Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
State officials generally prefer visitors to use Waimea Canyon Dr, which is 19 miles
long and passes the canyon lookouts with terrific views into Kalalau Valley on the Na
Pali Coast. Kokeʻe Rd is shorter by 3 miles and also offers scenic views, but not of the
canyon.
Dangers & Annoyances
Rain creates hazardous conditions in the canyon. The red-dirt trails quickly become slick
and river fords rise to impassable levels. Try hiking poles or a sturdy walking stick to
ease the steep descent into the canyon.
Note the time of sunset and plan to return well before dark. The daylight will fade in-
side the canyon long before sunset.
While packing light is recommended, take enough water for your entire trip, especially
the uphill return journey. Do not drink fresh water along the trails without treating it. Cell
phones do not work here. If possible, hike with a companion or at least tell someone your
expected return time.
Sights & Activities
Waimea Canyon Drive
OUTDOORS
In addition to jaw-dropping canyon vistas and ocean views, you can also see several fine
specimens of native trees, including koa and ohia, as well as invasive species such as ki-
awe. The valuable hardwood koa proliferates at the
hunter's check station
. Look for the
trees with narrow, crescent-shaped leaves.
Scenic Lookouts
Waimea Canyon Lookout
, the most scenic of the lookout points, is located at 0.3 miles
north of mile marker 10 and at an elevation of 3400ft. Keep your eyes peeled for the
canyon running in an easterly direction off Waimea, which is Koaiʻe Canyon, an area ac-
cessible to backcountry hikers.
The 800ft waterscape known as
Waipoʻo Falls
can be seen from a couple of small un-
marked lookouts before mile marker 12 and then from a lookout opposite the picnic area
shortly before mile marker 13. The picnic area includes BBQ pits, restrooms, drinking
water, a pay phone and Camp Hale Koa, a Seventh Day Adventist camp.
Puʻu Hinahina
Lookout
, at 3640ft, offers two lookouts near the parking lot at a marked turnoff between
mile markers 13 and 14.
