Trails
The 驶艑kolehao Trail
~4 mile round-trip (6.5 km)
1250-foot elevation gain
The 驶艑kolehao Trail offers one-of-a-kind views of Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge, Hanalei Bay, the K墨lauea Lighthouse, Princeville, Mount Makana, and the lo鈥檌 kalo (taro fields). With viewpoints along the way and frequent muddy, rope-assisted climbs, this trail opens itself up to both casual and adventurous hikers. At the end of the trail, the Hanalei River can be seen meandering along the valley floor. On a clear day, you can see Mount Wai鈥榓le鈥榓le and approximately 1/5 of the entire island while hiking this trail.
The lower section of this trail is maintained by the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge. The trail leads into the Halele鈥榓 Forest Reserve and sections of the upper trail are maintained by the Sierra Club Kaua鈥榠 Chapter
Safe Hiking Tips
- Dogs must be leashed at all times
- Bring plenty of water
- Stay on the trail
- Check the weather
- Wear proper footwear for muddy conditions
Prevent the Spread of Rapid 驶艑hi驶a Death On Your Hike
驶艑hi驶a (Metrosideros polymorpha), the most abundant native tree in the state of Hawai驶i comprising of approximately 80% of Hawaii鈥檚 native forests, are dying from a new fungal disease. A new fungal pathogen known as Rapid 驶艑hi驶a Death (ROD) was identified on Hawaii Island in 2014 and on Kaua'i in 2018. The fungus attacks and can quickly kill this keystone species in Hawaiian forests. ROD has the potential to cause major ecosystem disturbances that will negatively impact watersheds, cultural traditions, natural resources, and quality of life.
What Can We Do? Practicing these Five Things:
- Avoid injuring 驶艒hi驶a.
- Don鈥檛 move 驶艒hi驶a wood or 驶艒hi驶a parts.
- Don鈥檛 transport 驶艒hi驶a inter-island.
- Clean gear and tools, including shoes and clothes, before and after entering forests. (For example, by using the provided boot-scrubs at trailheads.)
- Wash the tires and undercarriage of your vehicle to remove all soil or mud.