When you think of outdoor activities in Hawaii, what typically comes to mind? For me, it was surfing, tanning on beaches, hiking vocanoes, and snorkling. However, when we were reviewing activities for our stay on Kauai, I learned about Waimea Canyon.

Located on the west side of Kauai, Waimea Canyon is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Driving Highway 50, a small two-lane road, we went to the top of the canyon, stopping at several viewing spots. The sights were breath taking.

Near the top of the highway, we found the AwaAwaPuhi trail, which had been recommended. As we arrived early in the morning, we were the first hikers on the path. The first half of the trail was fairly easy, as we were going downhill. However, there was a fair amount of slippery rocks.

Traveling a couple miles down the path, we found a great lookout on the side of the trail. Climbing up a small peak, we had an amazing view of the island and the ocean. Feeling satisfied with our hike, we climbed down from the peak and began our trek up the canyon. This half of the hike was more demanding, climbing some fairly steep grades.

Returning to our car, we stopped at the museum/gift shop about a ¼ mile down the road. The clerk there was very helpful, sharing facts about the canyon and its trails. Asking about our trip, she informed us that based on the information that we shared, we had stopped ½ a mile shy of the trail’s end. While we had had a great view from our peak, the view at the end of the trail was even more amazing.

We considered it a win-lose situation. We lost out on an utterly astounding view, but we won with a great hike and fairly incredibly view.

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