Koaie Canyon Trail - Activities On Kauai Waimea, Hawaii

The Koaie Canyon Trail is a 3 mile long (each way) out and back style hiking trail that follows the Koaie Stream near the Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park area on the island of Kaua'i.

Getting here first requires hiking the Kukui Trail as the trailhead for the Koaie Canyon Trail starts at the bottom of the Kukui Trail. That means this 3 mile trail (which would be a 6 mile hike) becomes quite a bit longer.

The good news is that there is camping available (for a fee) at two backpack campsites which are Hipalau and Lonomea. A permit is required to camp here so you'll need register in advance online or at a district office.

Image credit: Google

Once you've hiked the Kukui Trail, you'll find the start of the Koaie Canyon Trail about a half mile up the Waimea River. You will need to cross the east side of the Waimea River and because the trail follows a stream this isn't one you'll do during rainy weather. There is a real threat of a Flash Flood here. On that note of safety, always be sure to read up on Hiking Safety & Essentials before attempting any hike.

Total elevation change is around 720 feet which makes the hike of moderate difficulty for most. The trail itself takes you along the south side of Koaie Canyon and passes from the Puu ka Pele Forest Reserve into Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve. There is plenty of gorgeous scenery to be had as well as a few swimming holes. As with all fresh water streams in Hawaii, there is a real threat of Leptospirosis so you'll be swimming at your own risk in many ways.

• General: Camping	• General: Cost: Free	• General: Cost: Paid	• Hiking: Hiking	• Hiking: Length: 3-4 Miles
• Hiking: Level: Moderate	• Hiking: Major Elevation Changes	• Hiking: Out & Back Trail	• Water Activities: Fishing