#AWA AWAPUHI TRAIL MAP PLUS#

Once you’ve gazed at the scenery and snapped plenty of pictures, you are welcome to settle in at the nearby grassy area for a snack or a picnic lunch. No picture is worth the risks of venturing out too far. Hawaii’s Division of State Parks highlights the importance of remaining behind the safety railing, as it’s meant to protect against unstable footing and a drop of approximately 2,000 feet. The 360-degree views can induce vertigo even among those who typically are fine with heights. This overlook isn’t for the faint of heart, however. There, you’ll encounter a ridge top that provides breathtaking views of the sheer cliffs. The wait for the hike’s penultimate view will prove more than worthwhile when you reach the end of the trail at its elevation gain of 1,180 ft. While you’ll spend a decent portion of your time watching your footing, you’ll want to pause occasionally to observe the constant changes to the landscape.ĭon’t be discouraged if you struggle to spot the Napali Coast even on a clear day, it might be tough to see until nearly two miles into the hike. Even when you don’t get sweeping coastal views, the lush surroundings are worth a second look.

While many trails take you uphill first and follow with a downhill return, Awaawapuhi provides the opposite approach: a swift descent to the lookout, followed by a grueling hike back.Ībundant roots may seem like an impediment to some, but they can actually be helpful when the trail gets steep. To begin, the trail might not seem too difficult. That being said, don’t plan on tackling this trail unless you feel confident that you can make it to the very end - and back - which takes roughly 3 hours round trip. Still, nearly everybody who completes this journey argues that the final lookout makes up for any lack of scenery on the way there or back. If there’s a downside, it’s that the views for most of the hike are merely okay. It’s just busy enough that you can expect to see a few people during your journey but not so popular that you’ll feel as if you’re trapped within a crowd. Even if you’re in great shape, you may need the extra time to catch your breath.Ĭompared to similar treks, this trail is well-marked and wonderfully maintained throughout. A leisurely pace is advisable, however, as the trail packs some noteworthy challenges into its modest distance. If you have a few hours to spare, you can tackle this hike and still have time left over for a picnic lunch. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Hawaii’s touristy spots and explore the Awaawapuhi Trail, which delivers jaw-dropping scenery and memorable thrills in a round trip of 6.2 miles. This trail exemplifies all that is wonderful about Kauai: the views, the serenity, and even the physical challenges. A moderately challenging trail, you won't regret stepping through the different landscapes to witness the lookout at Awa'awapuhi! - The Local Expert Team If interested in any of these homes below.Scenic views of Kaua'i on this 6.2-mile hike. Information below was retrieved from the MLS. Here are some Residential properties available located in Waimea to Kekaha. These are wanted for their good smell and for making lei’s. Maile (which I did not pick) although I seen some on the trail are kapu (forbidden) to pick unless obtaining the necessary permits. Here are some plants I picked (I think most are native to Kauai/Hawaii).

#AWA AWAPUHI TRAIL MAP PLUS#

Plus the sun was out, luckily about half the trail is covered with shade by the tree’s and foliage. Hiking back was a bit more difficult because now the hike was all up hill. Don’t quote me on this the legend is that a large puhi (eel) swam up this stream and carved the river. “awa” meaning channel/port & “puhi” is eel. Is from the long river below, in between the two mountain ridges. In this picture below is the reason why the trail got its name Awa`awapuhi. It was an experience and there are spectacular views of Kalalau. The ridge is really narrow and I do not suggest walking on it if having doubts. We hiked on the ridge and half of the time I was crawling. Once at the look out there are views to enjoy from the look out or on the ridge. Going into the hike it is all down hill and fairly easy. We started in the morning around 8:00 am the trail is clear and easy to follow. This hike is 3 miles in to the ridge then 3 miles out. Recently for the first time I did the Awa`awapuhi trail hike in Kokee. Nothing beats the community, Polihale beach and Kokee right in your back yard. Don’t let this fool you, personally I love the west side of Kauai. Waimea Residential sales are normally lowest out of all the Kauai districts.

Awa awapuhi trail map