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Recreation >Hiking
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Description and Basic Information ::
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Kauai is a hiker's paradise. So much of Kauai's natural beauty can only be seen on foot. The rewards are unparalleled views, tropical vegetation, streams, waterfalls, swimming holes and most of all, exquisite isolation.
Kauai's most extensive network of trails is in the Na Pali Coast/Waimea Canyon/Koke'e region with a few others near the Wailua River. Altogether, there are 28 named trails totaling 45 miles through this unspoiled environment, rich in native flora and fauna, some of which is found nowhere else in the world.
The Kalalau Trail is an ll-mile hike along the Na Pali Coast. Rated difficult by most people's standards, the hike is only for the most disciplined and experienced. Start with a two-mile hike into Na Pali's first major valley, Hanakapiai. The trail rises to 400 feet in the first mile to provide wonderful views back toward Ke'e Beach and down the coast to Kalalau Valley. The valleys of Na Pall Coast are accessible only by foot or by boat, and only during the summer when the tides expose a generous sandy beach. The trail then contains down the coast and allows access to the valleys of Hanakoa and Kalaula. Camping permits are required at the three major campsites; Hanakapiai - two miles in, Hanakoa - four miles in, and Kalaula, 11 miles in. Permits for camping must be obtained from the Division of State Parks. Hiking the entire trail to Kalalau requires backpacking equipment for a comfortable, safe trip.
Koke'e Lodge has an extensive selection of trail maps and books. The Sierra Club, Hawaii Chapter, will send an information packet describing state trails and trip planning information for a small fee. The Hawaii Trail and Mountain Club also is helpful in providing information for hikers. The Hawaii State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, has free trail maps. To camp in a state campground, a permit must be obtained from the State Parks Office, 3060 Eiwa Street, Lihu'e, HI 96766; phone: (808) 274-3444. |
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