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Hike to Waipo'o Falls

Waimea, Hawaii

4.3/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

2.6 miles

Elevation Gain

800 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Karyna Wilkerson

Enjoy this scenic hike of what some deem the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Take in an 800ft cascading waterfall. Be sure to bring bug spray and use it accordingly once you're close to the falls.

People have accessed the falls directly from the Canyon Trail, which begins between mile marker 14 & 15. You'll follow a dirt road for a bit, leading to a 3.2 mile hike (not my recommendation). The hike is more enjoyable via the recently opened spur trail, which starts at the Pu'u Hinahina lookout and later joins up with the canyon trail. Added bonus, there's parking at the Pu'u Hinahina lookout.

The hike takes you downhill through a trail initially lined with strawberry guava trees (the little red fruits are delicious when ripe). After a little over a mile you end up on a ridge that gives you an excellent view of the Canyon. From there, you make a left and follow the trail towards the falls. The dry, red dirt canyon trail soon becomes surrounded by lush green plants, a good sign you're headed in the right direction. Soon you will end up at a fork in the trail, the right fork will lead you to a nice waterfall (double falls) and further down to the top of Waipo'o Falls. also explore the left fork as it takes you to another waterfall and deep pool. (Swimming is not recommended in kauai's fresh water due to the risk of leptospirosis)

Soak in the views and head back the same way you came in.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Scenic
Waterfall

Hike to Waipo'o Falls Reviews

This was a fairly east hike— did it with my parents who are approaching their 60s and they had no problem. Be sure to go when it’s dry!

The hike is over 3 miles RT and offers wonderful canyon views on a clear day. As mentioned previously, you unfortunately will not have a full views of the falls but the mountain views make this a worthwhile trip!

Great little hike! My partner and I did it and ended up with muddy boots and muddy butts, and wouldn't want it any other way. Great instructions, although we couldn't cross the river to do the last part as the rains had risen the river to high and rapid. Definitely would recommend!

Awesome hike with amazing views. Pretty steep trail in some parts but only 3.6 miles round trip. Great views of canyon and the falls but unfortunately you won't see the whole falls just segments of it. Easy hike though and worth the time 💦☀️

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Camp and Hike in Nualolo Valley

Waimea Canyon Lookout

Hike Honopu Ridge

Hike Kalepa Ridge

Hike Kawaikoi Stream

Hike the Pihea & Alaka'i Swamp Trail