Are dogs allowed on Pihea Trail?

No, dogs are not permitted on Pihea Trail. This is typical in many national parks and wildlife refuges — check for a nearby dog-friendly alternative.

Do I need a permit to hike Pihea Trail?

No, Pihea Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Pihea Trail?

Pihea Trail is rated moderate. It is 7.6 miles long with 285 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Pihea Trail?

Pihea Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Pihea Trail suitable for kids?

Pihea Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

ModerateOut and Back

Kokee State Park/Hawaii

Pihea Trail

Waimea, Hawaii

7.6 mi

Distance

285 ft

Elev. Gain

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

We don't publish a description for Pihea Trail unless we can point you at the agency it came from. We don't have one yet. The planning figures above — distance, elevation gain, estimated time, route type — come from the source listed on this trail.

Hawaii DLNR Division of State Parks manages this trail and is the authority for conditions, closures and route notes. See official sources below. Spot something we should add?

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Dangerous cliffs along the Kalalau Valley rimDeep mud and slick roots — officially flagged dangerous footingFlash flooding on stream sectionsFog and rain can close in quickly; vegetation can mask drop-offsActive hunting area

Trail Details

No dogs

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by Hawaii DLNR Division of State Parks

Verify before you go

Source of truth

Agency source page
The page our published rules and notes are derived from.
Kokee State Park — official page
Park unit page with alerts and visitor information.

Where it is

Nearest town:: Wainiha, HI · about 5 mi away
County:: Kauai County, HI
Jurisdiction:: Kokee State Park · Hawaii DLNR Division of State Parks

Nearest town and county from U.S. Census Bureau place records and county boundaries.

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

Kalalau Valley rim views from Puʻu o KilaJunction with the Alakaʻi Swamp TrailKawaikoi Stream and high-elevation native forestNative forest birds

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Verified from State of Hawaiʻi DLNR / Na Ala Hele Trail & Access System

Trail centerline: State of Hawaiʻi DLNR / Na Ala Hele Trail & Access System. Source ↗

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