kalepa ridge trail permit

The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys… Our goal is to create helpful & inspiring travel guides that combine our passion for photography with our insatiable desire to explore. You will first drive through the incredible Waimea Canyon State Park, following the Koke’e road to the end. Kalepa Ridge Trail is definitely one of the must-see Kauai points of interest. There is one pit toilet at the Half-way house trail shelter. Hiking & Kayaking are the only legal modes of access to Waimanu Valley. In addition to the unbeatable vistas, you should know by now to expect a very steep, muddy trail. Kukui Trail is a scenic trail down the west side of Waimea Canyon. This creates difficult opportunities to photograph or even observe the textures of this real-world Jurassic Park. What is important is that fines and punishment are rarely, if ever, issued. Woow that is such an epic hike! Near the top, you’ll have a breathtaking look down behind you of Waipio Valley. With that in mind, you must know that if you decide to attempt the hike, you do so at your own risk. For that privilege, you will have to overcome the mud, distance, and a meager 2,500 foot elevation gain! You must PURCHASE and PRINT a copy of your permit in advance and have it in your possession while camping or lodging within any park or Forest Reserve. After you park, heads up toward the grassy lookout. Slips and falls are very common, but usually, just result in a dirty bottom. The Trans-Catalina Trail is a rugged hike along the island’s interior with camping stops next to pristine beaches. We did it so many times as we just loved it . https://www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/kauai/kalepa-ridge-trail That’s your trail entrance! Just remember that you are a visitor and it is important to minimize your impact; be courteous, be respectful, and be SAFE. Trail users currently must use the narrow shoulder of Highway 1 to travel the gap between the existing ends of both trails. If you’re smart and stick to the trail, the Kalepa Ridge hike is not dangerous. To that end, it is also obviously not recommended to attempt this hike in adverse weather conditions. In the afternoon, however, the sun will light up the scenery spectacularly. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is an advanced hike that is connected to the Kalalau lookout which is several miles up the Waimea Canyon Road. Since the application process takes time, it’s better to plan the hike in advance. While you will undoubtedly see plenty of people, including locals, hiking this trail, fines can technically be imposed. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is technically not legal, though it also is not illegal. Awa’awapuhi Trail. This short but steep hike reveals unbeatable views of the Kalalau Valley and the jagged, dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. We are in our mid 20s and in decent shape but no means consider ourselves experienced hikers. The Kalalau trail, meanwhile, is a state-recognized trail that begins in the north and requires a permit. As the trail nears the edge of the cliff, there seems to be another one extending further down the precipice. Brian picked me up from the airport and gathered Naomi from the hotel, where we then proceeded to drive up the winding and scenic road to Koke’e State Park. April 9, 2021. A situation can become tragic very quickly and easily when someone leaves the trail to get a “better view.”. What do you think about hiking this trail with two teenagers 13 and 16 with hiking/backpacking experience? The Alaka’i Swamp Trail is a 7-mile roundtrip hike with a more moderate 1,300 foot elevation gain. 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. Hawaii sure has its fair share of incredible hikes. The first time we came here, the entire place was super cloudy (visibility was less than 100ft) and it was … 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. It makes a 2000 ft. elevation drop to the canyon floor ending at the Wiliwili Camp site administered by the Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Know before you go. ... Kalepa Ridge Trail; Summary. Kalepa Ridge Trail starts at Kalalau Lookout. While being an unofficial trail, this is still one of the most popular destinations for hiking in Hawaii. Still, they are here for now whether welcome or not, and definitely can add some nice subjects to your photos. In our opinion, the views from this trail are the best available for seeing and photographing the Na Pali cliffs by land. Great photo spot. The trail itself can be very steep in some parts. Though there is still no certainty you will elude the rain, you have a better chance of a dry trail during this time. Be sure you include an afternoon visit on your itinerary and on that topic, you may want to queue up our travel guide detailing the best 7 day itinerary for Kauai to help plan the rest of your trip. Do not camp on them. Violators of the permit policy may be cited, and those cited will be required to show up in court. 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. Though the Kalepa Ridge trail location begins from the Kalalau Lookout, do NOT confuse it for the Kalalau Trail. Z-Trail. It is also often listed as a Kauai point of interest in official guides despite its unofficial nature. If hiking the Kalepa Ridge Trail is a priority for your visit, try to schedule your visit in the middle of a dry spell. Once you have arrived, you will have to pay $5 for parking. It’s a really beautiful hike! 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. Shop. Parking at Waipio Lookout is limited to 24 hours. 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! While cute, they are actually an invasive species and incredibly harmful to the ecosystem here. Pack it out. We Dream of Travel is a participant with the Booking.com and GetYourGuide Affiliate Programs. The Nu’ alolo Trail is a challenging one, though you get the added benefit of seeing a waterfall in addition to the Na Pali coast. In short, IF the trail hasn’t changed dramatically or been washed out since we last visited, you all should be ok if you are mindful & careful. Regardless, the more important thing to track is the daily weather pattern during your visit. The Kalalau Trail (Kalalau Trail Description) provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. by kenji SAITO on June 16, 2018. This ever-changing weather is something to be expected seemingly anywhere on Kauai. Camping by permit only. It is a downhill hike with a 500ft descent. The Kalalau trail, meanwhile, is a state-recognized trail that begins in the north and requires a permit. Thank you for taking the time to read and leave such a nice comment Kathryn! Route: The Kukui Trail starrts along Highway 550, about 0.75 miles beyond the 8-Mile Marker. When it comes to photographing the world-renown Na Pali Coast by land, you will be hard-pressed to find better opportunities than those from Kalepa Ridge. Although … Permits are obtained at https://camping.ehawaii.gov/. Kuilau Ridge Trail. The trail follows the crest of Kalepa Ridge towards the ocean. Permits … 2. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed . Due to the mud and terrain, it took us about 45 minutes from beginning to end. The only other way to photograph this stretch of dramatic coastline by land is via the Kalalau Trail to the north, which is legal but requires permits. Required fields are marked *. There is nothing worse to fear as long as you take it slow and easy, and wear appropriate footwear. As for the time of day, we strongly recommend hiking the Kalepa Ridge Trail in the late afternoon. To get to the trailhead, drive to the popular Kalalau Valley Lookout near the end of highway 550 in Koke'e State Park. The trailhead for Kalepa Ridge is located in Kalalau Lookout near the end of highway 550 in Koke’s State Park. This will simply result in some laughing companions and a muddy butt for most. YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Stunning Photo Locations in Kauai. Everyone’s ethical compass is different, and we recognize that many people follow the intent of the law more than the letter. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is officially listed at 1.6 miles out and back. Anyone camping overnight must possess a valid camping permit. For this reason, it is sometimes referred to as the Napali Coast Lookout. Permits, regulations, and fees. This mud is likely to cause some slips and falls, which could result in an injury. You’ll need a permit the moment you cross Hanakapiai Falls, even if you don’t plan on camping. Most areas of the Appalachian Trail do not require fees or permits, but a few do. However, we estimated it closer to 2 miles. Camping is permitted there by one of the 9 permit holders on a first come, first served basis. Again, this should go without saying, but we’re saying it anyway. The trail immediately begins with a challenge. However, teenagers are also more likely to be just too “brave”, and the Kalepa Ridge Trail is NOT the place for that. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is a short, unofficial hike that you access from the south of Kauai after passing through the Waimea Canyon. During the morning hours, most of the Kalalau Valley and Na Pali coast will be in shadow. A permit is a primary requirement if you are serious about hiking to Hanakoa Falls. PIN IT! Hiking. Since the Koke’e State Park is one of the wettest spots on earth the already dangerous path becomes more death defying when it’s muddy. Samek Palmerski reviewed Kalepa Ridge Trail. Meaning, they are not policed but merely signed appropriately to ensure Kauai and the state of Hawaii aren’t liable if you are injured or worse on your hike. Click here for our Privacy and Disclosure Policy. Thank you for this guide. This is the most comprehensive one I really found online. Click Make Reservation at the bottom of the page. Camping is permitted there by one of the 9 permit holders on a first come, first served basis. If you enjoyed this travel guide, you will also enjoy our photography guides to the other Hawaiian islands! Maximum length of stay is 6 consecutive nights. Permits may ONLY be purchased online or in person at District Offices. With that said, we do not recommend anyone with joint issues attempt this hike. 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 Kauai’s best photography locations after you are done here. The hike is listed as moderate, but if hiking 1600 feet up over a 3.2 mile stretch is moderate, then you’re in much better shape than us! FIND SOME INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HIKE: 120+ Best Hiking Quotes. The Appalachian Trail is intended for foot travel only. Click to learn about the Moment of the Month Club. Good news if you are a resident, you get a $5 discount. As there was not much information available, we have created this guide to the Kalepa Ridge Trail to answer the most common and important questions about finding the trailhead and hiking it. Similar to the Nu’alolo Trail, you’ll begin by hiking through the woods for several miles. We’d love to check it out next time we’re visiting Kauai. Look for a gate along the lookout fence and there should be a small dirt path. In this video, we traversed the Kalepa Ridge Trail in Koke'e State Park. Permits used to be available 1-year in advance but currently they are issuing permits 90-days out. Kalepa Ridge Trail. Great photos and thanks for sharing! Kalepa Ridge Trail is very steep in some parts, and it can be quite dangerous when wet. As you’re facing the ocean, the trail is on the left-hand side, behind a break in the fence. It had also been closed due to flooding in recent years, but appears to be open once more! All purchases or bookings you make through We Dream of Travel come at no extra cost to you. The Contractor shall be responsible for transporting all … I highly recommend that you arrive at the lookout as early in the morning as you can … Top Trail The trail offers incredibly spectacular views of the fluted cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, but from a unique 'above' vantage point. Beautiful trail! The last thing you should expect is rapidly changing cloud systems. See all things to do. Prepare to get down on all fours to climb down the steep trail. Wailua Waterfall close to Lihu’e - A Must-Do Google Maps location. Accordingly, the Awapuhi Trail is not the most popular or recommended, except for locals and visitors with experience. The Kalepa Ridge Trail is a short, unofficial hike that you access from the south of Kauai after passing through the Waimea Canyon. I wanted to include at least one trail that was a little more accessible for … 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 trail’s end. We Dream of Travel participates in various affiliate marketing programs. 101+ Dream Destinations for your Travel Bucket List, The Best Maui Instagram Spots and Destinations, Kauai Sunsets: Top 10 Destinations for Sunset in …. In addition, you have the best chance of capturing one of those iconic Hawaiian rainbows over this jaw-dropping scene in the late afternoon. Kalepa Ridge Trail, Kauai: Address, Kalepa Ridge Trail Reviews: 5/5. Those who do endure the climb will discover some of the most magnificent views available in all of Hawaii. This one is not for the weary. While the Kalepa Ridge Trail is considered the best (and shortest! There is a large parking lot available at the Kalalau Lookout, as well as bathrooms and water fountains. The state of Hawaii has been forced to close many Kauai hikes and trails due to liability and legal issues, as well as maintenance costs, but most of these are not policed. ? Even within an hour span of walking the trail, do not be surprised to find the visibility changing drastically by the minute as low and high clouds swirl about. Permits are required to camp at Hanakoa or Kalalau (Same permit). However, this is considered one of the roughest trails in all of Kauai. I mention this story because people will put themselves in danger regardless of signs, laws, or warnings. With that in mind, the legality of the Kalepa Ridge Trail was described to us by our local guide as somewhat grey. During the first part of the hike, you will pass through thick fern brush and trees. You can read all about the Kalalau Trail here. The most dangerous thing we saw on any of our visits was someone attempting to cross a narrow ridge where the trail ends. Kalepa ridge trail runs along the ridgeline splitting the Kalalau Valley and Honopu. The first ¾ of a mile is a very strenuous switchback trail climbing 1,200 feet to top of the ridge. Visit the Hawaii DLNR reservation system at. Online Reservation System- You can check for permit availability and purchase camping permits online. View Samek's Recording ... (with the appropriate permit). If you are graced with good weather, you are sure to get some great views throughout the ridge hike. How do I get to the Kalalau Trail? ), it is better to explore alternative options than miss out or challenge your moral code. Wild and Growing is on Kauai for the winter and we are doing some rad hikes! The Kalepa Ridge trail is an unofficial trail, which means it’s unmarked. From there the ridge route (informal trail) goes north to a point overlooking the Wailua River. Accordingly, you will want to try and arrange your visit to Kauai for the dry season, if possible, which corresponds with the typical summer months. Sunset can be beautiful if you get great color. Kalepa Ridge is a narrow, unofficial trail that starts at the Kalalau Lookout in Koke'e State Park. Some were overgrown and taking over this moderately trafficked trail. Your email address will not be published. Certain parts get pretty steep and if it’s been raining it can be really slippery. It is not maintained nor permitted officially. The view looks off onto the Napali Coast and the Kalalau valley which held many different movie scenes from Jurassic Park and King Kong. FIND MORE INSPIRATION: 101+ Dream Destinations for your Travel Bucket List. However, upon arrival you will discover signage indicating the trail is closed… so which is it? Where is the Kalepa Ridge Trail? The likelihood of slipping at least once is quite high. There is a small gate at the base of the fence to the left of the Lookout. If, however, you are concerned with the Kalepa Ridge Trail, you do have some alternatives to consider. Awa’awapuhi Trail is a great alternative to the Kalepa Ridge Trail because it offers some of the best views of the Nāpali Coast. Permits are $18 per campsite per day (Accommodating from 2 to 10 campers per campsite). For any of the questions in this section, the answer is yes, you do need a Napali Coast State Wilderness Park – Kalalau Permit. The view from the street, … As there is no fencing or safety precautions in place, the Kalepa Ridge Trail is technically off-limits for liability purposes. “Cloud Walker” My son-in-law Scott leads the way on the knife-edge Kalepa Ridge. This constant change will reveal some amazing pockets of light, but also may completely stifle the views for spells as well. Kalepa Ridge. Permits are $20 per-person per-day. Since it is an unofficial trail, the trailhead is unmarked. Do not bury or burn your trash. The question then is should you hike the Kalepa Ridge Trail? Kalepa Ridge Trail was our first hike in Kauai up in the Waimea Canyon area. Covering 38.5 miles in typically 4 days, you will traverse the Island starting at the Trailhead in Avalon and finishing at Two Harbors (after winding through the West End of … 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! Kapaa Town ... You do not need a hiking permit if you’re only hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. Who can say no to free room and transportation? Overall the beach trail is incredible and a must see for anyone traveling to Kauai! It is listed as an open trail. Finding the trailhead can be difficult, the terrain can be challenging, and various hunting trails also make navigating the Honopu Ridge Trail more difficult. This does not, however, mean that you cannot find danger by ignoring logic and chasing a photo. I cant wait to visit Hawaii for all the epic hikes! I adore those views and the mountains are out-of-this-world!! The answer is “not really”, but that answer comes with some caveats. However, it could become much worse for someone with compromised knees or ankles. It can be hard to find. There are 4 emergency helipads along the trail. Look toward the left (ocean side) of the parking lot where you'll see the unmarked start of the trail near a break in the fence. Kuilau Ridge Trail. Kauai gets more rain than any other Hawaiian Island, and I can assure you that most of the hiking trails are not fun when the clay-like earth turns to a slimy, muddy ooze. Your question is a tricky one and we can only offer our experience based on the condition of the trail when we were last there. 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”. It can be very dangerous, especially when wet.

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