Kalalau Trail

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Along the Kalalau Trail
Along the Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail is a trail along the Nā Pali Coast of the island of Kauai in the state of Hawaii. The trail is very strenuous and runs approximately 11 miles along the island's north shore from Keʻe Beach to the Kalalau Valley. An experienced, very fit hiker can complete the trail in about four hours, but most people require 6-8 hours.

The trail is located in the Nā Pali Coast State Park and access is controlled in the cause of conservation. A limited number of permits are issued for camping in Kalalau Valley every year. In spite of the efforts of the state of Hawaiʻi, many people illegally hike the trail and even live in Kalalau Valley. These long-term campers are suspected, by some, to cause serious harm to the ecological balance of the valley by their waste and propagation of introduced species.

The trail starts on the north shore of the island, where the main highway ends at Keʻe Beach. The first two miles of the trail are moderately strenuous and open to the public. This portion of the trail leads to the Hanakapiai stream and beach. The trail beyond Hanakapiʻai is open only to those with camping permits for Kalalau Valley.

A panoramic view from along the Kalalau trail, south of Hanakoa valley
A panoramic view from along the Kalalau trail, south of Hanakoa valley

The trail continues for approximately four miles to the Hanakoa Valley, which is a hanging valley with no beach access. At present, the state does not allow camping at Hanakoa. After Hanakoa, the trail turns more toward the dry side of the island. About five miles later is Kalalau valley, a large, flat-bottomed valley almost a mile across.

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