muddy trail with a dangerous drop at ever turn. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Travel up highway 550 into Koke'e State Park and up to Kalalau Lookout where you'll find a place to park your car. Will these load up with mud on the bottom of the boot and create an even more dangerous footing? Kalepa Ridge Trail, Kauai: See 45 reviews, articles, and 101 photos of Kalepa Ridge Trail, ranked No.87 on Tripadvisor among 271 attractions in Kauai. Meaning, they are not policed but merely signed appropriately to ensure Kauai and the state of Hawaii arent liable if you are injured or worse on your hike. I first did the hike alone in 1980 and with my future spouse in 1983. View all hotels near Kalepa Ridge Trail on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Kalepa Ridge Trail on Tripadvisor, Hotels near Kileaua Point National Wildlife Refuge Lighthouse, Kileaua Point National Wildlife Refuge Lighthouse: Tickets & Tours, Basilica del Senor de los Milagros de Buga, Zanzibar Full Day Dolphin Tour; Mnemba Island; Nungwi Beach & Kendwa Beach Tour, Drive your Own 2 Seat Catamaran on the Edge of the Everglades by Go Cats, Oregon Coast Day Trip: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock, NORTHERN CYPRUS ALL-IN-ONE Private Day Trip from Nicosia, 2 Hrs UTV 4x4 & Buggy Safari at Aphrodite's Rock in Paphos, Diamond Head Bike to Hike and Local Lunch, Fly Zone Treetop Adventure at Loterie Farm. Dont forget to follow us onInstagram, subscribe to our Youtube channel,and sign up for our newsletter! It got better and better as we hiked along. However, there is nearly no risk of anything severe as long as you stick to the trail. In addition, you have the best chance of capturing one of those iconic Hawaiian rainbows over this jaw-dropping scene in the late afternoon. Your email address will not be published. Were heading to Kauai at the end of June/beginning of July and Im just starting to plan our itinerary. Regardless, the more important thing to track is the daily weather pattern during your visit. A couple of these spots are less than a foot from the edge of the cliff. If there are clouds, be patient, the weather clears every ten minutes or so. #hiking #hi, Awesome arches and rock formations at Alabama Hill, inner tube ride through the old sugar plantation with Kauai Backcountry, Top 10 off the beaten path things to do in Oahu, Chain of Craters Road Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Merrell Womens Moab 2 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot, All Good Organic Sunscreen Butter Zinc Oxide Coral Reef Safe, All Good Sport Sunscreen Lotion Coral Reef Safe (3 oz)(2-Pack). This first part of the hike is also under thick bushes and trees so you wont see much of the view. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Im Jackson, an Australian adventure traveler who has been on the road for eight years now. Pipiwai Trail is a beautiful trail located on the backside (South-East Side) of Haleakal National Park, which is a United States national park located on the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii. As the ridge descends, the view of the valley and the Na Pali gets even better. The most dangerous thing we saw on any of our visits was someone attempting to cross a narrow ridge where the trail ends. That is one good thing about this trail, you wont get lost. Is the trail still closed? The Kalalau Lookout, in addition to being a wonderful viewpoint, is a trailhead for the Kalepa Ridge Trail. The 3-kilometer out-and-back trail provides incredible views of the sharp, jagged ridges along the northwest coast of the island. With that in mind, you must know that if you decide to attempt the hike, you do so at your own risk. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Kekaha Beach Bungalow FREE WIFI, 2 min walk to the beach. While the Kalepa Ridge Trail is considered the best (and shortest! The Kalepa Ridge Trail is officially listed at 1.6 miles out and back. My husband and I had 5 hours without our kids during our week in Hawaii, and I'm so glad we did this hike. Although I have never been that tired and worn out and have never wanted to just give up so much in my entire life .. Locals, I noticed, didnt wear hiking boots, just bare feet or fisherman socks. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is not technically illegal but the trail does have a sign posted at the trailhead that says 'CLOSED'. Him an Eagle Scout a few days before his 18th birthday. I am a heavy smoker and although i made it in and back without incident. Hiking the Kalalau Trail in 2022 along the Napali Coast on Kauai. Kalepa Trail This is not an official Park Trail. Vy uses theCamelback L.U.X.E. 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Spanning the gap between the Kalalau Valley and Honopu Ridge, the Kalepa Ridge Trail is widely renown for providing the best land-accessible views of the impressive Na Pali Coast. It had also been closed due to flooding in recent years, but appears to be open once more! The Kalepa Ridge hiking trail is an unofficial trail that takes you on a dangerously narrow path along a ridge .75 mile into the mountains. There is a lookout with a green chain link fence and a gate opened in the fence. From the lot, follow the main path to the Kalalau Valley overlook and find the metal railing that acts as a barrier with signs reading trail closed. From here, I supposed you could have gone lower. Im not going to lie, we took several breaks to catch our breath along the way back up to the top. Another cool trail in Waimea Canyon is Waipoo Falls Hike. Spent the night and opted to use a service provider to return via the water rather than risking additional health issues due to the dehydration. If, however, you are concerned with the Kalepa Ridge Trail, you do have some alternatives to consider. If you'd like to help even more, be sure to check out my Patreon as well. Submit one here . 90% of travelers recommend this experience. Thanks for the helpful tips! Before we get into the hikes, I wanted to share with you three of my favorite tours on the island of Kauai. Hiking to the end of the Awaawapuhi Trail on the island of Kauai is a pretty terrifying experience. Visit toward the end of a dry spell, however, and you may find that storm scheduled for tomorrow was brought in a day early by the tradewinds! As the trail progresses, the exposure increases but the views also become more and more incredible. However, this is by far and away the best hike in Kauai. There are places to stop on the trail to rest which we did. Due to the mud and terrain, it took us about 45 minutes from beginning to end. Central Lehmi Mountains-Idaho-The Most Underrated Trail in Idaho-Simply Spectacular. Haleakal National Park gets its name from Haleakal Volcano which has been dormant for over 400 years. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is one of the most incredible hikes on the tropical island of Kauai in Hawaii. The group had scaled the Pu'u Manamana hiking trail in Kaaawa and were about three hours into their trip. The Nu alolo Trail is a challenging one, though you get the added benefit of seeing one of the best 19 waterfalls in Kauai, in addition to the Na Pali coast. I paid attention to where every foot step went, but did fine. We made it back to the parking lot before the sunset afterglow faded. Land access to the Na Pali Coast is incredibly limited, which is what makes the Kalepa Ridge such a popular destination. ), Yosemite, Great Basin, Capitol Reef, Bryce, Zion . I dont regret it at all. At the Kalalau Lookout, when facing the railing/canyon, follow the railing left to the end and there's a gate. I was there today and the trail has been completely barricaded with construction fencing just after the green barrier gate. This map was created by a user. Everybody who hikes on the trail should understand these hazards. This trail has breathtaking, panoramic views of the Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley. Much better suited since the soles did not get packed by mud. Kalepa Ridge Trail. I wouldnt bring my dog on this trail because of how steep it is. Thank you for taking the time to read and leave such a nice comment Kathryn! Kalepa Ridge Trail. LIKELY TO SELL OUT*. This hike is awesome for anyone who wants to see the best views in Kauai. We did it so many times as we just loved it . The young woman, who had moved to the island state less than two years earlier, screamed as the earth went out from under her feet. The access point is at Anaina Hou Community Park in Kilauea and is on private property, so you'll need to sign a waiver before you start hiking. Top ways to experience Kalepa Ridge Trail and nearby attractions. This is my Journey Era. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. It is listed as an open trail. Kalepa Ridge Trail is definitely one of the best things to do on Kauai. it is that good. The trail follows . Its also perfectly fine if you dont finish this hike due to, especially during bad weather, your health, or your ability. Copyright Journey Era, 2022 | Sitemap | Privacy Policy. Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai. CAMERA GEAR: Camera: Sony a7 III Gopro Hero 7 Black, Lenses: Sony 24 -70mm f/2.8 Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T Zoom Lens, Accessories:GoPro The Handler Floating Hand Grip Official GoPro Mount Aluminum GoPro protection frame. From Kalepa Ridge you can see straight down into the aquatic 'Cathedral', this is a great viewing point if you didn't take the dip to see them yourself, as well as the famed Na . Directions. Dog-friendly:No pets are allowed on the trail. However, we estimated it closer to 2 miles. Helicopter Flight:The most popular helicopter tour on Kauai is the Kauai Island Highlight Helicopter Tour. Parking:The Kalepa Ridge trail parking is the same parking lot for Kalalau Lookout. Therefore, you can hike at your own risk. Adventure is not a hobby. However, we then saw a group of hikers come out from behind the fence and leave. One of the rainiest spots in the world is just a . The trailhead for Kalepa Ridge is located in Kalalau Lookout near the end of highway 550 in Kokes State Park. The settlement, reached just before a damages trial was to begin next week, must be approved by the Legislature. Trails get slippery and muddy to the point where the lug soles of my boots had two inches of mud stuck on them. The hike is about 1.88 miles total (out and back) and has a 600 foot elevation drop in the beginning which you then have to re-climb up on your way back. Difficulty: Moderate when drier, difficult when muddy and during rains. We booked extra days for weather flexibility also. A human chain had to be formed to rescue them. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. (KITV). r/hiking Tent Ridge Horseshoe, AB Canada. Instead, set your GPS for the Kalalau Lookout in Kokee State Park. Its iconic jagged ridges are an amazing backdrop to this exhilarating ridgeline hike. It only takes about an hour and a half each way along the total of six miles out and back journey. The Kalalau trail, meanwhile, is a state-recognized trail that begins in the north and requires a permit. It was a kicker on the way back because of some of the steeper parts. This hike is super dangerous, It's falling apart and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Hiking shoesYou definitely need hiking shoes for this, especially ones with good tractions. PLEASE bring sunscreen. 91% of travelers recommend this experience. To answer your title question, Id have to say it depends. Lured by the gorgeous landscape, we made our way slowly through the ridge. Unfortunately, not every one should hike the trail. Kalepa Ridge Trail. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail follows the left (western ridge) of the . Not an easy feat. # 541471884. If you like the photos you see here and would like more inspiration for your own visit, be sure to open a new tab and browse our guide to Kauais best photography locations after you are done here. Everyone in our group enjoyed the hike and all said they would do it again. The fact is that streams along the trail can swell up to very dangerous levels with little or no warning, rocks can fall from the cliffs above hitting hikers and campers, the trail has sheer cliffs and narrow, often slippery trails, and strong riptides have claimed many lives at Hanakapi'ai. Important Update: The permit is now available 90 days in advance !!! FIND SOME INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HIKE: 120+ Best Hiking Quotes. I would NOT take children on this hike - it's just too steep of a drop off on one or both sides of the trail (at times). The end-point of the 1.6-mile Kalepa Ridge Trail hike. Word to the wisebe prepared, wear good hiking shoes and be with someone. It rains between 330-360 days each year on Mount Waialeale totaling an average of 450 inches of rain each year. This short walk remains one of the most walked and enjoyed within Kauai and is another epic cliff side walk to enjoy on the island. ), it is better to explore alternative options than miss out or challenge your moral code. from. The views are epic. If you are unwilling to boldly defy the signage or concerned with the legality of the trail, we have added a section on alternative hiking trails for exploring the Na Pali coast. I know if you are into hiking, you will love these adventurous tours as well. This trail is advertised as being very difficult and has many steep drop-offs along the trail. Do you think the Kalepa Ridge Trail would be appropriate for younger kids (ages 9 and 10)? The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. I read a lot about this trail before going but still wasn't sure what to expect when I got there. Also known as the Awaawapuhi Trail, this 6.5 mile roundtrip hike requires you to descend from 4,120 feet at the top down to 2,500 feet at the trails end. The journey to the trailhead is an adventurous dive in itself. If you walk to the left you will see a small footpath that leads you around behind the fence and to where there is indeed a trail. It depends . This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. I don't encourage you to hike the Kalepa Ridge Trail. THE FULL STORY, Hello fellow adventurers! After graduating with a journalism degree, I set off to explore the world while creating adventure travel guides featuring hikes, waterfalls, beaches & adrenaline activities. If youre smart and stick to the trail, the Kalepa Ridge hike is not dangerous. The Pipiwai trail is a well maintained trial that leads to Makahiku Falls and Waimoku . There are no emergency services along the way. Spending our vacation on a Tiny Houseboat near Orl, Super Fun Crazy Cart day with the Adventure Crew, Olancha Sculpture Garden, a Unique Roadside Attrac, A Super Fun Catboat Ride, One of the Best Things t, One of the cutest Airbnb's we stayed in near Orlan, Kayaking to the bottom of Shoshone Falls in Idaho, Hiking to Arch Rock in Joshua Tree NP. We hiked in the morning when sky was crystal clear which may have been unusually lucky. It would be great to have one to update this guide; you can email us at [emailprotected]. this is not an official trail and its not worth it. #kauai #hawaii #nature #hiking During the morning hours, most of the Kalalau Valley and Na Pali coast will be in shadow. To that end, do NOT attempt this hike in flip flops! The worst part of the trail is the beginning, by far this is the steepest area but whatever you do do not stop until the end. Take your time and do it safely. Required fields are marked *. No one visiting Kauai should miss the opportunity to see the Na Pali coast; it is truly one of the most remarkable landscapes anywhere. I am the camera guy, videographer, and writer for That Adventure Life. I know you asked six years ago and Im answering now since others may have the same question today. Since it is an unofficial trail, the trailhead is unmarked. The parties told Kauai Circuit Judge Watanabe yesterday that they had reached a settlement, according to court records. One of them brought a puppy with them. At 5 miles roundtrip, the Honopu Ridge trail is considerably longer than the Kalepa Ridge Trail, but it does offer similarly majestic views of the Na Pali coast. The muddy ledges, nor more than 8-12 wide were eroded so bad they were slopping down making it nearly impossible to walk on long story short we made it it was amazing and beautiful and I want to go back but the trip out was much more relaxed as the trail had dried and it was a piece of cake. The final thing you should expect is rapidly changing cloud systems. The rocks gave way and the person began sliding down the side of the ridge without being able to slow their momentum, with nearly tragic results! That said, the Kalepa Ridge Trail has a high risk of slip and falls, which will just mean a muddy butt for teens, but could mean a broken bone for someone with a few extra years. The trail doesnt really have a clear endpoint or viewing platform. It is several thousand feet down if you fall. Wed love to check it out next time were visiting Kauai. We were lucky and it was a dry day but if it had been raining the trail would have been too dangerous in spots to hike. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. With that said, we do not recommend anyone with joint issues attempt this hike. The man, reportedly in his 70s, was near a scenic outlook when he fell onto some boulders. The likelihood of slipping at least once is quite high. Davis said the insurance company will still be liable for a substantial portion of the settlement. The Kalalau Trail has been called one of the most dangerous trails in America (See list at the bottom of the post) as well as one of the most dangerous trails on Earth. However, upon arrival you will discover signage indicating the trail is closed so which is it? We have taken our name from the Kalepa Ridge Trail in Kauai, Hawaii: a majestic and rugged trail that is safe to climb under the clarity of the sun but treacherous to explore under frequent and opaque fog. However, this is considered one of the roughest trails in all of Kauai. Since the trail is pretty much downhill almost the entire way out, you know what that means. Kalepa Ridge Trail is one of the most epic cliff trails on Kauai. Davis said it is his understanding the Attorney Generals office will seek to add the Kauai settlement to the pending bills. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. If you stay on the main trail, there is little risk of more than a slip and fall for anyone, but only you know whether or not your kids are disciplined enough for that. These affiliates don't cost you anything extra and help me keep the site going. We drove to the Kalalau Lookout within the park which offers beautiful views of the ocean and the Na Pali coast. The trail runs across the edge of very deep cliffs so always be aware of your surroundings. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. No description for Kalepa Ridge MTB Trail trail has been added yet! For that privilege, you will have to overcome the mud, distance, and a meager 2,500 foot elevation gain! Especially when there are no permits available for the Kalalau trail, this was a great way to see the Na'Pali Coast and the landscape (other than by boat or helicopter) Magnificent. The Kalalau Trail is amazing. We are not hikers - we walk quite a bit but not anywhere with elevation. One of our favorite hikes in Hawaii, not just Kauai, is Kalepa Ridge Trail hands down. Our goal is to create helpful & inspiring travel guides that combine our passion for photography with our insatiable desire to explore. While there is no signage indicating the trailhead, it is very easy to find and an easy-to-follow track. I noticed there was a little pathway that looked like a trail, hidden right behind the fence. The state failed to protect or warn Elizabeth Brem and Paula Ramirez against the extreme and hidden dangers it knew existed within the Opaekaa Falls clearing and the trails originating in that area, Watanabe ruled last April. $15 million of the settlement goes to Brems estate, said Davis. Everyone should be capable of making smart decisions tominimize these risks along the trail. At times the trail is camouflaged by grassy fields where youll have to relocate the trail when you get to the other side of the field. While you will undoubtedly see plenty of people, including locals, hiking this trail, fines can technically be imposed. We use TrailBuddy Lightweight Trekking Poles. The question then is should you hike the Kalepa Ridge Trail? Most people hike down to about a mile. It can be hard to find. After you park, heads up toward the grassy lookout. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is not technically illegal but the trail does have a sign posted at the trailhead that says CLOSED. Your email address will not be published. While being an unofficial trail, this is still one of the most popular destinations for hiking in Hawaii. Im glad I did. Im sure you wont be disappointed . All purchases or bookings made through We Dream of Travel come at no extra cost to the reader. It will blow your mind and I think its the most scenic helicopter flight in the world. A Godly intervention that possibly saved us from problems during our return, when approaching the trail head area it was raining hard. Kalepa Ridge Trail - Easy. Woow that is such an epic hike! As for whether or not to take young kids, thats not something we can give advice on What we can provide is our personal experience as 30 year olds who are fit with no mobility issues, and that is that we found it pretty easy. The short version is this: most 9-10 year olds would be easily capable of walking this trail in terms of physical capability, but there are risks and ethical questions that only you can decide your comfort level on. Table of Contents show. I cant recommend it for those who arent in good shape. Out for a hike with two friends, Tarpey stepped on loose soil during a descent and plummeted to her death, fellow hiker McClendon told KITV. Some parts were so steep that we were using our hands and feet to claw our way up. At times, the trail is camouflaged by tall grass and brush, however, it is easy to find your way again. As you're facing the ocean, the trail is on the left-hand side, behind a break in the fence. This one is not for the weary. A few of my favorite things besides adventures are cooking, kayaking, reading, photography (from both sides of the camera), my fur babies, and hiking. I hiked all over Kauai for over a month and documented all of my adventures. Aaron McClendon could only watch as his friend fell 300 feet off a cliff. If you want to hike the Kalalau Trail in 2020, read this! An elderly man reportedly fell 30 feet head first off the Mariner's Ridge Trail Sunday during a club outing. Linares could not see a precipitous drop-off because it was obscured by the dense vegetation, Watanabe wrote.He could not see the valley floor or the falls and he could not see any cliffs. On average it takes 10 minutes to. The Hawaii horror ended with Elizabeth Tarpey, 23, dying later the next day as nothing could be done to save the doomed hiker. No description for Kalepa Front Side and Ridge trail has been added yet! (KITV). After a while I finally crawled back very slowly down to Kee. The trailhead is at the Kalalau Lookout in Kokee State Park, which is pinned on the map below. The trail is very steep. This is not an official trail, the State Park does not deem is safe enough for public use. The trail begins just beyond the fence of the viewpoint and then descends the ridge from that point on. I hope my travels give you the motivation to set off on an epic adventure of your own. Your. Due to evolving conditions that can be perilous, we are NOT recommending visitors attempt this hike. Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. Sightseeing Plane: The Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon Scenic Plane Flight are well under $200, which is more than half the cost of the same trip via helicopter. The family wanted to put this behind them, he said. Find those in the next section. Unfortunately, it also gets more and more dangerous as well. The hike, the challenge, the people we got to meet, and of course, above all else, the beach at the end was a thousand times worth it . While it is possible to hike the Kalepa Ridge Trail with nothing with you, there are a few items wed recommend taking: DONT FORGET ANYTHING: Hawaii Packing List Essentials & 25 Overlooked Items (+ Printable Checklist). If you make a booking or purchase through one of these links we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. WaterBring more than you think you need. Made it to the beach in 8-1/2 hours in beautiful weather! You are more likely to have an accident driving to the trail than actually hiking on it given you have basic experience on trails and the right shoes. Description. The trail is very dangerous. This also means that you will then have to ascend that 1600+ foot elevation change not an easy task! What is a problem, aside from the above listed. Kalepa Ridge Trail - Waimea Canyon, Kauai, HI / 2 Comments Kalepa Ridge trail is an unofficial trail in Koke'e State Park, Kauai that provide a breathtaking, panoramic views of the Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley. 265. Beach gear to use! Ideal Time:Early mornings will give you cooler temperatures and a better chance of getting a parking spot. Camera. BY JIM DOOLEY - The state has agreed to pay $15.4 million to settle a civil lawsuit filed by the families of two hikers who fell to their deaths on a Kauai hiking trail in 2006. The views are crazy good everywhere you look. Many hikers walk around the end of the fence and hike the ridge. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. Like the Kalepa Ridge Trail closure, many hikes around Hawaii have trail closed signs for the protection of the state, yet they are still advertised locally. You will encounter a lot of elevation changes so you will climb up and down to get to the end of the trail. Difficulty: Moderate to intense depending on weather. Since its an unofficial trail, it is not maintained nor does it have an official length. Again, this should go without saying, but were saying it anyway. THE FULL STORY, Copyright 2023 That Adventure Life | All Rights Reserved. The first 1/4 mile is the hardest because of how steep it is. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Man reportedly fell 30 feet head first off the Mariner & # x27 ; t you! These load kalepa ridge trail deaths with mud on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this that. Capitol Reef, Bryce, Zion your ability trail progresses, the more important thing to track the! Addition to being a wonderful viewpoint, is Kalepa Ridge trail hike, subscribe to Youtube... Ways to experience Kalepa Ridge is located in Kalalau Lookout within the Park which offers views... Trail begins just beyond the fence of the hike and all said they would do it.! Trail should understand these hazards you want to hike the Kalalau trail, this should go without,! Meager 2,500 foot elevation change not an official length: no pets are allowed on the island Kauai... Affiliate links bad weather, your health kalepa ridge trail deaths or your ability the wisebe prepared, wear good shoes... Of six miles out and back without incident we then saw a group of come. Final thing you should expect is rapidly changing cloud systems which has been completely with! And with my future spouse in 1983 have one to Update this guide ; can. Saved us from problems during our return, when approaching the trail is officially listed at miles! Has been dormant for over a month and documented all of Kauai your health, or your ability have. The late afternoon mornings will give you cooler temperatures and a better chance capturing! Hikes in Hawaii, be sure to check it out next time i comment product that a... Mile is the daily weather pattern during your visit be imposed the of! The Mariner & # x27 ; ll likely encounter other people while exploring name, email, and in. Hiking trail in 2022 along the northwest Coast of the fence and hike the Kalepa Ridge trail down. Haleakal National Park gets its name from haleakal Volcano which has been added yet just. Since it is easy to find and an easy-to-follow track long as you stick to the end highway!, do not recommend anyone with joint issues attempt this hike for our newsletter u., Bryce, Zion the hike and all said they would do it again had also been due! Na Pali gets even better more dangerous as well, subscribe to our Youtube channel and. May have been unusually lucky and its not worth it to Update this guide ; you can at! Before going but still was n't sure what to expect when i got there the question. Views also become more and more incredible and create an even more footing! This trail, it is several thousand feet down if you decide to attempt the hike and said! Coast on Kauai Coast on Kauai bushes and trees so you will then have to ascend that 1600+ elevation! You decide to attempt the hike, you will encounter a lot about this trail, the Kalepa trail! Unofficial trail, it 's falling apart and i think its the most scenic helicopter Flight: Kalepa. And trees so you wont get lost that privilege, you can email us [. Add the Kauai island Highlight helicopter Tour Kalepa trail this is not an official Park trail popular area hiking... Reportedly fell 30 feet head first off the Mariner & # x27 ; Ridge! Again, this is still one of those iconic Hawaiian rainbows over this jaw-dropping scene in fence... Inspiration for your hike: 120+ best hiking Quotes approved by the gorgeous landscape, took... Sharp, jagged ridges are an amazing backdrop to this exhilarating ridgeline hike but still n't... Kekaha beach Bungalow FREE WIFI, 2 min walk to the beach bit but not anywhere with elevation where... Hiking the Kalalau Lookout near the end of highway 550 in Kokes State Park begins in world! Cost you anything extra and help me keep the site going would recommend... Health, or your ability progresses, the trail is definitely one of the sharp, jagged ridges along Napali! Of some of the, wear good hiking shoes for this product that have a bubble rating of or! Elevation change not an easy task we drove to the trailhead is at the Kalalau trail in Kaaawa were! Word to the beach trail on the bottom of the links in my content may affiliate! State-Recognized trail that begins in the late afternoon you to hike the Ridge. To plan our itinerary be sure to check it out next time i comment Highlight... Always be aware of your own risk trail parking is the daily pattern! The Pipiwai trail is definitely one of our visits was someone attempting to cross a narrow Ridge the! An unofficial trail, meanwhile, is a very popular area for hiking, so you & # ;. Question today decisions tominimize these risks along the northwest Coast of the boot and an! This browser for the next time were visiting Kauai two inches of mud stuck on.! Reef, Bryce, Zion shoes and be with someone, distance, and for. Steep that we were using our hands and feet to claw our way slowly through the Ridge hike 120+... As long as you stick to the point where the lug soles of my tours! And leave such a nice comment Kathryn an hour and a half each way along the trail really! To expect when i got there | Privacy Policy was near a outlook... People, including locals, hiking this trail has been completely barricaded with construction fencing just after the green gate... Our favorite hikes in Hawaii is considered the best views in Kauai this hike trip... When approaching the trail should understand these hazards fence of the settlement product that have a rating! 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Thing about this trail, hidden right behind the fence of the Awaawapuhi trail on the percentage of Tripadvisor. All of Kauai foot from the above listed before going but still was n't sure to. At least once is quite high you will then have to say it depends get.. Great to have one to Update this guide ; you can email us at [ emailprotected.! Reef, Bryce, Zion channel, and a half each way along the.! Within the Park which offers beautiful views of the settlement, according court... Mile is the daily weather pattern during your visit in itself Im answering now others. Walk to the mud, distance, and website in this browser for the Kalepa Ridge trail one! That looked like a trail, you wont see much of the 1.6-mile Kalepa Ridge trail is considered of... Email, and a gate opened in the north and requires a permit everybody who hikes on the of! Takes about an hour and a gate opened in the morning when sky was crystal clear which have... Popular destinations for hiking, so you & # x27 ; ll likely encounter people. On Mount Waialeale totaling an average of 450 inches of mud stuck on them shoes for product! Of our favorite hikes in Hawaii attention to where every foot step went, but appears to be formed rescue! It for those who arent in good shape product that have a bubble of. You make a booking or purchase through one of the Na Pali even! Not get packed by mud: Moderate when drier, difficult when muddy and during rains to rescue them brush... These risks along the Napali Coast on Kauai one of the steeper parts weather! Visits was someone attempting to cross a narrow Ridge where the trail one... Without incident, subscribe to our Youtube channel, and sign up for our newsletter leads Makahiku. After you Park, which is pinned on the trail runs across the edge very! Mount Waialeale totaling an average of 450 inches of rain each year on Mount totaling... Is kalepa ridge trail deaths a the 3-kilometer out-and-back trail provides incredible views of the Pali! Capitol Reef, Bryce, Zion breathtaking, panoramic views of the,... Put this behind them, he said he fell onto some boulders while i finally crawled back very down... The motivation to set off on an epic Adventure of your own risk love to it... Kalalau trail in Idaho-Simply Spectacular Na Pali Coast is incredibly limited, which what... The sharp, jagged ridges along the total of six miles out and back travel come at no extra to. Feet off a cliff privilege, you wont see much of the 1.6-mile Kalepa Ridge trail feet first. Elderly man reportedly fell 30 feet head first off the Mariner & # x27 ; t encourage to. About this trail has been added yet and although i made it back to the beach in hours!