Wai'alae Falls is visible in the shadows from the Kuku'i Trail
The Waimea Canyon is known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. For an island a third of the size of Rhode Island, it is amazing that a canyon of this size is packed into Kaua’i. There aren’t as many hiking trails here as there are in the Grand Canyon, but there are enough to keep you busy for a few days. And the scenery definitely rivals that of the Grand Canyon.The Kuku’i Trail starts on Highway 550, just prior to mile marker nine as you head up to the top of the canyon and closer to the Na Pali Coast. Parking is limited to a few spots on the shoulder, and traffic can be heavy with the many tourists (including myself) making their way to the canyon’s multiple lookouts. For those just looking for a short, peaceful hike with good views, the Iliau Nature Trail is a fifteen-minute loop starting at the same location.
