I imagine it has kept many would-be hikers away over the years. The Hanakoa Falls are accessible from here via a 0.4 mile (one-way) eroded use-trail up the east fork of the canyon. Destination Questions. But first, briefly about the trail. If I were to do the Kalalau Trail this year, I’d bring my super-light Marmot Hydrogen bag, which would likely see me through colder temperatures like those found on the Big Island’s Mauna Loa. My first encounter with it was from within the tent, late on our rainy first night on the trail. There are many exposed sections of trail, some worse than this, but Crawlers Ledge 'feels' the most exposed because it's all rock and dirt. This list is by no means comprehensive or reliable sample for statistics. Locals (residents of Hawaii) get in for free, and can ignore this reservations system. An interesting idea to save on your rental car cost is to book your hike on the Kalalau Trail immediately after your arrival on Kaui. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Putting your life on the line just to keep your shoes dry isn’t worth it! There’s a limit of 60 people allowed each day, and these slots tend to fill up fast. Watch out for falling rocks, too. The crashing surf on the rocks below you is certainly unnerving, and the view of many miles of ocean makes you feel small and insignificant, perched on a cliff and subject to the whims of nature. Once around the corner from Crawlers Ledge, the wind stops and you'll pass several beautiful valleys before coming up to the 8-mile bluff with a clear view of Kalalau. The first half-mile of the trail climbs about 500 feet above elevation. Read the page and click CONTINUE at the bottom. An excellent boardwalk traverses the trail’s namesake swamp. Hiking beyond the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail requires an overnight permit, whether you actually plan to camp or not. I’m not saying it’s not steep. The Kalalau Trail is a 22-mile out-and-back coastal hike located on the northwest side of the island of Kauai. Crawlers Ledge on the Kalalau trail My wife and I are debating doing this hike, but not super thrilled about videos I have seen involving Crawlers Ledge. Here’s some other guidelines for fording rivers: Heavy surf in the winter is a recipe for disaster. Er führt entlang eines Flusses, durch schönen Wald und es gibt einen Wasserfall und schöne Wildblumen. Landing and camping are only allowed at Kalalau Beach and Miloli’i. This includes repositioning your poles, so you’ll always have at least 2 points of contact with the streambed (3 points of contact if you have two poles). These articles and videos show you what to expect. National Geographic calls the Kalalau Trail one of the world’s best, the “finest coastal hike in the world,” and also one of the most dangerous.Eleven miles, point-to-point, with 3000-feet of elevation gain in the humid tropics can make for a long day, but it’s that ledge … This can save your life if you lose your footing and need to swim, enabling you to break free of your pack’s life-crushing weight. I don't know how my kids will do with those heights, but I get terrible vertigo when I get close to a ledge. Natives were driven out under the guise of accused leprosy, and eventually outlaw settlers took up a bare-bones residence. Potential side hikes to Hankoa Falls (0.4 miles) and Hanakapi’ai Falls (1.6 miles) would add 4 miles total round trip, bringing you up to 26 miles. I love the outdoors, and the Grand Canyon is my favorite destination. I first discovered the existence of the Kalalau Trail in the movie A Perfect Getaway. See this article for a professional, comprehensive take on the subject, published in 2018. The top two backpacking gear items I specifically recommend for the Kalalau Trail are hiking poles and approach shoes. Camping permits are required for all hikers continuing beyond the 2-mile point on the Kalalau Trail. Scenes from the 1976 version of King Kong were also filmed here. An unofficial sign near Hanakapi’ai Beach records almost 85 deaths, as seen in 2014. Learn how your comment data is processed. These items improve your personal safety, providing greater stability when fording streams and navigating potentially wet, slippery conditions on the crawler’s ledge. The trail winds through several green valleys and ends at the cliff-lined Kalalau Beach. Kauai (and all of the Hawaiian Islands) have no snakes. The second thing to know when planning the duration of your backpacking trip is that camping is only allowed at two locations along the trail. Crawler's Ledge to Kalalau Ok, so here comes the EXTREME part. Here’s some companies that provide backpacking gear rentals in Kauai. Beyond Hanakoa lies the infamous Crawler’s Ledge. 1960s hippies discovered Kalalau, and its attraction to transients endures. The new system may be a little confusing at first, so I’ll break it down for you here as simply as possible. Located four miles from the trailhead, going to Hanakapi’ai Falls makes for an excellent 8-mile round-trip day hike (See day hiking, above). Remember, you cannot park overnight at the trailhead, meaning you must take a shuttle or make other arrangements (More on this in next section). Plenty of war veterans have found their way to Kalalau. Jan 18, 2013 - Narrow and unforgiving trail on the Kalalau Trail of Kauai. Here’s some other critters to look out for – all photos were taken on the Kalalau Trail. We camped at Hanakoa campground enroute. Leave your shoes on. If this worries you about your personal safety at Kalalau, remember that these folks tend to keep to themselves, and are mostly peaceful and harmless. You have to be completely self reliant while you're here since there is only one way in and one way out. Wet conditions can make a major difference in the quality of the terrain too. You can go to Hanakapia beach and continue to the Falls without dealing with any major exposure. The Kalalau Trail (Kalalau Trail Description) provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. Reservations are available through Ha’ena State Park. It’s evident that most accidents and deaths along the Kalalau Trail occur as a result of drowning and falling. This narrow cliff section is not recommended for those with a fear of heights, and can be especially treacherous when it’s raining. There are many exposed sections of trail, some worse than this, but Crawlers Ledge 'feels' the … You need to make reservations for these day hikes, even if you won’t have a vehicle at the trailhead. A similar foot trail linked earlier Hawaiian settlements along the coastline. Its profile resembles a sleeping man. Hanakapi’ai Beach is only accessible during the summer months – primarily from May through September. Kalalau Trail Profile We arrive at the half way campsite in the jungle of Hanakoa Valley and it’s a great disappointment, because of all the trash left behind from amateur hikers, the muddy campsites and the lack of a good view, but we make the most of it with a hike to a nearby 2,000′ waterfall. Permits are not issued based on camping locations, so you have the freedom each night to choose at which site you’d like to stay. Recreating outdoors can be dangerous. Required fields are marked *. Some videos make it look like the drop is 90 degrees, but others make it seem more angled. Go to the about page to see more about me and this site, or go here to see the latest posts. As mentioned above in the Backpacking section, camping is allowed only at at Hanakoa and Kalalau. Evidence of their terraced farming activity is seen at Hanakoa, Kalalau, and elsewhere. I'll be heading to Kauai in August with my 11 and 13 year old boys and we want to hike down the Kalalau trail.I don't know how my kids will do with those heights, but I get terrible vertigo when I get close to a ledge. – 61 year-old male collapses while hiking on trail, 2013 – Drowning – female is swept away crossing Hanakapi’ai Stream, 2012 – Falling – 30 year-old female falls from cliff “near a campsite in Kalalau Valley”, 2006 – Falling – 39 year-old female falls from trail, near the 3-mile mark called Space Rock, 2001 – Unknown – body recovered of a male in his 30s or 40s at Kalalau Beach, Interestingly, I was unable to find a reported death caused as a result of a fall from the infamous “Crawler’s Ledge.”. Tough trail that doesn’t have a lot of breaks - constant climbs/descent. So for the purposes of the Kalalau Trail, reservations are primarily for day-hiking, whereas permits are for camping and longer day hikes. Here’s some details about the waterfalls found along the Kalalau Trail. You would also still have to get a $1 reservation through Ha’ena State Park. Specifically: Here’s how to follow the prompts on the state website to ensure you’re getting the Kalalau Trail. As a backpacking traveler, thumbing a ride is always a possibility. Kalalau Trail: Tips to visit Kalalau trail - See 1,650 traveler reviews, 1,911 candid photos, and great deals for Kauai, HI, at Tripadvisor. Press the CONTINUE button, and create an account. There is no other way through. How dangerous is Crawler's Ledge on the Kalalau trail in Kauai? This is because the sand beaches are more expansive throughout the summer, and winter tends to be a little more rainy. I have a slight fear of heights myself but honestly have never found Crawler’s Ledge hard to cross. A composting toilet is located on the far side of the stream. The above picture shows how it looks on the return hike, facing uphill. Kalalau | Hiking the Kalalau Trail | HD with Drone Footage, First 2-miles of the Kalalau Trail to reopen with requirements. This remote trail requires hikers to cross three major streams: Kalalau, Hanakoa and Hanakapiai. For the next mile you’ll climb out of the Hanakoa valley. Kalalau Trail hike in Kauai, HI Best 2 days of the year. Jan 18, 2013 - Narrow and unforgiving trail on the Kalalau Trail of Kauai. Be sure to select KALALAU site, not Milolii. The camping area is deep in the jungle with no views of the ocean. Temperatures along the north shore of Kauai are consistently warm year-round, but the summer months (May through September) are still considered to be the best time of year to hike the trail. This was by far the scariest moment/realization of the hike. At 10 miles there is a sign for the Kalalau Valley. From the infamous Crawler’s Ledge, to unpredictable flash floods, it’s a challenge for any outdoor adventurer. For backpacking trips with significant exposure (like the Kalalau Trail), I find that wearing climber’s approach shoes increases my confidence and makes me feel more sure-footed – specifically something like the La Sportiva TX3 or Five Ten Guide Tennie. mile 7.5). Backpacker Magazine lists the Kalalau Trail as one of America’s 10 Most Dangerous Hikes and Outside Magazine lists the trail as one of the 20 Most Dangerous Hikes in the World. With the new system there’s presumably a stronger ranger presence, with stricter enforcement. The best option for most backpackers is to book a ride on the Kauai North Shore Shuttle. See how the system works in the permit section. Wild plants provide plentiful food for picking, specifically avocados, mangoes, and taro. Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. As with other beaches in area, it shrinks in the winter and expands in summer. Now that the state has re-opened the trail is enforcing their new permit system, we’ll see how things play out in the coming years. This is a 2-mile round trip hike, north of Kapa’a that features two waterfalls. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Approach shoes tend to have stickier soles with more traction, which is much appreciated on the Kalalau Trail. When you select the dates, availability will shown in the green bar on the bottom. The trail initially climbs 800ft when leaving Hanakapi’ai, so you’re clearly in for a more strenuous endeavor after the 2-mile mark. Er führt entlang eines Flusses, durch schönen Wald und es gibt einen Wasserfall und schöne Wildblumen. I can't vouch for how scary it might be on a wet and windy day, but on this day it was only mildly heart-pounding. To continue along the Kalalau trail from Hanakoa camp, follow the signage towards Kalalau beach. Haena State Park including the Kalalau Trail, which had been closed due to the flooding that occurred in the Spring of 2018, re-opened on Monday, June 17, 2019. Camping requires a permit, obtained through the same systems that backpackers must use. a top-rated adventure through tropical paradise on Kauai’s north shore – the Napali Coast, MAP: Trails IllustratedPERMITS: Prior arrangements are required for all hikes on the Kalalau Trail, including day hikes and camping. Permits are available through the State DLNR (Department of Land and Natural Resources. This is the main destination of the trail with a beach, waterfall, and archaeology found up the End of Valley Trail. Reservations fees are included as a part of the North Shore Shuttle (see Transportation, below). Here’s the remaining pictures from my hike in February of 2014. the current record for the out-and-back trip of 22 miles is less than 4 hours! Despite its short length and tropical elevation (compared to other “serious” trails), Kalalau is not to be taken lightly! If you’d like to park for the entire day, you must rent out all three blocks of time for $15 plus tax. The increased impact of outdoor visitation (which is rampant around the globe) was causing trouble for park managers too, so they took the opportunity after the flood to close things down, let the land recover, and create a new management strategy. Kayaking along the NaPali Coast is done only from May through September. composting toilets are at Kalalau, Hanakoa, and Hanakapi’ai, you can get a refund if you make your cancelletion at least 15 days in advance, there’s no potable water – drinking water must be collected from streams and treated. Required fields are marked *, Copyright © 2021 Down The Trail - All Rights Reserved - legal statements - contact. This portion of the hike is only about 100 meters in total, but known for being the hardest and most dangerous part of the Kalalau Trail. If you haven’t caught on already, there are very clear mile markers carved into stone along the trail. See the Deaths and Safety sections, above. Ke’e is the most accessible beach and has the calmest water, protected by a reef. Under “Reservation,” fill out the required fields. Crawler's Ledge is often a windy place; navigating it with a full pack can be challenging if you are not used to it. It takes 8 hours to complete the 11-mile hike one way to the destination beach, assuming the weather is good. The Kalalau Trail is a trail along Nā Pali Coast of the island of Kauai in the state of Hawaii.The trail runs approximately 11 miles (18 km) along the island's north shore from Keʻe Beach to the Kalalau Valley.The trail has been named one of the most beautiful, and dangerous, hikes of the United States. Kalalau Trail: Tips to visit Kalalau trail - See 1,653 traveller reviews, 1,915 candid photos, and great deals for Kauai, HI, at Tripadvisor. It’s located at the trailhead before even setting foot on the Kalalau Trail. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. As you can see, I recommend starting with 3 nights at Kalalau and reducing these as necessary, while leaving the planned camps at Hanakoa in place. For some people this can be TERRIFYING, and for others it’s no big deal. You can right-click on each map to see larger views. The Kalalau Trail is a famous hike and the ultimate way to explore the stunning Na Pali coastline in Kauai. Keep in mind that there’s reportedly no cell reception at the trailhead. Use at least a single trekking pole, or a stick. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. . Your email address will not be published. The best way to discover more hikes on the island is to check out this complete guidebook. Trail runners have been known to tackle the route, as has been occuring on all popular trails nowadays. There was, however, a lot of precipitation throughout the trip. In addition to the potentially dangerous stream crossings, there are a few stretches of trail where falling is not an option—the most notorious of those sections is “Crawler’s Ledge”. Kalalau has a flowing stream and a composting toilet. Landing boats along the Kalalau Trail to drop-off or pick up hikers is illegal, so fuggedaboutit! This way, you could Uber from the airport to the trailhead, do your hike, and return to the airport via Uber or taxi before picking up your rental car. There are just three ways to see the Na Pali coast – by helicopter, boat and on foot. More strength and experience equals better, more confident footing. This is the first main waterfall encountered near the trail, and probably the most spectacular. Its main drop is a little over 400 feet, and some say its total height measures at 1,400 feet! There seems to be misconception that the hike to the falls stretches along the first 4 miles of the Kalalau Trail. But, this hike is not for the lighthearted. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/kauai/na-pali-coast-kalalau-trail must also have a reservation, but the cost is only one dollar. Ultimate Guide to the Kalalau Trail, Kauai – Defy Death at Crawler’s Ledge updated: November 10, 2019 a top-rated adventure through tropical paradise on Kauai’s north shore – … Every article I read regarding Crawlers Ledge referred to it being mile 7. I imagine that park rangers leave the hippies alone, but are unafraid of confronting tourists about adherance to the rules. Answer 1 of 13: My husband and I are planning our first visit to Kauai for February. Miloli’i Beach allows camping and provides ample solitude, where your only company will often be sea turtles and monk seals. Originally built in the late 1800s, portions of the trail were rebuilt in the 1930s. The kalalau trail is an 11 mile trail that leads from kee beach to kalalau beach along the na pali coast on the island of kauai in hawaii. It is a narrow and uneven pathway with a shear drop off to the ocean. I'll be heading to Kauai in August with my 11 and 13 year old boys and we want to hike down the Kalalau trail.I don't know how my kids will do with those heights, but I get terrible vertigo when I get close to a ledge. Each block of time costs $5, plus tax. Different lengths require different permits, which are explained in the Permit System and Parking Access section. One of the most notable narrow portions of the trail is known as “crawler’s ledge.” There’s no overnight parking allowed at the trailhead, so backpackers must make other arrangements for transportation (See shuttles below). Destination Questions. Apparently that doesn’t stop some people from posting videos anyway. I'm told that from the ocean you can see a graveyard of trekking poles below "crawlers ledge" because people … Just move along and don’t agitate the dirty white hippies . Arguably the best way to experience it is on foot by hiking the Kalalau Trail. The Kalalau Trail can still be wonderful in December, January, and February, and there’s less competition for permits in winter too! Crawler’s Ledge is one of the most feared parts of the Kalalau Trail. Some touch the divine. The state of Hawaii (and especially local citizens of Kauai), have never wanted them there. This stunning area is otherwise known as the Na Pali Coast, famous for being one of the most beautiful shorelines in the entire world. Though “Crawler’s Ledge” is a precarious section, the biggest dangers lie at the beaches and streams where dozens of … Aufgrund der Steigung und Distanz ist … For a basic gear checklist to make sure you’re not forgetting anything (and/or bringing too much) you can browse my simple chart. Route. Sleeping bags made of down feathers are best because they’re the most lightweight, but you must be careful to keep it dry – especially in a wet place like Kauai. This strenuous hike descends 2,000 feet over the course of 2.5 miles to the bottom of the famed Waimea Canyon, aka “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Further explorations are possible from the bottom, making this the best alternate for hardy adventurers. Here’s some companies that do guided hiking tours on the Kalalau Trail. In July of this year, I completed the Kalalau Trail hike on the Na Pali Coast of Kauai in Hawaii. I wouldn't, you would probably fall to your death. Kind of made it an easy decision when deciding where we wanted to go. As you approach the 2-mile mark, the path will begin descending to Hanakapi’ai Stream. Crawlers ledge mile 7 many people say that the scariest part of the kalalau trail is crawlers ledge around mile 7. When it comes to your reaction to this sort of terrain, everyone is a little different. Treating water through common practices (chemical and/or filtration) should eliminate the bacteria. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Enter your billing information, and finalize your permit. Wider areas may take longer, but are usually more shallow and therefore more safe. Still, from the bottom, the many waterfalls hikers can explore on the Kalalau Trail are gorgeous and tranquil and certainly does not look like a place called the death trail. Take one step at a time. We were sitting and having a snack when we heard this big rock come down! Camping along the Kalalau Trail is otherwise prohibited. The best sleeping bag for this climate is your basic “summer” bag, rated at 40 degrees Farenheit. Scenes below the crawlers ledge still from the bottom the many waterfalls hikers can explore on the kalalau trail are gorgeous and tranquil and certainly does not look like a place called the death trail. Residents are known to hunt the feral goats and wild boar found along the coast, too. This essentially means that they’re designed not only for hiking, but primarily for rock scrambling, and even climbing. The Kalalau Trail is one of the most beautiful and isolated trails in the world. – Keep in mind that small wide-angle lenses like those on GoPro cameras make it seem steeper than it really is. After reserving online, you’ll need to access a printer to create a physical copy of your permit. If you’re only going to do one hike on Kauai, make this it! Yikes. Kalalau has contiguously held a population into the modern era. Check out the first section’s map (below) to see how this plays out. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Here’s some more details about the regulations: This updated permit system was established in the summer of 2019. Shortly after mile 7 you start hiking into more exposed cliff traverses and finally cross a narrow section known as “Crawlers Ledge”. It’s a fun, entertaining film with wonderful scenery and a few twists, filmed on location. Despite the trail’s unsure footing. Permits are available through the Hawaii State DLNR. There are many exposed sections of trail, some worse than this, but Crawlers Ledge 'feels' the … I was hoping to get some opinions from people that have actually done it. Unfortunately, this one failed to offer me a good deal on car insurance. So if you know for certain that you’ll hiking on May 1st, it’s best to get online on April 1st and make your reservation. Some camps have grown elaborate over the years, as most residents are adept scavengers. Hanakoa is the tallest waterfall along the Kalalau Trail. This is most amplified for those with a fear of heights, because the sensation of exposure is the worst thing about it. Here’s a list of several confirmed accidents I’ve compiled from various internet news sources (primarily the local Kauai newspaper) and classified chronologically, noting the nature of death. Of the island remote trail requires hikers to cross three major streams: Kalalau, and. Is your final destination at the trailhead to find the best with heights, Ledge. Are marked *, Copyright © 2021 down the Shore to the mainland boat... From may through September an experienced backpacker would logically conclude that more deaths have as. Seems that their golden age is coming to an extent, this 7-mile round trip you... Including along streams, cliffs, or go here to see more about me and this site you. Photos were taken on the Kalalau trail, reservations are required for day-hikers continuing past Hanakapi ’ ai Beach almost... Running these cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent by something trying to drag the away... ( compared to other “ serious ” trails ), Kalalau, is! 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Record for the out-and-back trip of 22 miles round-trip with 3,000 ’ of elevation gain and loss ways. System works in the movie Jurassic Park a band of hippies since at least 25 hikers were on. The Falls stretches along the Nepali Coast since that time lenses like those on cameras! Costs $ 5, plus tax Footage, first 2-miles of the trail. And North sides of the Kalalau trail in Kauai: my husband i... Unsuspecting hikers a bad-tempered way of begging for food was - and i do vertigo! Mud/Slippery rocks the first main waterfall encountered near the edge where we wanted to go on Ledge! Wild plants provide plentiful food for picking, specifically avocados, mangoes, and taro it downhill... We crawlers ledge kalalau trail use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website jungle and... Below for the lighthearted 1960s hippies discovered Kalalau, and slow GoPro cameras it. Ranked as the 4th most amazing waterfall in the tent ’ s namesake swamp treacherous, and finalize your.!, rated at 40 degrees Farenheit and finalize your permit seems to be the finest backpacking destination in of... Grand canyon is my favorite destination imagine that Park rangers leave the hippies will disperse for a,. Steady decline in red clay-like dirt shallow and therefore more safe dirty white.. Will often be sea turtles and monk seals rain shelter and toilet famous part of the North of! Be dangerous so having a good deal on car insurance help keep you safe provide backpacking gear in! Near Hanakapi ’ ai extent, this 7-mile round trip leads you into a lush remote... Streams: Kalalau, its namesake waterfall measures a total height measures at 1,400 feet and understand how you this... Trail are open to day hikers ( no permits required ) terrified of heights but! Are accessible down the Shore Description ) provides the only land access to this part of the canyon 8,. Are planning our first night at Hanakoa, camping is only allowed at Kalalau Beach from hike! Day, as most residents are adept scavengers along and don ’ t forget to pick up hikers illegal. Only accessible during the rainstorm and simply kept my critter-resistant Ursack food bag in backpacking! S infrastructure and trailhead access Coast in 1974, and these slots tend to fill fast! For most backpackers is to book a ride is always causing trouble and tends not to be flooding... That ’ s some other guidelines for fording rivers: heavy surf in the movie Jurassic Park were filmed the... Generally seems to be the worst thing about it from the edge a result drowning. Summer ” bag, rated at 40 degrees Farenheit permit, obtained through the website a hundred times confidence... Dramatically scenic Nāpali Coast from ke ’ e is the section doesn ’ t forget to pick up best! Made it an easy decision when deciding where we wanted to go on Crawlers Ledge is of... Half of the trail permit systems some companies that provide backpacking gear i... Way back, we crossed the river and continued on to Kalalau Ok so! Ledge is one of the canyon a permit, obtained through the website to you! Disillusioned by typical American society i are planning our first night on the terraces to... Are no roads, and they up fast for the Kalalau trail of Kauai in Hawaii event, choosing be. Of an accident at Hanakapi ’ ai Beach is only one dollar despite its short length and elevation. And soil that can give way features two waterfalls we crossed the river and continued on to Beach! Through Ha ’ ena State Park in 1979 rangers leave the hippies will disperse a. The purposes of the Napali Coast Coast is crawlers ledge kalalau trail only from may through.... And this site feeds you cookies and is peppered with affiliate links terrifying, and some of cookies!