Hawaii Travel Update: This Kauai Trail Was Just Named To The Hall Of Fame. No, It’s Not The Kalalau Trail.

The Hawaiian Island of Kauaʻi is known for its lush beauty and, within the outdoor community, its extensive network of trails.

Hikers have long raved about several of Kauaʻi’s unique trails, including the myriad of paths in and around Waimea Canyon as well as the infamous Kalalau Trail along the Nāpali Coast, which is often featured in news articles that tout the world’s most incredible hiking trails.

But this month, another trail was given a great honor.

On August 8th, the Ke Ala Hele Makālae trail in Kapaʻa was inducted into the Hall of Fame by the Rails to Trails Conservancy.

The Rails to Trails Conservancy is the nation’s largest trail organization that works with local officials to build trails, connect public spaces, and promote outdoor recreation.

The Ke Ala Hele Makālae trail is one that many visitors to Kauaʻi have probably seen—or even been on—without really thinking about it.

The paved coastal path runs 8 miles from Lydgate Beach Park to Kuna Bay along the island’s east coast, connecting several small towns and beach parks.

Ke Ala Hele Makālae translates as “The Path that Goes by the Coast.” Names in Hawaiʻi are typically very literal and descriptive, a practice that goes back to ancient times.

“This stunning trail was nominated for its scenic value, community connections and accessibility—creating new opportunities for people of all abilities to access nature and to walk or bike in the community where they live, supporting the region’s public health, mobility and quality of life goals,” the release said.

The trail is being “celebrated for the social, economic and quality-of-life value” it brings to the local community, not only offering a place for physical exercise, scenic beauty, and social interaction, but one of transportation and education.

One can use the path to travel between towns, and interpretive signs explain local history and nature. It’s not exactly a hiking trail, though many people enjoy it on foot by walking or running sections of it for exercise or simply a scenic outing.

Visitors to the island should consider checking out the trail, or even spending the day on it. The most efficient way to enjoy it is to rent a bike from your hotel or local bike shop and ride sections of it between towns or beaches.

Some hotels in the Kapaʻa area are conveniently located along the trail, making it easy to step out and enjoy a morning or evening walk.

The Hilton Garden Inn, for example, the Sheraton Kauaʻi Coconut Beach Resort, and the Aston Islander are all nearby the trail, among other lodging options.

In the future, the plan is to expand the trail to 17 miles—more than double its current length—to stretch between Nāwiliwili and Anahola. As of this writing, there are no firm dates for the construction or completion of the extension.

You can find a map and a deeper explanation of the Ke Ala Hele Makālae trail here.