The Nounou Kuamoo Trail is a favorite hike that leads you over the Opaekaa Stream across a quaint wooden bridge and through a forest of strawberry guavas. At the 75-mile mark, you can stop at the covered picnic table for a quick hike and a nice picnic area. This valley vista will reward you with views of Kalepa Ridge and upper Wailua Homestead. The Nounou Trail continues along the west side of Nounou Mountain and meets up with the west side trail at about 1.8 miles.
Past a grove of large bamboo, the Kuamoo Trail joins the Nounou West Trail in the beautiful cathedral forest of Cook Pines planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. At this intersection, head up the mountain through the Cook Pines trail. As you make your way to the top, you will find yourself surrounded by large pines, fragrant strawberry guava, wild orchids, and eucalyptus trees.
At the top of the trail, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of mount Waialeale, Anahola’s Kong mountain, Wailua River Valley and the coastline from Kealia to Kalapaki,. The picnic table at the top is a great rest spot for a picnic and shelter. You can continue along the ridge toward the giant’s head, but the trail becomes more complex and requires some climbing. At the end of this spectacular hike, you will be treated to a 360-degree view of the East side of Kauai.
The name “Sleeping Giant Trail ” is derived from the fact that you will hike across the chest of the giant’s profile, which is easily seen from the ocean side or Kapaa side of the mountain.
Hiking Tips
Heading into Kauai’s interior and remote terrain offers dome of the most beautiful backdrops on the world. By doing a little planning and being prepared you will make your hiking trip one of your best Kauai experiences.
- Hiking Plan Always tell someone where you are hiking (name and location of trail) you plan to hike and when you plan on returning.
- Water Drink one-half to one full quart of water or sports drink each and every hour you are hiking in the heat. Carry your water bottle in your hand and drink small amounts often. Make sure if you are drinking water from any streams or fresh water sources you purify your water with a purifier is certified to filter microbial leptosporosis or giardia (not all do).
- Food Carry high-energy, salty snacks as well as meals. The hike out is much easier when you provide your body with enough calories to support the extreme physical activity you are engaged in.
- Weather Check the weather before you set off on your hike. Kauai Weather Forecast
- First Aid It is important to know that cuts in tropical climates should be monitored closely. Don not expose open wounds or cuts to river water.
- Proper Footwear There are a variety of footwear options to choose from. The best advise is to wear what is comfortable for you. Do not break in new shoes along a hiking trail.
- Clothing Dress in layers so you can protect your skin from the tropical sun. Wearing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen is recommended. A light rain jacket is recommended.
