We did this activity on our second day in Kauai and t'was a pretty day when we went there, goodness! It is located in Wailua - East side and has a distance of 2.25 miles each way. Depending in your pace it was just a short easy to moderate hike. But once it rained, it's a different story. It can be really muddy and according to locals it can suck you down so prepare a really muddy shoes & dirt everywhere. Kuilau Trail connects to an east route that meets up with the Moalepe Trail. Further down the trail will come to a wooden footbridge which crosses the Opaekaa Stream. The view is not too much but the green lush vegetation will still make you feel refreshed & relaxed at some point. It is a friendly-hike to do so kids or old folks can definitely enjoy this. Please don't forget to bring your water and do wear proper hiking clothes. I advise to wear good hiking shoes & bring quarter zip as temperature can drop any moment. Do not forget that Kauai got more rain in most places in the US so I suggest you bring your rain jacket in case you need it. And most of all practice LEAVE-NO-TRACE POLICY all the time. Mahalo for reading & happy juandering fellow Yeeps. read more

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Activity Type: Hiking Nearby City: Lihue Length: 4.4 total miles Elevation Gain: 700 feet Trail Type: Out-and-back Duration: 2.5 hours Season: Year-round The Kuilau Ridge Trail begins at the Keahua Arboretum and climbs a forested ridge in the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve. Along the way, panoramic views open up across the rolling hillsides and picturesque valley to Mount Waialeale to the west, the Makaleha Mountains to the north and the Pacific Ocean to the east. This trail can be combined with the Moalepe Trail for a one-way, 4.6-mile shuttle hike. read more

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Okay, so we didn't hike this whole thing. I think we actually slogged just a third of it. Time constraints in paradise, whaddyagonnado. Following three solid days of nonstop Kauai rain, capped with a flash flood that left much of the island without power, I read one of those book thingies and noted that this trail was one of the more moderate, less muddy options on the east end. Y'know, when it's been raining that much on this island, just fuggetaboutit, everything's a slippery sh*tshow. But you should still go. About one hour in we were way up on the ridge, just past the first major overlook, which actually seemed a little iffy for the selfie route: cliffs are steep and, well, I mentioned the slippage. Views were pretty spectacular which, in Hawaii terms, sounds rather pedestrian, because everything here starts at amazing. But you'll get an overview of basically a tropical rainforest, enormous gorgeous ferns grow everywhere, trees that form a canopy, tourists that ruin it all. I'll be back for the rest of the mudslide. read more

So muddy it sucked my shoes off. So many mosquitoes. While some of the vistas are indeed beautiful and it's a unique experience, the waterfall is underwhelming and it's a slow slog through mud knee deep in some places. Granted, I was wearing Keens, so someone in hiking boots will do better. I saw 2 adults fall along the trail it's so slippery with mud. Despite wearing bug repellent I was still eaten alive. No facilities. Picnic bench in a mowed spot near crest. read more

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Lizards, Flowers, and Birds - Oh My! This trail was my go-to hike when I lived in the Wailua Homesteads. The trailhead is far enough back in the mountains that you can't hear any traffic from the road - only the musical musings of birds (and occasional cock-a-doodle-doo from the island's inescapable rooster population, of course.) The incline is moderate enough that you can take in the incredible views and easily hold a conversation without panting. It is suitable for almost anyone. The only challenging part is climbing around a giant Eucalyptus that recently fell across the trail. I did, however, watch a man with a baby strapped to his back negotiate it with ease. It can get quite muddy and slippery after rain, so wear shoes with good traction. You may want to grab one of the walking sticks that can usually be found on the gate next to the trailhead. The beginning of the trail cuts through tall grass. If you are hiking in late summer or fall, be sure to grab some guava off the trees here. After you push through, the trail opens up and you will find yourself surrounded by massive trees with thick, waxy, green vines crawling up their trunks. Look to your left to enjoy sweeping panoramas of the mountains and valley below. This is a great place to take in views of Mount Waialeale, the second highest peak on the island. But don't forget to look down - along the sides of the trail you will find colorful, fragrant native flowers. After about 45 minutes of hiking, you will find yourself in an open grassy field with a picnic table. This is a great place to stop for a snack and take in the panoramic view of the interior of the island. Look on the ground for sleeping grass; it looks a bit like a 2" long fern. Tap its leaves, and watch it curl up, or go to "sleep." This is honestly the coolest plant I've ever encountered - it could easily entertain me for hours. Even my 71-year-old father, who is generally unimpressed, had a grand old time squatting down and poking the grass with me! Most people turn back here, but I recommend continuing on along the ridgeline until you reach the small footbridge, where the trail turns into the Moalepe Trail (there will be a sign.) Below the trail is a thick canopy of vines enveloping the forest. This area of the trail is a good place to spot lizards and birds, smell ginger flowers, and enjoy the serenity of the trail less traveled. The mosquitoes that guard the bridge are blood-thirsty and vicious, and usually leave me running back the way I came. Total round-trip time: 2-3 hours Bring: water, snacks, a hat, mosquito repellent, shoes with good traction If you have two cars or can arrange a ride, you can link up the Kuilau Ridge and Moalepe Trails and do a one-way hike. I have never done this before, but would love to. After you return to the trail head, go for a dip in the swimming hole across the street. It has a rope swing where you can practice your Tarzan moves, and a picnic table. Be ready to battle mosquitos here as well. Then, walk across the bridge to the Keahua Arboretum to check out the Rainbow Eucalyptus - you will not be disappointed. read more

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If you're looking for a shorter hike in the Kapa'a area, Kuilau Ridge trail is a great option. The trailhead can easily be found at the end of highway 580 with a small lot right by the start of the trail as well as additional spots at the Keahua Arboretum. The elevation gain is gradual and minimal and it's only around 3.8 miles round trip-but if it's a muddy day, then it's slow slog up the trail. We went the day after some rain and while it was definitely slippery in some areas, it was overall an enjoyable hike. It starts on a wide dirt road and with lush greenery, wildflowers and birds singing all around. While having some scenic views of the surrounding mountains in the early part of the hike, Kuilau Ridge really hits its stride at the grassy meadow/picnic area. After that section, the trail narrows and the sweeping views kick in on both sides. Once we hit the footbridge, signifying the start of another trail, we went a little bit further to round our hike out to 4 miles total. What I enjoyed about this hike (other than the beautiful jungle-like setting,) is that you can be done in under 2 hours, leaving time in your day for other activities. Other tips/highlights. -some shady areas but be prepared for full sun in others -humid and hot-despite the shortness of the hike I drank nearly 2 liters from my hydration pack -walking sticks help on the way down if it's muddy -get ready to get dirty and wear good hiking shoes Finally, just enjoy the tranquility a short ways away from the resort area-you get the feeling of solitude and calming natural surroundings without having to spend the whole day driving or hiking. Definitely recommend this hike for those looking for a quick, scenic and enjoyable trek in Kauai. read more

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An easy muddy post rain hike up a ridge and then atop for a bit offered astounding views I was not expecting. Best enjoyed on a clear day, this hike is easy enough for novice hikers. When you reach a bridge after about 2.2 miles you can procede on another trail or turn around. See pic. read more

Kuilau Ridge Trail - Turnaround point - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

This is an easy walk/hike (at least to the picnic table meadow) with only one difficult section that is steeper and slick. It could be dicey if it rained. The views of the mountains and the forests were breath taking. This is one reason we go to Kauai. read more

Kuilau Ridge Trail - Lunch stop on Ridge Trail... - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

I love doing this hike! Its a nice slow incline going to the clearing. Sometimes its muddy, sometimes not. Depending on how the morning looks. Its right before loop road's first crossing all the way up Kuamoo in Wailua Homesteads. Sometimes you'll have to park at the first crossing and walk to the yellow gate. There is a clearing with a covered bench area. So we usually bring small snacks on this hike. To the right of the clearing is the continuation of the trail if you'd want to go further. Its going downhill. It brings you to Olohena rd across a small bridge. Not sure how long the hike really is. Usually don't look at the mile markers. Such a good hike. Nothing treacherous. Something that can be done pretty much everyday. read more

Kuilau Ridge Trail - Clearing at the top. - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

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Great trail. I think we did about 4 miles total. We didn't go all the way to the end but the whole trail was very protected with a lot of canopy to keep it nice and cool. Insane views and not a lot of people. Right next to trail head there is a river that is super slow moving and a great place to clean up at the end. We were walking a dog from the kuaui humane society and had a blast. read more

Those who have suffered post-traumatic stress from hiking the Na Pali coast in the pouring rain in sandals with no traction or sneakers that should've been retired years ago will appreciate this easy nature walk. Starting at a tiny parking lot (which had a lot of broken glass from a previous car break in) walk up a very moderate and wide gravel/earth path which brings you to a forest of shedding eucalyptus type trees. Eventually come out to a meadow with two sheltered picnic tables and a view of the hills beyond and the trees below. The trip is only about 2 miles to a bridge. Beyond the bridge is another trail that goes down more steeply, but we decided to stop there, then back tracked to the picnic tables for a break. Notable moments -- 1. The trees shedding their bark on a certain part of the trail have SPONGY bark. That is, the bark feels soft and delicate like a baby's bottom...or Sham Wow. It's very bizarre and I highly recommend stopping by a tree and trying to hug it, literally. 2. We saw an earthworm with a head shaped like a hammer (ie. Hammerhead worm). This was the day after a big rain. Weird stuff is everywhere on this trail. 3. A toad with a horny spine and weird Aztec-type markings was hanging out in our path. 4. There are plentiful ginger trees around, especially near the bridge (their flowers are already past their full bloom) - but they're producing a ton of ginger. The blossoms smell great. If you're not a hiker or aren't planning to do any other walks during your trip, this one is easy and recommended. Can be done easily with sandals or rotting running shoes. Best on a nice day, though. read more

Awesome easy trail for people who just like to walk and are not at all experienced hikers! It was pretty along the way with green mountains and super massive trees surrounding you. It wasn't an easy picnic to the top though- there is still some effort needed to reach the view. There are inclines that you have to walk up and then also walk down on the way back. You just have to be careful where you step because it can be a bit slippery especially if it just rained. As long as you are careful you shouldn't have any problems. We had water in the car and didn't need water on the hike but you might want to bring some just in case. Hiking shoes would probably be good but we just wore sneakers. It's gonna be muddy as are most hikes in kauai so expect to get your shoes very dirty. Other than that the view is definitely worth the hike and it's the perfect activity to get some exercise on vacation. read more

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Easy hike, steady incline with a view of the powerline train and the valley it sits in at the top. the BEST view is actually just before the picnic area in my humble opinion but yes, definitely go past the picnic area for another 0.5 miles and you will reach another vista which offers a deeper view of the valley. I stopped at the bridge and did not go into the Molepe trail since I hear it's not so great. read more

SLOW STEADY INCLINED HIKE THAT"S EASY TO DO It's all uphill for 1.25 miles to the grassy meadow w/picnic table at the top, but it's quite gradual. We did this hike at around noon with temperatures in the mid-80's, but it was fairly easy. We sweated a bunch, but it had more to do with the humidity than the strenuousness of the hike. This ridge trail has beautiful views of both the mountains and the ocean. Lots of lush vegetation ... ferns, guava trees, vines, etc. The trail itself is a grass-covered access road...very wide and easy to walk on. Only a few muddy or rocky areas. After our hike, we got back in the car and drove about 200 feet and had lunch next to the stream in the Keahua Arboretum rec area. A wonderfully, relaxing place. read more

By far one of the best trails in Kauai. I love a tough hike like the next mountain guy, but even though it's easy and short, the scenery sets this trail apart from it's muddy brethren. The vegetation is like no other on the island. It green hills lulls you into a peaceful pace as you stroll along. Once you reach the meadow, you're free to sit at a picnic bench and let the land heal your soul. You hike on a fire road along a green ridge where you are constantly under expansive trees and tons of ivy. Other than the distant power lines and picnic bench, the entire hike is void of man made structures. Do this hike. You will not regret it. read more

Enjoyed this hike; family of 5 with 3 kids. It had been raining on and off for a few days and the trail was quite muddy with a thin stream of water running down the middle for the first quarter mile or so. Very nice scenery once ascending higher. Nice 2 hour event near Kapaa with plenty of time for other activities. read more

This was a great trail that's very family friendly. My sister and I did this hike for the first time, and we really enjoyed the balance of well-worn paths with natural beauty. Like the other reviewer said, I agree that the path can often be exposed to sun, rain, etc. So know the weather forecast! And expect the grounds to be mushy/muddy at times. We did the 1.25 miles to the bridge, where we came across an older couple who had hiked from the other side. They were friendly and took a photo for us tehe. Total hike: 2.5 miles There are plenty of hikers so I would say this trail is pretty safe. I would totally bring my parents and do the hike again with them! read more

Quick and easy trail with beautiful views. The trail is well maintained the whole way, and the incline is pretty gradual. My toddler hiked the whole way without any trouble. Definitely worth it if you're looking for something fast and easy. read more

One of my favorite mellow hikes on Kaua'i. You will often have this trail all to yourself or only pass a handful of people. It often rains in this area so be prepared for a muddy hike or a little rain during your hike. Totally worth it for beautiful views at the top! I love to pack a snack or lunch to enjoy under the covered picnic table before hiking back down. Great for dogs but please keep them leashes! Sometimes you will also pass people on horses on this trail. Parking can be limited at times. Enjoy! read more

This was a perfect hike for us and our four-month old (carried in a front-pack). Incredible views of the mountains and easy terrain. Park at the arboretum lot, just a few metres past the trailhead. If you are using your GPS or maps app to find this, I would suggest looking up Kuamo'o Rd and just keep driving until you hit the arboretum (where the road goes from pavement to dirt). read more

This is one of my favorite hikes on the island. It's not too long or strenuous although I'd recommend avoiding it during a hot midday because it is somewhat exposed. The trail is wide and well marked. It's largely covered in grass and gives you great views of local fauna and mountain scenery. Once you've reached the top field, you get views to Poipu and Kapa'a and up close views of back country mountains and valleys. This hike gets you the most bang for your buck. It's pretty easy but the payoff is big. Plus you can hang out in the lovely arboretum at the base of the trail for lunch or a swim in the river. This is the hike to take if you want the back country mountain experience of Kauai. read more

Very easy hike. Beautiful setting. The trail is very well laid out. The one tiny annoyance was that there were a couple puddles blocking the pathway but if u skirt on the outside of them u don't get too dirty. Did this early morning and had the trail and breakfast area to myself. Took less than 2 hours w a short stop at the picnic tables. Good hike if you want a leisurely hill walk with nice canyon views. read more

Kuilau Ridge Trail - Breakast stop at the picnic tables on the left - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

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Great views of the valley and a relatively easy hike. Loved it so much we almost wanted to go back the next day. read more

Kuilau Ridge Trail - Beautiful valley. You can pause for a second and watch the clouds flow, it's like watching time go by. - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

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Great trail, freindly people. When we got back from our hike someone had let the air out of our 4 tires, so be sure to give yourself lots of time. Cell phone reception here is not so good. read more

Kuilau Ridge Trail - Flat tires after hiking Kuilau Ridge Trail - Someone let the air out of all 4. - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

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Muddy, muddy and did I say muddy. I think this is a beautiful hike, if you are not walking in 6" deep of mud and water puddles. We walked about 1/2 mile and then turned around. We were hoping that it was going to more compact or less mud around the corner. We kept hoping but that was not the case and we were not prepared for fall in the mud. read more

This is an easy hike, but kinda muddy in spots. The views are beautiful and the vegetation surrounds you almost the entire hike. There is a picnic area at around the half way point, that makes a nice stopping point if you bring kids along. We saw lots of birds and a couple large toads. read more

nice hike. pretty straight foward. some elevation but pretty flat overall. very nice views of central kauai and some views out toward kealia. picnic area at about the 2 mile mark and a bridge to moalepe trail at the 2.15 mile mark. fri, sat and sunday are hunting days so you might want to go during the week. easy to find and park toward the end of kuamoo road. read more