Nestled along the rim of Waimea Canyon between 3,200 and 4,200 feet above sea level, Koke’e State Park is home to some of the prettiest scenery in the Aloha State — including both Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and the jaw-dropping Kalalau Valley. Koke’e State Park sprawls over 4,300 acres and contains approximately 45 miles of hiking trails along canyon rims, and through native Hawaiian forests. While one could spend weeks exploring this incredible park, there is one trail that often gets overlooked.
This is the Kalepa Ridge Trail, a difficult hike that leads experienced adventurers from the Kalalau Lookout along the ridgeline between Kalalau and Honopu Valleys to one of the prettiest views in Hawaii.
Justice Cruice/AllTrails
Kalalau Valley is easily one of the most photographed and recognized lookout points in the Aloha State, perhaps due to the fact that the valley, and surrounding coastline, have been featured in various Hollywood films, including King Kong and Jurassic Park.
Benjamin Houde/AllTrails
While thousands of people visit the Kalalau Lookout within Koke’e State Park each year, few very complete the often overlooked Kalepa Ridge Trail, perhaps because its an unofficial trail according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.
Benno Masemann/AllTrails
Whether it is Kalepa’s unsanctioned status or breathtaking natural beauty that makes this one of Hawaii’s most exciting trails, we’re not sure.
Alex Anderson/AllTrails
Be warned, though: this trail is quite difficult and should only be attempted by experienced hikers familiar with hiking Hawaii’s ridgelines.
Zaid Fadul/AllTrails
The trail is steep, narrow, and remote. It’s also quite dangerous, especially after the area has received rain.
Dave Nance/AllTrails
Because the trail is unofficial, there’s no exact length, but we advise experienced hikers to climb only as far as they feel comfortable. Most people allow two to three hours to hike the Kalepa Ridge. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and utilize hiking poles.
Justice Cruice/AllTrails
With views like this, you’d be a fool to forget your camera. Many say that the views of the Na Pali Coast from the Kalepa Ridge Trail surpass those you’ll find on both the crazy-intense 22-mile Kalalau Trail and a helicopter tour.
Zaid Fadul/AllTrails
Luckily, for those who might not have the time or the skills to tackle Kalepa Ridge Trail, the views from the Kalalau lookout are still quite stunning.
Josh Elkins/AllTrails
If you want to explore all that Koke’e State Park has to offer, we suggest staying at this gorgeous campground. And if you’re looking for an easier hike within this stupendous state park, check out the Alakai Swamp Trail.
Justice Cruice/AllTrails
Benjamin Houde/AllTrails
Benno Masemann/AllTrails
Alex Anderson/AllTrails
Zaid Fadul/AllTrails
Dave Nance/AllTrails
Josh Elkins/AllTrails
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