Alakai Swamp Trail

Alakai Swamp Trail General Description

The Alakai Swamp trail is a fantastic hike on the island of Kauai. We personally prefer to hike it as a part of the Pihea/Alakai Swamp Trail combo. The first two miles along the Pihea trail take you along the back rim of Kalalau Valley, before heading into the Alakai Swamp. After two miles on the Pihea Trail is the junction with Alakai Swamp Trail. The scenery drastically changes from open valley to rainforest as you head into the thick of the world's highest rainforest and swampland. This lush environment is fed by the abundant precipitation on Wai'ale'ale's slopes. The trail is said to be the highlight of many visitors' journeys to the island, and it's one of our favorite hidden gems as well. As a bonus, in the last few years the trail has been greatly enhanced with boardwalks. No longer do hikers have to trudge through the mud to reach the magical lookout of Kilohana at the end of the journey. The view of Kilohana at the end (clouds permitting) is an incredible sight, allowing you to see all the way back down to Hanalei Bay.

Location: West Kauai

On the Kauai Map

The trailhead for Pihea trail starts at the end of Highway 550 beyond Waimea Canyon and at the Pu`u O Kila lookout (overlooking Kalalau Valley). Park in the parking lot, head up the ramp, and the trail descends along the back of the valley with panoramic vistas overlooking Kalalau Valley. At two miles in, you'll reach Alakai Swamp trail.