Canyon Trail Waimea Canyon State Park Kauai
Explore the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific' with its vibrant colors, dramatic cliffs, and stunning waterfalls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & get parking
Canyon Trail Waimea Canyon State Park Kauai
Best Time
Beat the crowds & get parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific' with its vibrant colors, dramatic cliffs, and stunning waterfalls.
"The views are absolutely insane and well worth the effort, even if the trail is muddy!"
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive before 9 AM for the best chance at parking at popular lookouts and trailheads.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be very muddy and slippery; good grip is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waimea Canyon Lookout
Main scenic drive
The 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific' unfolds in a breathtaking panorama of colorful, eroded cliffs.
Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls
Trailhead off Kokee Road
Hike through lush terrain to discover an 800-foot waterfall cascading into the canyon.
Pu'u O Kila Lookout
End of Highway 550
Offers stunning, expansive views, often including a glimpse of the Nā Pali Coast.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive before 9 AM for the best chance at parking at popular lookouts and trailheads.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be very muddy and slippery; good grip is a must!
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially for longer hikes.
🧥 Layer Up
Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, so pack layers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Early Bird Parking
Arrive before 9 AM for the best chance at parking at popular lookouts and trailheads.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be very muddy and slippery; good grip is a must!
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially for longer hikes.
🧥 Layer Up
Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, so pack layers.
🚁 Scenic Helicopter Tours
For unparalleled views, consider a helicopter tour over the canyon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, awe-inspiring views of Waimea Canyon, often calling it a must-see on Kauai. The hike to Waipo'o Falls is a highlight for many, though its challenging, muddy conditions are frequently noted. Some find the 1.8-mile trail description misleading, as it's an out-and-back route.
"We did the short hike to the small waterfall on Monday morning in September. The parking was tight when we arrived and even moreso when we left so come early! The trail was moderately busy with friendly hikers going both directions. Beautiful views of th canyon along the way to the waterfall, the approach to the waterfall itself is like a stumbling on a small oasis, fun hike ⛰️⛰️"
Amber Steeves
"Wow wow wow!!! I’m really proud of myself for doing this! We me and my family did great! Especially since we didn’t realize we were doing a 7 mile hike! But we still kept going! We finished👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 well worth the views!! Take plenty of water but don’t drink too much just ration your water. This is a must do!!!"
Shayla Ramos
"Gorgeous hike, insane views. Do not be misled by the 1.8 mile trail map, that's not a 1.8 mile loop. It's 1.8 in and 1.8 out!! Bring lots of water. Also note this is not an 'easy trail' - you're navigating boulders, going over or under fallen trees, and the trail can get slippery. Worth it all for the views and falls!"
Jill Springer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible via Highway 550 from Waimea town. The drive itself is scenic, with numerous lookouts along the way. Allow at least half a day for the drive and stops.
Parking is available at various lookouts and trailheads, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, Highway 550 (Kokee Road) winds through the park, offering access to multiple viewpoints and trailheads. It's a beautiful scenic drive. 
Absolutely! The drive from Poipu takes about an hour, and the dramatic landscapes of the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific' are a must-see on Kauai.
Currently, no reservations are required for general park entry or the lookouts. However, always check the official Hawaii State Parks website for any last-minute updates or changes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee for Waimea Canyon State Park itself. However, some areas within Kokee State Park (which adjoins Waimea) may have parking or camping fees.
Waimea Canyon State Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. The scenic drive and lookouts are accessible during daylight hours.
Day hiking on established trails within Waimea Canyon State Park does not require a permit. However, for overnight camping or backcountry access, permits are necessary.
While there aren't official park-run guided tours, many private companies offer guided hikes and tours of Waimea Canyon and the surrounding areas.
The best way is a combination of driving to the various lookouts for panoramic views and hiking some of the trails for a more immersive experience. Helicopter tours offer a unique perspective.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls (moderate, ~3.6 miles roundtrip) and the Awa'awapuhi Trail (challenging, ~6.2 miles roundtrip) for Nā Pali Coast views. +1
The Canyon Trail is considered moderate to challenging due to potential mud, slippery conditions, and uneven terrain. It's not an easy stroll. +1
Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good traction. Bring moisture-wicking clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. Layers are recommended as the weather can change.
Yes, Waipo'o Falls is a prominent waterfall accessible via the Canyon Trail. Other seasonal falls can also be spotted.
From the Pu'u O Kila Lookout at the end of the road, you can often get a distant view of the Nā Pali Coast, especially on clear days.
📸 📸 Photography
The main Waimea Canyon Lookout, Pu'u O Kila Lookout, and various pull-offs along Highway 550 offer incredible photo opportunities. The Canyon Trail also provides unique perspectives.
Morning light often provides clearer views before clouds form, while late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour lighting. Sunset from Pu'u Hinahina Lookout is also spectacular.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Hawaii State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant features. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of scale. Experiment with different angles and foreground elements to add depth.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children who enjoy moderate activity, the Canyon Trail to Waipo'o Falls can be a rewarding adventure. However, be mindful of the trail's muddy and slippery conditions, and ensure children have appropriate footwear and supervision. Bringing plenty of snacks and water is crucial for keeping everyone energized and happy.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
Consider longer treks like the Kukui Trail for a deeper exploration or the Awa'awapuhi Trail for breathtaking views of the Nā Pali Coast. These hikes require good physical condition, proper gear, and ample water. Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on these more demanding routes.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Timing is key for optimal lighting. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to catch the best light that accentuates the canyon's rich hues. Consider bringing a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls. Remember to protect your equipment from the elements, as conditions can be dusty or damp.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Canyon of the Pacific
+1Visitors can experience the canyon's grandeur through a scenic drive along Highway 550, which leads to numerous lookouts offering breathtaking vistas. Each viewpoint provides a slightly different perspective on the canyon's intricate patterns and sheer drops. For those seeking a more intimate encounter, several hiking trails descend into the canyon, offering closer views of its unique flora and fauna.
Beyond its visual splendor, Waimea Canyon holds cultural significance for the native Hawaiians. The area is rich in history and legends, adding another layer of depth to the visitor experience. Understanding this context can enhance appreciation for the natural beauty and the importance of preservation efforts.
Hiking the Canyon Trails
Other notable trails include the Kukui Trail, which descends deeper into the canyon and offers access to the Waimea River, and the Pihea Trail, which provides stunning views of the Nā Pali Coast. The Awa'awapuhi Trail is a more strenuous option, also leading towards the Nā Pali Coast with dramatic cliffside views.
Essential hiking tips include wearing sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with excellent grip, carrying ample water (at least 2 liters per person for longer hikes), and packing snacks. It's also advisable to check weather conditions before heading out, as heavy rain can make trails impassable or extremely hazardous.
Capturing Waimea Canyon's Beauty
+1Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting, accentuating the canyon's colors and textures. However, morning light can be clearer before clouds typically gather in the afternoon. Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the saturation of the reds and oranges in the rock formations and to cut down on glare.
When hiking, look for unique perspectives from within the canyon. The Canyon Trail offers opportunities to photograph the lush vegetation, the cascading Waipo'o Falls, and the intricate patterns of the canyon walls. Remember to protect your gear from dust and moisture, especially if hiking near waterfalls.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit