Kauai Hikes

We did two pretty great hikes in Kauai. The first was called the Sleeping Giant and Derrick and I did a solo day trip to hike this one. It wasn't too strenuous for the most part although we did feel like we were rock climbing in two areas. 

 

It was mostly switch backs all the way to the top. When we got to the end there was an option to go a little farther for better views. It was a straight up rock scramble and probably my favorite part of the hike.

The views were different than our other hikes because we were looking out over a populated area but they were still gorgeous and worth every mile.

The other big hike we did was the Kalalau Trail and the Hanakapi'ai waterfall trail.

We Joel, Cat, and the boys went with us for the first mile and then Derrick and I ventured on alone to the falls. It was an 8 mile hike round trip but it was probably the least strenuous elevation wise. The only rough part was the uphill at the very end...brutal.

The second half of the trail included a lot of stream crossings which was pretty fun. We brought both chacos and hiking shoes so we switched back and forth throughout the hike. As we got closer to the waterfall there were some rock scrambles which is always fun.

The waterfall was amazing! It was huge and loud! There was a pool at the bottom that Derrick and I weren't planning on swimming in but then this family convinced us that it wasn't that cold. They were CRAZY! It was absolutely freezing! We made it underneath the falls and then swam back quick!

Derrick did stay in for a picture for me.

Here's a video of this last hike where you get to witness our swimming indecision!

This was definitely a highlight of the trip and our favorite hike!