Sleeping Giant Trail Kauai
Hike through a lush rainforest to the summit of Nounou Mountain for breathtaking 360° views of Kauai's stunning coastline and valleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sleeping Giant Trail Kauai
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through a lush rainforest to the summit of Nounou Mountain for breathtaking 360° views of Kauai's stunning coastline and valleys.
"One of the best hikes I've ever gone on, seriously. Loved the views!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Mud can make the trail slippery; wear shoes with good treads. Hiking poles are helpful for descent.
🦟 Mosquitoes Beware!
Apply bug spray generously before and during your hike, especially when stopping.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giant's Head Summit
Nounou Mountain East Trail
Reach the 'head' for breathtaking 360° panoramic views of Kauai's lush landscape and coastline.
+1
Rainforest Immersion
Throughout the trail
Hike through a vibrant rainforest filled with unique flora, fauna, and the sounds of incredible birds.
Sunrise Spectacle
Nounou Mountain East Trail
Catch a cooler, quieter hike with a stunning golden view as the sun rises over the island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Choice Matters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Mud can make the trail slippery; wear shoes with good treads. Hiking poles are helpful for descent.
🦟 Mosquitoes Beware!
Apply bug spray generously before and during your hike, especially when stopping.
☀️ Go Early to Avoid Heat
The trail gets muggy and warm later in the day. Aim for a start around 6:30 AM.
⬆️ East vs. West Trail
East trail is steeper; West trail is more family-friendly with a pine forest.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Mud can make the trail slippery; wear shoes with good treads. Hiking poles are helpful for descent.
🦟 Mosquitoes Beware!
Apply bug spray generously before and during your hike, especially when stopping.
☀️ Go Early to Avoid Heat
The trail gets muggy and warm later in the day. Aim for a start around 6:30 AM.
⬆️ East vs. West Trail
East trail is steeper; West trail is more family-friendly with a pine forest.
💧 Check Weather Forecast
Visibility can be poor in mist or rain, impacting the panoramic views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers rave about the incredible scenic views and immersive rainforest experience on the Sleeping Giant Trail. While some find it challenging due to mud and occasional rock scrambling, the panoramic vistas from the summit are consistently described as breathtaking and well worth the effort. The trail offers a rewarding adventure for those prepared for its conditions.
"It is an incredible hike with lots of great scenic views. You are walking inside a rain forest the hole time. It took us most of the day to finish the hike. Even though it's not too difficult, the mud definitely made the journey difficult for us. At the end of the trail I was covered with mud. I almost fell couple of times and my husband fell once. But we didn't give up and made it to the top. There were incredible birds and bird sounds on our trail. We often stopped and listened to them. But beware: birds and mosquitoes are working together because everytime we stopped i had additional a few bites- even with the bug spray. So definitely apply bug spray before and during the hike.
Also some places were a little too intense, we literally did some bouldering in some places."
Melodi Bac
"One of the best hikes I've ever gone on, seriously. Loved the strawberry guava berries (the pink berries) you can eat along the trail, the round protruding roots everywhere, the Causarina trees with their drooping branchlets, the free-range wild chickens, the reddish dirt, the large monarch ferns showing their seed patterns, the expansive views of the valley with the water in the background. All around 5 star hike and completely worth it.
We turned around at the shelter -- 3 miles was enough. Recommend that you hike early as it gets muggy/warm later in the day.
Note: The East trailhead is steeper with more zigzags. The West trail (which we didn't take) is more suitable for families and is less steep with fewer zigzags. If you have kids or aren't the most agile/fit, take the West trail.
BTW, Google Maps said this trail didn't open until 7am, but there was nothing restricting entry before then, nor did I see any signs indicating that opening time. I'd say, start at 6:30 am."
Tom Johnson
"The East trail is easy. All the way to the top is the only place you have to climb over any rocks and that's if you want to get all the way up to the summit but even the little climb is very simple. Almost everybody including children are going to be able to do it easy. The giant trees are on the west side, not the east side."
MrRyan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sleeping Giant Trail, also known as Nounou Mountain Trail, is located on the east side of Kauai, near Kapa'a. There are two main trailheads: the East Trail and the West Trail. Both are accessible by car, with parking available at each trailhead. Google Maps can guide you to the trailheads, but be aware that some users reported the app indicating a later opening time than reality.
Yes, there are parking lots at both the East and West trailheads. However, the East trailhead parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. If the lot is full, you may need to park on nearby streets.
Public transportation options to the immediate vicinity of the Sleeping Giant Trailheads are limited. It is highly recommended to rent a car for exploring Kauai, which will make accessing the trail much easier.
Both the East and West trails lead to the summit. The East trail is steeper and more direct, while the West trail offers a more scenic walk through a pine forest. Both trails merge before the final ascent to the 'head' for panoramic views.
There are no entrance fees for the Sleeping Giant Trail or Nounou State Forest Reserve. It is a public park accessible to all visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to hike the Sleeping Giant Trail. It is a public trail within Nounou State Forest Reserve and is free to access.
While some mapping services might suggest an opening time (e.g., 7 AM), there are no official posted hours, and the trail is generally accessible from early morning. Hiking at dawn or sunrise is popular for cooler temperatures and beautiful light.
Hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, potential for getting lost, and the increased difficulty of navigating the trail in the dark, especially with muddy sections. Stick to daylight hours for your hike.
Generally, pets are not allowed on hiking trails in Hawaii State Parks, including the Sleeping Giant Trail, to protect the native environment and wildlife. Always check the latest park regulations before your visit.
Yes, the Sleeping Giant Trail is open year-round. However, trail conditions can vary significantly with weather, with mud being a common issue after rain.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Sleeping Giant Trail is generally considered moderate. The East Trail is steeper with more switchbacks and some rock scrambling near the summit, while the West Trail is less steep and more suitable for families.
The hike typically takes 2-4 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the summit. Some visitors turn back at the shelter, completing a shorter hike.
Wear comfortable athletic clothing and sturdy hiking shoes with good traction. Bring a light jacket or rain gear as weather can change quickly. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat.
There is a sheltered picnic area near the summit, which can serve as a resting spot. However, there are no restrooms directly on the trail. Plan accordingly before you start your hike.
You can expect stunning panoramic views of Kauai's eastern coastline, Wailua River, and the surrounding lush valleys. The 'Giant's Head' offers the most expansive vistas.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
Yes, the town of Kapa'a, located near the trailheads, offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to cafes. You can also find acai bowls and local treats.
There is a sheltered picnic area near the summit, making it a great spot to enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the views. Remember to pack out all your trash.
No, there are no restaurants directly at the trailhead. You'll need to drive a short distance to Kapa'a for dining options.
Kapa'a has a diverse culinary scene, including local Hawaiian cuisine, seafood, American fare, and healthy options like acai bowls.
Absolutely! It's crucial to stay hydrated, especially in the tropical climate. Bring plenty of water and some energy-boosting snacks for your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible 360-degree views, perfect for landscape photography. The unique rainforest flora and fauna also provide great close-up shots. Sunrise and sunset can create dramatic lighting.
Early morning for sunrise offers soft, golden light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting. Midday sun can be harsh, but the lush greenery still makes for good photos.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of the trail and views. If you're serious about photography, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens would be ideal for landscapes.
The 'Giant's Head' at the summit provides the most iconic panoramic views. The picnic area on the 'chest' also offers lovely vistas. Look out for interesting plants and free-range chickens along the way.
Vary your shots by including wide landscapes and close-ups of nature. Use the rule of thirds for composition. Be mindful of the weather, as mist can add a dramatic effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Even on the West Trail, be prepared for some muddy sections and potential rock scrambling near the top. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, and consider turning back at the picnic shelter if the full summit climb seems too much. The views from the shelter are still quite rewarding.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own water and snacks, and consider renting a car for the duration of your stay on Kauai, as public transport is limited and taxis can be expensive. This will give you the flexibility to access the trail and other attractions without relying on costly tours.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens for the sweeping views and be ready to capture the unique flora, fauna (like the free-range chickens), and textures of the trail. The mist can also create dramatic, atmospheric shots. Remember to protect your gear from potential rain or mud.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Path: East vs. West Trail
The West Trail, on the other hand, is generally considered more family-friendly and offers a different kind of beauty. It winds through a picturesque pine forest, providing a more shaded and serene experience. While it also leads to the summit, it's typically less steep and has fewer switchbacks than its eastern counterpart. Many hikers recommend the West Trail for those with children or for anyone who prefers a gentler incline and a more immersive forest walk.
Both trails eventually converge near the top, allowing hikers from either direction to reach the iconic 'Giant's Head' for the panoramic views. Regardless of which trail you choose, be prepared for potential mud, especially after rain, and always wear appropriate footwear.
Navigating Trail Conditions and Wildlife
Beyond the mud, you'll likely encounter a variety of wildlife. The trail is known for its free-range wild chickens, which add a unique charm to the experience. However, the lush environment also attracts mosquitoes. Hikers strongly advise applying bug spray generously before and during the hike, especially when you stop to rest or admire the views, as this is when the insects tend to swarm.
While the trail is generally considered safe, some sections involve rock scrambling, particularly as you approach the summit. This adds an element of adventure but requires a degree of agility. The East Trail, in particular, has sections that can feel like mild bouldering. Always be aware of your surroundings and take your time, especially on steeper or more challenging parts of the trail.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Sleeping Giant
+1For the most dramatic lighting, consider hiking during the golden hours. Sunrise hikes are particularly popular, not only for the cooler temperatures but also for the soft, warm light that bathes the island, creating a magical atmosphere. Late afternoon can also offer beautiful lighting conditions. While midday sun can be harsh, the vibrant rainforest greenery and unique flora, such as large monarch ferns and strawberry guava berries, still make for compelling subjects.
Don't forget to look for the local wildlife, like the free-range chickens, which can add character to your photos. The textures of the round protruding roots and the patterns on the ferns also offer opportunities for close-up shots. Remember to be mindful of the weather; mist can add a dramatic, ethereal quality to your landscape photos, even if it reduces visibility.
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