Hike the Kuilau Ridge Trail
Hawaii › Kuilau Ridge Trailhead
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Activities:
Chillin, Photography, Running, Hiking, Fitness
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Year Round
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Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
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RT Distance:
5 Miles
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Elevation Gain:
488 Feet
Enjoy the expansive views of Mt. Waialeale, the wettest place on earth, as you course the Kuilau Ridge Trail.
Parking at the trailhead is limited to approximately four vehicles, so arrive early. If you are unable to park, continue down Highway 580 and you will find parking next to Kawi Stream.
The beginning of the trail, an old fire road, starts with a gradual incline where you are exposed to a variety of native plants and fruits. This trail can get very muddy, so be prepared.
At the 1 mile mark, you will come across a medium-sized grassy meadow perched upon the ridge. Bordered by the Ohia forest, there is a covered picnic table that overlooks the lush green valleys. A perfect spot for lunch!
At 1.8 miles, you will start to hear the trickle of a small waterfall which is near a wooden bridge marking the end of the trail. The Kuilau Trail connects here with the Moalepe Trail. Backtrack until you reach the trailhead and enjoy further expansive views of the Garden Isle!
Pack List
- Backpack
- Water & Snacks
- Bug Spray
- Sunscreen
- Camera
Highly recommend this trail--much better maintained and more scenic than the nearby Powerline trail. High points include: impressive and relatively diverse forests with huge trees, abundant birds and bird calls, and superb views. Trail is muddy, as expected. Will plan on repeating this on future trips to Kauai--would recommend this on the "short list" of Kauai hikes.
2 months ago
Dan DeubleinExplorer
Dan is an explorer for The Outbound and editor of The Proper Function, an outdoor online editorial. He is passionate about exploration and can’t stay put for more than a week.
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