Kauai Hike – Awa’awapuhi Trail

The Awa’awapuhi Trail promises a trek through dense jungles, dry landscapes, and (weather permitting) incredible sweeping views of the Na Pali Coast. Found in Koke’e State Park this trail winds through a highland forest with occasional ridge top views. Different from most trails, it’s all downhill to the grassy point that overlooks the sheer cliffs of Awa’awapuhi and Nualolo valleys resting 2,500 feet below. The trail starts at an altitude of approximately 4,120 feet and ends at the lookout around 2,500 feet. And, you guessed it… it’s a consistent uphill incline on the way back.

The Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve area is managed as wilderness because of the rich variety of native dryland plant species thriving in it. After the first mile-and-a-half the forest begins to dissipate and the barren terrain of Na Pali comes into view as you begin to get glimpses of the Awa’awapuhi Valley. At about the three mile mark you approach the junction with the Nualolo Cliff Trail. Continue straight ahead to the end of the trail and inspiring panoramas from a 2,500 foot perch and picnic area. Besides fellow hikers, you may run into a few mountain goats that like to cling to the steep slopes. Clouds permitting, you should get a breathtaking view of the luscious green Awa’awapuhi and Nualolo Valleys, leading out to the deep blue Pacific Ocean. It is the view of the folding spires of Na Pali that makes this trail so exceptional. The grassy area at the end of the trail provides an excellent place to picnic, but be careful not venture too close to the edge since the ground may not be safe.

Directions: Take Hwy 550 up to Koke’e State Park. The trailhead is about 1.5 miles past the Koke’e Museum at a parking area near the highway 17 mile marker. You will see the Na Ala Hele sign shown at the beginning of the video.

Trail Length: 3.25 mi.
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation: 1180 ft