The Hawaii Hike That Leads To The Most Unforgettable Destination

Nestled along the rim of Waimea Canyon between 3,200 and 4,200 feet above sea level, Koke’e State Park on Kauai is home to some of the prettiest scenery in the Aloha State - including both Waimea Canyon, also known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," and the jaw-dropping Kalalau Valley. Koke'e State Park sprawls over 4,300 acres and contains approximately 45 miles of hiking trails along canyon rims, and through native Hawaiian forests. It's home to some of the best hikes in Hawaii. While one could spend weeks exploring this incredible park, there is one trail that often gets overlooked: the Kalepa Ridge Trail in Hawaii.

Rugged terrain earns the Kalepa Ridge Trail difficulty ratings that are pretty high.

It's a hike that leads experienced adventurers from the Kalalau Lookout along the ridgeline between the Kalalau and Honopu Valleys to one of the prettiest views in Hawaii.

Kalalau Valley is easily one of the most photographed and recognized lookout points in the Aloha State, perhaps due to the fact that the valley, and surrounding coastline, have been featured in various Hollywood films, including King Kong and Jurassic Park.

While thousands of people visit the Kalalau Lookout within Koke’e State Park each year, few very complete the often overlooked Kalepa Ridge Trail, perhaps because it's an unofficial trail, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Whether it is Kalepa’s unsanctioned status or breathtaking natural beauty that makes this one of Hawaii’s most exciting trails, we’re not sure.

Be warned, though: this trail is quite difficult and should only be attempted by experienced hikers familiar with hiking Hawaii's ridgelines.

The trail is steep, narrow, and remote. It's also quite dangerous, especially after the area has received rain.

Because the trail is unofficial, there's no exact length, but we advise experienced hikers to climb only as far as they feel comfortable. Most people allow two to three hours to hike the Kalepa Ridge. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and utilize hiking poles.

With views like this, you'd be a fool to forget your camera. Many say that the views of the Na Pali Coast from the Kalepa Ridge Trail surpass those you'll find on both the crazy-intense 22-mile Kalalau Trail and a helicopter tour.

Luckily, for those who might not have the time or the skills to tackle Kalepa Ridge Trail, the views from the Kalalau lookout are still quite stunning.

For Kalepa Ridge Trail reviews or Kalepa Ridge Trail photos - as well as downloadable maps for use offline - check out AllTrails Plus. If you want to explore all that Koke’e State Park has to offer, we suggest staying at this gorgeous campground. And if you’re looking for an easier hike within this stupendous state park, check out the Alakai Swamp Trail.

Have you hiked the rugged Kalepa Ridge Trail in Hawaii? Let us know in the comments.