The Waimea Canyon Lookout at Waimea Canyon State Park near Waimea, Hawaii (Kauai) is an easy 0.2-mile loop trail that leads out to the best vista of the entire Waimea Canyon.
This trail has a universal access path that leads out to the eastern most vista at the lookout; however, the track provided follows the trail clockwise to hit several vista points along the trail, albeit there's really just two main views on an upper and lower platform. Follow the stairs down to the lower platform, where the universal access path leads to, then enjoy more sweeping views of the canyon. Hikers can then follow the trail out making for a short walk.
Parking & Fees
Visitors will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided. The lot is large enough to fit several dozen vehicles and overflow parking can be found on the road. There's a vehicle entry fee in addition to individual fees as of June, 2022. By paying for one parking lot, the tickets are valid for all parking lots that require fees for both the Waimea Canyon State Park and Koke'e State Park. Note that for visitors with valid Hawaiian drivers licenses, there are no fees to park or enter.
Warning
Cliffs: Do not cross the fence as these cliffs are thousands of feet tall.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
This trail has a universal access path that leads out to the eastern most vista at the lookout; however, the track provided follows the trail clockwise to hit several vista points along the trail, albeit there's really just two main views on an upper and lower platform. Follow the stairs down to the lower platform, where the universal access path leads to, then enjoy more sweeping views of the canyon. Hikers can then follow the trail out making for a short walk.
Parking & Fees
Visitors will find a large parking lot at the coordinates provided. The lot is large enough to fit several dozen vehicles and overflow parking can be found on the road. There's a vehicle entry fee in addition to individual fees as of June, 2022. By paying for one parking lot, the tickets are valid for all parking lots that require fees for both the Waimea Canyon State Park and Koke'e State Park. Note that for visitors with valid Hawaiian drivers licenses, there are no fees to park or enter.
Warning
Cliffs: Do not cross the fence as these cliffs are thousands of feet tall.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
