Text by
Eric Hiss

Photos by
Samuel Claiborne
All photos
© 1997 Samuel Claiborne

There is a legend surrounding the powerful Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes, Pele, that as she searched for a home for her eternal fires, her sister and rival followed her to Kaua'i, where she summoned the waters to douse Pele's flames. Pele had to move on, eventually settling on the Big Island, where volcanic fireworks continue to this day.

The legend underscores the fact that on Kauai, water reigns supreme. Miles of pristine coastline, rivers, waterfalls and Mt. Waialeale -- considered one of the wettest places on Earth -- have made the island a washout for Pele, but a gem for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in the sloping emerald creases and profusion of forested trails that make Kauai a hiker's paradise.

After staring countless times at jaw-dropping photos of Kaua'i's rugged Na Pali coast, I decided to chuck the drool bucket and make the trip myself. Now I was just minutes away from the Kalalau trail, a destination any hiker or backpacker worthy of carrying a Sierra cup must have in their collection of "been there" badges.

After staring countless times at jaw-dropping photos of Kaua'i's rugged Na Pali coast, I decided to chuck the drool bucket and make the trip myself.