USA Kalalau Trail, Mile 8, Kauai

This photo was taken from the helicopter landing area near mile maker 8 along the Kalalau Trail. The Kalalau trail resides on the north-northwest coast of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, Hawaii.

The trail is part of the Napali Coast State Park owned by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).

Obtain a hiking permit 6-12 months in advance from the DLNR. Then backpack the Kalalau Trail. The trail starts at Ke'e beach and terminates about 11-14 miles at Kalalau beach.

However, just before reaching mile marker 8 there exists an "unofficial" (i.e. illegal) campsite which is not well known outside of Kalalau trail veterans and locals. Again, it is not legal to camp here. If you are caught you may be fined and required to leave the trail. Obviously, do not setup your tent on the helicopter landing area as that could create a dangerous situation if a helo had to make a night landing.

Of course you need to backpack 11-14 miles out after reaching Kalalau beach. Hiking to Kalalau beach without a permit is illegal and may result in a steep fine (~$1500?) if caught. Plan ahead, be safe, and you'll have one of the best hiking experiences of your life :-)