Kalalau Trail

Hike Name: Kalalau Trail Location: west HI Length: 11 Submitted by: Jodie Sandell Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more Hawaii trail reviews Hawaii national parks Hawaii state parks
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Description
The first two miles of the Kalalau Trail are well-traveled and fairly populated, as
Hanakapi'ai Beach (the 2-mile marker) attracts many tourists. Hiking beyond the beach (complete with caves and paradisiacal energy), spectacular views of the coastline continually reward you. With a pallet of colors for a painter's fantasy and a level of terrain for a hiker's haven, the Kalalau Trail proves truly unreal. The 2,400-foot elevation persistently challenges those fortunate enough to tread along these grounds. At times, the route can be quite forgiving -- forgiving enough to allow for a moment of distraction to admire the intensely blue Pacific, dotted with kayaks, sailboats, and dolphins; to gape at the green grasses and plants grazed by goats; to revere the red, rolling hills of volcanic produce. However, in other regions of the quickly eroding coast, a split second of diversion will send feet slipping, arms scrambling, and heads scraping. To survive this trail, water and rest are crucial. You will hike past several pools (which will chill your sun-fried body and hydrate it, as well). Many stop to cook, camp, and enjoy Na Pali coast's surreal beauty on their journey to Kalalau Valley. Designated camping areas are located at 2 miles (Hanakapi'ai Beach), 6 miles (Hanakoa Valley), and 8 miles. Permits are free, but required.

Directions to Hike
Head north on Highway 56 out of Kapa'a. Passing through Anahola, Kilauea, Hanalei, and Ha'ena provides enchanting scenery, narrow roads, and several one-lane bridges to cross. When you reach the end of the road, you have arrived at Ke'e Beach (and the trailhead). The well-marked starting point is located on the left side of the parking lot. It is best to be dropped off here if you plan to spend the night along the trail or in the valley. Break-ins can and do occur, thus take precaution. A payphone sits next to the restrooms at the beach (so you can call a taxi upon your return), or you can always depend on the kindness of strangers and hitchhike.

Contact Information
Division of State Parks
3060 Eiwa Street, Room 306
Lihu'e, HI 96766-1875
(808) 274 - 3444

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