We slogged the 3.2 miles to the end, but it was Way more difficult than normal. Heading into Kauais interior and remote terrain offers dome of the most beautiful backdrops on the world. There are four pieces of gear that I simply never travel without. Its one of many trails that end in panoramic views and heart clenching dropoffs. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai , Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations , Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. It boasts amazing coastlines and lush valleys filled with waterfalls. The trail is very muddy right now. Best hike we did during our visit! You can read more about the "loop" on ourNualolo Trailentry. I have a 12 year old and 16 year old daughters and myself and my wife who are in a mid 40's. Because of the slick condition of the trail, the return ascent was actually slightly easier, but by the end of the 6+ mile hike my wife, daughter and I were spent and sore. Of the two, I think the Nualolo Trail is the better choice. These photos were taken on the helicopter ride we did two days before this hike. Bring a minimum of 3 liters of water per person, although 4 liters is better. The trail starts at a parking area near the highway 17 mile marker. The trailhead is on the left of the parking lot. If you want to get on the trail early, consider camping at Koke'e State Park. Muddy in spots so wear proper shoes. Also pack out what you packed in! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Heading down the Awaawapuhi Trail might give you some false confidence about how easy the hike will be. The Appalachian Trail is intended for foot travel only. Awa'awapuhi is a bit shorter, not as steep and you don't get any views until right at the end. When Jason Momoa was 15 or so, a group of adult climbers invited him on an ice-climbing trip. If it's muddy to start it will only get worse so it's best if there have been a few dry days before you set out. Please Note: Due to erosion, Nu'alolo Cliff Trail is occasionally closed near the junction with Nu'alolo Trial. The view from the end of the trail is beautiful. I hiked on a Sunday afternoon and only passed people in the opposite direction. Please familiarize yourselves with our refunds and changes policies prior to purchasing your permits. The hike took us about 2.5 hours each way. Not for those terrified of heights. The Awa'awapuhi Trail is about a 6 mile out and back hike through Kokee State Park on the Island of Kauai. Both will require walking along Kokee Road at some point. It does have 3 little sections, after you go to the first landing you can venture out to a second then a third. The hike is moderately difficult and traverses the Npali-Kona Forest Reserve. The dramaticdrop-offs on either side of the Awaawapuhi ridge were something you dont see anywhere else in the world. 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. Hiking out, you'll no doubt respect each and every foot of that; especially if you're concluding this hike as a part of theNualolo Trail/Nualolo Cliff Trail"loop." The Awaawapuhi Trail is just over 6 miles round trip and safer than the Nualolo trail, though the mud adds a degree of excitement. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Vegan Activist T-shirt, 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. The trail is 3.25 miles one way, with about 1600 feet of descent (yep, this is a DOWN then UP trail ughhhh). The trailhead is easily google-able (and google actually takes you to the correct location) and is on the main road through the park. There is a decently sized dirt lot and no payment stall (so parking is free, we presume? We didnt get a ticket, at any rate). For this hike you will want to arrive early to get a spot in the lot and a little solitude while hiking. We started around 9:30am and the trail was lightly trafficked, and we had the viewpoint at the end of the trail almost to ourselves. By the time we were hiking back up to the parking lot, the trail was a zoo and the parking lot and surrounding roadside were completely parked up. We are a bunch of 60 year olds who think were fairly fit. Between November and March, some areas may become inaccessible due to high rainfall. See Polipoli site for updates. We briefly stumbled off the trail twice and I have heard of others doing it too. This is the one good view along the Nualolo Cliff Trailmost of the time you are in the trees, brush, or tall grass. You need to keep an eye out for a small sign with cars parked on the left side going to Koke SP, after the campground. Check the forecast: Dont even think about attempting the trail if theres any significant rain in the forest. However, be forewarned - it's a tough hike. Kauai Shores Hotel Luxury (but value also):A luxury feels with the resort-style property, palm trees, and a beautiful pool area. Don't know about other phones, imagine it would work on an android as it also shows up in google maps. 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. DANGER: Do not venture beyond the safety railing at the end of the trail! Weather permitting, you should get a breathtaking view of the lusciously green Awa'awa'puhi valley and Nualolo Aina Valley. At about the three mile mark is the junction of the Nualolo Cliff Trail. Starting at 4,120 feet you'll descend to 2,500 feet to the trail's endwhich concludes at a cliff with broad views of the valleys and the immense Pacific ocean. The speed limit on all off-road vehicle trails is 25 miles perhour. Are there many hikers there? Recommend that you use good traction devices especially if it's wet. By. Dec 16, 2015, 04:52 PM EST. All downhill on the way out, all uphill on the way back (opposite of what I'm used to) and oddly not as bad as I thought it would be. Great hiking - Trail was 7 miles round trip but we did little over 10 miles with all the deviations. 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. Awa'awapuhi Trail is a great alternative to the Kalepa Ridge Trail because it offers some of the best views of the Npali Coast. Unfortunately for us when we reached the end of the trail at the outlook, fog had rolled in off the ocean and there was no view to be seen. 50 inches. 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 []. Welcome to my world. 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 Great when dry. There is no cell reception on the mountain. If youre planning to hike the Awa awapuhi Trail, heres what to know to best prepare yourself and make the most of the gorgeous experience. Still, it was enough to make my legs wobbly and fill my stomach with butterflies. Tim and I were visiting Hawaii on our honeymoon and this was the first real hike each of us had ever done. Theres a small parking lot near the trailhead on Kokee Road. If you're visiting Kauai soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Kauai Visitor Guides. Even though rainy/foggy at top, gorgeous down at bottom! Hilton Garden Inn Value Pick: The Hilton Garden Inn is your number one choice if you are on a budget but still need comfort. Muddy, moderate workout totally worth it! Awa'awapuhi Trail, Kaua'i - September 6, 2015 What an amazing view in Kaua'i. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. The best part about this hotel is that it is right on the beach. The grassy area at the end of the trail is a popular place to picnic and enjoy the views. 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. Beware, however, that the Nualolo trail was closed when we were there. 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. please pack a frozen water bottle and chilled ones with a energy bar for those who dont regularly hike. The hike is mostly through shaded forest and ending at the overlooks with some great views. You find mile markers by each quarter mile, that seems to make the hike easier for us. The path itself is beautiful but it does not boast views, as you are deep inside the trees and tall grasses. 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. But keep your eyes up: there are some tricky parts of the trail, including steep sections and a few slippery sections due to mud, especially in the first mile. That way, you can use the restroom before and after the hike, and grab a bite to eat once finished the hike. This hike is straight down then straight back up, yet it's so pretty. You dont want to be on a rocky overlook or narrow, muddy trail in the middle of pouring rain. trying to illustrate the steep drop-off on the unofficial extension trail and.. mostly failing? If you have hiked Kalaua, I was just wondering how the views compare - because for me that hike was life changing. When you reach the vantage point for one of the most breathtaking views I've seen. NUALOLO CLIFF TRAIL ON KAUAI, HAWAII - Journey Era, [] way to continue to the lookout. Bring lots of water because youll need it for the incline on the way back. I slipped several times but was able to catch myself. (LogOut/ The trails in Kauai are often slippery and muddy. That had to mean the weather was clear enough for helicopter tours, right? Visitors will be treated to diverse tropical flora and fauna along the trail as well as spectacular views of the ocean and Napoli Coast. Not much to see until the very end, but absolutely magnificent when you reach it. 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. The walk through the forest was really interesting as we viewed the different vegetation and listened to the various birds. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. The trail getting there is not necessarily anything to write home about but the views at the end are incredible. Be smart and be safe for the safety of all. Clean your shoes off with the brushes and spray provided at the trailhead. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. This 6.2 mile out-and-back hike offers amazing views from cliffs of Awa'awapuhi and Nualolo Valley. Visitors to your site will appreciate you FEES Entrance or parking fees are collected at some national and state parks that the Trail passes through. Any views at smaller lookouts along the way did nothing to boost my confidence. On this trail, you will hike in and out of the trees, and by midday, this part of the hike can feel very warm. Our website uses cookies. The hike would be out of the question for the length of our trip. But you will hike up and over hundreds of tree roots. This trail gives you a clear overview on the west side of the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon area. Permits cost $35 per person per night and must be reserved ahead online. 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 trail is in Koke'e State Park on the island of Kauai and is a moderately-challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The weather in Kauai changes every 20 minutes there was certainly no way of controlling that. [KAUAI] UPDATED 3/2/23: Polihale State Park Is CLOSED until further notice due to an electrical outage that has put the water pump out of service. GREAT HIKES FROM AROUND THE WORLD: For more great hikes, check out our article listing the 20 Best Day Hikes in the World. Honestly just an ok view unless you're willing to hike the last .1 mi sketchy section. The permit can be obtained at visitor contact stations during business hours. The hardest part of the hike is over. For more experienced hikers I could see this being done in 3 hours. So when there is a fresh rain you will want to go slow or you have a good chance of wiping out. But photographer Scott Sharick upped the ante for the vertigo-inducing trek when he decided to hold a GoPro stick while walking along . The trail will lead you through rain forest, high desert like terrain and to some of the most awe inspiring vistas on Kauai's Napali Coast. The trail out towards the lookout took just under an hour and a half and was in shade most of the way. The Awaawapuhi Trail Hike Here at GuideofUS- Hawaii, we have explored on our own and with some of the best-guided tours available. Its all easy to the grassy point that oversees the sheer cliffs of Awa`awapuhi and Nualolo valleys resting 2,000 feet below.Awaawapuhi Trail starts at a parking area near the highway 17 mile marker. Rivalling the more popular Na Pali Coast Trail, the Awaawapuhi trail allows you to see the gorgeous nature of Hawaii.And because of the trails altitude, which rests between 4,000 and 2,500 feet, you will get a spectacular vantage point throughout the hike. Crawley Magistrates' Court Results January 2021, Pinhook Bourbon War Vertical Series 5 Year. Marvel at the views of the sea as you approach the junction with the Nualolo Cliff Trail. At this point, you have hiked 6.6 miles. The 6-mile round trip hike is" Trailhead Location: Kokee Road in Kokee State Park. The Hilton has a beautiful pool, has private beach access and hot tubs so you are still getting an awesome value and the resort experience. Access is subject to adjacent landowner approval, and if used without authorization, you will be trespassing and possibly putting yourself at risk. The Awaawapuhi Trail on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, is a single track hike not for those with a fear of heights. Take your time: Enjoy the experience and take time to take in your surroundings. The views along Nualolo are reputed to rival Awaawapuhi. It also begins to get noticeably warmer. Slippery to start on the way down, but got much better after first mile. Additional Info Route The trail starts at a parking area near the highway 17 mile marker. Start early: This will help you avoid any potential afternoon storms. The views of the Napali Coast from the trail are amazing!! Sections with roots and loose rocks. This photo gives you an idea of how narrow the trail can be in some sections. Read all of our articles about the United States in our United States Travel Guide. The trail starts near mile marker 17 at a parking area and takes . The Awa'awa'puhi Trail is yet another Kokee trail which promises sweeping views and a trek through dense jungles and dry landscapes. I wanted to write a review about this trail since much has been written about it. Awaawapuhi Trail DANGER: Do not venture beyond the safety railing at the end of the trail! If you're a regular person who doesn't exercise regularly.the heat, humidity, mud and slippery footings will get to you.Other than that the view is spectacular. 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. 4- Awaawapuhi Trail. Walking through the trees the rest of the time. Footing is extremely unstable, and the drop to the valley floor below is over 2,000 feet. At the time you'd written this review, had you ever hiked the Kalalua Trail (Na Pali coast trail head Ke'e Beach)? For a nice day hike, you can backtrack to the Nualolo junction and continue along the Nualolo Cliff Trail to the Nualolo Trail which ends at the Kokee State Park headquarters. The hike goes gradually downhill for 3 miles primarily through the trees (but with some scenic outlooks), before ending at a ridge with a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean, Napali Coast, and the Awa'awapuhi and Nualolo Valley. 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. Awaawapuhi Trail, Kekaha: Address, Awaawapuhi Trail Reviews: 4.5/5. The view from your trail is stunning, each and every photo was amazing! They had live music playing and this was a great spot to unwind, refuel, and cool off before visiting more sights along in Kokee and Waimea State Parks. At 3.75 miles, you reach the end of the trail. After the first mile the forest begins to dissipate, only making guest appearances once in awhile as the barren terrain of NaPali comes into view. The treacherous trail felt agonizingly long for the first 1.5 miles. Awa'awapuhi Trail Details. Beware, however . 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. The man, reportedly in his 70s, was near a scenic outlook when he fell onto some boulders. Awa'awapuhi Trail Overview. Photo [] If it has recently rained, the descents on the clay can be very slippery. Impeccable views due to sunny weather with blue skies. 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. Awa Awapuhi Single Track: Kauai is a singletrack mountain bike trail in Wiamea, Hawaii. The Nualolo Trail is the tougher of the two. Silent Beauty Synonyms, I am 66 y/o, in good health but I don't do specific condition training. Penoke, Rocky Gap, and Willow Creek trails, maximum machine width allowed is . Downhill most of the way uot and be ready for gradual climb the whole way back. Use caution and do not go too close to the edge as some of the viewpoints are eroded. For the majority of the first part of this hike, you will be descending as you hike out towards the coast. 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. 3 comments share save hide report Awa'awapuhi Trail. We were looking at helicopters passing way below us but they were still high up. Nualolo Trail + Nualolo Cliffs Trail + Awaawapuhi Trail (the Full Loop), Best Things to Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Doors Off Helicopter Tour of Kauai: Everything You Need to Know. The way to the left is where the Nualolo Cliff Trail links with the AwaAwapuhi Trail. The views from the end of the trail are just as they sayspectacular. It was a steady climb back to the car, but easier footing. Dont rush if you dont have to. The Awaawapuhi Trail is shorter, less steep, and better maintained. For these reasons, I kept my camera tucked safely in my backpack to keep it from getting damaged and dont have any photos documenting the trail! 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 Outside Magazine - By: Alexandra Gillespie 3h. awa'awapuhi trail permit. But it also makes for a longer journey. [MAUI] UPDATED 1/26/23:Iao Valley State Monument CLOSED August 2022through April 15, 2023. Going back is tougher since it is uphill. Did this hike yesterday. 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. is that right?? Subscribe for exclusive city guides, travel videos, trip giveaways and more! .Stunning views. If you hike early youll have plenty of time to check out the rest of the parks stunning viewpoints. Tried this 10 years ago and got to the end to see a cloud from the inside. Awaawapuhi Trail is my favorite hike in the Kokee State Park. 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. Kauai is the oldest island in the Archipelago and these cliffs have been shaped over thousands of years. 106 Likes, 12 Comments - Eric Chen (@cheneric924) on Instagram: "Awa'awapuhi trail is hands down my favorite trail of all time now. 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. You can continue past the overlooks (even though you are cautioned not to) in order to get even more amazing views. For more accommodation recommendations you can check my favorites in the Kauai Where to Stay Guide. Waipo'o Falls via Pu'u Hinahina and Canyon Trail, Pu'u Hinahina Trail, Canyon Trail, and Cliff Trail, Nu'alolo Trail and Awa'awapuhi Trail Loop. If you only have time for one hike on the west side of Kauai, this is your trail. You can ask about the condition of the Cliffs trail before you start. When kids went ahead it was sunny and bright. But one intrepid hiker and photographer, Scott Sharick, kicked it up a notch by going beyond where the trailhead ends and walking out onto a horrifyingly narrow ridge with a GoPro in hand to capture the moment. The Awa'awa'puhi Trail is yet another Kokee trail which promises sweeping views and a trek through dense jungles and dry landscapes. I made my way as about halfway down the spine to the end point before stopping. I could not do the third as it looked to risky however it would have been amazing. Like an address I can punch in my GPS to start the hike. On our recent visit to Kauai, we wanted to hike this trail again. Hi - Your review is quite "glowing" for this trail in terms of the view. Magnificent vista at the end! muddy but doable. The farther you go, the more exposure you get and the better the view. What would you like to know about this attraction? PRO HIKING TIP: If you are afraid of heights, this trail could be very challenging. 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. You can hike each trail separately or combine them into one big day hike, by connecting them with the Nualolo Cliffs Trail. There were no signs or other indications of the closure. 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. Awaawapuhi Trail is a continual downhill hike from the trail head to the grassy clearing overlooking the valleys.