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Great hike. Wonderful views. Had an easier time navigating and trail was not packed. Check out the cave just below the peak too!
About an 1.3 hour hike that is beautiful. Where good trail shoes if it's been raining it can be slippery. Don't give up until the top because the views inland and over the water are amazing!
We only had one sunny day on our recent Kauai trip so we took advantage and hiked this trail just in time for the beautiful sunset. It's quite steep and a bit slippery going up. Love the pine trees section. We did go beyond the picnic tables for another view, however the last part is quite challenging like a rock wall. We were already happy at how far we got at this point, didn't wanna hike back down in the dark. GPS to the East trail and there are a few parking near the residential area.
Got some sprinkle on the way up super fun and easy hike. Got there at 8am on a Saturday plenty parking then. Finished around 10, Get there early the views are better
Now that I live on the mainland, coming home to Kauai double the fun! I can relax at my mom's or venture out like a tourist:) Growing up here, I've past the Sleeping Giant (on my way to Kapa'a) a million times. I did not know about this trail until my daughter found it in her AllTrails app. What an incredible experience! The 2 mile up to the top is moderate in my opinion. The hike has an incline that will give you a little workout enough to break a sweat. The views are beautiful. There is a small area with picnic tables and roofing. So, pack a snack if you wish. My advice ro to hike as early as possible. I was the first in the parking lot at 7am. By the time I got back, the lot was full and the sun was bright! If by chance you want an easy hike, try Kalepa Ridge Trail in Lihue.
First of all I am not a hiker and was never a fan of hiking but while on my trip to Kauai I decided to check out reviews on Yelp for easy hiking trails. The sleeping giant was one of them. I loved the honesty of one yelper who called this trail moderate and she would do it again and that she is older and overweight. Based on her review I felt confident that I could do it! When I got there I was super nervous about the journey up that mountain. Especially since I'm older and overweight. I took my time and several micro breaks along the way under the shade to catch my breath and drink water. I took pictures at what I considered a milestone and I've posted the pictures and time that it took to get to each section. I was able to climb up to the picnic table area and tried to go higher but at the section I tapped out I just didn't have the strength and energy to go up further so I went back to the picnic table and relaxed for a while before making my way down. Going down was harder than going up for me especially when I'm so heavy but my bff was super patient and helped me with getting down in some areas that I needed extra help with getting down. I started my hike at 10:50a and reached the picnic table at 1:12p and made it back to the car at 3:44p. Overall this trail is easy to follow, however being that I'm not a hiker it took me a few hours to complete this trail, it has plenty of shade, and several places to stop and rest. I must admit I took many breaks going up not so much going down. Everyone I came across were very friendly and encouraging as they all could see I was struggling lol. There was enough room for me to move on the side to let others pass me by. There were some muddy spots but it was easy to avoid. I recommend to wear hiking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, a thin jacket, sunscreen, and bug repellent. Also don't forget to pack water! Honestly I don't know if I'll ever hike this mountain again but it sure felt good when I made it to the top in the picnic table area. I would not recommend this hike to non-hikers like me but just know that if I can do it so can you!
This trail was awesome, but I feel like people are playing down how difficult it is. Especially if you were munching on banana pudding and pork lau lau like I was just minutes before making the decision to take this hike. On the way back, people going up kept asking "am I almost there?" And while I lied and told them "absolutely bro," I couldn't help but wish we had all been slightly better informed. It's very steep, with some gnarly spots, but it very very beautiful and totally worth it.
I hiked the Sleeping Giant trail today. Local legend tells of a giant who feasted so much at a party in his honor that he laid down for a nap and never awoke, and when you see the mountain's resemblance to a sleeping giant from the nearby town of Kapa'a you can see why the legend persists. It rained about half of my hike, and the trail was slick. Bring a rain jacket and appropriate shoes.
On a rainy day, this trail was still quite doable and not super muddy. BEWARE OF MOSQUITOES!!! This was the only place I was getting bitten alive and we forgot the deet! So sad, so don't make my mistake. There are a few switchback areas that's winds you around the trail and you can see some maniacs short cuts here and there. When you get to the top, the view is great. You can walk along the whole profile of the sleeping giant. In total, this took about 2 hours. Not too strenuous and we had hiking shoes on.
Did the west trail up Nounou Mountain = the Sleeping Giant. Took our time and did the moderate hike up and back in a bit less than 3 hours which included a 10 minute talk with a local climber at the top, and because of his info a 10 minute stop at the mini-cave just below the lower summit. The key to this hike, like so many on Kauai, is whether the trail is wet or dry. If wet it's a moderate to semi-difficult hike just because you don't want to slide off the more vertical short 3 or so stretches (of no more than 20' each). If dry its really an easy hike so long as you're attentive and stay on the trail. Because the north shore is still closed because of bridge outages just past Hanalei, the east side trails are now getting much more pressure because of increased tourist traffic / hikers. The not so secret secret is to go early and avoid the masses. We ran into an almost non-stop summit-bound line of hikers at the bottom of the trail. By getting there early you get a) a better parking place, and b) a more quiet experience. Aloha mateys, David M (Your first stop near the (lower) summit is the "chin" off to your left just beyond one of those 20' rock scrambles. After you've visited that high point go back to where the trail splits (with the left going out to the lower summit and the right going up to the picnic tables and then the true summit). Literally a step or two below the trail split you'll see a little path going off to the left (as you were ascending). Walk down it 50' or less and you'll find the mini-cave I've referenced above which is just below the lower summit but not visible from there. Few if any folks will be in the cave which is really an arch passing clear through mountain under the lower summit, and you'll get a great view of the east coast of Kauai:)
Another beautiful m hiking trail on Kauai. I would recommend good hiking shoes, as this trail is very steep in sections. You will be doing a little rock scrambling at the very top if you want that beautiful view from the end of the trail. Take your time, be safe and enjoy the gorgeous beauty that surrounds you. On a sidenote, the parking lot can fill up very quickly. I would recommend arriving early or plan to wait about 20 to 30 minutes to get a parking spot.
The sleeping giant is a fantastic hike to do if in Kauai. There are multiple different routes to take to get to the top. We took the west trail, it had some parking and plenty of street parking. The hike itself on the west trail is doable for most fitness levels. You may require more breaks if you're not super fit, but either way it's doable for all. Make sure you have plenty of water, as it get a bit hot and humid and you will sweat out a lot. Most of the route is covered with beautiful trees and once in a while they open up to show you a beautiful view. The view at the very top is unbeatable, truly amazing. The climb at the very end can get a bit tricky but again, it's very doable for all.
Directions to Nounou West Trailhead is a must. We passed telephone pole #38 because the silver plated numbers are just an inch in size and hard to read from the highway. We counted the poles back, since we were about 20 poles too far, so not to slow down traffic and then parked just passed the trailhead marker. Later, I read the hiking guide book instructed hikers to "park across the road on the shoulder" so thankfully the Jeep was still where we left it and no ticket was on the windshield. Hiking from this trailhead took us less than 90 minutes roundtrip (2.6 mi) which included taking pictures along the way. It rained some in Kapa'a the night before so areas of the trail were muddy. I recommend hiking boots for traction and rock climbing. We bumped into a couple, who came from the Kuamo'o Nounou Trail (6 mi roundtrip), complaining about sliding most of their hike because of wearing tennis shoes and sandals. I'm sure if it hadn't rained the tennis shoes would've been fine. We hiked onward passed the picnic area, aka Sleeping Giant's chest, to a trail leading to the peak. There was a sign warning hikers not to go beyond the sign since it was the "End Of Trail", but we wanted to get to the top and so did the couple we bumped into along with two young women from Germany. We reached the peak, aka Sleeping Giant's face, after climbing up boulders and fighting strong wind to see a 360 degree view of the eastern coast, Wailua River, and the town of Kapa'a. It's a nice hike and the view was lovely but it wasn't our favorite in Kauai. The view wasn't as beautiful with the city below but the coast and mountains were breathtaking. This is a fun, short hike from the West and if you're wanting just that then start at the West Trailhead. I'm not an avid hiker but I didn't think this was terribly difficult since I wore boots and had plenty of water with me. There are some areas that may be difficult for people with bad knees so hiking poles wouldn't hurt. read more
10 years ago
Really good hike through the trees up on the mountain. It's about 2 miles each way or so up to this nice viewpoint. Don't forget to bring water! You will be thirsty! Definitely a must hike while here. read more
Family friendly trail--about 2 miles, easy incline but can be muddy. I rate this hike as Easy--with small inclines and leveled areas. Super easy on the way down. Go with a friend to continue on to the harder hike. I recommend starting early to beat the crowds, bring your kids and enjoy the view. Tips: -Take care when parking, be respectful, this is a residential area -As with ALL hikes, MALAMA PONO--Respect the land, do NOT leave your trash, leave invisible footprints, take LOTS of pictures -mosquito repellent -bottle water or snap camel bladder pack -shoes with good treading -walking stick read more
11 years ago
Okay. This hike was harder than I thought. Reviews I've read was mixed, so I figured, it wouldn't be too terrible. I was tiny bit wrong about that! While most of the trail was fine (moderate activity), there were points where we had to get down and dirty and climb up! With the heat, that really gets you winded. Luckily, we took our time and took in the scenery as we climbed upwards. The trail is a switchback so it took longer than we anticipated to get up to the top. Once your up there, the view is pretty incredible. You can pretty much see most of the island. If you're brave enough to go further and beyond the trail. You'll get a 360 view at the tippy top! read more
8 years ago
11 years ago
Did this trail yesterday afternoon and it took about 2.5 hrs round trip. My iPhone app said it was a little less than 3 miles in total length. Make sure you use your phone and Google Maps to help get you to the parking area. It's at the end of a residential neighborhood. We were lucky that the ground was dry when we went. I could see it being much harder if it were muddy. For the most part there's plenty of shade along the entire way. There were a few steep areas, but overall I would say a moderate hike. Great views once you get to the top. We took along a dog from the Kauai Humane Society. They have a program where you can take their dogs on a "field trip" for the day. Bruno was an awesome little boy. We would take him home, but not sure how our current doggie would get along with him. read more
7 years ago
8 years ago
For over a decade I was curious about this trail and finally went on it. Got to the trail start at the top of Lokelani Road and met up with a friend. As I was walking around scouting the area, I think I accidentally stepped in dog shit (under some leaves). I was pissed. Hopefully it was just mud. Damn it people, pick up after your dogs please!! I read the signs and one said to keep your dogs on a leash. I saw at least two dogs not on a leash, one a German Shepherd and another large dog. I was anticipating a quick short hike, looking up the mountain but it was more intense than that. Lots of mosquitoes. It's a good thing my friend been up there before so she knew which turns to take. They need signs directing the trails, so we dont get lost. There were several "do we take that turn or the other turn?" It was quite a incline, but with numerous pitstops, we made it to the top. It was a voggy day. At first the view was obstructed by vog. Then it cleared up after a while. Saw some make Cardinals and a type of bird I have never seen before. Then a swarm of Dragonflies. There is a viewing spot but apparently there were some people blocking it with a hammock and cover. And a small fire going on. The wind was blowing the smoke towards the pavilion. It was fkn stink, like sitting next to a smoker!! It was very offensive and irritating. Those people had their backpacks and belongings strewn all over the ground. I understand there is a bench there in that spot? Their stuff all over it. So later a helicopter came flying near, they immediately took down their hammock and extinguished the fire and made a beeline into the forest, obviously hiding from authorities. Hmmm. I understand its illegal to camp and make fires up there? The scenery cleared up a bit and was able to take some pictures of the towns below. It had rained some and made going back down a bit slippery. Made lots of F bombs on the way down, grabbing and holding onto nearby trees. It was quite a hike, but dont plan on returning since I'm not a hiking buff. read more
7 years ago
Fun and fast way to the top. The grass can slice your skin so be aware. The lookout from the top is amazing! It's really muddy around the trail and going down can be very slippery. Take a snack to eat at the top but take your trash with you. The best time to go is in the morning. The trail can get clogged at the top. read more
7 years ago
Moderate hike (to picnic tables) but doable for most. I had a recovering sprained ankle and I was able to climb up without any issues but coming down, my ankle had some issues but nothing horribly bad. We took kids 9 and 11 and they led the pack. Definitely easy for kids that age. We also had seniors 65-73 and depending on their ability they did ok. My dad who is the oldest went up without any problems but those who do not hike well only made it to the 1.25 mile mark and then stopped. It took about 2 hours to hike up with four breaks and about one hour to come down. Super fun hike. The views are ridiculous. Highly recommend. read more
8 years ago
Fun little hike, if you're looking for an adventure. You"ll be reward on top. Watch out for wild pigs and bring plenty of water. read more
8 years ago
8 years ago
Awesome hike! A bit strenuous which involves a little bit of rock climbing and good shoes because it gets slippery! Remember when you reach the canopy, go straight and it'll lead you all the way to the top. ENJOY!!!! read more
8 years ago
Woke up and decided to tryout this hiking trail. Parking lot was small, but could park alongside the road. My boys 9 and 13 loved this hike for the adventures through mud and a climbing at the very end to get to the top. Not much to see along the way up the first mile heavy vegetation. Some spots were very narrow to hike through. The views along the way were good as you hike higher up. Definitely recommend going all the way to the top unless you are afraid of heights. Once you get to the picnic tables your only 10 min out from the amazing view. read more
8 years ago
6 years ago
4 years ago
This is an easy zig zag hike up the Mountain. The views are beautiful. Once you get to the 1.75 mile marker the trail straightens out and gradually climbs up the Mountain Top. Bring the Mosquito spray - these pesty critters hang out up at the top. Pack a snack that won't attract them also...unlike me I brought Mangoes. lol There is covered benches at the top if it rains on you while you are trying to eat. :)) read more
10 years ago
11 years ago
On Trip Advisor, this trail is in a completely different place than what is posted on Yelp as of today. From traveling North on highway 56, we took a left onto Haleilio Road. There is a parking lot on the right that is right on a bend in the road. A pasture with sheep are on the other side of the road if that helps. The trail is marked as Nounou East Trail. It is about 1.75 miles to the top where there are a couple picnic benches under a corrugated roof. We think this was the end but that was as far as we were willing to walk. It took us a solid 2 1/2 hours round trip, so take lots of water and some trail mix. Good luck! read more
11 years ago
You will be slipping and sliding all the way up and down this trail. Its a switchback and about 2 miles to the lookout point. The trail is super muddy and no joke you will fall on your ass at least once. This is not a difficult hike, but it takes more concentration and time. I had to plan each step so I didn't slip. Get some Keen shoes and tea tree oil to ward off the bugs. There's a nice picnic area at the top with beautiful views. read more
10 years ago
11 years ago
Hiked this today, close and a fabulous hike. It was about 3.5 miles round trip, about 1100 foot elevation gain, and a pretty dry path with a few rocks and roots. Definitely recommended for its spectacular views! read more
8 years ago
9 years ago
8 years ago
10 years ago
Pretty good hike. Not the most amazing views I've ever seen but it's shaded, the path is clear, and the top has benches and a gazebo. Overall, it's very nice for a family hike but bring water, bug spray, and is probably avoid it if it's wet. read more
10 years ago
By far the best experience on our vacation. We road our rented bikes to the trail. Apparently it's an ambitious trek, as indicated by locals. The trail was quite long but we enjoyed every minute of it. It took about 2 hours to go up and come back down. read more
10 years ago
This trail was very easy. We went after a rain and the beginning was very muddy, but dried up. Has neat views of the coast. Took us about 43 minutes. read more
7 years ago
Get there early!! My wife and I thought this was going to be a nice groomed trail for a stroll up to the top, boy were we wrong. After reading other posts about the "mailbox" and making sure to "grab a walking stick by it", I'm glad we/I listened. We hit the trail hard and were met with people descending telling us to "keep right", which we thought was fun to say at times during our trek. I'm very glad we listened to the random people as well, who by the way were dressed in very casual clothes and wearing sandals, something I would not recommend doing. To a novice, which I am, this was a good challenge to hike, from its simple flat paths to the challenging cliff climbing at the top I was having a blast. Be it said I'm also not the lightest or smallest feather in the pillow, I was at times wanting to "take in the scenery" more than my wife so I could take a break and enjoy my backpack full of Power Bars! When we got to the top, it was worth the 2 hour climb, the coming down was actual the hardest part, because it started to rain and made all the clay paths slicker than snot. I strongly suggest you do this awesome adventure, it's one of the best FREE things I've done thus far. read more
More info about Sleeping Giant Trail
5757 Kololia Pl
Kapaa, HI 96746
Directions
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Ask the Community - Sleeping Giant Trail
Are there mosquitoes?
Yes- we wore mosquito spray and there definitely were some biting us before we put it on
Is this hike safe to hike alone? Are there other people on the trail?
When we went there were very few people so I would suggest bringing a friend along with you.
