The Kalalau Trail is one of the most sought-after hikes in Hawaii. Tourists often flock to Hawaii for the beaches, water sports, and other forms of recreation. Because the state has many volcanoes and mountains, many tourists also attempt to take hikes to get closer to nature.
Located in Kauai Island, the trail is a hearty 11 miles (22-mile round trip) with diverse terrain. While the hike is considered to be strenuous, many people still attempt to go as the views and the experience are all a worthy payoff.
The Route
The hike starts at Ke’e Beach and traverses 5 valleys. This difficult hike can be accomplished in a day if hikers get an early start.
Be prepared to go through different types of terrain, to encounter waterfalls, streams, wild animals, and plants. Although it’s challenging to go through the varied terrain, strong currents, and exposure to the elements finishing the hike itself is very rewarding.
The Kalalau Trail boasts a coastal walk that allows hikers to have a view of the ocean at multiple parts of the trail. This hike is recommended for experienced hikers who are in good physical shape. Not all paths on this trail are paved or board walked. Pack light and wear good shoes!
Preparing For The Hike
Preparation is key before embarking on this hike of a lifetime. Because of its length, hikers should start early. Monitor the weather forecast even before the schedule of your hike.
Keep these in mind as you prepare:
- Pack light. Bring enough food and water treatment capsules as there are multiple sources of freshwater.
- Plan for safety. Hikers will encounter different types of terrain and will be directly exposed to sunlight and the elements. Bring a cell phone, hat, light layers, hiking poles, and SPR to reapply.
- The right shoes. Check your hiking boots or shoes before going on the trip. Have them repaired or buy new ones if necessary; try to find ones that are waterproof.
- Physical fitness. The trail is 11 miles with up to 800 feet in altitude. Those who are uninitiated may want to do some pre-Kalalau Trail training with running and hiking—nothing major, this doesn’t need to look like training for Iron Man!
- Hike with a companion or a small group. It’s a long hike so it’s best to have a companion to keep you company and for safety.
- Limited to no cell reception. Should anything happen during the hike, it will be difficult to ask for help especially if you’re alone. Nevertheless, a charged phone is essential for true emergency calls.
Potential Hazards
The Kalalau Trail is known for its beautiful views as well as its hazards. There have been reports of drowning, falling, and other major injuries. Certain parts of the hike will require you to walk on cliff edges with a steep drop on one side (but a beautiful view of the ocean). Those who have fear of heights might get the scare of their lives!
To prevent these accidents from happening, do the following:
- Follow the guidelines and keep yourself updated regarding warnings of weather changes, flash flood warnings, and trail closures.
- Prepare. Beware of wet trails and make sure that your hiking shoes have a good grip.
- Hikers will also be subjected to prolonged exposure to the elements: sun, wind, temperature changes, and rain.
- Be careful with strong currents. Somewhere in mile 2, hikers will have to cross a stream. don’t attempt to cross if the current is strong. If there are any warnings, please heed them as they may pose serious health and safety risks.
- Wild animals walk freely. There have been wild boar sightings at the trail. Those who are camping should be mindful of food waste disposal.
Access
Visitors are required to make reservations prior to going on the hike. Reservations can be made on the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) website. They also provide resources such as a Kalalau Trail Brochure and a Kalalau Trail Safety Video to help hikers prepare for the challenging hike.
Where To Stay
Hikers have the option to go camping at Kalalau Trail or to stay at a hotel nearby. Here are the options:
Campsites at the Kalalau Trail:
- Hanakoa
- Kalalau Beach
- Permits required for both: $25/Hawaii residents; $35 non-residents
Hotels near Kalalau Trail:
- The ISO: From $219 per night
- Kauai Shores Hotel: From $179 per night
- Hotel Coral Reef Resort: From $149 per night
- Koloa Landing Resort: From $499 per night
- The Kauai Inn: From $231 per night
Best Time To Go
Visitors can hike any time during the year. Because Hawaii has tropical weather year-round, it’s never going to be too cold nor will it snow on the trail. However, hikers must avoid going if there are any reports of strong rain and thunderstorms. Monitor the weather forecasts and look out for announcements regarding sudden closures and other trail-related warnings.
A Bucket List Destination
The Kalalau Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the country because it allows hikers to have a first-hand experience of the beauty of Hawaiian outdoors. Hawaii is not just for lounging at the beach. The state takes pride in maintaining and preserving the natural beauty of the island. Despite the hazards and the difficulty, the view of the island and access to the beaches make this a challenge worth pursuing. This is as close to nature as a traveler can get!