Koke‘e | Nu’alolo Hike

Nu’alolo Trail overlooks the small reef of Nu’alolo Kai
Nu’alolo Trail rich in contrast with panoramic views
Length each way: 3.8 mi / 6.12 km
Description
The Nu’alolo trail is in walking distance of the Koke’e Lodge and Museum.
Beginning at an elevation 3,660 feet on the edge of the rain forest it is more or less a 3.8 one-way at times up but mostly down hill trek that slopes gradually through a “dry land” forest with many examples of native and exotic plants and trees.
We journey through a variegated forest consisting of ape, native koa and ohia complimented with introduced eucalyptus and karaka nut. The landscape is festooned with native naupaka ,manono and ferns as we transition through some pukiawe and mokihana to open panoramic views.
Listen to the call of the I’iwi bird and more common, exchange glances with the more precocious Elepaio
Once out of the forest we come to the first of many view of the Na Pali Coast below where the trail ends at 2,234 ft. elevation
From the end of Nu’alolo Trail, you can see to the north the distant lagoon of Ke’e, where the Na Pali Coast trail begins. To the South the forbidden and inhabited island of Ni’ihau and the un-inhabited wild life preseve of Lehua Rock
Generally after this hike, we can squeeze a drive to the famous Kalalau Lookout at the end of Koke’e Road and a tour though the small Koke’e Museum, to enjoy its natural history exhibits, which helps put the Koke’e natural history and topography all in perspective.
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Tour Overview
When And Where:
- All Year — Dates and availability may vary.
- Meet at 8:00 am at the Kokee Nu’alolo trailhead just before the Kokee Lodge.
- No transportation provided at this time.
Rated:
- Moderate to strenuous
- Trail Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Road Time: 2.5 hours
Included:
- Guide(s)
- Day packs
- Deli lunch:
- Turkey, roast beef, ham, salami, or vegetarian
- Chips + tropical fruit + cookies
- Refreshments of tropical juices and bottled water
What To Bring:
- Sun protection
- Light shirt
- Shorts
- Sweatshirt or light jacket
- Trail food/snack
- Footwear (light hiking boots, sports sandals, or athletic shoes)
- Rain gear
- A camera and binoculars
- Towel and change of clothes
Caveat Emptor:
- Children under 16 years need to be accompanied by an adult; if not, service will be denied with no refund.
Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy
Kayak Kauai observes a firm 24 hour cancellation policy. Any cancellations within 24 hours will receive no refund;(All Na Pali Coast kayaking tours or GROUPS of 6 or more require a 48 hour cancellation notice). Cancellations made by Kayak Kauai due to inclement weather conditions are 100% refundable.
Travel Insurance
Safety is no accident and on every tour we pay special attention to this fact. That said, travel insurance is not a bad idea, especially if a “dark cloud” decides to follow you. Find a company that offers medical, security evacuation and rescue services in the event of a medical or security emergency.