Kauai Hiking and Off-Road Trails: The Power Line Trail From Wailua to Princeville
The Powerline Trail on Kauai is one of the island’s most rugged and scenic backcountry routes. Stretching from Wailua toward Princeville on the North Shore, this trail offers hiking, mountain biking, and 4×4 off-road access through Kauai’s lush interior.
Where is the Powerline Trail on Kauai?
Living here on Kauai and being surrounded by all this beauty, I try to not let my busy schedule keep me from enjoying the beauty of this island every once in a while. I wanted to feel like I was in the middle of the island all by my self. So, I hopped in my jeep and headed up to the end of Kuamoo Rd. The road ends and the fun begins.
Hiking the Powerline Trail
The east-side trailhead is located at the end of Kuamoo Road in Wailua. Parking is available near the small bridge crossing. After heavy rain, check water levels before crossing. Park here and walk up the dirt road, and in a couple of minutes, you will see the trail on your right. There is a small whitish building, a hunter check-in station.
The trail head is wide here and is made up of large boulders. This trail goes all the way to the North Shore and comes out near Princeville. This trail is not maintained and can be very, very muddy if it’s been raining. It cuts through the island and gives you the feeling of complete solitude.
Driving the Powerline Trail (4×4 Access)
Sometimes it’s fun to let the Jeep do all the work. Driving the Powerline Trail requires a true 4×4 vehicle with high clearance. The trail is unmaintained and can become extremely muddy after rain. Many locals attempt this route in Jeep Wranglers or similar off-road vehicles.
Jurassic Park Filming Location
The actual end of the road…Just before you get to the end of this Kauai 4×4 trail, you find the location where they filmed some parts of the movie Jurassic Park. (Remember the wood gates that lead into the park with the amazing back drop of lush green mountains and spectacular waterfalls?)
Living Near Kauai’s Best Outdoor Adventures
The beautiful island of Kauai offers some of the best hiking on Kauai, spectacular beaches, and great homes and condos for those of you looking to own a little piece of Kauai to call your own. If you are thinking about looking into real estate here on Kauai, please feel free to contact me. I would love to talk about real estate, hiking, or off-roading.
Shaylyn Kimura, R(S)
May 28, 2012
Randy, I love this trail! I’ve never done it via 4×4, but have done it several times both on foot and horseback from one end to the other. Imagine riding the country trail in the saddle, taking in the beauty at the leisurely pace of a horse’s gait. One can truly lose oneself as the lush vegetation, majestic mountains and Kaua’i mana envelope you. Great story!
Shaylyn Kimura, R(S)
May 28, 2012
Randy, I love this trail! I’ve never done it via 4×4, but have done it several times both on foot and horseback from one end to the other. Imagine riding the country trail in the saddle, taking in the beauty at the leisurely pace of a horse’s gait. One can truly lose oneself as the lush vegetation, majestic mountains and Kaua’i mana envelope you. Great story!
Geno
October 25, 2013
This is not the powerline trail. This is loop road that leads to blue hole. I just wanted to clarify this incase someone uses this as a guide. It is a fun 4wd adventure none the less.
Geno
October 25, 2013
This is not the powerline trail. This is loop road that leads to blue hole. I just wanted to clarify this incase someone uses this as a guide. It is a fun 4wd adventure none the less.
chris
March 21, 2016
Hi
I am looking for other 4×4 trials. Do you know where i can find a list of all the 4×4 trails that i should do in HI area.
chris
March 21, 2016
Hi
I am looking for other 4×4 trials. Do you know where i can find a list of all the 4×4 trails that i should do in HI area.