Nestled along the rim of Waimea Canyon between 3,200 and 4,200 feet in elevation, Koke’e State Park is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Aloha State — including Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and the jaw-dropping Kalalau Valley. Koke’e State Park sprawls across more than 4,300 acres and contains approximately 45 miles of hiking trails along canyon rims and through native Hawaiian forests. While you could spend weeks exploring this unparalleled park, the Awaawapuhi Trail tops our current bucket list. 

Hiking enthusiasts will love the difficult Awaawapuhi Trail, which begins in an unassuming parking lot near Mile Marker 17 and leads adventurers on a magnificent journey through the Hawaiian wilderness.

Julianne Stober/AllTrails

The official Awaawapuhi Trail measures in at 3.1 miles one way and meanders through a rainforest featuring a rich variety of native dryland plants and high desert terrain.

Hannah Lewis/AllTrails

After a mile and a half, the forest thins out and the rugged Na Pali coast comes into view before the trail abruptly ends at the top of a ridge nestled at 2,500 feet above sea level.

Michael McKay/AllTrails

It is at the summit of this trail where you will experience sweeping panoramic views of the vast Pacific Ocean, as well as sheer cliffs leading into both Awaawapuhi and Nualolo valleys.

Michael McKay/AllTrails

This is also the junction for the Nualolo Trail if you wish to make your trek even longer. The Nualolo Trail will add an extra five miles to your hike and unfortunately, you will have to walk down the road back to your car.

Ben Weisenberger/AllTrails

The grassy area at the end of the trail provides an excellent opportunity for a leisurely picnic, and you’ll want to snap as many photographs as you can.

Michael McKay/AllTrails

Gaining nearly 1,200 feet in elevation, the Awaawapuhi Trail is not for the faint of heart, but hiking veterans will love this adventurous trail. If you choose to tackle this hike, you’ll want to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit as well as wearing proper clothing and footwear.

Hannah Lewis/AllTrails

Have you ever explored the beauty of this one-of-a-kind trail? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below. If you want to explore all that Koke’e State Park has to offer over several days, why not stay at this gorgeous campground?

Julianne Stober/AllTrails

Hannah Lewis/AllTrails

Michael McKay/AllTrails

Ben Weisenberger/AllTrails

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Address: K?ke?e State Park, Hanapepe, HI 96716, USA