Kukui Trail


Location
West Side, Kokee State Park
Length
5 Miles round -trip
Topography
Starting elevation 2,700 feet Steep climb
Difficulty
Difficult
What to bring
Water, Hiking Shoes, Sunscreen, Hat,

Located between mile marker 8 and 9 on the way to Kokee.

The Kukui Trail is is found at the beginning of the Iliau Nature Loop Trail. This hike will take you into the Waimea Canyon.  The trail is used by hunters and horses and can be loose. As you follow the Kukui Trail into Waimea Canyon, along the first mile you will be treated to two amazing opportunities for photos, each with a bench to rest your feet. Across the canyon you will be able to see sweeping views of several waterfalls. Waialae Falls is the dominant waterfall that cascades to the valley floor.

Don't let the 5 miles fool you, steep ascend can be exhausting along with the sunny and hot conditions. Keep hydrated and don't wander off the trail, the forested area can become disorienting.  If you have someone to drop you off you can follow the Waimea River back to town and the ocean. Bring an ample amount of water, sunscreen and bug spray. Wild goats are frequently visible along the canyon ridges.

Hiking Trails

 

North Shore

East Side

South Side

West Side

Hanakapiai Trail

Kuilau Ridge

Mahaulepu

Awa Awa Puhi Trail

Kalalau Trail

Moalepe Trail

 

Kukui Trail

Okolehao Trail

Nounou East

 

Pihea Trail

Powerline Trail

Nounou West

 

Waimea Canyon Trail

 

Nounou Kuamoo

 

Waipoo Falls Trail