a lot of time admiring the views and taking photos near the beginning because the views just got so much more amazing as we went along!

By Kauai Tai Chi |

This used to be one of our favorite trails. In recent years, it had become a zoo with litter, toilet paper, bottles and debris marring the experience. Overuse and disrespect by people who have disturbed the natural vegetation that prevents erosion has damaged the area and the ridge trail is now undercut and liable to sudden collapse. The DLNR has closed the trail for safety reasons and because of overuse by people who damage the land by not walking in harmony with it. STAY OUT

By Matt W |

Completing this hike was one of the coolest things I've done in my life. For one, the trail is not obvious (you need to enter through a gate at the Kilaulau Lookout). There are very few people on the trail because of this, which is good, because it's narrow! I have a pretty serious fear of heights, but I would suggest not letting that stop you if you have a fear of heights as well. There are a few places where you're only a few feet from the edge of the ridge, but I never felt like I was in true danger. Also, be warned this hike can be difficult at points. It immediately starts with a steep descent which inevitably means you need to come back up. Our group was pretty winded by the end even though it's only a 2 mile hike. We were pretty slow stopping to take pictures, but it took us just about an hour and a half. I HIGHLY recommend this hike! Just be careful on the path, and consider going with a guide.

By misterxdanman |

Would strongly advise to only go in dry conditions!

Even thought the weather report was supposed to be dry and a little overcast, when we got up to Kalalau Lookout around 9:30 am it was raining pretty steadily. We considered heading out on the trail anyways, but wisely decided to head to the sunny beach instead and return the next day.

We def lucked out the next day, and arrived around 9:00 am to dry and clear skies, and we came much more prepared with long hiking pants and jackets (but still only had running shoes with us). There were several parts of the trail that were still very muddy from the rain the day before, and it made descending extremely challenging and frankly, pretty dangerous; in particular, the beginning part of the final stretch. Both my wife and I (30’s, moderate level of fitness) slipped in the mud more than once, but luckily slid straight down and not off the side and over the edge. We agreed that hiking boots would not have helped much. Evidence of earlier hikers who had slipped essentially turned some of the downhill portions into a slide, and while descending was treacherous, on our return back up, we were climbing up on our hands and knees to prevent from sliding.

That being said, we were rewarded to the most amazing views of the entire coast and the gods smiled down on us with clear, 360 degree views.

We will def be returning, but only after at least 3-4 days of dry conditions!

By KABittel |

Unable to hike along the Na-Pali coast due to rains, it was recommended we hike this trail. We are grateful for the suggestion. The start of the trail was difficult, largely due to the mud. After the start, the trail was considerably easier. The clods came in and left, creating a constantly changing view into the valley below. At the end we were treated to an amazing view of the Na-Pali coast from above. Breathtaking, probably the most beautiful trail I've been on ever.

By JMV |

The gate to the trail is now locked, but we just hopped over the fence, as did many others we saw on the trail. I would not recommend taking younger kids on this trail as it is very muddy and slippery in spots, along with some narrow ridges. I’d also recommend going on a sunny day. We lucked out and had beautiful weather but were still covered in mud! The hike in is pretty much all down hill, so as I saw suggested while reading about this trail before doing it, conserve some energy for the hike back up! We took our time, stopping for lots of pictures, and some lunch, and it only took us 1.5hrs to do! Totally worth the hike just for the views you get.

By Lars B |

Very steep 200 ft descent, more climbing than hiking, for the first 500 ft, then a mostly level walk on the top of a ridge. Strenuous. This is not an official trail, as it is dangerous and not maintained.
Great views of Kalalau Valley.

By Saffron G |

This hike is awesome for anyone who wants to see the best views in Kauai. Our family took it all in, however it was quite windy when we were out (take caution)!

Note- You need to locate the fence near the drive in look out and go around the fence to access the trail. It seems kinda sketchy at first but tons of people access the trail each day and you will most likely run into others during your hike.

I would not recommend going out during strong winds/rain! This area of the island gets rain daily, but some areas are VERY close to the cliff edge, and you may need to hike along the fence instead. Your shoes WILL be muddy afterwards and going to the seven mile beach after wards was a perfect way to relax for us. (To access some parts of the beach your car may need 4wheeldrive) if you do have it, definitely check out the beach it is beautiful.

Overall this is a hike you cannot miss. Out of everything we did on the island, this was the most fun and special memory I made. Bring lots of water! The way back is much harder :)

By MikeBooker |

You definitely want to start early before any clouds move in. We were on the trail by 7 am. The trail was nice and dry. I wouldn't recommend never doing it after rain. This is not a State maintained trail, but a hunter's goat trial. This is not a trail for anyone that has trouble with heights It is very narrow with steep drop offs. With all that said it is one of our favorite hikes. The views are amazing all along the way. You don't have to hike the whole way to get gorgeous views, but the views get better and better the further you go. It cumulates at the very end with the best view ever of the Kalalau valley and the Napali coast. Another plus to going early is there was already anybody on the trail. We past many hikers on the way back, but by that time the clouds had moved in blocking the amazing view. We had plenty of water, snacks, hiking boots and hiking sticks and we recommend you do the same for an enjoyable experience. Have fun!

By 929colleeng |

This is a beautiful, scenic hike. The trail is very narrow in parts and when it is muddy it can be very slippery. Try to go early before the fog rolls in. We barely missed seeing the coast from the end of the trail without the fog, but it was gorgeous. I am not afraid of heights but looking down made me pretty nervous in some places. I am 99% sure we lost a small silver digital camera in a black and white case on the hike- if found, please email me at kauaicamera@gmail.com. Thanks!

By Even V |

Did this hike around noon, no problems with clouds. Parts of the trail is quite steep, and some parts are narrow. But definitely worth visiting! Awesome view and picture opportunitys!

By JRWhyte |

We hiked the trail today in absolute perfect conditions. It hasn't rained in days and the trail is almost mud-free. The steep area near the start was still slippery going down but easy getting back up. We walked for about an hour, which I guess was a mile or more in. At that point the erosion was very close to the trail and made us uneasy so we turned back. The views of Kalalau Ridge were breathtaking! The trail runs inches from steep cliff edges and so it is not for the faint of heart. *I would definitely not attempt this trail after or during rain. It's far too dangerous for ether losing footing or collapse of the trail itself. Wait for 2+ days of consecutive sun. Do not bring children.*

By Penina G |

Spectacular views of Na'Pali coast! Hiked with my 19-year old son who said it was one of the best hikes ever! We hiked in the morning when sky was crystal clear which may have been unusually lucky. recommend starting early before the clouds roll in. Especially when there are no permits available for the Kalalau trail, this was a great way to see the Na'Pali Coast and the landscape (other than by boat or helicopter) Magnificent.

By Coastal245853 |

This trail is amazing! Took us 1 and a half hour, and brings you to beautiful point of view. It is steep so watch your step and sometimes narrow, but it absolutly worth it!

By kimer4 |

We decided to hike the Kalepa Trail (sometimes called the Airplane Trail) on our second day in Kauai. We had a partly cloudy day so for part of our hike we were in the clouds and for some of it it was clear. We are not hikers - we walk quite a bit but not anywhere with elevation. The trail was a little challenging at times but absolutely worth it. Everyone that went with us was in ok shape physically. Wear a shoe with good treads - we actually saw people hiking barefoot! You will encounter a lot of elevation changes so you will climb up and down to get to the end of the trail. I would NOT take children on this hike - it's just too steep of a drop off on one or both sides of the trail (at times). The views are crazy good everywhere you look. The entire hike took about 3 hours total. The hike back was more difficult than the hike out - seems like you climb up a lot more on the hike back. We were lucky and it was a dry day but if it had been raining the trail would have been too dangerous in spots to hike. There are places to stop on the trail to rest which we did. Bring water with you for sure as well as a bandana if you tend to sweat. Everyone in our group enjoyed the hike and all said they would do it again.

By Pasindu W |

Kalepa Ridge Trail was our first hike in Kauai up in the Waimea Canyon area. We are in our mid 20s and in decent shape but no means consider ourselves experienced hikers. The first time we came here, the entire place was super cloudy (visibility was less than 100ft) and it was drizzling. As we attempted to hike down the extremely muddly and slippery trail, our gut told us to turn back and come back the next day.

And wow, weren't we glad that we did! The next morning (9am), we arrived at a super clear Kalalua Lookout (where the trail begins) and marveled at the majestic view of the emerald mountains and sapphire oceans, knowing that 24hrs earlier, everything was hidden by clouds. After taking some pictures, we walked through the opening in the fence and started our amazing hike. We wore hiking boots, long pants, and took hiking sticks with us. But we also saw more experienced people doing it barefoot without any poles. If you know what you're doing, you can manage fine in shorts and tennis shoes. As long as the trail isn't super muddy and slippery.

The first part was probably one of the most challenging sections of the hike. The trail descends few hundred feet really fast and even on a good day, some parts could still be wet and cause you to slip if you aren't paying attention. Try not to slip because falling down on this trail will not lead to good things. As we kept going further in, the views just kept getting better and better. Once you get to the end, the views are second to none. If it's cloudy, wait several mins and hopefully they will depart and leave a very pretty picture behind.

If you are an experienced hiker, the trail actually keeps going further down (yes, the views get even better but so does the risk factor). We knew our limits so we stopped were the official trail stopped.

The hike back isn't as difficult as people made it sound. Going uphill can be a bit more challenging just because it takes some effort to climb back up. Take lots of water (and snacks if you want) because it definitely dehydrates you, especially if the sun is out.

This was definitely one of the coolest things I've done on this island and I can't wait to try the other trails around this area!

By Gil40100 |

This is one of the best ones... Not official in the park but known by lot of local people and easy to find. Don't forget it if you have good shoes, water, no rain and not the vertigo...
You will find the start at the Kalalau lockout. At the fence where you see the view, on the left you'll find a little door in the fence to go down... Its there.
The shorter trail to join a point of view in the park, but it's steep, very steep sometimes and if it's slippery don't do it, it could be dangerous.
Because a big part of the way, you walk close (very close) to the edge with the heights at 30 cm...
But if you are ready, prepare yourself to a great pleasure for the eyes. All the way you could see on your right, the incredible green valley of Kalalau, magical views, with the coast appearing little by little. And at the end-end, mystic, breathtaking, beautiful is weak...You'll discover what I meaned by yourself... Good way.

By mermsm |

This trail starts at the Kalalau Lookout, it's about a mile or so one way, and is not for the beginner - at least not without someone with experience. The hike out I would say is hard only because it is very steep and you have to be aware of footing as the rock is loose and slides easily underfoot. There are views almost the entire way... it's literally breathtaking. It took us about an hour to reach the end of the cliff, though we stopped a few times to take in the gorgeous views. And to watch the goats.
Watch your footing, take sunscreen, and water. The hike back is definitely more physically demanding as the last portion of it seems to be all straight up. However, we made it back in about 30 minutes.
Another tip- much of the path is lined with ferns and brush that scrape and scratch your legs and torso as you walk through. If this worries you, pants may be a good idea.

By Brody C |

This hike is only 1.6 miles round trip and offers an absolutely awesome experience of walking into the Kalalau valley. My favorite hike that we did and a good alternative to the closed Kalalau Trail.

By lmcq11 |

Some people would consider this trail as "Extreme" hiking.This is for the adventurous people who are not scared of heights. Should be done on a sunny day when the trail is not slippery, and the views will be fantastic. It is relatively short but the first 1/4 mile is strenuous. Along with the Kalalau trail, this is the best hike on the Kauai island. Highly recommended if you know what you are doing. Avoid going there with small children as I could not imagine kids running around loose on this trail. The trail entrance is on the left side at the Kalalau lookout, there is a door so you do not need to go above or under the fence. Enjoy but be very careful, you can definitely harm yourself here.

By KauaiPhotoWorkshops |

muddy trail with a dangerous drop at ever turn. we got covered in mud and scratched up by thorns. this is not an official trail and its not worth it. there a good chance that someone could die on this trail. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.

By nmctravels42 |

Simply put, this was the best hike we did in all of Kauai. As we were hiking, we had steep cliffs, waterfalls, rainbows, ocean views that overwhelm your senses. It was truly what I would imagine Eden to have looked like. Even if you do not go all the way to the end, take 15-20 mins to go down the first part and out onto the begging part of the ridge still provides amazing views of the Kalalau Valley. The early part is not very exposed and the payoff is incredible. Like most other hikes on Kauai it was muddy in places. Try to go right after the rain clouds clear up and you will be truly rewarded.

By Natalie B |

I agree with other reviews, this is worth a visit but you do have to watch every step! There are plenty of spots to stop in a safe vantage point and watch the clouds roll through the beautiful Kalalau valley. In muddy enough conditions, I would not have gotten very far before turning around, as at times the trail is slanting down towards the drop off!

By KCaissey |

This is one of the best hikes I have ever ever done - will be hard to beat! Pretty short hike
(2ish miles round trip for us) - definitely a bit technical going down the trail and steep in parts on each side. Worth the views!!!

By Fargotour |

The trail is usually foggy after 9am when clouds move in the valley. The best time to see the amazing view at the end of the trail is normally around 8:30-9:00am, which means you definitely want to arrive at the entrance and start your hike before 7:30am. This hunter trail is my favorite hiking trail on Kauai, but I won't recommend you to hike there alone. Kalepa Ridge Trail is not the official trail so it won't be maintained as well as those trails in Koke'e State Park.

By Bianchi |

Most definitely this hike was jam packed with scenery that might bring a tear to your eyes! We hiked with our 13 and 11 year olds and we are all quite physically fit, avid hikers from Colorado. I strongly suggest trekking poles for the hike back out along with super treads on your shoes which my trail running shoes did not. This is quite steep in sections with drop offs. One needs to hike mindfully and in no hurry...and possibly with much courage! Well worth it but possibly the scariest hike I have ever done in my nearly 40 years of hiking!!

By edy02 |

This is off the beaten track and not an official trail. However, this is by far and away the best hike in Kauai. I read a few reviews that said to use caution. That is true, but as long as you are pretty active this is well worth your time. The views are epic. The worst part of the trail is the beginning, by far this is the steepest area but whatever you do do not stop until the end. You will have pictures above the clouds on the edge of the earth. To find this trail, enter into Ko (cannot spell correctly) State Park after Waimea. There is a lookout with a green chain link fence and a gate opened in the fence. This is your path! If there are clouds, be patient, the weather clears every ten minutes or so. Have a blast!!

By Deimantele |

The locals call this hike Insiders tip. It is not recommended in rainy weather as the hike is steep and can be very slippery. The hike starts behind the Fence of Kalalau Lokout and at the beginning goes steeply down. We started the hike early in the morning at around 9:00 a.m. After a small hike in the bush you get treated by magnificent views nearly all the time and if you are lucky you will see mountain goats in the area. The hike requires some level of fitness but definitely pays off if you are not afraid of heights. Some parts of it towards the end are very steep and at one point there is a path of just 50 cm width and from left and right is a drop-off (a bit scary but doable). We met couple more people on the way, but it was not too crowded. We got some clouds comming in at the non which made the experience even more interresting. Enjoy :)

By Vivienne D |

Amazing trail with a stunning view on the Kalalau valley. Do it in the morning as early as you can to avoid the helicopter noise. The trail is not as dangerous as advertised but you definitely need sports shoes at least and the heights can be scary to people who are afraid naturally.