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Hiking the Waimea Canyon Trail

Explore the perfect adventure escapade!
Chaitrali Datar

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The Canyon Trail

As soon as you reach the parking lot of this trail, a long green drape of trees welcomes you filled with tropical wild flowers and birds twittering in the background.

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Waimea Canyon Hikes

Situated on the western side of Kauai in the Hawaiian islands of the United States, is your most spectacular natural wonder, The Waimea Canyon!

Waimea

Nicknamed as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific', it is a huge canyon, almost 10 miles long and 36,000 deep. It is extremely well-known for the exciting hiking expeditions it offers and the natural beauty around.

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Based on difficulty, there are 5 main trails which you can undertake:
  • Kohua Ridge (difficult)
  • Black Pipe (moderate)
  • Canyon (moderate)
  • Iliau Loop (easy)
  • Cliff Trail (easy)

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Checklist Before the Hike

✔ Hiking backpack
✔ Hiking boots 
✔ Plenty of food/water
✔ First aid kid
✔ Map and compass
✔ Knife
✔ Portable battery charger
✔ Sun protection hats
✔ An all season jacket
✔ Comfortable clothes (extra set)
✔ Binoculars
✔ Toilet paper/wipes

Kohua Ridge

One of the most thrilling trails in Waimea, enthusiastic hikers will have a field day, literally! To reach this trail, you need to drive down the Mohihi Camp 10 road. The trail begins approximately 2 miles, beyond the Forest entrance sign.

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The Kohua Trail

At the entrace of the trail, you need to ascend a small gorge and the trail continues along a high ridge. The ridge is a narrow one and will definitely give you goosebumps! You eventually arrive at th end to this ridge (max 3 hours) to witness magnanimous views of the valley!

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Spectacular Views Await You!

Once at the top of the peak you will be surprised with the natural canvas of nature as a melange of pink, green and red with puffs of white clouds to mesmerize you!

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The Black Pipe Trail

Waterfall, wilderness and a black pipe. This trail intersects the Canyon trail and actually features a solid black pipe about three feet in diameter.

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It has a comparatively steep, rocky terrain which is a round trip with waterfalls in between to swim and take a dip in the pool.

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A Playground of Nature

This trek is also a playground for nature with different flowers in shades of white and pink flowers. It is surely one of the best hikes your will ever experience.
The highlight of this trail are the Waipo'o Falls where you will come across a stunning waterfall and eventually witness the gorgeous view of the canyon trail.

Mesmerizing views await you here at the Waimea Canyon.

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Ilihau Loop

For a leisurely trek this trail is your best bet. It is a 20 minute stroll packed with scenic views and beautiful nature of the Canyon.

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People Enjoying Bonfire During the Hiking Expedition!

The Cliff Trail

An ideal trail for first timers! A muddy road takes you to the trail between the Highway 550 between mile markers 14 and 15.
The entire trek can be completed in a time span of 30 minutes!

The Best Time to Visit Waimea

Early mornings are one of the best time to visit and explore the scenic beauty and also ideal for photography.