Hiking is a Great Deal in Hawaii. Usually Free!
How To Ensure a Safe and Fun Na Pali Adventure
Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is known as one of the most beautiful natural areas in the world, yet it is only accessible by hiking the renowned Kalalau Trail, a rugged 11-mile trek that leads to the remote Kalalau Valley. While the Na Pali’s green furrowed mountains, waterfall lined ridges, and scenic blue waters are sure to provide the memories of a lifetime, some precautions should be taken before you head out on this strenuous trek to ensure that you stay safe and enjoy your adventure.
Getting there can be pricey, hiking it is free, memories - Priceless.
Getting there can also be a little tricky. If you are hiking the entire trail, many experienced hikers suggest starting at the crack of dawn. If you stay at one of the many north shore Kauai vacation rentals, you will be at to access the trail quicker. But before you go, here are some of the most important things you need to know:
Travel as Light As Possible
A heavy backpack can make it extremely difficult to navigate the rugged Kalalau Trail, so make sure and pack only what you need. Bring a light sleeping bag, a sleeping pad, a tent or tarp, a cooking stove with plenty of fuel, a water filter or purification tablets, sunscreen, rain gear, and mosquito repellent.
Wear Proper Footwear
Good hiking shoes are essential along the Kalalau Trail. In many areas the trail can be muddy and slippery with roots protruding from the ground and deep rutted areas. The trail can also be very narrow with steep drop offs, so secure footing is very important. The last thing you want to do in this remote area is sprain an ankle or suffer a fall, so it is best to wear very sturdy shoes or light hiking boots that provide some ankle support and good traction.
Get A Camping Permit
Permits are required to hike to Kalalau Valley. Even if you are not going to camp over night you will still need a permit for any hiking beyond Hanakapiai Valley, which is just two miles from the trailhead at Kee Beach. A Kalalau camping permit costs $15 per night for residents and $20 per night for others, with a maximum allowable stay of five nights. Permits can be obtained from the Hawaii State Parks Office.
Purify All Drinking Water
There is no potable water available along the Kalalau Trail. Due to the threat of leptospirosis and other potential diseases you need to make sure that you treat all of the water that you consume. Leptospirosis can also enter your body through cuts so do not swim in the streams if you have open wounds.
Get An Early Start
Avoid the possibility of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and sunburn by getting a very early start hiking along the trail. Take plenty of breaks, wear a wide brim hat, use lots of sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and don’t overexert yourself in the heat of the midday sun. Even when the sky is overcast the ultraviolet radiation can cause significant burning so always take precautions to protect yourself.
If you are in very good shape and if you start very early you can complete the eleven miles trek in one day. A much more reasonable plan, however, is to just hike to Hanakoa Valley on the first day, and then complete the trip to Kalalau Valley on the following day.
Don’t Swim in the Ocean
The beaches along the Na Pali Coast are very dangerous for swimming due to strong shorebreak waves and dangerous ocean conditions, particularly during the winter months. Even when conditions appear calm there are often longshore currents and rip currents that can pull you away from the beach. If this occurs you will find yourself being pulled down along a rocky coastline where it is very difficult to get back onto shore. Many people have drowned on the beaches of the Na Pali so stay safe and only swim in the streams.
Avoid All Potential Hazards
There are no emergency services on the remote Kalalau Trail and Na Pali Coast, and no cell phone service. If you are injured your only recourse will be to try to alert a passing boat or helicopter. Avoid all potential hazards in this area such as climbing on the notoriously crumbly rocks. Never hike during times of heavy rain as flash floods may occur, and never try to cross a rushing stream as it is very easy to lose your footing and be swept downstream. By planning well and taking the proper precautions you can enjoy a safe and fun Kalalau Trail adventure!