The Kalalau Trail is a hiking trail along the Na Pali Coast of the island of Kauai.
The trail runs approximately 18 km along the north coast of the island from Keʻe Beach to Kalalau Valley. The trail has been called one of the most beautiful and dangerous hikes in the United States. In the fabulous and completely remote Kalalau Valley, petty criminals and hippies live here sometimes but they do no harm and just want to have their peace.
You can walk to the first beach "for free" - Hanakapiai Beach. A day trip that many tourists undertake during their vacation. Experienced hikers with appropriate equipment as well as food and water, which is tapped in rivers and waterfalls, can walk the entire trail - 22 miles in total - but they must plan one to three overnight stays. There is also the option of spending the night in Hanakoa Valley halfway through the trail. From time to time, there are wild boars here. The food should therefore be stowed in the trees.
A permit is required for the entire Kalalau Trail because the government wants to know how many hikers are on the trail. There is no cell phone reception there, so missing hikers can be tracked down if necessary. The permit from Hanakapiai Beach can be obtained at the Division of State Parks, 3060 Eiwa Street, Suite306, Lihu'e. Phone 808 274-3444. However, it is easier to get the permit online at www.kalalautrail.com.
The first 2 miles are almost always crowded, a disadvantage that should not scare anyone off. If you start early enough, you can escape these crowds. After long and heavy rains, the trail is not recommended and it is often closed. It should be noted that there are several creek crossings after the first two miles. There are always heavy rains on Kauai's North Shore. If they last only a short time (usually 5-minute rainfalls provide refreshment), the tour is no problem. However, if it rains for a longer period, so-called "flush floods" can occur. Small streams turn into raging rivers within minutes, which result in a long break or even a return.
Scenically, the Kalalau Trail passes through an area where a wide variety of Hawaiian plants grow, including many different palm trees. A treat for any nature lover. The hardships are rewarded with a secluded beach, waterfalls and sharp-edged cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, majestically perched above the white sandy beach.
