What it is
The Awaʻawapuhi Trail is a strenuous, out-and-back day hike located within Kōkeʻe State Park on the island of Kauaʻi. The trail descends through dense, shaded forest along a ridge to a dramatic, unfenced viewpoint with sheer drop-offs. The final destination offers panoramic views of the Awaʻawapuhi and Nuʻalolo valleys along the Nā Pali Coast. The hike is known for its challenging return journey, which is entirely uphill.
Visitor experience
The experience begins at a trailhead off Kōkeʻe Road. The trail is approximately 3.1 miles each way, starting with a significant descent of over 1,600 feet through native ʻōhiʻa and koa forest. For most of the hike, there are no coastal views; the scenery is dominated by the forest environment. The trail can be muddy, with exposed tree roots, especially after rain.
The trail culminates at a narrow ridge with spectacular, vertiginous views 2,500 feet above the Nā Pali Coast. Two prominent, steep-sided ridges flank the view. This final section is exposed with sheer cliffs and requires extreme caution. There is a small fenced area at the viewpoint for safety. The total round-trip hike is about 6.2 miles and typically takes hikers between 3 to 5 hours to complete. The return hike is a strenuous, continuous uphill climb. Because of the high elevation, the viewpoint is often obscured by clouds, especially later in the day.
Logistics
Location: The trailhead is in Kōkeʻe State Park, located off Kōkeʻe Road (Highway 550) between mile markers 17 and 18.
Fees and Permits: There is no specific permit required for day-hiking the trail. However, non-resident visitors must pay entrance fees for Kōkeʻe State Park. As of early 2024, the fee is $5 per person and $10 per vehicle. These fees can be paid at automated kiosks within the park or online in advance.
Parking: There is a small, unpaved parking lot at the trailhead. Parking is limited and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Hours: Kōkeʻe State Park is open daily during daylight hours. To get the best chance of clear views and find parking, an early morning start is highly recommended.
Amenities: There are no restrooms or potable water available at the trailhead. The nearest public facilities are at the Kōkeʻe Museum, a few miles away.
Duration: The hike is a significant undertaking, best planned as a half-day activity.
Safety and cautions
Cliffs and Drop-offs: The primary hazard is the extreme exposure and sheer 2,500-foot drops at the final viewpoint. The viewpoint area beyond the official overlook is unfenced and the ground can be unstable. Fatal falls have occurred here. Visitors must stay within the fenced area and away from cliff edges.
Trail Conditions: The trail is often muddy, slippery, and uneven with many tree roots. After heavy rain, the clay soil can become extremely slick. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are essential. Trekking poles are highly recommended for stability, especially on the steep descent and ascent.
Weather: The weather in Kōkeʻe is unpredictable and can change rapidly. Fog and clouds can roll in, completely obscuring the views at the lookout. Rain is common, particularly in the afternoon.
Physical Fitness: This is a strenuous hike rated as difficult. The 1,600-foot elevation gain occurs entirely on the return trip, making it a challenging uphill climb. Hikers should be in good physical condition and carry ample water (at least 2 liters per person) and snacks.
Environmental: To prevent the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, a fungal disease devastating native forests, visitors should clean their footwear before and after the hike to remove all soil and debris.
Editorial take
This is one of Kauaʻi's premier ridge hikes, delivering a truly world-class Nā Pali Coast view as its payoff. It should be prioritized by fit, experienced hikers who are prepared for a strenuous uphill return and are comfortable with heights. Photographers will find the view exceptional, provided the weather cooperates.
Hikers seeking a less physically demanding experience or who are afraid of heights should skip this trail. Families with young children should also avoid it due to the dangerous cliffs. Those who want constant coastal views throughout their hike will be disappointed, as the vista is only visible at the very end.
The Awaʻawapuhi Trail should not be confused with the nearby, and even more challenging, Nuʻalolo Trail. While they can be combined into a longer loop (a very strenuous option), they are distinct hikes. Awaʻawapuhi is the more straightforward of the two, with a singular, dramatic endpoint view.
Source notes
- Hawaii Division of State Parks (DLNR): Provides official information on park rules, facilities, and trail status. https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/kauai/kokee-state-park/
- AllTrails: A popular resource for hiker-sourced trail reports, maps, and statistics like mileage and elevation gain. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/kauai/awaawapuhi-trail
- Kauai.com: A local travel guide offering practical descriptions and safety advice for popular island activities. https://www.kauai.com/awaawapuhi-trail
- Go Hawaii (State Tourism Authority): Provides official visitor information, including current details on state park entrance fees. https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/kauai/regions/west-side/Kokee-State-Park
- Hawaii Guide: A travel site with detailed directions and descriptions for points of interest, including trailhead locations. https://www.hawiguide.com/kauai/sights/awaawapuhi-trail
