With so many hikes to choose from in Kauai, it was hard to decide between all-day hikes, short hikes, whale watching, zipling, etc. I'm so glad I added sleeping giant trail to my itinerary. It was a short enough hike that I could do in the morning, yet it offered so many of the beautiful views that Kauai is known for. I did this hike on a slightly drizzly morning in early March 2019. There weren't too many people on the trail and the sun started to come out after 20 minutes of hiking. I'm a fan of short hikes that really pump up your cardio. The elevation was quick but it offered beautiful views each step of the way. read more

Don't let the parking lot fool you, this is an enormous hike, with plenty of room for adventure. They could use a much larger parking lot, however. Part of my personal intrigue concerning hiking and the trails that take me off life's beaten path are, admittedly, selfish: I want to boldly go where (almost) no one has gone before. Whelp, I just threw that notion out the window when I jumped on this trail, following a group of three, followed by another group, on a Monday morning. Depending on your individual stamina and agility you will either pass or be passed by people the entire time. The most difficult obstacle of the hike, a set of boulders you must scramble and claw -- which can be a motherf@cker when it's wet -- make some people turn back. If you can overcome this obstacle, however... The views atop are spectacular, and no, you're not on the summit when you find a picnic table. Keep going, ask people ascending, even when you find the overlook there's a better overlook. Bring a rain poncho and keep in mind that whatever approaches will pass in ten minutes or so. You will probably fall at least once, and everyone will see you, and they'll understand because hey, you're boldly going where, let's face it, everyone's gone before. read more

Directions to Nounou West Trailhead is a must. We passed telephone pole #38 because the silver plated numbers are just an inch in size and hard to read from the highway. We counted the poles back, since we were about 20 poles too far, so not to slow down traffic and then parked just passed the trailhead marker. Later, I read the hiking guide book instructed hikers to "park across the road on the shoulder" so thankfully the Jeep was still where we left it and no ticket was on the windshield. Hiking from this trailhead took us less than 90 minutes roundtrip (2.6 mi) which included taking pictures along the way. It rained some in Kapa'a the night before so areas of the trail were muddy. I recommend hiking boots for traction and rock climbing. We bumped into a couple, who came from the Kuamo'o Nounou Trail (6 mi roundtrip), complaining about sliding most of their hike because of wearing tennis shoes and sandals. I'm sure if it hadn't rained the tennis shoes would've been fine. We hiked onward passed the picnic area, aka Sleeping Giant's chest, to a trail leading to the peak. There was a sign warning hikers not to go beyond the sign since it was the "End Of Trail", but we wanted to get to the top and so did the couple we bumped into along with two young women from Germany. We reached the peak, aka Sleeping Giant's face, after climbing up boulders and fighting strong wind to see a 360 degree view of the eastern coast, Wailua River, and the town of Kapa'a. It's a nice hike and the view was lovely but it wasn't our favorite in Kauai. The view wasn't as beautiful with the city below but the coast and mountains were breathtaking. This is a fun, short hike from the West and if you're wanting just that then start at the West Trailhead. I'm not an avid hiker but I didn't think this was terribly difficult since I wore boots and had plenty of water with me. There are some areas that may be difficult for people with bad knees so hiking poles wouldn't hurt. read more

See all

Really good hike through the trees up on the mountain. It's about 2 miles each way or so up to this nice viewpoint. Don't forget to bring water! You will be thirsty! Definitely a must hike while here. read more

See all

Family friendly trail--about 2 miles, easy incline but can be muddy. I rate this hike as Easy--with small inclines and leveled areas. Super easy on the way down. Go with a friend to continue on to the harder hike. I recommend starting early to beat the crowds, bring your kids and enjoy the view. Tips: -Take care when parking, be respectful, this is a residential area -As with ALL hikes, MALAMA PONO--Respect the land, do NOT leave your trash, leave invisible footprints, take LOTS of pictures -mosquito repellent -bottle water or snap camel bladder pack -shoes with good treading -walking stick read more

See all

TLDR: Great moderate hike when dry. Scary difficult hike when wet. Beware of non-official "trails"! Advise not to do this when it's raining. This was our third hike in Kauai (also did Waimea canyon and Mahaulepu Heritage trail) and it was the most challenging because of the rain. It wasn't raining much and hike was easy in the beginning. The higher we got, the more it rained and more slippery the trail became. We took a wrong turn at one of the spots that the trail seemed to split and followed that "trail" for a bit until we came across a rock face that needed to be scaled. It was clear that we went down the wrong path. Backtracked and found the correct trail again and found that there was an arrow pointing to the correct path. We ended up following the wrong path because we followed people who seemed to be coming down from the wrong path. So, don't follow other people and when in doubt make sure you're on the official trail! We eventually got to the top, past the picnic tables and the last bit you will need to scale some rocks which were very challenging due to the rain. View was obscured by the rain and fog but we did get a nice rainbow! read more

Great hike! I am not an outdoors person, I am in moderate shape, and I was able to make it to the lookout. There are 2 rocks (1 big, 1 large) that you have to climb. The large one is right before the lookout and after the picnic area if you decide forgo it. For me, the lookout point made the hike worth it! If you're unable to climb past the 1st rock, there's still some great views, but the best view is at the very top and you can see all corners of Kauai. Like I mentioned, I am not an outdoor person and only wore gym shoes. It was super muddy and was very slippery. Hiking shoes may have been helpful. Definitely bring an extra pair of clothes/shoes for after because you will get muddy! Definitely don't do it after/during a fresh rain though. The clay mud would be too slippery. read more

Okay. This hike was harder than I thought. Reviews I've read was mixed, so I figured, it wouldn't be too terrible. I was tiny bit wrong about that! While most of the trail was fine (moderate activity), there were points where we had to get down and dirty and climb up! With the heat, that really gets you winded. Luckily, we took our time and took in the scenery as we climbed upwards. The trail is a switchback so it took longer than we anticipated to get up to the top. Once your up there, the view is pretty incredible. You can pretty much see most of the island. If you're brave enough to go further and beyond the trail. You'll get a 360 view at the tippy top! read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Did this trail yesterday afternoon and it took about 2.5 hrs round trip. My iPhone app said it was a little less than 3 miles in total length. Make sure you use your phone and Google Maps to help get you to the parking area. It's at the end of a residential neighborhood. We were lucky that the ground was dry when we went. I could see it being much harder if it were muddy. For the most part there's plenty of shade along the entire way. There were a few steep areas, but overall I would say a moderate hike. Great views once you get to the top. We took along a dog from the Kauai Humane Society. They have a program where you can take their dogs on a "field trip" for the day. Bruno was an awesome little boy. We would take him home, but not sure how our current doggie would get along with him. read more

See all

Great hike to do in Wailua! It is about 2 miles to the top with benches and a shaded area. And .5 miles to the other part of the mountain. We were low on water so we only went to the 2 miles mark. It was hot and humid so make sure you have plenty of water. Great views at the top. I'd consider this an easy hike. Just getting use to the humidity took some time! This was one of our first hikes on the trip. For great views and a easy hike, give this one a try. read more

For over a decade I was curious about this trail and finally went on it. Got to the trail start at the top of Lokelani Road and met up with a friend. As I was walking around scouting the area, I think I accidentally stepped in dog shit (under some leaves). I was pissed. Hopefully it was just mud. Damn it people, pick up after your dogs please!! I read the signs and one said to keep your dogs on a leash. I saw at least two dogs not on a leash, one a German Shepherd and another large dog. I was anticipating a quick short hike, looking up the mountain but it was more intense than that. Lots of mosquitoes. It's a good thing my friend been up there before so she knew which turns to take. They need signs directing the trails, so we dont get lost. There were several "do we take that turn or the other turn?" It was quite a incline, but with numerous pitstops, we made it to the top. It was a voggy day. At first the view was obstructed by vog. Then it cleared up after a while. Saw some make Cardinals and a type of bird I have never seen before. Then a swarm of Dragonflies. There is a viewing spot but apparently there were some people blocking it with a hammock and cover. And a small fire going on. The wind was blowing the smoke towards the pavilion. It was fkn stink, like sitting next to a smoker!! It was very offensive and irritating. Those people had their backpacks and belongings strewn all over the ground. I understand there is a bench there in that spot? Their stuff all over it. So later a helicopter came flying near, they immediately took down their hammock and extinguished the fire and made a beeline into the forest, obviously hiding from authorities. Hmmm. I understand its illegal to camp and make fires up there? The scenery cleared up a bit and was able to take some pictures of the towns below. It had rained some and made going back down a bit slippery. Made lots of F bombs on the way down, grabbing and holding onto nearby trees. It was quite a hike, but dont plan on returning since I'm not a hiking buff. read more

See all

Fun and fast way to the top. The grass can slice your skin so be aware. The lookout from the top is amazing! It's really muddy around the trail and going down can be very slippery. Take a snack to eat at the top but take your trash with you. The best time to go is in the morning. The trail can get clogged at the top. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

Great hike. Take a friend there a lot of rocks and beaches to trip over. However the view is not to be missed. Once at the top you can see for miles. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

Moderate hike (to picnic tables) but doable for most. I had a recovering sprained ankle and I was able to climb up without any issues but coming down, my ankle had some issues but nothing horribly bad. We took kids 9 and 11 and they led the pack. Definitely easy for kids that age. We also had seniors 65-73 and depending on their ability they did ok. My dad who is the oldest went up without any problems but those who do not hike well only made it to the 1.25 mile mark and then stopped. It took about 2 hours to hike up with four breaks and about one hour to come down. Super fun hike. The views are ridiculous. Highly recommend. read more

See all

Great hiking place, try to go early so you can get parking. Hikes has a lot of tree and shades so pretty go to when it's hot a sunny. A lot of rocks so be sure to wear some good shoes. read more

See all

Fun little hike, if you're looking for an adventure. You"ll be reward on top. Watch out for wild pigs and bring plenty of water. read more

See all

Enjoyed the challenging hike. We completed both the East and West Nonou trail. The trail isn't easy for someone who is not in decent shape so be prepared for that. I'd suggest bringing hiking shoes because of the rocks. Also, some gloves because it does get muddy and a few points along the trail, you'll do some climbing. The muddy rocks can get slippery. I definitely enjoyed the trail itself. It was satisfying completing because it wasnt too hard or too easy. The viewpoints were okay for me. Ive done a few Trails and Ive seen better breath taking views of a city, but the views are okay for me here. You'll see a very good view of the island from the top. Another note, be sure to bring a lot of water. There's a lot of parts of the trail where the sun hits you directly and you'll be dying for water. Since we completed both East and West, it took about 5 hours to complete and we almost ran out of water. We had 3 20oz waters for two people which wasn't enough. Have fun read more

Great trail to hike when in Kaua'i! My sister and I were reading the yelp reviews and was worried about the trail being muddy and all since it was literally pouring rain right before we started... The beginning was pretty easy, not a huge incline, but you get to a certain part where you literally have to climb up some rocks, but just follow the signs & watch your step and you'll be good! The end of the trail was SUPER muddy, so be careful there as well. Also don't forget to put on a ton of sunscreen before heading up! read more

Awesome hike! A bit strenuous which involves a little bit of rock climbing and good shoes because it gets slippery! Remember when you reach the canopy, go straight and it'll lead you all the way to the top. ENJOY!!!! read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

Woke up and decided to tryout this hiking trail. Parking lot was small, but could park alongside the road. My boys 9 and 13 loved this hike for the adventures through mud and a climbing at the very end to get to the top. Not much to see along the way up the first mile heavy vegetation. Some spots were very narrow to hike through. The views along the way were good as you hike higher up. Definitely recommend going all the way to the top unless you are afraid of heights. Once you get to the picnic tables your only 10 min out from the amazing view. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

Best View for the least amount of effort. Not too far from The airport area and both east and west entrances seem to be in safe neighborhoods. Wear hiking boots! Most of all trails in Kauai are super muddy and hiking boots will make your life so much better. You may want to be daring and hike out onto the chin of the giant but whether you do or not make sure you go to the cave 20 feet underneath the chin and experience that view as well. If you enter from the west side make sure to bring lots of one dollar bills for the fruit boxes along the way that sell on the honor system. Always muddy but always worth it! read more

I went on this trail in the summer and it was so fun. It included a lush forest, small red edible berries, and even a view of a small neighborhood. I think it was an Intermediate hike having walls to climb and some steep hills. But, it was heavily shaded along the way. I would definitely recommend this hike and bring a bag to bring these sweet berries home they are so good. read more

Hikes are a must for me when in such a beautiful location with much to see. My friends and I decided to take a morning 4 mile hike before heading out to our airplane tour. This is a pretty decent hike with 2 switchback miles up 1000 feet, then 2 switchback miles down. There is one section where you have to climb a narrow rocky switchback, but if we did it, so can you. There is a great little picnic area at the top with FANTASTIC views of the Garden Island. If you hike a lot, this will not be the worst hike you do. I did it in reef sandals, and a skirt. Yes, I did, because I'm cool like that. I only stubbed my toe once, which is a record I think. I highly recommend bringing water and a hat and/or sunscreen. Happy Trails! read more

This was a great hike to get some cardio in between all the food we ate on vacation:) make sure you go past the picnic table area, to the left, and climb up the "face" of the giant. There are wonderful 360 views from atop. read more

This is an easy zig zag hike up the Mountain. The views are beautiful. Once you get to the 1.75 mile marker the trail straightens out and gradually climbs up the Mountain Top. Bring the Mosquito spray - these pesty critters hang out up at the top. Pack a snack that won't attract them also...unlike me I brought Mangoes. lol There is covered benches at the top if it rains on you while you are trying to eat. :)) read more

See all

On Trip Advisor, this trail is in a completely different place than what is posted on Yelp as of today. From traveling North on highway 56, we took a left onto Haleilio Road. There is a parking lot on the right that is right on a bend in the road. A pasture with sheep are on the other side of the road if that helps. The trail is marked as Nounou East Trail. It is about 1.75 miles to the top where there are a couple picnic benches under a corrugated roof. We think this was the end but that was as far as we were willing to walk. It took us a solid 2 1/2 hours round trip, so take lots of water and some trail mix. Good luck! read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Nounou East Trail Head - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

You will be slipping and sliding all the way up and down this trail. Its a switchback and about 2 miles to the lookout point. The trail is super muddy and no joke you will fall on your ass at least once. This is not a difficult hike, but it takes more concentration and time. I had to plan each step so I didn't slip. Get some Keen shoes and tea tree oil to ward off the bugs. There's a nice picnic area at the top with beautiful views. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

The Sleeping Giant mountain is incredible! Fascinating views of the valley, towns, and mountains on the horizon. The hike is challenging but not too difficult, and you'll be up in no time - 2 or even 1.5 hours one way. Go on a sunny day so that it's not misty and you get the best views! :D read more

One of the best hikes I've been on. Easy parts and some challenging parts. The view is well worth it. Best bring a light jacket. Some spots got chilly. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

Had a great time doing this trail. It was SUPER muddy when we went so it took us longer than we expected but we met a bunch of lovely people along the way which made the time fly by. It's a easy/moderate hike with one or two tougher spots. There's one rock "wall" that you have to get up which could deter some people who read that it's an "easy" hike and head out. Obviously the mud makes it a little more difficult, so if it just rained -- keep that in mind. Also keep in mind that the higher you go, the muddier you get! I didn't think it was possible until we were in it! My boyfriend and I were joking that kids must LOVE this hike b/c of the mud. Not ten minutes later did we pass by a young boy who had clearly slipped in the mud and he was not a happy camper. Guess our theory wasn't right for ALL kids ;) Bring towels and a change of shoes for the car ride home! read more

So beautiful! Such a great easy/medium hike, beautiful views. Would highly recommend. I could see how it might be difficult if it was muddy and raining, but either way I'm sure it would be fun! read more

Its a legit short hike. Under 2miles one way... Moderate but probably cuz of the heat/humidity it seems a bit more challenging... Great views from the top. Very underrated. read more

It's a great hike, a little tough if you're not in shape, but you can rest along the way. Bring: sunscreen, hat, lots of water and food if you want to eat lunch at the top! The views are amazing! read more

Definitely bring hiking shoes...the trail can be challenging, but overall a fun trail if in town. I don't know exactly how long it is,...but it's quite the work out. Don't forget to bring water. read more

Hiked this today, close and a fabulous hike. It was about 3.5 miles round trip, about 1100 foot elevation gain, and a pretty dry path with a few rocks and roots. Definitely recommended for its spectacular views! read more

See all

Pretty good hike. Not the most amazing views I've ever seen but it's shaded, the path is clear, and the top has benches and a gazebo. Overall, it's very nice for a family hike but bring water, bug spray, and is probably avoid it if it's wet. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - One of the views on the way up. - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

Get there early!! My wife and I thought this was going to be a nice groomed trail for a stroll up to the top, boy were we wrong. After reading other posts about the "mailbox" and making sure to "grab a walking stick by it", I'm glad we/I listened. We hit the trail hard and were met with people descending telling us to "keep right", which we thought was fun to say at times during our trek. I'm very glad we listened to the random people as well, who by the way were dressed in very casual clothes and wearing sandals, something I would not recommend doing. To a novice, which I am, this was a good challenge to hike, from its simple flat paths to the challenging cliff climbing at the top I was having a blast. Be it said I'm also not the lightest or smallest feather in the pillow, I was at times wanting to "take in the scenery" more than my wife so I could take a break and enjoy my backpack full of Power Bars! When we got to the top, it was worth the 2 hour climb, the coming down was actual the hardest part, because it started to rain and made all the clay paths slicker than snot. I strongly suggest you do this awesome adventure, it's one of the best FREE things I've done thus far. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - We made it! My wife was sitting on the ground, I guess she has a subtle fear of heights. - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

By far the best experience on our vacation. We road our rented bikes to the trail. Apparently it's an ambitious trek, as indicated by locals. The trail was quite long but we enjoyed every minute of it. It took about 2 hours to go up and come back down. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

See all

This trail was very easy. We went after a rain and the beginning was very muddy, but dried up. Has neat views of the coast. Took us about 43 minutes. read more

Sleeping Giant Trail - Hiking Near Me - Kapaa, Hawaii

Awesome hike. Quick with absolutely gorgeous views.