[HAWAII] UPDATED 1/20/23: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area WATER OFFLINE in the park, facilities impacted. The hike took us about 2.5 hours each way. Kauai's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Kauai's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. When you reach the falls, you will be in awe of its size and beauty. Found in Koke`e State Park this trail winds through a highland forest with occasional ridge top views. I used them last year while in oahu and next week I'll be heading to kauai. Did this hike yesterday. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 46 min to complete. Marvel at the views of the sea as you approach the junction with the Nualolo Cliff Trail. But the views are much better than those from the Awaawapuhi Trail. Also, try to pick a sunny day (as much as possible). All Rights Reserved. The rocks can be very crumbly and no step is certain on the ridges out in Kokee State Park. It only takes about an hour and a half each way along the total of six miles out and back journey. Found solitude along this somewhat rugged trail but no flowing water at the stream. Don't try this -- ever. 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. There are four pieces of gear that I simply never forget when I go on a hike. Chilly if you start early, but toasty on the return. Awa'awapuhi Trail Location: Koke'e State Park, Kekaha, Kauai, HI Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Distance: 6.7 miles When to go: June to August Awa'awapuhi Trail is 3.3 miles (one way) well-marked hike descends 1,200 feet to a truly amazing vista of the cathedrals of the Na Pali Coast. Awa Awapuhi Hike Trail guide on the beautiful Island of Kauai. I love your hiking tips. Footing is extremely unstable, and the drop to the valley floor below is over 2,000 feet. Photo: David Nemecek/Shutterstock, There are a few tips that can help you make the most of your experience on the Awa awapuhi Trail and in Kokee State Park. I would not go so far as buy cleats but if you have them then they would be a great plus. The trail is much wider than the Nualolo Trail and the Nualolo Cliff Trail, so no more thorny bushes on your legs or tree branches whacking you in the face. The Nualolo Cliff Trail ends at the much wider and better maintained Awaawapuhi Trail. If you only plan to hike the Nualolo Trail, you will retrace your steps back to the car from here. Like a lot of Kauai hiking trails, you'll follow a ridgeline with continuous views of the Na Pali Coast. The scenery along the three-mile, downhill hike . * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. For a shortlist of shorter hikes on Kauai, you can check out my Easy Hikes Guide for Kauai. Photo [] Awa'awapuhi Trail. Or would recommend for the Awaawapuhi Trail as far as the best views. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! The first part of this hike is relatively easy since its pretty much all down hill. One of our favorites is the Awa Awa'apuhi trail. As of now, the trail is closed for the foreseeable future. Clouds started to sock us in around 2pm. So for hikes in Hawaii the immense vistas of Waihe'e Gorge, tumbling waterfalls and the wild northern coast of Maui makes the Waihe'e Ridge Trail a must-do. There is a sign on either side of the trail at this point marking the start of the Nualolo Cliff Trail. Impeccable views due to sunny weather with blue skies. This trail also heads along the cliffs. Hawaiis Awa awapuhi Trail is an incredible experience for anyone lucky enough to have a day to spend hiking in Hawaii. Still, it was enough to make my legs wobbly and fill my stomach with butterflies. Absolute favorite hike on the Hawaiian islands. Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more! ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. slippery down hill, check weather, long hike for fog. That had to mean the weather was clear enough for helicopter tours, right? Are there many hikers there? If it has recently rained, the descents on the clay can be very slippery. You get a bigger bang for your buck if you only hike the Nualolo Trail OR the Awaawapuhi Trail out-and-back. If you decide to take all the connecting trails, you're looking at a 9-mile trek. The beginning of the trail is a relatively mellow stroll through the high forest. On this trail, you will hike in and out of the trees, and by midday, this part of the hike can feel very warm. 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. The trail is quite rocky at the start and we heard that it is very slippery if its rained. We started at 8am and there wasn't anyone else on the trail except for 1 other couple. 37 reviews of Awa'awapuhi Trail "Great 6-mile round-trip hike with a very rewarding ending. This forest reserve area is managed as wilderness because of the rich variety of native dryland plant species thriving in it (a plant guide is available). PRO HIKING TIP: If you are afraid of heights, this trail could be very challenging. Don;t worry too much and carry what you need but don't load yourself down as it is a long day. The trail is in Kokee State Park on the island of Kauai and is a moderately-challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The man, reportedly in his 70s, was near a scenic outlook when he fell onto some boulders. Normally takes us 3. This is not a hike that I would recommend for newbie hikers. This is a small parking lot and there are no restrooms. Ride ONLY on designated trails and obey all traffic controldevices. Not much to see until then. Kinda boring except for the view at the end. You may run into a few fellow hikers on your way, as mountain goats like to cling to the steep slopes. 3 miles into the hike, the views really start to get good. Heading down the Awaawapuhi Trail might give you some false confidence about how easy the hike will be. When kids went ahead it was sunny and bright. The trail may be accessed by transiting Koke'e State Park, which remains closed. 3 comments share save hide report Kokee State Park is in the northwest of Kauai; the closest popular tourist area is Waimea, to the south. The trail starts off with a short, steep climb through the woods but it doesnt last long. There will still be many steep descents, sometimes on a sandy trail and at other times on muddy dark red clay. 360-degrees of pure Kauai magic! Our website uses cookies. 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. Breaking News In Yuba County Spoiler. Its about a 45-minute drive to reach the trailhead. Lyrics, Song Meanings, Videos, Full Albums & Bios: Clap Your Hands (Frederick Alonso Remix), Aqua, Desert Storm, Isar Flowing, Freedom Is Timeless, Drunken Butterfly (Reto Ardour Remix), Sundays Best (Funtom Remix), Lives And The Evenings, Ma House's Deep Start early: This will help you avoid any potential afternoon storms. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Small lookouts along the way feed your motivation to reach the end. This is a must do if you have the time! Check it again.Takes about an 90 mins down and lots of time will be spent trying to secure a footing. Its a boring walk and dangerous, so stay close to the shoulder of the road. Most of the trail is in a forest, so its shady most of the way. the trail ends abruptly on the ridge top, at 2, 500 ft. elevation, affording spectacular views down sheer cliffs into awaawapuhi and nualolo valleys overlooking the pacific ocean. We had a group of 7 middle aged folks with college kids and allotted 4 hours for the hike but ended up being close to 6 hours with 3 of them barely making it back. The dramaticdrop-offs on either side of the Awaawapuhi ridge were something you dont see anywhere else in the world. Downhill 1600 feet slipping and sliding, we all took a tumble. You can get by with running shoes (I did the first time I did this but I slipped a lot) but hiking or trail running shoes with good traction will make your life a lot easier. I believe it was a little over 6 miles round trip. Join our newsletter for exclusive features, tips, giveaways! NUALOLO CLIFF TRAIL ON KAUAI, HAWAII - Journey Era, [] way to continue to the lookout. Find the parking lot near mile marker 17 along Koke'e Road and suit up for one of the most amazing views on the whole island. [OAHU] UPDATED 3/2/23: Puu o Mahuka Heiau State Monument IsCLOSED due to high winds and heavy rain. If you only have time for one hike on the west side of Kauai, this is your trail. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. If you're visiting Kauai soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Kauai Visitor Guides. I will say that we recommend several things before you head out. Dec 16, 2015, 04:52 PM EST. You dont see any in our photos because we started very early but we saw a bunch of hikers on the return part of the hike. Take your time: Enjoy the experience and take time to take in your surroundings. The Honopu Ridge trail is not well kept, so it is somewhat more difficult to follow, moderately strenuous but much shorter in length. Copyright 2023, State of Hawaii. The first time was in 1999. 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. Please Note: Due to erosion, Nu'alolo Cliff Trail is occasionally closed near the junction with Nu'alolo Trial. more, Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Fall Hike Adventure, Kauai's Ultimate South Island Zodiac Boat Snorkel Adventure, Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai, Half-Day Kayak and Waterfall Hike Tour in Kauai with Lunch, Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks, LUCKY LADY - Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour, Kauai Adventure Bundle: 4 Epic Audio Driving Tours, Kauai's Ultimate Guided Shore (NO BOAT) Snorkeling Adventure, A challenging hike leads to gorgeous views. Find out what we carry in our day packs and what we wear on the trails. When we reached it was bit cloudy, but we waited 15 minutes and it cleared. The trail is not too difficult, just bring lots of water if it's hot. It is before the Kalalau lookout but still takes well over 30 minutes to reach there from Waimea Town. 93% of travelers recommend this experience. The hike to the viewpoint is downhill, so prepare yourself for the thigh burner on the way out. Description Kauai's Awa'awapuhi Trail is a moderately difficult hike which starts in Kkee State Park and traverses the gorgeous Npali-Kona Forest Reserve. We wore shorts and short-sleeved shirts. Oceanfront 'Laguna Beach House' A/C .Amazing SunsetsBeach - TVNCU #1074, View all hotels near Awaawapuhi Trail on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Awaawapuhi Trail on Tripadvisor, Gate of Heaven: East Bali Private Full Day Tour - All Inclusive, Day Trip to North Seymour Island from Puerto Ayora, 4 Days, 3 Nights Sailing Catamaran Experience in the Exumas, Bahamas, Big Island Hawaii Self-Guided Driving Tour, From Thessaloniki to Halkidiki: Private Day Trip to Kassandra, 'Kelip Kelip' Fireflies Tour include Seafood Dinner & Boat Ride. The end of the trail leads to cliffs on the sea side. An elderly man reportedly fell 30 feet head first off the Mariner's Ridge Trail Sunday during a club outing. 60 Likes, 6 Comments - AdventureSeekerUS (@adventureseekerus) on Instagram: "Awa'awapuhi trail. Trail goes all the way down to view point and comes back" At this point, you have hiked 6.6 miles. 7 Vancouver, BC, Parks for Nature, Hiking, Mountain Biking, andMore, The 400-Mile Jordan Trail Is the Ultimate Hike for Culture and Nature Buffs, This Angels Landing Video Gives a POV of Zion's Famously Scary Hike, This Strenuous Hike in Yosemite Is Worth It for the Epic Views, Hike With a Shelter Dog on an Adorable 'Dog Field Trip' in Kauai, Hawaii, This Is Why Capitol Peak, Colorado, Is the State's Hardest 14K Mountain, Hike To the Top of 2,000-Foot-Tall Cliffs in This British ColumbiaPark, Discover Stunning Crater Lakes at This Extinct Volcano Outside Mexico City, The "World's Most Dangerous Footpath" Is Now Totally Safe ToHike, Download the Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. Awaawapuhi Trail DANGER: Do not venture beyond the safety railing at the end of the trail! As other have mentioned, not much to see in the way of views until the end, but interesting flora. 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. If you are allergic to grass, wear or bring long pants. Is the Nualolo Trail and Awaawapuhi Trail Loop Worth It? To get to the end of the Awaawapuhi Trail (and Kokee Road), it is a 3 mile hike and the majority of this will be uphill. 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. 87 Followers, 108 Following, 30 Posts - See Instagram photos and videos from Awaawapuhi trail (@awaawapuhitrail) Hey yall! Then Awa'awapuhi Trail is your cup of tea. Now, its a 1.8 mile walk along Kokee Road back to your car and its mostly downhill from here. Awaawapuhi Trail Location West Kauai Region multiple_stop Length ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. 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. After my first slip into the mud, I decided to just own the experience. Muddy but vista is epic. Permit must be permanently & properly adhered to the machine in a front-facing and visible manner. Once you reach the end we recommend that you DO NOTventure beyond the railings, since there are precipitous drops on both sides and the ground can be deceptively slippery even when dry, as the small red rock scree erodes easily. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. You find mile markers by each quarter mile, that seems to make the hike easier for us. And out of the two, all four of us unanimously agree that the Nualolo Trail is the more thrilling and enjoyable of the two trails. One of the best here. We often do the loop, but if The weather moooostly cooperated and we got in a few hikes to some epic viewpoints, the first of which was the Awaawapuhi trail in Kokee state park!. It is possible to be both of these trails in one trek but will add on over 5 miles to your total [], HONOPU RIDGE TRAIL ON KAUAI, HAWAII - Journey Era, [] Honopu Ridge Trailhead is just after the AwaAwapuhi Trailhead. Located in the Hawaiian highlands of Kokee, the Awaawapuhi trail is a spectacular trail that stretches 5 kilometres. YELP 365 - 244/365 And the views are nice, but not nearly as stunning as those from the Nualolo Trail. 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. There is also a restaurant that serves burgers, salads, sandwiches, smoothies, cocktails, and beer. The Nualolo Trail is worth the extra effort to have this view. Thank for your continued support. I would describe our conditioning as slightly better than average. This is a moderate one way trail in Hawaii. We chose to do this loop in a clockwise direction, starting at the Nualolo Trail trailhead. How was it on our second hike? Its a short, easy, downhill walk to the viewpoint at the end of the Awaawapuhi Trail. These photos were taken on the helicopter ride we did two days before this hike. Awaawapuhi trail Discovering Kauai Days 3 and 4. If you want to get on the trail early, consider camping at Koke'e State Park. Awa Awapuhi Single Track: Kauai is a singletrack mountain bike trail in Wiamea, Hawaii. Mahalo! We have been doing the Awaawapuhi trail when we come here. Check the forecast: Dont even think about attempting the trail if theres any significant rain in the forest. Havent read you mentioning it so i just want to confirm. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. The walk through the forest was really interesting as we viewed the different vegetation and listened to the various birds. Julie Last updated: January 27, 2023 United States 2 Comments. Awa'awapuhi Trail Overview. Dramatic green cliffs set against a deep blue sea. Scrooged Frozen Guy Gif, At 2.25 miles, the vegetation begins to thin out and you start to get your first views of the coast. Permits are not needed to hike this trail and the best time to visit is spring and summer. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. In this guide, we cover the full loop (the Nualolo Trail to the Nualolo Cliff Trail to the Awaawapuhi Trail) and what we recommend doing instead, if you dont want to do the full loop. Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. 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. It boasts amazing coastlines and lush valleys filled with waterfalls. Lots of people. My wife and I selected this trail for is moderate hiking difficulty and for the amazing views at the end of the trail. My wife and I (both 57) and our 22 year old daughter hiked the trail in late October 2020. Do i need a permit? Weather permitting, you should get a breathtaking view of the lusciously green Awa'awa'puhi valley and Nualolo Aina Valley. View maps, videos, photos, and reviews of Awa Awapuhi Single Track: Kauai bike trail in Wiamea. Going back is tougher since it is uphill. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Reaching the overlook is worthy! Mar 3, 2019 Matthew Henderson. The trail will lead you through rain forest, high desert like terrain and to some of the most awe inspiring vistas on Kauais Napali Coast. By Nualolo Trail (between cabins and Kokee Lodge), or Awaawapuhi trail near 17 mm (past Kokee Lodge). We completed this trail on the 24th. The settlement, reached just before a damages trial was to begin next week, must be approved by the Legislature. This trail gives you a clear overview on the west side of the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon area. We had to turn back at the 1mile mark because of a heavy downpour and the conditions deteriorating. Awa'awapuhi Trail Best Places to Stay This trail runs through Kokee State Park and passes through various landscapes for a little over six miles round trip. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Great views! The first time we did this hike, Tim and I had run out of water long before this point, and doing this part of the trail hot and dehydrated is torture, not to mention dangerous. 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. Any confident hiker can make the journey to the top. 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. The trail starts at approximately 4,120 feet and ends at the lookout around 2,500 feet; so be prepared for the climb out. Beware, however, that the Nualolo trail was closed when we were there. The trail out towards the lookout took just under an hour and a half and was in shade most of the way. Bring lots of water because youll need it for the incline on the way back. In my opinion,these are the 15 best hikes on Kauai! 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. This is my Journey Era. Momoa was working at an outdoor shop in Des Moines, Iowa, and after he agreed, the crew packed into vans and headed off. 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. Between November and March, some areas may become inaccessible due to high rainfall. The trail starts at a parking area near the highway 17 mile marker. 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. On thatpage, we've also posted a map of the entire area (Kokee and Waimea State Parks) for you to download and print out at home. Also pack out what you packed in! 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 would be covered in mud by the end of the hike, no matter what. For more accommodation recommendations you can check my favorites in the Kauai Where to Stay Guide. Here are my hiking essentials. Copyright 2023 Journey Era | Mediavine Trellis Child - Journey Era on Trellis Framework by Mediavine. 3. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Kekaha Beach Bungalow FREE WIFI, 2 min walk to the beach. For the Awaawapuhi Nualolo Lookout continue straight ahead to the end of the trail for spectacular panoramic views and great picnic area. Find out what we carry in our day packs and what we wear on the trails. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. The Awa Awapuhi Hike is a 6 mile out and back hike that brings you through the lush vegetation. No lingering allowed within park areas. Run where its flat or down hill going and coming it goes faster. This 6.2 mile out-and-back hike offers amazing views from cliffs of Awa'awapuhi and Nualolo Valley. Hiking to the end of the Awaawapuhi Trail on the island of Kauai is a pretty terrifying experience. 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. Overall I would say do it if you can. Access is subject to adjacent landowner approval, and if used without authorization, you will be trespassing and possibly putting yourself at risk. Bottom line: loved it but would do a longer but flatter hike next time. I have a 12 year old and 16 year old daughters and myself and my wife who are in a mid 40's. If you are traveling with kids, are looking for an easier hike with views of the Napali Coast, or have a fear of heights, I recommend the Awaawapuhi Trail over the Nualolo Trail. It tends to get very muddy and foggy along the trail and has an overall elevation gain of 1,180 feet. I slipped several times but was able to catch myself. The views along Nualolo are reputed to rival Awaawapuhi. This is the hike that will give you that Napali Coast feel that you want. Those over 60, i highly recommend a helicopter trip instead. Both will require walking along Kokee Road at some point. Do not underestimate the effects of heat and humidity and it only takes one fall to hurt your back, hips or anything else. For the first mile and a half, you will be descending through the forest. Its a long hike, there is a lot of elevation gain, and it can get very hot. Magnificent vista at the end! Awa'awapuhi Trail is a 6.7 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Kekaha, Hawaii that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as mod. GREAT HIKES FROM AROUND THE WORLD: For more great hikes, check out our article listing the 20 Best Day Hikes in the World. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai , Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations , Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. The clouds moved in and out, but the view of the lush, green cliffs against the blue-green water was unmistakable. You get your first glimpse of the Awa'awa'puhi Valley at about 1.75 miles. Difficulty: Moderate. 6.5mi Dec 9, 2018 Amanda Jo. A long climb awaits. Distance: 6.2 miles out and back. 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. Worth the hike with breathtaking views at the end where you see the Napoli coast line and the mountain ridges. Additional Info It's called the Awa'awaphui Trail in Koke'e State Park just past Waimea Canyon State Park on the west coast of Kaua'i. Awa'awa'puhi gets off to a slow start but picks up steam about halfway. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. . 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. It doesnt have a designated parking lot but there is a spot 50 yards past the trailhead [], 15 BEST HIKES ON KAUAI, HAWAII - Journey Era, [] CLICK HERE to read the full blog post about Awaawapuhi Trail []. Having a map will help keep you from getting lost or walking farther than you have to. Download your copy of our This time, perfect view. and 1 hour back up. The Awa'awa'puhi Trail is yet another Kokee trail which promises sweeping views and a trek through dense jungles and dry landscapes. After the first mile-and-a-half the forest begins to thin out and the rugged Napali coast comes into view as well as glimpses into the Awaawapuhi Valley. The trail meanders through a wet cloud forest before making some steep descents down muddy terrain. Don't know about other phones, imagine it would work on an android as it also shows up in google maps. The trail is very muddy right now. After taking in the views from our narrow perch and witnessing many, many, MANY helicopter tours flying by (tranquil, it was not), we finally decided to head back to the viewpoint and partake in some serious snacking before the climb back up. We were joined by roosters begging for food, tiny adorable mice begging for food, and red-crested cardinals begging for food (Im sure these little buggers are fed from hiker scraps all day long). At 3.75 miles, you reach the end of the trail.

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