Kalalau Trail Inquiry

Question

Planning on hiking the "first two miles" of Kalalau Trail. I have a few questions regarding directions and how this trail works. I am no experienced hiker but relatively in shape and can handle a few miles.

Do you drive up the mountain and begin at the Kalalau Lookout? It claims the hike is downhill, so I am assuming you drive up to the top and begin hiking down then hike 2 more miles back up to where you began? Or do you start at the bottom, hike up, and its like a loop?

Also do you pass the Pu'u O Kila lookout during this hike? OR is that a different trail?

Answer

The Kalalau Trail is one of the most beautiful and famous hikes in Hawaii, offering stunning views of the Na Pali Coast. It is known for its challenging terrain and dramatic landscapes. If you’re planning to hike the first two miles, here’s a breakdown of the trail and answers to your questions:

Trail Start and Directions:

You do not begin the Kalalau Trail at the Kalalau Lookout. Instead, the hike starts at the end of the road at the Ke’e Beach parking lot, which is located on the North Shore of Kauai. The Kalalau Trailhead is right at the Ke’e Beach, and from there, you can begin your hike along the coastline.

The first part of the trail is relatively downhill, but it is important to note that it is not a "loop" trail. Instead, you will be hiking a one-way path that takes you along the Na Pali coastline. For the first two miles, you will be heading towards Hanakapiai Beach. After hiking two miles to Hanakapiai Beach, you would simply turn around and retrace your steps back to the trailhead (Ke’e Beach), completing the same route in reverse. There is no option to loop back or take an alternative route once you reach the two-mile mark.

Hiking Directions and Terrain:

The Kalalau Trail is not a loop trail, so there’s no need to hike up and back. Instead, you will hike the first two miles in one direction, then return the same way. The hike starts from the Ke’e Beach parking lot, goes downhill (initially), and leads you to Hanakapiai Beach. From Hanakapiai Beach, the trail continues towards Kalalau Valley, but the first two miles are the most commonly hiked segment.

The terrain is a mix of muddy and rocky paths, with some steep sections, so be prepared for a bit of a challenge, especially since you mentioned you’re not an experienced hiker. The trail is not overly difficult for someone in good shape, but it does require care, especially in wet conditions, as the trail can be slippery. Since you’re hiking only the first two miles, the hardest part will likely be the final stretch before reaching Hanakapiai Beach.

Start at Ke’e Beach: The Kalalau Trail begins at Ke’e Beach, located at the end of the road in the North Shore of Kauai.
First Two Miles: The first two miles of the trail lead to Hanakapiai Beach, which is the turnaround point for this shorter hike.
Return the Same Way: After reaching Hanakapiai Beach, turn around and hike back to the Ke’e Beach parking lot, retracing your steps along the same route.

Does the Trail Pass the Pu’u O Kila Lookout?

The Kalalau Trail itself does not pass the Pu’u O Kila Lookout. The Pu’u O Kila Lookout is located on a different trail called the Pihea Trail, which starts from the Kalalau Lookout, at the end of the road near the Waimea Canyon. This lookout offers breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast, but you would need to hike the Pihea Trail to access it. The Pihea Trail connects with the Kalalau Trail further along, but if you are sticking to the first two miles, you will not pass by the Pu’u O Kila Lookout.

Kalalau Trail: Starts at Ke’e Beach, and the first two miles are a coastal hike to Hanakapiai Beach.
Pihea Trail: This is a separate trail from the Kalalau Trail and leads to the Pu’u O Kila Lookout.

Additional Tips:

Bring plenty of water: Although the hike is relatively short, it can still be strenuous, especially in the warm weather. Make sure to stay hydrated.
Wear sturdy footwear: The trail can be muddy and rocky, so good hiking shoes are recommended.
Watch the weather: Kauai is known for its unpredictable weather, so check the forecast before you go and be prepared for rain.
Plan for enough time: The hike to Hanakapiai Beach and back typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and the conditions of the trail.

The Kalalau Trail is an incredible experience, and while the first two miles are a great introduction, make sure to be prepared and take your time. Enjoy your hike, and stay safe!