Kalalau Trail
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The Kalalau Trail is a trail along the Nā Pali Coast of the island of Kauai in the state of Hawaii. The trail is very strenuous and runs approximately 11 miles (18 km) along the island's north shore from Keʻe Beach to the Kalalau Valley. An experienced, very fit hiker can complete the trail in about a day, but most people require two days and will camp along the trail.
The trail is located in the Nā Pali Coast State Park and access is controlled in the cause of conservation. A limited number of permits are issued for camping in Kalalau Valley every year. In spite of the efforts of the state of Hawaiʻi, many people hike the trail without paying money to the State Park office.
The trail starts on the north shore of the island, where the main highway ends at Keʻe Beach. The first two miles (3 km) of the trail are moderately strenuous and open to the public. This portion of the trail leads to Hanakapiai stream and beach. The trail beyond Hanakapiʻai is open only to those with camping permits.
The trail continues for approximately four miles to Hanakoa Valley, which is a hanging valley with no beach access. After Hanakoa, the trail turns more toward the dry side of the island. About five miles (8 km) later is Kalalau Valley, a large, flat-bottomed valley almost a mile across.
Camping is permitted (for a fee) at Hanakoa Valley and Kalalau Valley. No two consecutive nights may be spent at Hanakoa.
[edit] Photographs and Images
 Panoramic view from the Kalalau trail of the Kalalau Valley and beach |
 A panoramic view from along the Kalalau trail, south of Hanakoa valley |
 Edited version of a high resolution USGS topographical chart of the Kalalau Trail. On the left portion of the image the Kalalau Valley below 800 feet elevation is shown. Also, a portion of the Kalalau Trail is shown as a black line. On the top right portion of the image the end of the paved road is shown as a black line. |
