Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail is a trail along Nā Pali Coast of the island of Kauai in the state of Hawaii. The trail runs approximately along the island's north shore from Kee Beach to the Kalalau Valley. The trail has been named one of the most beautiful, and dangerous, hikes of the United States. Route Expert hikers or trail runners can complete the roundtrip trek in a day, but the average hiker requires a two-day minimum and will camp along the trail. Camping is only permitted at a forested streamside campsite Hanakoa Valley (6 mile mark) and Kalalau Beach. The first section of the trail is a 2 mile (3 km) stretch from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai stream and beach. This section is moderately strenuous and does not require a camping permit. The next section connects Hanakapiai stream to Hanakoa Valley, six miles from the trailhead. To continue past Hankapiai Beach to Hanakoa Valley, hikers must obtain a camping permit from the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources. No day-use permits are issued, and only hikers with valid camping permits may legally proceed beyond the sign. Violation of this rule is a petty misdemeanor under Hawaii law, and a conviction will result in a criminal record in addition to penalties. Hanakoa Valley contains Hanakoa Falls and stream but the valley is a hanging valley with no access to the beach. The trail to Hanakoa Falls is not well maintained and sometimes difficult to follow. The trail begins after the Hanakoa stream crossing, just before the covered shelter.