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...

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...

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 ...

People are wondering if they need a GPS device on the trail. Good question! The short answer is no, or rather not necessarily. The longer answer is it depends. Confusing? Well, hear me out…

The trail is, as is somewhat obvious from the map, mostly linear and straightforward. The risk of getting tot...

Fortunately, Kalalau Beach, as well as Hanakoa Camp, offer both flat surfaces as well as plenty of trees, so the adventurous hiker can choose between the more traditional tent and the hammock. Both options have unique advantages and disadvantages, and either has haters and fans. So what’s the best w...

Completing the Kalalau Trail is no easy feat. So you want to be prepared, bring the right gear, and make good decisions. And yet, more often than not, people make mistakes that get them into varying degrees of trouble.  

Here are the top blunders:

Underestimating the Trail

Let’s get right to poin...