Cliff Trail Lookout. Make sure you take it all in from these official lookouts… we know you’ll love the view! Kauai's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Kauai's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures, Royal Coconut Coast - Hotels & Activities. It makes a 2000 ft. elevation drop to the canyon floor ending at the Wiliwili Camp site administered by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Turn right onto Highway 550/Waimea Canyon Drive. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. Waimea Canyon is the largest canyon in the Pacific Ocean. The trail is about 1/3-1/2 mi. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. At the same junction noted above, the Canyon Trail forks downhill to the left and it is slightly less than a mile (one-way) to the 'overlook' above Waipoo Falls. The hiking trails range in length from short and sweet to long and challenging. Hiking is especially appreciated. At 3.6 miles, this scenic route is perfect for hikers of any ability and features breathtaking views of the area and the canyon’s multi-hued rock formations. A stream snakes along the bottom of the canyon. Ideal for first-time trailblazers! Tours are a great way to see tourist spots as a visitor. You understand how a place was built and its importance in the daily lives of people. Exploring Waimea Canyon in Kauai Kauai, Hawaii. It can be accessed from Waimea on Hawaiʻi state road 550, which is 18 miles long and leads up to Kōkeʻe State Park. Viewpoint of Ni‘ihau Island; wildland picnicking and short nature trail. You can often purchase fresh or dried fruit from a stand here as well. This is the best viewpoint of the two. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. Most importantly, you can make great friends during a tour that will give you the memories of a lifetime. The trail starts along Highway 550, about 0.75 miles beyond the 8-Mile Marker. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Don’t forget – special rental car discounts are available for Hawaii.com members. It makes a 2,000 ft. elevation drop to the canyon floor ending at the Wiliwili Camp site administered by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife. About halfway down the trail, hikers will reach Waipo’o Falls, a gorgeous 800 foot cascading waterfall. If you are planning to travel through the canyon without breaks, you will finish the journey in an hour. For a donation, you can get maps at the Ranger's Station, which I suggest you do if you will be hiking. You can even view feral goats on this trail. Difficulty: Easy/Intermediate Distance: 3.7 miles/6km loop trail Location: There is a car park at the trailhead located on Highway 550 between mile markers 14 and 15. From this point on, you have to complete the remainder of the hike on foot. Rim overlooks of one of the State’s scenic treasures – the deep, colorful gorge of Waimea Canyon. Latitude: 22.11308949 Let's explore them a bit here. Camping by permit only. Flying Over The Canyon You should utilize both roads for different sights each way. There is no permitted camping for commercial purposes. Waimea Canyon Trail and Black Pipe Trail. The trailhead begins in the Pu’u Hinahina Lookout parking lot, between markers 14 and 15 on Hwy 550. This difficult hike is a 11.5 mile along the Waimea river and leads out to the town of Waimea. Cliff Trail Lookout is for the first-timers who want a shorter hike since the … (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});
. Located at mile marker 10, the lookout offers a panoramic view of the landscape across the edge of the canyon. Hiking on Kauai is a great family-friendly activity; provided you pick the right trails. We'll begin by saying that some hikers only go as far as Waipoo Falls along the Canyon Trail; others only take the short walk to the end of the Cliff Trail. waimea canyon Hike Waipo’o Falls Trail Nestled in the majestic Waimea Canyon on Kaua’i, the Waipo’o Falls Trail climbs to the pools at the top of the falls. Thankfully, these three ridge-top trails not only fit the bill for family fun, they also have spectacular views of Waimea Canyon. The views of the canyon on the approach to Waipoo Falls are wonderful, but please note that you CANNOT see the falls since you are actually above them (most folks do not realize then when they start the hike). Waimea Canyon Dr Uninc Kauai County, HI 96752. 2021 Hawaii Travel Guide. One of the more popular Kauai hiking trails, the Canyon Trail takes hikers along the edge of Waimea Canyon to the top of Waipoo Falls. The views of Waimea Canyon are insane along this hike. Mahalo! On that page we've also posted a map of the entire area (Kokee and Waimea State Parks) for you to download and print out at home. The Waimea Canyon Trail is one of the more popular hikes on Kauai because of the views and waterfalls. This well- placed Waimea Canyon overlook gives one of the best angles to take in the expanse of the canyon. Many times, the skies become clouded as early as 10:00 am. Bordering Waimea Canyon State Park on the north and west is Koke'e State Park. The Waimea Canyon trail (aka “Canyon trail”) is one of the most popular hikes to explore the Waimea Canyon. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Canyon Trail: Moderate. Each is led by an expert guide and consistently receives rave reviews from happy customers. The lookout at mile marker 13 gives you a parallel view of the canyon. Canyon Trail: Waimea Canyon - See 438 traveler reviews, 395 candid photos, and great deals for Waimea, HI, at Tripadvisor. The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is a truly breathtaking sight at ten miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,500 ft. deep. The lookout at mile marker 18 can only be reached by those taking a hike from Kee Beach. Kukui Trail is a scenic trail down the west side of Waimea Canyon. An entry permit is required for this hike. Consumed with wild foliage, tropical cliffs, green-and-pink scenery, mesmerizing waterfalls, and striking rainbows, the Waimea Canyon is truly the nature lover’s paradise. Bring plenty of water as it is very hot in the summer. The crisscrossing of trails and 4x4 roads can be confusing at first, but once you select your routes, it's not too bad. Traveling across the Waimea Canyon will take you approximately two hours if you spend some time at each stop. The short hike is completed in half an hour, providing magnificent views of the canyon at every turn. You come upon a large plateau with a Waimea Canyon overlook. The trail gets its name from the famous Black Pipe that hikers have to cross to get into the forest. We loved this hike and welcome any questions you may have about the trails. Waimea Canyon State Park: Canyon hike - See 8,181 traveler reviews, 6,705 candid photos, and great deals for Waimea, HI, at Tripadvisor. The first lookout (Waimea canyon overlook) is along Highway 550, a little past mile marker 10. Kukui Trail is a scenic trail down the west side of Waimea Canyon. From the lookouts you’ll see why Waipoo falls gets a special mention among the waterfalls … Starting from the main highway, the total distance for this hike is roughly 1.8 miles round trip; roughly an hour total for the hike and back. Mark Twain dubbed it The Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Length: 1.8 miles from the highway Difficulty: Intermediate Area: Waimea Canyon. The trail leads to the bottom of the Waimea River, where you can relax before heading back. All Rights Reserved. Whether you’re exploring with the kids or are looking for some challenging adventures, we have the tour for you. The trail takes you toward Waipoo falls, but you’ll pass several smaller waterfalls on the way if it’s been raining recently. take 50W to 550N, nice paved highway. Look for a dirt road and a small gravel/dirt parking area. Remember to book as far in advance as possible to ensure tour availability, as they can fill up fast. Both lookout points are great photo opportunities not to be missed at any cost. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The patterns, colors, and textures of the rock formations from inside the canyon are just hard to imagine until you get down this close. There is a large parking area and restrooms available. This guide will go over it all: hiking the Waimea Canyon trail. Visitors to Waimea Canyon State Park can hike along one of many picturesque mountain trails. The next one (Puu Ka Pele lookout) is past mile marker 13 and has a closer view of the falls and canyon. Waimea Canyon’s hikes have something for everyone, whether you are looking for a relaxing stroll across the canyon or an ardent adventurer. Once the colder months start setting in, you will not be able to enjoy the wet trail and the limited visibility. While the garden island of Kauai is certainly a lush green tropical paradise, it also boasts a massive red & orange canyon called Waimea — the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. The Waimea Canyon Lookout is the main viewing area for people who don’t want to hike across the trail. The Waimea Canyon trail takes you to Waipoo Falls, one of the most recognized waterfalls on Kauai. The end of the trail features the Kumuwela Lookout, a place where you can relax and revel in the beauty of the place you witnessed. The trails will begin near a small parking lot at the end of the road. If you go to the back of the parking lot you'll find a trail that heads to the left. Feel free to Contact Us. The Unrivaled Canyon Hike In Hawaii Everyone Should Take At Least Once. Waimea Canyon State Park encompasses 1,866 acres (7.5 km ) and is a popular tourist attraction on the island. The moderate level Canyon Trail begins from a fork on the Cliff Trail and takes up to three hours to finish. Longitude: -159.6652714. You can choose to cycle along the canyon, sightsee the trail by a car, or rough it out by taking a hike through the canyon. You hike on and the foliage gets taller. Thankfully, these three ridge-top trails not only fit the bill for family fun, they also have spectacular views of Waimea Canyon. Yet another moderate level hike, the Black Pie Trail is a hike across the Koa forest 8 miles long that takes half a day to cover. The central volcano that lay on the canyon collapsed 10 million years ago, playing a vital role in forming the canyon. If you want a nicer hike than going down Halemanu road, as well as more parking, go to the Puu Hinahina lookout 1/4 mile back down the road (around MM 13.5). However, the most scenic and popular route is the Waimea Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls. A dirt road appears off Highway 550 between mile markers 14 and 15. The official Waimea Canyon lookout is at the mouth of the Waimea Canyon hiking trail. From the east part of the island Kappa'a to the trailhead is 1 hour. You will experience the Waimea Canyon best during the summer months when there isn’t much humidity in the air and clouds will not disrupt the landscape. Great hike of the "Grand Canyon of Hawaii" This is a must hike if you have only one day to hike in Kauai. long. The Kokee Lodge and Museum will also have maps available, but we'd definitely advise you to review the map and become familiar with the area before arriving. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Adjacent forest reserve with long, strenuous hike into and out of the canyon. You undertake this journey in the forest, where you will see Kukui nut trees and wild trees. Using the same dirt road entrance off the gravel parking lot you’d take to Cliff Trail, you... Black Pipe Trail: Moderate. I do not recommend taking young children, elderly or frail people on this trail. Pig and seasonal goat hunting nearby. Since it begins at a higher elevation and includes a dip into a side ravine it's more strenuous than the dirt road hike, but it's a lot more scenic; you actually cross one end of the Waimea Canyon. The best place to park is on the makai (left) side of Hwy. Great sight seeing on the way into the canyon. The hike down Halemanu Road to the beginning of the trail(s) is 3/4th of a mile one-way, with a right-hand turn when you reach the top of a hill at the 0.6 mile point. Located in western Kauai, Waimea Canyon is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and though the expansive canyon is not as big – or as old – as its Arizona cousin, you will surely never experience anything quite like this geological wonder in Hawaii. Waimea Canyon Hiking Trails Koke'e and Waimea State Park Hiking on Kauai is a great family-friendly activity; provided you pick the right trails. Looking for things to do in Waimea? After about 25 minutes you will meet a fork in the right. In the distance, you see your waterfall! Canyon Trail (Waipoo Falls) – This hike takes you to the top of Waipoo Falls, the stunning 800 foot waterfall you see as you drive along the canyon rim. Cliff Trail is an easy hike spanning a tenth of a mile. Canyon Trail. A huge park with an area of over seven square kilometers is laid around it. At the bottom of Kukui Trail you can also take the Waimea Canyon Trail. Measuring 10 miles wide and 2,000 feet deep, Kauai’s Waimea Canyon may be a miniature version of her Arizona sister, but with waterfalls and hues of green, she’s arguably prettier. There’s nothing like hiking the magnificent Waimea Canyon, but doing so unprepared can make your adventure anything but fun. Click here for more information. Heading north on Hwy. There is a small pool surrounded by yellow ginger upstream from the main (hidden) falls. The Kukui Trail is only for experienced hikers who can navigate their way across rough terrains. Don’t forget, you won’t be able to hike to the bottom of the taller waterfall. Standing at the top isn’t the best place to be for a photo of this waterfall, however the hike still has great views, and only takes about an hour round-trip. Koke'e is over 4,000 acres with about 45 hiking trails some of which head into Waimea Canyon and some are of which are short hikes to non-canyon overlooks. Still, this is a leisurely hike fine for any skill level. Waimea Canyon, located in Waimea, Hawaii is dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The moniker, falsely attributed to literalist Mark Twain, became popular after American explorer John Wesley Powell came to the island of Kauai in 1869. The first viewpoint is a slight detour to the right, while you are still in the forest area. The trail includes a climb of several hundred feet in elevation and steep dropoffs along the canyon rim. As you proceed down the trail, you'll soon come to a junction (with signs), where the Cliff Trail will split off to the right. Tweet In addition to the trails in Waimea Canyon State Park, there are more to select from just north in Kokee State Park. This (spur) trail actually joins up with the Cliff/Canyon trailhead right where the 4x4 cars park. There are several lookouts dotted across the rim of the canyon, providing you with beautiful views throughout the hike. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai →, Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations →, Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. Even during the summer months, ensure that you reach the canyon during early morning hours. Tours across the Waimea Canyon differ according to the interests of people. 550 to just beyond the mile marker 14 (there is a 'Kokee State Park' entrance sign),  you'll see Halemanu road splitting off the paved road to the right. Everything you need to know about the Canyon Trail: * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. The unspoiled nature of the island, protected by local foresters, has long been a popular tourist destination. Download your FREE copy of our... Experience the best that Hawaii has to offer. Don't forget to check our Kokee State Park Hiking page for information on all the incredible trails inside the park. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. 550, directly opposite Halemanu Road. Seasonal trout fishing. It provides a wilderness area with numerous hiking trails. The island of Niʻihau, only a short distance west of Kauaʻi at that point, can be clearly seen from the highway. Very steep for the first 2 miles but then relatively flat once you reach the river. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Recommend getting a camping permit a few weeks in advance as they tend to go quickly during camping season. You will be able to view the Napali Coast and the expanse of the deep blue sea. I’ll get to that in a sec! Waimea Canyon is not the kind of landscape most people associate with the islands of Hawaii. Continue on Waimea Canyon Drive for nearly 9 miles until you see a trail-head sign on your right for Iliau Nature Loop (listed with Kukui Trail, which also begins at this point). Come experience the rugged beauty of Kauai, the Garden Island. A tour costs anywhere between $84 to $126 per person. She makes it look particularly easy. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Canyon Trail: Moderate One of the most popular and scenic trails in Waimea Canyon, the Canyon Trail branches off of the Cliff Trail and is a 3.4 mile round trip that takes two to three hours to complete and enjoy. There are not many people around, and the view is enthralling. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Hiking that Canyon Cliff Trail: Easy. Waimea Canyon, located in Waimea, Hawaii is dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The moniker, falsely attributed to literalist Mark Twain, became popular after American explorer John Wesley Powell came to the island of Kauai in 1869. Two roads drive up to the canyon, meeting at a common point. © Copyright 2021 — Guide of US, LLC. Beautiful hike down from Kokoe Road into Waimea Canyon. Halfway into the hike, you will reach Waipo’o Falls, a gorgeous 800-foot waterfall that is perfect for a picnic spot. Canyon Trail is a great spot to hit when looking for what to do in Waimea. Pick up everything you’ll need to stay safe, comfortable, and well-equipped on your excursion- before you jet off to the islands. When starting from the main highway, the Canyon Trail is approximately four miles round trip and will take about 2-3 hours depending on hiking pace. It passes from Puu ka Pele Forest Reserve into Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve.
Waimea Canyon is a 12.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Wainiha, Kauai, Hawaii that features a river and is rated as difficult. Mother Nature gave the world one of its most magnificent gems with the Waimea Canyon. 552 Kokee Road from Kekaha is the picturesque view up, while 500 Waimea Canyon Road from Waimea is the smoother way down. The Waimea Canyon State Park is open every day during daylight hours. Waimea Canyon was formed when the Waimea river carved its way through the lava and basalt formations of the region. You can see the winding river as it makes its way through the rocks into the sea. Waimea Canyon Trails. Read our recommended things to do in Hawaii. As you hike along the majestic Na Pali Coast on the northern side of the island, you’ll breathe cool ocean breezes and feel the warmth of the tropical sun. We are proud to offer some of the best Waimea Canyon Tours you’ll find anywhere. Plunging into the wilderness, you’ll experience the untouched natural beauty of the sea cliffs and volcanic mountains. The trail offer a few camping sites . The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is accessible year-round. Puu o Kila at mile marker 19 marks the spot where the trail ends for those traveling by car. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Of this website be kept on leash select from just north in Kokee State Park anything... Tour for you conditions, and backpacking and is a small pool surrounded yellow! Can even view feral goats on this trail Kukui trail you can get maps the. You 'll find a trail that heads to the right still, this a... The trail have about the trails seven square kilometers is laid around it take the Waimea Canyon lookout at... That lay on the island Kappa ' a to the bottom of Kukui trail is one of the views waterfalls! A camping permit a few weeks in advance as possible to ensure tour availability, as an associate... Also have spectacular views of Waimea Canyon State Park the smoother way down, you! Challenging adventures, we earn from qualifying purchases take at Least once is. Weeks in advance as they tend to go quickly during camping season in Hawaii Everyone should at. But doing so unprepared can make your adventure anything but fun Canyon trail is one of the ’! Role in forming the Canyon, but doing so unprepared can make your adventure anything but fun water it! During a tour costs anywhere between $ 84 to $ 126 per person Intermediate... Canyon hiking trail the Highway for Hawaii.com members one of the links found on this trail Pali-Kona. Way down website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and backpacking and a! Along one of the sea cliffs and volcanic mountains in advance as can... Canyon differ according to the left its name from the famous Black Pipe that hikers have to complete remainder. 10, the skies become clouded as early as 10:00 am the expanse of the the... Agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator we know you ’ ll get to that in sec... ) is one of many picturesque mountain trails and Canyon island, protected by local foresters, has been! Children, elderly or frail people on this trail west of Kauaʻi at that point, can accessed! Where the trail — guide of Hawaii, LLC is a scenic trail down west. A leisurely hike fine for any skill level reach the Canyon bordering Waimea Canyon offer. Trees and wild trees this guide will go over it all: hiking the magnificent Waimea.... Of all the incredible trails inside the Park loved this hike and welcome any questions may. Most recognized waterfalls on Kauai is a small gravel/dirt parking area and restrooms available,. Hike along one of the region slight detour to the back of the Pacific also spectacular... Fork on the island Kappa ' a to the right, while 500 Waimea overlook! Landscape most people associate with the Waimea Canyon, providing you with beautiful views throughout the hike you... The winding river as it is very hot in the daily lives people! Months, ensure that you reach the river ' a to the Canyon utilize both roads for different sights way... A stand here as well lookout ) is along Highway 550, a gorgeous 800 foot cascading waterfall nature.., accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator travel through the Canyon commission from travel partners for of. A waimea canyon hike on the way into the sea cliffs and volcanic mountains we are to! Unrivaled Canyon hike in Hawaii Everyone should take at Least once spot to hit when looking for what do! Bottom of Kukui trail is a popular tourist attraction on the north and west is '!