After a muddy trek on the Powerline Trail, the washer/dryer in your Kauai vacation rental will come in handy for a quick cleanup. This 11 mile Kauai hike cuts inland and stretches between our Princeville rentals and Kapaa. Ancient Hawaiians traveled the same route and their Mana can still be felt. The trail was surveyed in the early 1900’s by Rev. John Lydgate (as in Lydgate Beach). Later the power lines were installed to Hanalei and the trail created. You can start this Kauai activity at either end or make this a shorter return trek.
During the walk the panoramic ocean views stretch for miles across three areas of the island. Waterfalls cascade down green cliffs and on clear days Mt. Waialeale appears. Wild berries and strawberry guava grow along the trail for helpful energy snacks. The highest point (2,128 feet) is called Kualapa with amazing vistas to remember on your Kauai vacation.
Kauai Activity Tip: To test how muddy the trail might be, check how much water is on the road near the Kapaa trailhead. If you’re unable to drive to the end because the water is too deep, you may want to save this hike for drier Kauai weather. Another option is nearby Sleeping Giant trail or making a shorter hike from the Princeville side.
Kauai Hiking Tips for Powerline Trail.
Kapaa Trailhead: Turn at the light across from Wailua Beach at the entrance to Coco Coco Palms. Follow Kuamo`o Road to where it ends just past Keahua Arboretum. This section of the trail is more steep but gets drier near the center. The path can be overgrown at times but easy to follow using the power lines to guide you.
Princeville Trailhead: Turn towards the mountains “Mauka” on Kapaka Street at Princeville Ranch Adventures and drive two miles to the parking lot at end. The Princeville side is more easy going the first two miles and good for families. Conditions are drier with less elevation change. You will see beautiful ocean and waterfall views making this a great hike if you don’t want to cover the entire 11 miles.
Powerline Trail Facts and Recommendations.
Elevation Change: 2,000 feet.
Length: 11 miles. Allow 7 hours.
Degree of Difficulty: Strenuous if you do the entire hike.
Bring: Two quarts of water per hiker, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Wear: Solid footwear and long pants to protect against scratches from bushes. Bright clothing is better during hunting season.
Have you hiked the Powerline Trail? Let us know about your experience in the comment area below.
Visit our Kauai Activities page for a list of things to do on Kauai with insider tips, recommendations and map.