Na Pali means “the Cliffs” in Hawaiian. This section is one of the most beautiful and remote areas on Kaua‘i. The magnificent yet difficult Kalalau trail winds for eleven miles along the rugged Na Pali. It is the only land access to the legendary, mystical Kalalau Valley. The facilities as well as the trail itself are rugged and meant only for the intermediate to experienced backpacker or hiker.
Some of the highly eroded parts of the trail are extremely narrow on the edges of cliffs that are hundreds of feet high. There are steep inclines and declines throughout the trail, as well as loose rocks, slippery mud, and strong currents and flashfloods near the rivers. Add powerful shore breaks and riptides to the beaches, and the Sierra Club rated it a 9 out of 10 for difficulty. Backpacker Magazine listed it as one of the “10 Most Dangerous Hikes” in the US, and Outside Magazine rated it as one of “The 20 Most Dangerous Hikes” in the world. There is no water provided, so it’s best to bring a filtration device to filter the river water.
The 11 miles begins at Ke’e beach and travels along high cliffs, ending at Kalalau Valley. An expert hiker may find it possible to complete the 22 miles in and out in a day, but the average hiker would need a two-day minimum and camp along the trail. Camping is only permitted on the beach at Hanakoa Valley, which is six miles in, and on Kalalau Beach. The limited spots available for a camping permit go quickly, so be sure to plan your trip far in advance.
But these trifles are all made up for in the trail’s notable remoteness, mystery, and beauty. Soaring cliffs over crystal clear water, whales leaping on the horizon, cool wind, native jungle, and the Milky Way glowing above you at night in full force await on this incredible trail. There is no noise or light pollution, no smog, no traffic. It has been said that the water that comes from the mountains there is the purest and cleanest in the world, filled with minerals to keep one young forever — a Hawaiian Fountain of Youth!
This trail and Kalalau Valley are known for their important part in Hawaiian history. It was once the home of millions of native Hawaiians, and contains ancient temples and artifacts of their rich culture. To hike the Kalalau Trail is truly the adventure of a lifetime!
Images via chris.murphy, Bob Linsdell
