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Free Traveling Guides » States » Hawaii » Molokai & MauiKalaupapa Trail
The scenic Kalaupapa Trail descends nearly 1,800 ft (548.64 m) down to the spectacular Kalaupapa Peninsula. This winding trail has as many as 26 switchbacks and it is quite strenuous to hike this arduous trail. There are several viewpoints along this trail that offer great opportunities to view the most breathtaking and panoramic vistas of the surrounding picturesque landscape. The world’s tallest cliffs are situated to the east of this trail. These magnificent cliffs have been acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records.
The Kalaupapa Trail can be reached via Highway 470, near the Kalaupapa Overlook and the Pala`au State Park. To reach the Peninsula, you can either opt to hike this steep trail or ride mules down the trail. The exciting mule rides are arranged by a National Park Service named Molokai Mule Rides Inc. These mule rides are strictly timed and during the ride, you will not be permitted to ride the mules to the beach or wander in the settlement.
The trail is usually muddy and wet during the winter and quite humid and hot in the summer. Hiking this trail is very tough as the footing is very slippery here. You should make sure that you are in a good physical condition before you decide to hike. Moreover, to hike down this trail, you are required to be at least 16 years old. Besides, it is also recommended to carry a rain jacket, a brimmed hat sunscreen, and plenty of water along with you. If you encounter mules while hiking, do not try to pass through them. It is advisable to stay on the side and let the mules pass you.
All the hikers and the mule riders are connected with the commercial tour of Kalaupapa at the bottom of the Trail. The most popular commercial tours are the Damien Tours, which operate Monday through Saturday, except New Years day, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving Day. This tour will help you know more about the Settlement and provides a cold water bottle and lunch after the hike up the trail. Returning to the top is yet another adventure. The Kalaupapa Trail offers great views of the overlooking sea cliffs and waterfalls, crashing surf, and dramatic ocean rock formations. The fun and adventure is certainly not worth missing.
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