Discover The Island Of Kauai,
Hawaii
Kauai Hiking
So okay, Kauai is not exactly known for its
rainforests. The island is, however, known for some of the most excellent
hiking trails in Hawaii. In fact, if Kauai activities are spectacular, then
Kauai hiking tours or hiking on Kauai in general is at the highest level of
spectacular.
Kalalua Trail
Probably the most popular
of these hikes is the one along the Kalalua Trail. And although it is extremely
popular, it is not that crowded either. Keyword here is “extreme” and
that’s exactly what hikers are going to say when you ask them what
it’s like.
Hiking along the Kalalua Trial may not be easy, but
the views you get to see along the way are better than energy bars to boost
your spirits up. Hiking the entire 10.8 miles of the trail takes several days
and requires camping equipment. Most people, however, just see how much
distance they can cover in one day. If you are in fairly good shape – and
you aren’t dragging along kids – trust me, it’s definitely worth
the effort.
The trail starts at the end of the road on the
island’s rugged North Shore. From there it heads on down to areas offering
spectacular views of the Na Pali Coast’s famous cliffs. The trail is
narrow, rocky, and muddy since this part of the island is one of the wettest
spots on earth.
The first two miles have you stopping at Hanakaipiai
Beach. From there, you have three choices: Continue on to Kalalau (only serious
backpackers seem to brighten up at the challenge), ford the stream and turn
inland to Hanakapiai Falls (another and a more strenuous two miles to a
fantastic 300-foot waterfall) or return (uhm…).
HINT: Slipping is
going to be commonplace so be sure to wear sturdy shoes. Don’t hesitate to
walk on water or mud. There’s going to be plenty of those to go around and
if you get picky, you might find yourself having to walk on air (trust me, not
very pretty).
Princeville Ranch Hike Tours
Another
hiking trail popular with guests to Kauai is the Waterfall Excursion, yet
another one of Princeville Ranch’s Adventure tours. This four-hour,
four-mile hike gives you incomparable scenery and a multi-waterfall experience.
The trail offers a 360 degree lookout where you can see the beautiful
sparkling waters of the Pacific off the North Shore and astounding views of
Kauai’s dragon-backed mountains.
From there, the Waterfall
Excursion takes you to a jungle trail leading to the ultimate Hawaiian
waterfall where you can have lunch, enjoy a little swim, and relax to the
soothing sound of the jungle come alive. Afterwards, hike to another beautiful
waterfall swimming hole so deep you can dive in or just play on inner tubes
just for the fun of it.
HINT: Bring light comfortable clothing, comfortable
shoes (hiking boots or tennis, running shoes). Bring also a swimsuit, a towel,
sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and rain gear.
Na Ala Hele Trail
Experience a great Kauai hiking trip at the Na Ala Hele Trail. Here you
can get a glimpse of Kauai’s natural wonders from a perspective few
visitors ever get to see. Most tours passing through this trail operate in the
Wailua Forest Management Area, under a permit issued by the Na Ala Hele Trail
Access program of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. With expert
guides and traveling in air-conditioned 4x4 vans, the Na Ala Hele Trail gives
“off the beaten path” a whole new meaning.
The adventure
starts right when you cross several streams one after the other. Afterwards,
you go through the rainforest to the gate used in “Jurassic Park.”
From there, you go by foot into the center of the island where you can learn
about the history, culture, flora, and fauna of Hawaii.
HINT: A portion of
the price of the tour is paid to Na Ala Hele for the maintenance and
improvement of trails on Kauai. Advance, paid reservations are required.
Reservations are generally non-refundable. However, in the case of weather
cancellation, you can have your tour refunded.
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