The West Side: Grand Canyon of the Pacific
Dramatic canyon views, remote Na Pali vistas, and trails through otherworldly landscapes
Written by a Local Expert
Jade KawanuiThe West Side: Grand Canyon of the Pacific & Its Rim Trails
Drive up Waimea Canyon Drive (Highway 550) and you enter a completely different world. The "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" is a geological marvel. This 10-mile long, 1-mile wide, and 3,600-foot deep chasm showcases red earth, crested buttes, and deep gorges. The trails here offer some of the most dramatic views on the island.
Waimea Canyon Trail to Waipoʻo Falls
This is the classic canyon hike. A moderate 3.8-mile loop gives you a taste of everything the area offers. The trail starts from either Puʻu Hinahina Lookout or a trailhead on Halemanu Road. It begins with a pleasant walk through shaded forest before emerging onto a ridge with jaw-dropping canyon views.
Here's a Secret Most Guides Miss
You don't hike to the bottom of the 800-foot Waipoʻo Falls you see from the road. This trail takes you to a smaller, 25-foot waterfall and refreshing pool at the top of the main falls. The reward isn't a view of the falls. It's an incredible view from them, looking out into the heart of the canyon. Many hikers are disappointed when they realize this. But if you know what to expect, it's a fantastic and unique perspective that few get to experience.
Awaʻawapuhi & Nualolo Trail Loop: The Ultimate Challenge
For seasoned hikers looking for a serious challenge with epic payoff, this is it. The full loop connects the Awaʻawapuhi and Nualolo trails via the Nualolo Cliffs Trail. This creates a strenuous 11.9-mile trek with over 3,200 feet of elevation change. It can take 5-7 hours.
The route starts near the Kokeʻe Museum. It descends the Nualolo Trail to its stunning coastal viewpoint. It crosses the often-overgrown and rugged Nualolo Cliffs Trail. Then it involves a long, hot, punishing climb back up the Awaʻawapuhi Trail.
My Honest Take
I've done this loop many times. I'll be honest—it's a brute. A common mistake I see visitors make is underestimating this hike. For 90% of even experienced hikers, I strongly recommend picking one trail and doing it out-and-back.
The Nualolo Trail (7.6 miles round trip) is tougher and more rugged. But the views from the final ridge are the most spectacular edge-of-the-world vistas of the Nāpali Coast you can get from any trail.
The Awaʻawapuhi Trail (6 miles round trip) is more straightforward and still offers incredible views at its end.
Don't feel like you're missing out by not doing the full loop. You're choosing a more enjoyable and safer day.
ℹ️ Canyon Trail Info
- Canyon Depth: 3,600 feet
- Trail Network: 45+ miles
- Elevation: 3,000-4,000 ft
- Parking Fee: $10 + $5/person
- Best Time: Morning
🗺️ Kauai Hiking Guide
🥾 Top West Side Trails
- Waimea Canyon: 3.8 mi, Moderate
- Awaʻawapuhi: 6 mi, Moderate
- Nualolo: 7.6 mi, Strenuous
- Pihea: 8 mi, Mod-Strenuous
Pihea Trail: Views into the Heart of Kalalau
This trail offers a completely different perspective of the Nāpali Coast. Starting at Puʻu o Kila Lookout at the very end of Highway 550, the Pihea Trail skirts the rim of Kalalau Valley. It provides incredible views down into the valley you just hiked from the other side.
The trail is often a muddy, root-filled track that eventually gives way to a boardwalk. It crosses the Alakaʻi Swamp, one of the world's highest rainforests and bogs. The full hike to the Kilohana Lookout at the end of the Alakaʻi Trail is about 8 miles round trip.
Weather Tip
The view from Puʻu o Kila lookout can be completely socked in with clouds, even on a perfectly sunny day down at the beach. Don't give up! The weather at 4,000 feet changes in an instant. I've often waited just 15-20 minutes and been rewarded with the clouds parting for one of the most breathtaking views on Earth.
This trail is also prime for birdwatching. Listen for the songs of the native ʻapapane and keep an eye out for the flash of crimson from the rare ʻiʻiwi.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Trails
While the famous trails get all the attention, Kauai has some wonderful lesser-known hikes that offer solitude and unique experiences.
Māhāʻulepū Heritage Trail
This easy coastal walk on the south shore takes you past ancient Hawaiian sites, fossil-rich limestone cliffs, and dramatic coastline. It's rarely crowded and offers a different perspective on the island's history and geology.
Powerline Trail
This challenging trail cuts across the island from north to south, offering spectacular views in both directions. It's a favorite among mountain bikers but also makes for an adventurous hike. The full trail is about 13 miles.
Ho'opi'i Falls
These twin waterfalls are accessible via a short but steep trail. The upper falls are more spectacular, but both offer swimming opportunities in their pools. The trail can be muddy and slippery, so use caution.
Okolehao Trail
This steep trail climbs to a ridge with panoramic views of Hanalei Valley and the north shore mountains. It's a great workout and offers some of the best sunrise views on the island.