So you’re planning on hitting the Kalalau trail and are getting ready to try for the coveted permits. Great! But now you’re wondering: How many nights should I stay? There are many right, but also potentially a few wrong answers to this question. And it depends on you and your circumstances. A few f...

Hiking into and exploring Kalalau Valley is probably the most popular and exciting pastime - apart from lounging around the beach after a long and exhausting hike to Kalalau camp. The main trail leading up valley goes on for quite a while and can sometimes be a little challenging to follow. And then...

As many of you have read or maybe seen, there is what’s commonly referred to as a “Free Table” in Kalalau camp. The idea is simple and - on the surface - innocuous and even altruistic: leave behind useful stuff for the people who come after you so they can use those items and benefit from them.

You...

I just returned from my most recent 5-day Kalalau excursion. As always, it’s a unique experience to spend time on the trail and in paradise. As I reflect back, here are some of my take-aways:

•  I enjoy the mental and physical challenge of taking on difficult hikes solo. It heightens the senses and
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As I began planning for my next Kalalau adventure, I started thinking about my hydration strategy and electrolyte supplements in particular. (If you’re looking for information about how to treat stream water, check out this post). 

But before getting into some of the choices, let’s take a step back...

Few topics related to the Kalalau Trail are as polarizing as Hanakoa Camp and whether or not it’s a good idea to spend the night there. For some, it’s a mosquito haven they’d rather avoid, for others, it’s a way to break up the challenging trail and seek some rest in a true jungle setting.

So which...

Weight is one of the main concerns when selecting gear for your Na Pali adventure. I can’t count the hours I’ve spent obsessing over grams, researching and buying lighter items, and weighing my gear in an effort to shave a few more ounces here and there. And, in a way, it’s been a little, well, fun ...

It’s confirmed: With permits successfully secured, I’ll be heading back into paradise this summer! (Despite having been mentally prepared for long and potentially repeated hours late at night trying to obtain the coveted permits, I scored and was able to get them within only a few minutes on the fir...

All Kalalau hikers are concerned about time and that makes sense. You need to know how long it takes to finish the trail (or make it to Hanakoa Camp), so you can plan your day and don’t get caught in the dark. (For most, the full trail takes anywhere between 7 and 10 hours depending on trail and phy...

I wanted to share my favorite gear item to treat stream water, so it’s safe to drink. Meet the Grayl Geopress!

I’ve used the Geopress now for several years, including on the Kalalau Trail. According to the manufacturer, it removes viruses, bacteria (including leptospira), and protozoan cysts, as we...

Most people who have been there would agree: The Kalalau Trail, Beach, and Valley are unique and very special places with a rich history and unique flora and fauna. Unfortunately, humans have managed to destroy many places like this elsewhere in the world and - despite efforts by the state of Hawaii...

Nobody wants to run out of gas for their camping stove. That would really mess with meal prep and could even result in a shortened Kalalau adventure. At the same time, schlepping too many cartridges is also not fun. So how do you know how many you’ll need?

Here’s a way to make sure:

1. Figure out ...