Hanakoa Falls
 Hanakoa Falls is the other of two well-named waterfalls featured on the Kalalau Trail along the famed Na Pali Coast. It is much taller than Hanakapi'ai Falls but it has lower flow. This impressive falls is nestled in one of the cathedral-like wrinkles in the mountains backing Hanakoa Valley at the half way point of the Kalalau Trail. The falls is tall enough to be noticed in a helicopter tour going through the Na Pali Coast. In fact, you can probably see some of the upper tiers that you won't be able to see from the ground. If you intend to visit Hanakoa Falls, you'll need either a hiking permit or a camping permit. The hiking permit is easier to come by (camping permits often require booking at least six months in advance). However, the day hike to the falls is brutally hilly and slow. The Kalalau Trail is wrought with hazards such as the nearly constant long drop-offs on the makai side along with nearly constant slippery and narrow sections of track almost forcing you to scratch yourself as you hike through some of the overgrowth protruding onto the trail. When I did the hike, it easily took me from day break to sunset. It's 13 miles round trip but don't expect to be moving anywhere near the usual 2mph from more normal hikes. I also nearly dehydrated and suffered a heat stroke after running out of water so bring a filter (you can read about my adventure here). You can pick up permits in person from the Department of Land and Agriculture building in Lihu'e.
Tell us about your experience with this waterfall. [Back to top] [Go to previous waterfall: Hanakapi'ai Falls] [Go to next waterfall: Kalihiwai Falls] [Go to the Kauai Waterfalls Page] [Go to the Hawai'i Page] [Return from Hanakoa Falls to the World of Waterfalls Home Page]
|
Looking up at steep walls closing in at the falls
