Best Hiking Trails in Waimea Canyon on Kauai

Waimea Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific. You can see it by car, by air or on foot. If you enjoy hiking, Waimea Canyon is a must see while visiting Kauai. The best way to hike into Waimea Canyon is to start in Koke'e State Park. Before starting out on your hikes make sure you stop in at the Koke'e Museum to get updated information on the trails. This is a guide to the best hiking trails in and around Waimea Canyon on Kauai.

One of the best hikes through Waimea Canyon starts at the end of Waimea Canyon Drive. This hike is called Pihea Trail to Alaka'i Swamp; it is about a three to four mile hike that takes you along the edge of the Kalalau Valley, through the highest swamp in the world to the most amazing view of the north shore of Kauai. The hike also features a fantastic view of Kalalau Valley, some amazing fern forests, and rolling fog. The hike can get a little muddy, but boardwalks have been placed along the muddiest part of the trail to help hikers keep their footing. This is by far one of the best hikes on Kauai.

Another great trail in Waimea Canyon is the Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls. The start of this trail can be found at mile marker 14 off of Waimea Canyon Drive. This hike is a bit strenuous, so not recommended for the less fit. The trail itself is about 1.4 miles, but can take you up to three hours to hike. Trail highlights include great views of the canyon, two waterfalls, and a natural swimming pool for cooling off. If you are looking for some intense exercise to go with your views, this is the hike for you.

If you are looking for an all day hike that includes memories that will last a lifetime, then the Nu'alolo Trail to the Nu'alolo Cliffs to the Awa-awapuhi Trail is the hike for you. This hike is about a ten mile loop. Highlights include majestic views of the Na Pali Coast, waterfalls, and the sheer green cliffs and ridges of the Nu'alolo Valley. Some of this hike may look familiar to you if you are a Harrison Ford fan and saw Six Days Seven Nights. This trail includes elevation changes, so make sure you are physically fit before embarking on this all day affair. Pack food and water, and do not forget your camera because you just cannot make these views up.

If you plan on doing any hiking while visiting Kauai, make sure Waimea Canyon makes your list. "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific" as Mark Twain said, is a natural wonder worthy of exploring. This article lists the best hiking trails in Waimea Canyon on Kauai.