Posted in Hawaii Hiking, Nature July 15, 2021 by

Kalalau Trail Is Reported To Be The Most Deadly Trail In Hawaii

While Hawaii is home to some of America’s most breathtaking hikes, they can also be quite dangerous. Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is an absolutely stunning, remote area of our state, and is often not trekked by the average person. Within Napali Coast State Park, you’ll find Kalalau Trail, which has often been rated as America’s most dangerous hike, and the most dangerous hike in Hawaii, as its long and steep trail gains over 6,000 feet of elevation right on the coast with rushing waters beneath. This out-and-back trail makes for a total of a 22-mile hike, and it’s very strenuous. Even though Kalalau Trail has taken many lives throughout the year, many people still take it on to experience once in a lifetime views. This is by far the most deadly trail in Hawaii, and is not by any means for those that are not skilled hikers.

Kalalau Trail upon the Na Pali Coast in Kauai is one of the most beautiful hikes in America, but also one of the most dangerous. Its lure is irresistible to a great number of people, even though it's dangerous.
coriepitcher/TripAdvisor
This deadly and breathtaking trail starts at Ke’e Beach and spans 11-miles upon the coast inside Napali Coast State Park. This remote part of Hawaii is only accessible via this trail. It offers stunning scenes you can’t find anywhere else.
Rambo_9999/TripAdvisor
Throughout the years, this massive trail has taken many lives. Beneath the cliffs are rigid rocks and rushing waters, making for dangerous terrain. This deadly trail in Hawaii is extremely strenuous and not recommended if you are not a skilled hiker. One misstep and you could fall into an area that’s nearly impossible to rescue you from.
Dawn G/TripAdvisor
This trail travels through the jungle, and in and out of the coastline on rugged trails. You'll also pass over at least three different streams of water, as this trail also features a waterfall. There are so many breathtaking sights along the way.
Bob R/TripAdvisor
If you are skilled enough to take on Kalalau Trail in Hawaii, you'll need trekking poles, wear deeply-treaded shoes, and pack the bottom of your pack with heavy items to help keep you grounded and balanced. This is a hike that only experienced hikers should attempt.
lesliegb/TripAdvisor
While the most extreme hikers can complete this hike in one day, most people camp out and complete it in two or three days. It’s a long, beautiful, and dangerous hike in Hawaii.
NCPirate/TripAdvisor
If you're not a resident of Hawaii, you'll need to register in advance to take this hike. The trail may be closed at any time for inclement weather, as flash flooding is especially dangerous in this area. Make sure you check in before you head out to know what you are facing.
Rambo_9999/TripAdvisor
It's obvious that this 11-mile one-way trail is breathtaking, but unless you're extremely experienced, we suggest viewing this trail via photos. This hike is just too dangerous to attempt without a high level of skill.
Canuck/TripAdvisor
Kalalu Trail on the Na Pali Coast is exceptionally beautiful, but also one of the most deadly hikes around. This trail makes it on many adrenaline junkies’ bucket lists!
Alexandra P/TripAdvisor
For more information about permits and park reservations, click here.

Isn’t this trail extremely beautiful? Do you know anyone who has completed the most dangerous trail in Hawaii? Let us know your thoughts and experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to then go share photos from your outdoor adventures in Hawaii with us in our Hawaii Nature Lovers group on Facebook, or by using the hashtag #hawaiionly on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

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Address: Kalalau Trail, Kapa?a, HI 96746, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Most Dangerous Trail In Hawaii

July 20, 2021
Megan McDonald

What is the longest trail in Hawaii?

The Mauna Loa Trail through Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park is an epic hike, and one of the longest, that deserves a look if you’re looking for long, visually stunning trails. The trail is 36.1 miles long, and is a favorite multi-day hike for avid backpackers.  Along the course of the trail you’ll climb 7,283 ft. The trail is rated hard, and you’ll find plenty of rocky areas along with stunning views and local wildflowers leading the way. Many bicyclists also bike this incredible road over strenuous terrain and epic lava fields. This is a hike that’s truly Hawaiian, summiting the peak of Mauna Loa and taking in the views.

What’s the best season to hike in Hawaii?

Because the weather is fabulous year round, you can find spectacular hiking throughout the year on the Hawaiian Islands. But in late spring, April and May, and early Fall, September and October, you’ll find it to be a little extra awesome. There are less tourists, the most perfect weather, and great rates for booking a beautiful place to stay on the islands.