Summary:
Explore the massive basin at Haleakala’s summit, an eerie volcanic landscape of colorful cinder cones.

Descend from the rim along the sand-like cinders of Sliding Sands Trail, passing the side trail to Ka Lu’u o ka O’o cinder cone after 2 miles/3.2 km. There are several connecting trails from Sliding Sands to Halemau’u – you reach the first at about 3.8 miles/6 km. Bear left onto it and head north-east towards a large cone called Ka Moa o Pele. [If you have the time and energy, you can choose to stay on Sliding Sands for a couple more miles to Kapalaoa Cabin, where you take a connecter to join Halemau'u to the right of a cinder cone called Pu'u Naue. This route will increase the overall hike distance to 13.8 miles/22 km].

The connector trail climbs the flank of Ka Moa o Pele and turns east to a junction at Halali’i cinder cone. The shortest route to Halemau’u is to turn left here – but it is well worth taking the trail that encircles the cone counter-clockwise for a closer look at some of the geological features on the crater floor. As you round the cone’s eastern flank, Pu’u Naue stands to your right. Soon you join Halemau’u Trail, and ahead you will see Kawilinau, the Bottomless Pit (actually 65 ft deep). Turn left, and as you pass the northern flank of Halali’i, the area of brightly colored cinders to your right is known as Pele’s Paint Pot. Ahead, the massive red-faced cone of Pu’u o Maui rises 1,000 ft from the crater floor.

Halemau’u Trail veers right and heads north-west towards Holua Cabin. In about 1 mile/1.6 km, take the short Silversword Loop that circles away from the main path through native silversword, one of the rarest plants in the world. If you happen to be here when they are in bloom, count your blessings – they can take up to 50 years to flower.

Back on the main trail and continuing north-west, Holua Cabin is only another mile away. It is a good place to stop and admire Haleakala’s majestic scenery: The cliffs directly to the west rising up to 2,000 ft; the massive break in the crater wall of Ko’olau Gap and beyond to the east 8,907-ft Hanakauhi; and, to the south, Sliding Sands Trail winding its way towards the cinder cones on the basin floor.

It is 3.8 miles/6 km from Holua to the trail-end on Crater Rd – and an ascent of over 1,000 ft. For the first mile, the trail winds north through a lava field and scrub to the base of the north-west wall. Now the switchbacks begin – a tough climb but not excessively steep. You will be tempted to stop often to admire the increasingly spectacular views, across a barren volcanic world of browns, grays and reds, and down Ko’olau Gap to the ocean.

Eventually you reach the rim. Pause to enjoy the view once more before moving away on the final mile of the trail, through scrub vegetation to the road.

Directions: From Kahului, take Hwy 36 to the 37 and 377 (Haleakala Hwy), which leads inland into Maui’s Upcountry region. About 0.5 mile beyond Kula Lodge, turn right onto the winding 378 (Haleakala Crater Rd) to the Park entrance. Beyond Park headquarters, Crater Rd switchbacks up the volcano (passing Halemau’u Trailhead after 3 miles) to Haleakala visitor center, just below the 10,023-ft summit.

Trailhead: Haleakala visitor center. The hike ends at Halemau’u Trailhead. You will need to arrange transport between these two points, or face a 6 mile and 1,750 ft slog up Crater Rd back to your car. One option is to park at Halemau’u and try to find someone there to give you a lift up to the visitor center – we understand that hitchhiking on the road itself is not allowed.

Length: 11.7 miles / 18.7 km

Trail Type: One way

Elevation Change: -1,750 ft / -534 m
Down 2,800 ft/854 m, up 1,050 ft/320 m

Duration: 6.5 hours

Trail Condition: Clear and maintained (Sliding Sands consists of tiny, loose cinders).

Features: Stark volcanic basin, cinder cones, rare silversword plants.

Climate: Changeable at the summit – be prepared for extremes of bitterly cold, wet and windy weather, and hot, intense sun.

Accommodation: Hosmer Grove campground, off Crater Rd just before Park HQ, has free tent and RV sites on a first-come, first-served basis (no permit required). Lodging close to the Park is limited – Kula Lodge is the nearest, and there are a few B&Bs around Kula and Pukalani.

Trail Notes: Further information available at Park HQ or Haleakala visitor center. Be aware of high altitude and take sunscreen and plenty of water (there is water along the trail at Holua Cabin but it must be treated). Keep to the trail to avoid damage to vegetation.

Summary:
Climb from a rugged volcanic shoreline through lush, tropical rainforest to two majestic waterfalls.

The lower part of the valley, however, can be visited on foot along the Pipiwai Trail, which climbs from the ocean through ‘Ohe’o Gulch to two majestic waterfalls. As a further incentive to head out on foot, the trail avoids the busiest part of the gorge – the popular pools and waterfalls of the lower stream below the highway bridge – and takes you upstream to more tranquil places. The higher you climb, the quieter it becomes.

Take the short footpath from the visitor center towards Kuloa Point Loop and turn left to the highway. Cross the road about 200 yards south of the bridge. The trail follows the stream as it climbs through ‘Ohe’o Gulch. The first 0.5 mile/0.8 km heads up gently sloping meadows to an overlook of 184-ft Makahiku Falls. In another 0.5 mile you enter woodland of mixed ohi’a and koa, typical of these lower elevations.

Cross the stream and continue for around 1 mile through lush tropical forests of introduced bamboo, mango and guava to the base of 400-ft Waimoku Falls. Beyond this waterfall, Kipahulu Valley is closed to entry and you must retrace your steps back to the ocean. On your return, there are lovely views of the Big Island from the meadows below Makahiku Falls.

Directions: From Kahului, take Hwy 36/360 to Hana, a slow, tortuous road along the stunning east coast. Beyond Hana, continue along the coast on Hwy 31 for around 7 miles to the parking area at Kipahulu.

Trailhead: Kipahulu visitor center.

Length: 4 miles / 6.4 km

Trail Type: Out and back

Elevation Change: 800 ft / 244 m

Duration: 2 hours

Trail Condition: Maintained, but can be muddy and slippery.

Features: Gorge, tropical forests, waterfalls, swimming holes, ocean views.

Climate: Subtropical – warm to hot temperatures, humid with rain at any time of year.

Accommodation: Kipahulu campground has free tent and RV sites on a first-come, first-served basis (no permit required, no water). Access to the trail is via the short coastal Kahakai Trail and Kuloa Point Loop. Outside the Park, the nearest accommodation is in Hana.

Trail Notes: Bring insect repellent, sunscreen and water -there is no drinking water in this area. Heed warnings of flash flooding after heavy rain.

Summary:
A half-day hike into the alien volcanic landscape of Haleakala’s giant summit depression.

To reach the start of the trail, backtrack along the visitor center access road for about 0.1 mile. The trail quickly approaches the edge of the Crater and the descent begins on long, easy switchbacks (easy going down that is – the sand-like cinders make the climb back to the trailhead more strenuous, made worse in the heat of mid-day). The open views of the vast, stark volcanic landscape are magnificent.

After around a mile, you can make a short detour to the left to the base of a cinder mound. Here you may find a little solitude away from the popular trail, a quiet place to sit and admire this unearthly place.

Continue into the Crater along Sliding Sands to a junction at 2 miles/3.2 km. Here you bear left onto a 0.5 mile/0.8 km side trail that dead-ends at the cinder cone of Ka Lu’u o ka O’o (“the dip of the digging stick”). Retrace your steps to Sliding Sands Trail and bear right to start the long slog back up to the rim.

For a full-day hiking option, Sliding Sands Trail continues east (left) across the floor of the Crater, with several connections to Halemau’u Trail.

Directions: From Kahului, take Hwy 36 to the 37 and 377 (Haleakala Hwy), which leads inland into Maui’s Upcountry region. About 0.5 mile beyond Kula Lodge, turn right onto the winding 378 (Haleakala Crater Rd) to the Park entrance. Beyond Park headquarters, Crater Rd switch-backs up the volcano to Haleakala visitor center.

Trailhead: Haleakala visitor center (elevation 9,740 ft).

Length: 5 miles / 8.0 km

Trail Type: Out and back

Elevation Change: N/A

Duration: 3 hours

Trail Condition: Clear trail over tiny, loose cinders.

Features: Stark, colorful volcanic basin; cinder cone.

Climate: Changeable at the summit – be prepared for extremes of bitterly cold, wet and windy weather, and hot, intense sun.

Accommodation: Hosmer Grove campground, off Crater Rd just before Park HQ, has free tent and RV sites on a first-come, first-served basis (no permit required). Lodging close to the Park is limited – Kula Lodge is the nearest, and there are a few B&Bs around Kula and Pukalani.

Trail Notes: Further information available at Park HQ or Haleakala visitor center. Be aware of high altitude and take sunscreen and plenty of water. Keep to the trail to avoid damage to shallow-rooted plants.

Summary:
Dramatically contrasting scenery at the summit of Kilauea volcano.

From the visitor center, cross the road towards Volcano House Hotel and keep left at the fork for the short distance to Crater Rim Trail. Keeping left, follow this trail for 1 mile/1.6 km, which takes you along the north-east rim of Kilauea Caldera above a cliff called Waldron Ledge. This section of Crater Rim Trail, which makes an 11.6-mile circuit of the volcano’s summit, offers excellent views into the caldera.

At the junction, Crater Rim Trail heads east to Kilauea Iki Overlook, but you turn sharp right towards the caldera. Ignore the trail branching off to the left after a few minutes, a short connector to the rim of Kilauea Iki Crater. Continue ahead to join forested Byron Ledge Trail after a few more minutes.

Turn right, descend from the ledge, and bear north for the 0.5 mile/0.8 km to the junction with Halema’uma’u Trail. Keep right to continue north, and begin the climb out of the caldera.

After 0.4 miles/0.6 km, turn left to complete the climb on Iliahi (Sandalwood) Trail. On this 0.4-mile stretch to the north rim, there are more great caldera views through the green rainforest. You may even spot some sandalwood trees along the way, although only a few remain.

At the top, you connect with Crater Rim Trail – consider extending the hike by a mile or so, as the Rim Trail to the west (left) of here is another interesting section, passing steam vents above aptly named Steaming Bluff.

It is all easy walking from now on, and no more than 1 mile/1.6 km to the visitor center. To return via Sulphur Banks, cross the Rim Trail and Crater Rim Drive a couple of minutes later. The final part of the hike is a real contrast to the dramatic caldera views and beautiful rainforest that has come before. You may well smell the banks before you see the steam or bright yellow mineral deposits – this is one of the few places on Kilauea where the vents give off the foul, rotten-egg smell of hydrogen sulphide.

Directions: The Park entrance station is just off Hwy 11, 95 miles south-east of Kona and 30 miles south-west of Hilo. Keep right onto Crater Rim Drive for Kilauea visitor center in 0.3 mile.

Trailhead: Visitor center.

Length: 3.75 miles / 6.0 km

Trail Type: Loop

Elevation Change: 400 ft / 122 m

Duration: 2 hours

Trail Condition: Well maintained.

Features: Caldera views, lava, rainforest, steam vents.

Climate: Changeable, with temperatures around 60 F at Kilauea’s summit. It is often overcast and rainy.

Accommodation: Volcano House Hotel (tel. 808 967-7321) is on the caldera rim opposite the visitor center. Two free drive-in campgrounds, first-come, first-served – the most convenient is Namakani Paio, clearly signed off Hwy 11, 3 miles west of the entrance station. The village of Volcano, 1 mile east of the Park on Hwy 11, has lodges, cottages and B&Bs.

Trail Notes: Obtain maps and information on trails and current volcanic activity from the visitor center (tel. 808 985-6000). Be aware of volcanic fumes at Sulphur Banks.

Summary:
Cross the floor of ‘Little Kilauea’ Crater, the site of Hawaii’s most furious eruption.

The trail winds down the wall of Kilauea Iki and heads west across the eerie crater floor, covered by hardened lava flows and surrounded by cliffs. After passing the vent of the 1959 eruption, the trail climbs out of the crater and reaches a junction shortly after, at the 2.4 mile/3.9 km mark.

Left is the very short connecting trail to Byron Ledge which, joined with Halema’uma’u Trail, forms a larger circuit through the main caldera. Byron Ledge also accesses the Waldron Ledge loop, which can be combined with Kilauea Iki for an excellent loop trail of 6 miles/9.6 km.

To continue on the 4-mile Kilauea Iki Trail, turn right at the junction, keep right at the next, and join Crater Rim Trail in 0.4 mile/0.6 km.

Follow the rim east (right) for 0.7 mile/1.1 km to Kilauea Iki Overlook, enjoying views into the crater from breaks in the beautiful rainforest. From the overlook, the trail continues along the rim through a forest of tree ferns for a further 0.5 mile/0.8 km to your starting point.

Before leaving the parking area, be sure to cross the road and walk the 0.3 mile/0.5 km loop trail through a lush jungle of ohi’a trees and giant ferns to Thurston Lava Tube. It is best to time this for first thing in the morning or late afternoon, as it gets very busy during the middle of the day.

Directions: The Park entrance station is just off Hwy 11, 95 miles south-east of Kona and 30 miles south-west of Hilo. Keep right onto Crater Rim Drive for Kilauea visitor center in 0.3 mile.

Trailhead: Thurston Lava Tube parking area on Crater Rim Drive. Alternative access at Kilauea Iki Overlook.

Length: 4 miles / 6.4 km

Trail Type: Loop

Elevation Change: 400 ft / 122 m

Duration: 2 hours

Trail Condition: Well maintained.

Features: Crater views, hardened lava flows, cliffs, native forest.

Climate: Changeable, with temperatures around 60 F at Kilauea’s summit. It is often overcast and rainy.

Accommodation: Volcano House Hotel (tel. 808 967-7321) is on the caldera rim opposite the visitor center. Two free drive-in campgrounds, first-come, first-served – the most convenient is Namakani Paio, clearly signed off Hwy 11, 3 miles west of the entrance station. The village of Volcano, 1 mile east of the Park on Hwy 11, has lodges, cottages and B&Bs.

Trail Notes: Obtain maps and information on trails and current volcanic activity from the visitor center (tel. 808 985-6000). Carry water and keep to the trail to avoid hidden cracks and thin lava crust.

Summary:
Cross the floor of Kilauea Caldera and peer into the depths of steaming Halema’uma’u Crater, home of Pele the fire goddess.

Many of the Kilauea Caldera trails interconnect, giving lots of different loop options. This circuit leads across the center of the caldera though old lava flows, with a short spur to the edge of steaming Halema’uma’u Crater.

From the visitor center, take the short footpath towards Volcano Art Center, cross Crater Rim Drive and quickly join Crater Rim Trail to the right of Volcano House Hotel. Turn right for Halema’uma’u Trail, which soon branches off the Rim Trail. Keep left at the junction with Sandalwood Trail a few minutes later.

The trail heads down into the caldera through rainforest, reaching the junction with Byron Ledge Trail and the start of the loop proper in 0.4 mile/0.6 km. Taking it counter-clockwise, keep right on Halema’uma’u Trail.

The arid expanse of the caldera and the black pahoehoe lava that covers it is a real contrast to the vegetation on the rim. The trail heads through the center of the massive caldera, past lava flows from eruptions as recent as 1982.

In 1.8 miles/2.9 km, you reach the junction with Byron Ledge. The loop continues left along this trail, but first continue on Halema’uma’u for another 0.4 mile, to the edge of the crater for which the trail is named.

Once a lake of red-hot molten lava, in 1924 the lava drained away from Halema’uma’u Crater, but sulfurous fumes continue to rise from the surface. The crater is home to Pele, the fire goddess. She is still revered by many native Hawaiians, and you may well see offerings of flowers and fruit at the crater’s edge. Expect there to be plenty of people here – Halema’uma’u parking area on Crater Rim Drive is just 0.2 mile away.

Backtrack to the trail junction and turn right onto Byron Ledge Trail. Now heading east across the caldera floor, you approach the forested ledge in about 1.2 miles/1.9 km. Climb up and follow the ledge northwards for 1 mile/1.6 km. To your left lies the expanse of Kilauea Caldera; to your right the cinder cone of Pu’u Pua’i and the crater of Kilauea Iki.

Three trails branch off to the right as you walk along the ledge. The final two, 0.8 and 1 mile along respectively, are short connections to Kilauea Iki and the north-east rim of the caldera on Waldron Ledge. They offer an alternative return route.

Staying on Byron Ledge Trail, bear left and descend from the ledge, then continue northwards. The loop is now almost completed. In around 10 minutes, rejoin Halema’uma’u Trail and keep right to climb back up to the rim the same way that you descended. Near the top, rather than heading straight for the visitor center, you may choose to turn left and return via the Sandalwood and Sulphur Banks Trails. This will add 1 mile to the overall distance.

Directions: The Park entrance station is just off Hwy 11, 95 miles south-east of Kona and 30 miles south-west of Hilo. Keep right onto Crater Rim Drive for Kilauea visitor center in 0.3 mile.

Trailhead: Visitor center. Alternative access from Halema’uma’u parking area on Crater Rim Drive (reduces overall trail length by 1 mile).

Length: 6.6 miles / 10.6 km

Trail Type: Loop

Elevation Change: 400 ft / 122 m
Total ascent approx 800 ft/244 m.

Duration: 3.5 hours

Trail Condition: Well maintained.

Features: Crater, cinder cone, steaming lava fields, native forest.

Climate: Changeable, with temperatures around 60 F at Kilauea’s summit. It is often overcast and rainy.

Accommodation: Volcano House Hotel (tel. 808 967-7321) is on the caldera rim opposite the visitor center. Two free drive-in campgrounds, first-come, first-served – the most convenient is Namakani Paio, clearly signed off Hwy 11, 3 miles west of the entrance station. The village of Volcano, 1 mile east of the Park on Hwy 11, has lodges, cottages and B&Bs.

Trail Notes: Obtain maps and information on trails and current volcanic activity from the visitor center (tel. 808 985-6000). Take water and sunscreen – there is no shade on the lava fields. Keep to the trail to avoid hidden cracks and thin lava crust and be aware of volcanic fumes at Halema’uma’u Crater.

Summary:
Take the classic Kalalau Trail to magnificent coastal views, a golden beach, and a luxuriant valley with a towering waterfall.

As you climb at the start of the trail, look down to the protected cove of Ke’e Beach lying far below, the curve of golden sand and ocean beyond framed by swaying coconut palms. The first 0.5 mile is pretty tough – it can be very muddy and slippery and is the steepest climb on the hike – but the reward is a wonderful view of the rugged cliffs of the Na Pali Coast stretching ahead into the distance.

After 1 mile of climbing, the second is downhill. There are more fabulous views of the coast before the final descent into the lush vegetation of Hanakapi’ai Valley, cut by a stream. You will need to cross the stream to reach the beach – there are boulders but it may be just as easy to take off your boots and wade.

It takes around 1.5 hours to reach Hanakapi’ai Beach from the trailhead, and it is a great place to sit, relax and enjoy the ocean. You should stay out of the water though, however inviting it may seem. Rip currents can be treacherous, particularly in winter when the surf is high, and even strong swimmers have drowned here.

Back at the stream, a narrow 1.8 mile trail branches off and heads inland through the once-cultivated valley, past guava and mango trees, the remains of ancient taro patches and a coffee plantation. After about a mile, the trail crosses the stream and becomes more rugged and difficult. There will be rocks, fallen trees and thick vegetation to contend with – a legacy of the 75 inches of rain the valley receives each year. If the stream is high and fast flowing you should go no further due to the threat of flash flooding in the final section.

The last 0.5 mile is particularly strenuous, but the tropical plants, pools and small cascades will spur you on. Finally you reach the head of the valley and the magnificent, three-tiered 300-ft Hanakapi’ai Falls. The beautiful pool beneath it is a tempting place to cool off before heading back, but you should keep away from the base of the waterfall because of the risk of falling rocks.

Kalalau Trail
The spectacular Kalalau Trail runs for 9 more miles beyond Hanakapi’ai Beach, through lush hanging valleys and along narrow exposed cliff paths, to Kalalau Beach. A day-use hiking permit (from the State Parks office, Eiwa Street, Lihu’e) is required if you want to continue beyond Hanakapi’ai. Bear in mind before you go any further that the 800-ft climb out of the valley is considered the toughest stretch of the entire trail.

A zodiac raft operator used to run an early morning service from Hanalei to Kalalau Beach, allowing experienced hikers in good condition to hike back on the 11-mile trail in a single day. However, commercial boats are no longer permitted to operate out of Hanalei Bay, bringing this transport service to an end. The Kalalau Trail can now only be hiked as a 22-mile out and back multi-day backpacking trip.

Directions: From the capital Lihu’e, take Hwy 56 (Kuhio Hwy) north for 41 miles to the road end at Ke’e Beach, a drive of about 1.5 hours.

Trailhead: Car park at Ke’e Beach. It is a popular place so arrive early to guarantee a space.

Length: 7.6 miles / 12.2 km

Trail Type: Out and back

Elevation Change: N/A

Duration: 5.5 hours

Trail Condition: Easy to follow, but rugged and very muddy in places, with stream crossings. Some bushwhacking may be needed on the side trail to Hanakapi’ai Falls to get through the thick vegetation in the valley.

Features: Cliffs, stunning coastal views, tropical vegetation, beach, valley, waterfall.

Climate: Warm to hot year-round. Showers in summer, with heavy rain more likely in winter (November to April). Humid conditions.

Accommodation: Nearest camping at Ha’ena Beach County Park (permit required from the Division of Parks, Rice Street, Lihu’e), just before the State Park and road end. B&Bs and private rentals in Hanalei, 6 miles from the road end, and other places along the north shore. Condos and expensive hotels in Princeville, 4 miles further east.

Trail Notes: Do not cross flooded streams – wait for the water level to recede. The upper half of the side trail to Hanakapi’ai Falls should only be hiked in good weather because of the danger of flash floods. Carry plenty of water (stream water not suitable for drinking without treatment).

Summary:
Look down onto remote valleys once cultivated by ancient Hawaiians, surrounded by the steep cliffs of the dramatic Na Pali Coast.

The loop is described clockwise, descending Nu’alolo Trail, contouring around the head of the valley on Nu’alolo Cliffs Trail, and ascending on Awa’awapuhi Trail. At the end of the loop, you will need to walk a section of Koke’e Road to return to your car – this has been accounted for in the total hiking distance. Although Awa’awapuhi Trail makes for a steeper ascent, the road section will be downhill.

The Nu’alolo Trail heads over Kaunuohua Ridge behind the museum and lodge and enters Ku’ia Natural Area Reserve, which protects rare plants and native ohi’a forest. On upper sections of the trail there are also New Zealand karaka, redwoods and peach trees, but as the trail descends there is a noticeable change in vegetation due to lower rainfall.

After 3.4 miles, Nu’alolo Cliffs Trail branches off to the right, but first continue ahead for another 0.4 miles to the end of Nu’alolo Trail. It follows the western rim of Nu’alolo ‘Aina Valley and there are dramatic views up Na Pali coast. Retrace your steps, climbing back up to the trail junction and turn left onto Nu’alolo Cliffs Trail. This section of the loop is an easy 2.2 miles, contouring the head of Nu’alolo ‘Aina with fantastic views of the valley and ocean.

At the junction with Awa’awapuhi Trail, turn left and descend for 0.1 mile to the end of that trail, on a narrow ridge dividing Awa’awapuhi and Nu’alolo ‘Aina Valleys. The panorama of rugged ridges, lush valley and blue ocean 2,500 ft below is simply stunning. The only distraction is the seemingly relentless sightseeing helicopters that shatter the peace of this special place.

When you can drag yourself away, head up the switchbacks of Awa’awapuhi Trail,
through lantana, guava and koa trees. As you get higher, the vegetation changes, and once again you enter ohi’a forest. Each quarter mile is marked. It is 3.1 miles to Awa’awapuhi trailhead parking area on Koke’e Road, but fortunately the trail levels in the final mile.

To return to your car, turn right and follow the highway (taking care of oncoming traffic, particularly on winding sections) for just over 1.5 miles.

Pihea Trail
For more views of fluted cliffs and the largest valley on the Na Pali Coast, drive north to the end of Koke’e Road. At Pu’u O Kila Lookout there are wonderful views into majestic Kalalau Valley, and the start of Pihea Trail. It runs along the cliffs above the valley to Pihea Peak, where you can branch left off the trail to Alealau Point high above the sea. There is little elevation change on this out and back hike of around 3 miles. It is impossible to climb down to Kalalau Valley – the cliffs are treacherous – but it can be reached by foot from the beach at the end of the difficult, strenuous Kalalau Trail, or by boat in summer when waves are low.

Directions: From the capital Lihue, take Hwy 59 (Kaumualii Hwy) west to Waimea. Turn right onto Hwy 530 (Waimea Canyon Rd), which joins Hwy 550 (Koke’e Rd). Continue north to Waimea Canyon and the adjoining Koke’e State Park.

Trailhead: Between mile markers 15 and 16, about 0.1 mile before Park headquarters and Koke’e Museum and Lodge.

Length: 11.3 miles / 18.1 km

Trail Type: Loop

Elevation Change: 1,520 ft / 463 m
Total ascent approx 2,100 ft/640 m

Duration: 7 hours

Trail Condition: Well maintained, with steep switchbacks in places.

Features: Tropical vegetation and native forest, stunning valley and ocean views.

Climate: Moderate to warm year-round, with temperatures at these higher elevations around 10 F lower than on the coast. Fog and cloud often descends, obscuring the spectacular views. Heavy rain is more likely in winter (November to April).

Accommodation: Cabins at Koke’e Lodge, and tent and trailer camping (free permit required to camp inside any State Park – obtain from the State Building in Eiwa Street, Lihue). Outside the Park, Waimea has some cottages and a few private rental homes, with the nearest hotels at the popular resort of Poipu on the south shore.

Trail Notes: Trail map available at Park headquarters and Koke’e Museum. Carry plenty of water – the ascent can be hard, humid work. Don’t be tempted to go beyond the barriers on the cliff edge – they are there for a reason. The rock is crumbling and people have fallen to their deaths.