Outer Edge Edition 48(clone) | Page 100

Kauai Kauai offers unique adventures, such as mountain tubing in the miles of water flumes of Lihue, ziplining above Kauai’s lush rainforests, off-road exploring by 4x4 or ATV on Kauai’s South Shore, horseback riding in the pastures of Princeville, or hiking the trails of Kokee State Park and Waimea Canyon. Since 90% of Kauai is inaccessible by road, hiking is a great way to see the island’s natural splendor first-hand. There are numerous trails to explore but the most famous hike on Kauai is the challenging 11-mile Kalalau trail along the Napali Coast. Beginning at the end of the road at Kee Beach, most people hike in and stay at least one night before returning. Others limit their hike to the first two miles, which leads to Hanakapiai Beach. Permits are required for camping and day hikes past Hanakapiai Valley in the park and may be obtained through the Hawaii State Parks Division. On the West Side, Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park offer some of the best hiking trails on the island. Spread over 4,325 acres, Kokee State Park features trails leading to scenic lookouts (like the Awaawapuhi Trail) and hikes for the family (Cliff Canyon and Black Pipe Trail). Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority/ Max Wanger Molokai Molokai is only small, but there is still plenty of adventure available. You might like to take a hike to Mooula Falls through the natural wilderness of historic Halawa Valley. Explore Molokai’s south shore by bike, touring Molokai’s historic places. Or saddle up a mule and head down Kalaupapa’s scenic, switchbacks. 100 Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority/ Tor Johnson Land Adventures Oahu The waves at Waimea Bay roar and watching the surfer’s take on some of the biggest sets in the world is one way to spend your days on shore. Or you might choose to feel the exhilaration of riding down a trail on a mountain bike, off-roading on an ATV, or hiking one of Oahu’s thirty-five trails. For the truly fearless, take a 17,000 foot skydive and marvel at a North Shore view few have seen. Maui On Maui, horseback ride atop Haleakala , Maui’s highest peak; take an ATV tour; or enjoy your first helicopter ride to see breathtaking views of Maui’s pristine valleys and waterfalls. Maui’s hiking trails allow you to experience the beauty of the Magic Isle. For an easy hike, visit historic Iao Valley State Park. This paved trail offers fantastic valley views. For a more difficult hike try the Pipiwai trail to 400-foot Waimoku Falls in the lush Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park. Visit the Kipahulu Visitor’s Center for more information. Or you can hike atop the scenic summit of Haleakala, Maui’s highest peak. Take the Halemauu Trail or the Keeneheehee (sliding sands) trail down from the crater and see volcanic landscapes, mountainous wilderness and rare endemic plants like the ahinahina (silversword). And on Maui, you can experience the longest downhill bike tour anywhere in the world! You’ll be taken to 10,000 feet to the summit of Haleakala National Park, before the ride down the mountain commences (at an elevation of 6,700 feet).