Easy Hikes
Waimea Canyon Easy Hikes
Easy hikes in Waimea Canyon allow visitors to stretch their legs and get up close to the beautiful vistas without having to deal with steep elevation changes or a very long hike.
You’ll find relatively family-friendly hikes in both Waimea Canyon State Park and adjoining Koke’e State Park.
Below are some suggestions to get you started exploring Waimea Canyon on easy hikes!
And if you’re just starting to plan your visit to Kauai, check out some of the top things to do in Kauai, many of which you absolutely don’t want to miss!
Iliau Nature Loop
A short roadside nature trail that comes up between mile markers 8 and 9 along Highway 550, the Iliau Nature Trail makes for a pleasant stroll at Waimea Canyon.
Admire the native plants along the trail, some of which are endemic to Kauai. The iliau plant, after which this trail is named, is one of the plants endemic to the island and bears spiky green leaves and yellow flowers.
The trail also offers beautiful views of Waimea Canyon and the lesser-known Waialae Canyon. From this trail, you may even catch sight of Waialae Falls!
Koke’e Nature Trail
A short loop trail that starts just behind the Koke’e Museum in Koke’e State Park, the Koke’e Nature Trail is a great way to learn about native flora.
Look for the feral chickens that congregate by the museum before you begin your walk.
This is a great little walk to do with young kids, but adults will enjoy learning about the Hawaiian forest as well.
The Koke’e Nature Trail features many native forest plants, and there are informational signs so you can learn their names (and interesting facts about them) as you walk.
Also keep an eye out for birds: Koke’e State Park is one of the best places to birdwatch on Kauai. You may see the bright red i’iwi or the ‘apapane, little Hawaiian songbirds.
Look for the trailhead between the Koke’e Museum and Lodge. You can also pick up a booklet at the museum that identifies the plants you will see along the trail.
Cliff Trail
A super short spur trail off the longer Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls, the Cliff Trail is worth doing for the spectacular views over the Waimea Canyon.
The moderately challenging Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Waimea Canyon and the view from the Cliff Trail overlook is one of the reasons for its popularity.
You can get to the Cliff Trail either by hiking the New Spur Trail to the Canyon Trail from the Pu’u Hinahina Lookout, or by walking down the dirt Halemanu Road at the entrance to Koke’e State Park and taking the Canyon Trail to the spur.
Visit the Cliff Trail Overlook in the late morning or early afternoon to capture the vibrant colors of Waimea Canyon is all their glory.
Kaluapuhi Trail
The Kaluapuhi Trail begins at the trailhead just past the Kalalau Lookout in Koke’e State Park.
While it’s longer than the above trails, the Kaluapuhi Trail has a very easy grade and winds through forest for an enchanted walk. And you can walk as much of it as you like, turning back to retrace your steps when you are done.
This is a great walk to do with kids, but if you are looking for a hike with views, this is not it.
The Kaluapuhi Trail is great for birding, so bring your binoculars or zoom lens. Look for koa trees, redwoods, and ohia trees, and mushrooms of different kinds. You may see colorful blooms as well.
If you complete the trail, you have the option of walking back along the road, but watch for traffic if you do. It is safer to walk back along the trail.
Note that the trail can be muddy after rains. Wear shoes or boots with good grip.
Considering a visit to Waimea Canyon? Be sure to check out our Waimea Canyon guide for all the details you need to plan!
Planning your Kauai itinerary? Also consider:
a sunset cruise of the Na Pali Coast ⛴️ 🌄
a guided kayaking + hiking trip to Secret Falls on the east side, 🛶 🥾 🛶
or an airplane tour over Kauai! ✈️ ✈️