The poorly marked 1/2-mile trail up the east fork of the stream to Hanakoa falls has hazardous, eroded sections but affords a spectacular view of the falls. These terraces were replanted with coffee plants in the late 1800’s, which are still growing throughout the valley today. The shelters are within a complex of old agricultural terraces where Hawaiians once planted taro.
Facilities include a composting toilet and two roofed shelters. Near the Hanakoa Stream crossing, weary backpackers may stop over for the night going to, or returning from Kalalau with a camping permit. The reserve harbors a variety of native lowland forest plants. The trail traverses the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve in the small hanging valleys of Ho’olulu and Waiahuakua before entering Hanakoa Valley. More strenuous hiking begins as the steep switchback trail climbs 800 feet out of Hanakāpīʻai valley. All camping areas are located on shaded terraces near streams.Ī permit is required to hike this part of the trail whether or not you plan to camp. Composting toilets are available at Hanakāpīʻai, Hanakoa, and Kalalau. The authorized camping areas along the trail do not have tables or drinking water. Hiking Permits are required to hike past Hanakāpīʻai even if you don’t plan to camp. You can hike to Hanakāpīʻai as a day hike with a day-use reservation. Camping is not allowed anywhere else along the trail or at the trail head. Camping/HikingĬamping is only allowed at Hanakoa or Kalalau. Infrequent widespread storms cause flash floods. Tradewind showers are more frequent during the night and early morning. Summer weather (May to October) normally brings steady tradewinds and occasional showers while winter weather (October to May) is less predictable. Throughout the year, temperatures seldom drop below 60☏. Wild goats are often seen along the trail route.
Many rare native plants grow on inaccessible cliffs. Native and introduced tropical plant species abound. Naturalists will find a number of points of interest. Get an early start to avoid overexertion in the midday heat.įor experienced swimmers knowledgeable in local sea conditions, near-shore waters offer limited opportunities for swimming and body-surfing. A similar foot trail linked earlier Hawaiian settlements along the coastline.įor most backpackers in good condition hiking the 11 miles will take a full day. Originally built in the late 1800’s, portions of the trail were rebuilt in the 1930’s. The trail drops to sea level at the beaches of Hanakāpīʻai and Kalalau. The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys. The trail traverses 5 valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted pali. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. Extensive stone walled terraces can still be found on the valley bottoms where Hawaiians once lived and cultivated taro. Waterfalls and swift flowing streams continue to cut these narrow valleys while the sea carves cliffs at their mouths. The pali, or cliffs, provide a rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly at the sea. The Nāpali Coast is a very special place.
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