Kauai with Kids: Okolehao Trail

1. Okolehao refers to the trail that starts the ascent up towards Hihimanu Peak in Hanalei.
2. Why Okolehao? This wide, mostly uphill trail is a nice challenge for keiki. You trek through the forest so the trees conveniently provide some decent shade and unlimited opportunities for climbing. It’s just short of two miles to reach the end of the trail where a bench and beautiful views of the bay await.
3. Where is Okolehao? Drive North towards Hanalei–as you come down the hill you will turn left immediately after you cross the iconic one-way bridge. The river will be on your left and taro fields will be on your right. Follow this road for a couple minutes until you reach the dirt parking lot across from a footbridge bearing the sign “Okolehao Trail.”
4. What is the parking situation like? There is plenty of room to park within the dirt lot and alongside the road.
5. When is the best time to go? We prefer to do this hike in the morning for some cloud coverage. Otherwise, it’s a perfectly beautiful hike any time of day so long as it’s not raining or there haven’t been recent heavy rains. The trail becomes extremely muddy and dangerously slippery when wet.
6. What should I bring? Insect repellent! In terms of footwear anything both sneakers and sandals with straps are fine. Honestly, we typically go barefoot on this trail (especially when it’s muddy which it often is).
7. What food should I bring? This hike is so close to the main drag in Hanalei that simple snacks and water (lots of it) will do. Traditionally, we head to Pink’s Creamery for grilled cheese sandwiches and ice cream when we’re pau hiking!
8. Insider advice: I cannot emphasize enough how hot this hike becomes if it’s done in full sun and/or without a breeze. Again, the majority of it is uphill and while the trees provide shade they also seem to trap in the humidity (hence the mosquitos).
9. Fun fact: If you are feeling extremely adventurous and have the opportunity to return without children (for several hours), the trail continues past the bench all the way to the peak of Hihimanu. This section of the trail is only for experienced hikers and involves a few dozen rope-assisted climbs. It is certainly a spectacular full-body workout that takes you high above where the helicopters fly! I would not recommend this extension for anyone who is afraid of heights as there are steep drop-offs all along the trail. I definitely consider this as much of a mental challenge as it is a physical one.
10. Photo ideas: The wide trail, the foliage, and the soft lighting all make for excellent action shot scenery. This is the perfect place to capture some candids of your keiki exploring in their element.