Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon is beautiful! The drive alone is worth the trip and there are many scenic overlooks, pullouts, and hiking trails. Stop in the town of Waimea down below, grab a lunch at the local deli, and prepare to spend an entire day in Koke'e state park enjoying the vistas!
Along side of the road you will find red rocks with water cascading over them, and ferns that  grow out of the cracks. Farther up you wind through forests and beautiful trees and if you keep your eyes open you might notice the berry patches by the side of the road that offer very tempting treats in the summer. Although there are so many hikes, I can recommend the following.
 Pihea trail offers a short or long hike depending on what you like. I find the Kalalau overlook quite beautiful from this path! The Awaawapuhi trail offers a three mile hike to an outstanding cliff overlooking the Na Pali coastline. Prepare to spend a day at this one. And if you really crave a challenging hike, try the Kukui trail that descends 2 miles into the canyon and down to the river. Problem is, what goes down must come up when it comes to hiking and you'd better go slow or be in shape to do this one!
 For you road warriors, stay in the car, roll down the windows and pull off occasionally to enjoy one of the many of the beautiful vistas!
| Directions: |
Take Hwy. 56 south till it merges into Hwy 50. Drive all the way south and west past the town of Waimea until you see Waimea Canyon Drive (Hwy. 550) to the right. It is a rather unassuming road and you have to watch for it. Go right and up and up onto Waimea Canyon Drive as long as you like. You can drive all the way up to a beautiful overlook at the end. Stop at Park Headquarters and grab a map if you don't have one.
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| Supplies: |
Wear comfy hiking whose with traction (preferably!) and bring plenty of water, a lunch, and your camera plus extra film if you want to hike. Otherwise, just bring goodies and the camera!
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