I did this alone as a sunset hike. It's quite worthwhile, both for the views along the way and the marvelous array of plants lining the trail.

Near the top, the dense foliage narrows to the point of closing the trail in front of you, so you have to watch for where the seam on the ground leads. From the top – and really from many points along the way – the views are wonderful.

I didn't take many scenic pictures, preferring mostly to shoot the plant life. Those photos are in the Images section.

I didn't see anyone on the hike.

Hike Photos

Comments on The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook©, 5th Ed. — pg. 147
No map for this hike as I did not have a GPS with me. It is virtually all climb, but never was difficult, although that day the trail was probably about as dry as it ever gets. There were a few spots that I imagine would get very slippery when wet. A hiking pole is useful for the descent. The book doesn't mention in the directions to the hike's start where driving might end and hiking begin. I recommend parking just below or above (but not at) the Chinese cemetery. No sense in offending any locals. From the cemetery, take the left road and a 100 feet or so up, a right turn begins the climb. The huge power tower the book mentions is at the second switchback and is your clue that you're on the right trail.

A fast hiker, who can manage about 3 mph uphill, can reach the summit in about 40 mintues. If you plan on going at sunset, either leave the summit a bit before the sun actually sets or bring a headlamp for the hike down; the last half of the trail is on the east side of the ridge. It gets very dark very quickly at this latitude.