 This is a beautiful hike with a gradual incline that takes you through the island forests, past birds of every color, ferns, tropical flowers and you name it! I took this hike once in the rain when the red dirt trail turned into a mush rivulet. It was gorgeous. The sun came out as I headed back down and the air was thick with moisture. Prepare to sweat on this one! It is likely to be humid.
 You'll hike up to some picnic tables, but keep going because after these the trail zig zags through paradise!
Wind your way past grassy hillsides, dewy bushes, white egrets circling overhead, and lush areas of vegetation, including fields of ferns.
You'll see Mt. Wai'ale'ale in the distance, usually with waterfalls pouring of its sides. At some points you'll catch glimpses of Kapaa and Lihue. At other times, you'll only hear the waterfalls and feel the jungle breathing! The earth is alive and pulsating on this trail.
| Directions: |
Take Hwy. 56 to Hwy. 580 which is just north of the Wailua river. Turn inland onto 580 and go all the way up, 1.75 miles past the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Kauai Research station. The trailhead is on the left side. Park at Keahua Arboretum.
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| Supplies: |
Wear comfy hiking or walking shoes and bring water and a camera.
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