Nu'alolo Trail
This demanding 7.8-mile loop through Kokee's wilderness rewards serious hikers with spectacular Na Pali Coast views. Steep, muddy terrain and significant elevation gain make this Kauai's most challenging trail, and the clifftop vistas justify the effort required.
Check trail conditions before you go
Kauaʻi trails can flood, wash out, or close without notice. Flash floods, slippery rock, sheer drop-offs, and sudden weather changes are real risks — people get hurt or die here every year. Cell service is spotty to non-existent on most trails. Tell someone your plan, carry water, turn back if conditions look off.
Moku Intel aggregates publicly-available information about this trail. We are not the authority on its current condition — the State and County are. Always verify before you go.
About Nu'alolo Trail
Aloha. Nu'alolo Trail is no joke—this challenging 7.8-mile loop will test your hiking skills, but the payoff is absolutely incredible views of the Na Pali Coast that'll make your jaw drop.
Starting near Kokee State Park Headquarters, you'll climb through dense native forest in the Kuia Natural Area Reserve. The trail gains serious elevation—we're talking 1,566 feet—so expect steep, muddy sections that can be slippery. Most folks use this as a hunter access route, so it's rugged and less maintained than tourist trails.
The payoff comes when you connect to the Nualolo Cliff Trail, creating an epic loop with panoramic coastal vistas. Plan for 6–8 hours total and start early—afternoon clouds can roll in fast up here. Bring plenty of water, snacks, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots with good grip. The trail can be treacherous when wet.
Park at Kokee State Park—no permits needed, but there's a small entrance fee. Weather changes quickly at this elevation, so layer up. This isn't for beginners or anyone afraid of heights. But if you're an experienced hiker looking for one of Kauai's most rewarding challenges, Nu'alolo delivers unforgettable views of the island's rugged terrain.
Where it is
Nu'alolo Trl, Hawaii 96796, USA
Photos
At a glance
Hike
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Distance
- 7.8 mi
Perfect for
Nearby on Kauaʻi
Awaawapuhi Trail
This moderate 6.4-mile trail through Kokee State Park leads to spectacular Na Pali Coast viewpoints. The mostly downhill hike winds through native forest before opening up to dramatic cliff-top vistas of emerald valleys and deep blue ocean. The uphill return is challenging but the scenery makes the effort worthwhile.
Kalalau Beach
Remote destination at trail's end – 11 miles of hiking rewards you with one of Kauai's most dramatic beaches.
Kalalau Lookout
The crown jewel of Na Pali Coast viewpoints, offering stunning panoramic views of Kalalau Valley from 4,000 feet elevation. Easy access makes this iconic lookout accessible for all visitors. Arrive early for the clearest views and best photography conditions before afternoon fog rolls in.
Kalepa Ridge Trail
A 3-mile ridge walk starting from Kalalau Lookout with unbeatable Na Pali Coast views. This moderate-to-challenging trail isn't for beginners—you'll encounter exposed sections, drop-offs, and potentially windy conditions. Hike early morning when it's calmer. The dramatic Kalalau Valley vistas make every careful step worth it.
Koke'e Natural History Museum
Explore native bird exhibits, Hawaiian forest trees, and historic botanical prints at this free museum in Koke'e State Park. Open daily with straightforward access, it works well for rainy days or getting oriented on local flora and fauna before hitting the trails.
Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
Experience Kauai's most iconic coastline where 4,000-foot cliffs plunge into the Pacific Ocean. This 15-mile wilderness area offers world-class hiking on the legendary Kalalau Trail, beaches, and dramatic valleys. The terrain delivers challenging outdoor experiences for hikers and adventurers.
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