The Waimea Canyon is one of Kauai’s most outstanding natural
features. It is ten miles long and over a half-mile deep, making it
the largest canyon in the Pacific. The canyon’s rugged, craggy
outface and its deep valley gorges have already made an impression
on popular author Mark Twain, who called Waimea the “Grand Canyon of
the Pacific.”
Many tours are being offered in and around this amazing chasm, which
has been carved by centuries of rains cascading down from Mount
Waialeale’s summit. Colorful rock layers reveal Waimea’s geological
history. The canyon is located within the Kokee State Park, which
covers an area of over 4,300 acres and includes 45 miles of hiking
trails. Some of these trails are for experts only, while others are
for hikers of all skill levels. Trail maps are available at the
Ranger’s Station, located at the Kokee Museum.
The Walmea Canyon Drive is the main access road. It has several
scenic lookout points. Bring your camera, a light jacket for the
mountain climate and a full tank of gas because there is no service
station in this area.
Waimea Canyon State Park in Bullet Points
The canyon is ten miles long and more than a half-mile deep,
making it the largest in the Pacific
Colorful rock layers reveal its geological history
45 miles of hiking trails
Waimea Canyon State Park Location
From Lihue, drive southwest on Kuhio Highway (HI-56), which turns
into Kaumualli Highway (HI-50), into Waimea. Turn right on Waimea
Canyon Drive (HI-550).
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