Kuilau Ridge and Moalepe Trail Combined, Kauai Hawaii

Kuilau Ridge Trail is a very nice hike. The first part is on an asphalt base path that has a gentle incline. The path continues to be wide and un-rutted but still muddy in spots. After about 30-40 minutes, the 1 mile mark, you will reach a small grassy picnic area overlooking a valley. You can see Mt. Wai’ale’ale and the Makaleha Mountains if it’s clear. Across the first valley you will see powerlines which follow the Kualapa Ridge. The Powerline Trail follow these power poles across the island. From the right side of the clearing looking east you will see the trail switchbacking below you where the Kuilau Ridge Trail ends and the Moalepe Trail begins. Continue down the path to the right to see winding, rolling hills and a view to the Nounou Mountains and ocean. Once you reach the wooden bridge (Opaekaa Stream) you reach the end of the Kuilau Ridge Trail and the start of the Moalepe Trail.

To get to Kuilau Ridge Trail you continue to drive past Opaekaa Falls to the end of the road. Just before you get to the Keahua Forest Arboretum and the first stream crossing. The trail is on the right. Total round trip distance is 4 1/2 miles and 760 feet elevation change.

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Moalepe Trail begins at the yellow trail gate and looks more like a dirt road than a trail. It can be very muddy and rutted at times. The trail is often used by equestrians for a good riding trail. Both sides of the trail are fenced for the first mile. The area has views of lush pasture land and dotted with Philippine orchids while the Kamalii Ridge climbs into the Makaleha Mountains. There are a couple of nice waterfalls off to the east which you get a better view of the further you go. After a gradual incline the trail begins to switchback and forth and near the end of the trail it becomes increasingly muddy.
The trail ends at a wooden bridge where the Kuilua Ridge Trail begins. Combining the two trails makes for a great hike with some beautiful views. You will need someone to pick you up at the other end unless you backtrack your way back.