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Kalaupapa Trail Review
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Kalaupapa Trail
- Address: Access Kalaupapa Trail off Hwy. 470 near the Kalaupapa Overlook. There is ample parking near end of Hwy. 470, Kalaupapa Peninsula, HI
- Phone: 808/567-6802
- www.nps.gov/kala/
- Category: Trails
- Location: Central Molokai
Fodor's Review:
Unless you fly, the only way into Kalaupapa National Historic Park is on a dizzying switchback trail. The switchbacks are numbered -- 26 in all -- and descent 1,700 feet to sea level in just under 3 mi. The steep trail is more of a staircase, and most of the trail is shaded. Keep in mind, however, that footing is uneven and there is little to keep you from pitching over the side. If you don't mind heights, you can stare straight down to the ocean for most of the way.
The trail and peninsula below are all part of Kalaupapa National Historical Park (808/567-6802. www.nps.gov/kala/), which is open every day but Sunday. Nature here is intensely beautiful and includes some rare native habitat for endangered endemic plants and birds. The park also tells a poignant human story. The Kalaupapa Peninsula was once a community of about 1,000 victims of Hansen's disease (leprosy) who were banished from other parts of Hawaii. There are about 40 patients still living in Kalaupapa -- now by choice, as the disease is controlled by drugs and patients are no longer carriers. Out of respect to these people, visitors must be at least 16 years old, cannot stay overnight, and must be on a guided tour or invited by a resident. Guided tours of the community are available by reservation through Damien Tours (808/567-6171) if you're hiking or flying in, or Molokai Mule Ride (808/567-6088. www.muleride.com) if you're riding. Hikers need to start walking by 8 AM to connect with the 10 AM tour and reservations are a must. Keep in mind that there are no public facilities (except an occasional restroom) anywhere in the park. Pack your own food and water, as well as light rain gear, sunscreen, and bug repellent.
Trailhead is clearly marked with ample parking near end of Kalae Hwy., Hwy. 470
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