Hiking the Kuilau Ridge Trail in Kauai

If you’d like to be immersed in a rainforest in Kauai, the Kuilau Ridge Trail might be for you.

Although the trail is approximately 3.6 miles roundtrip, you do not have to go that far to enjoy fantastic views. (I’ve seen this hike listed anywhere from 3.6 to 5 miles, round trip.)

One of the reasons why you may choose not to venture to the end of the trail is mud. The entire trail is dirt, which makes for a very muddy and slippery hike if it has rained recently.

We had mud splattered half way up to our knees, but with views like this we kept saying, “Just a little bit farther, then we’ll turn around.”

The trail gains 666 feet in altitude. Throughout most of the hike, it is an easy upward slope. 

Make sure to bring water and apply sunscreen and bug spray before starting your hike. We did not use bug spray and the mosquitoes were delighted by our choice. 

As long as we kept moving, the mosquitoes weren’t too bothersome, but with mesmerizing views, it was hard to always keep moving.

We did make it to the lookout point. However, I thought the views on the climb up were better. At this point, you can return the way you came or continue on to the Moalepe Trail.

Things to know before you go:

1. The road to the trail is very curvy, with a lot of blind spots. It reminded me of the Road to Hana. 
2. There is only room for a few cars at the trailhead. However, you can park at the arboretum (a little further down the road) and walk to the trailhead. It will add about a mile roundtrip to your hike. 
3. There are bathrooms at the arboretum, but not along the Kuilau Ridge Trail.
4. Walking sticks are very useful on this trail, especially if it’s muddy.
5. Remember your sunscreen and bug spray!
6. Bring water.
7. Bring an extra pair of shoes and a bag so you can change out of your muddy shoes and keep your car clean.

We were lucky enough to grab a parking spot at the beginning of the trail. We did want to visit the arboretum and take a look at the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees, so we hopped in the car and took a quick ride over. But that is a post for another day. As always, wishing you happy travels and fantastic adventures in this thing called life.

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More Kauai Adventures

Visiting the McBryde Gardens in Kauai

The Lookout Points at Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park

The Best Helicopter Tour on Kauai

Visiting Poipu and Brennecke’s Beach in Kauai

Sailing and Snorkeling Along the Napili Coast

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