Trail Conservation

Taking care of Kaua`i's trails ensures the livelihood of all that reside in the island's delicate environment and preserves the land for generations to come. Here are some basic tips about how you can malama (care for) the land you tread upon.

Tread Lightly

Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka Aina I Ka Pono : The Life of the Land is Perpetuated in Righteousness

• Do not move rocks : Many trails run through ancient terrace sites and other sacred areas for the Hawaiian people. Please show respect by leaving all rocks as you find them.
• Take nothing with you : Leave all rocks and other items found in your explorations in their rightful place - exactly where they are.
• Leave nothing behind you : Please pack all trash and if you find other litter, pick it up.
• Stay on the trail : Trails designate the most safe and environmentally sound way to experience Kaua`i's back country. The ecosystems these trails traverse are extremely delicate and in many cases, endangered. Treading on areas beyond the trail puts precious flora at risk. It can also be dangerous to your well-being to travel off the trail, due to crumbling cliffs and unstable ground.
• Keep rivers pure : The fragile balance within Kaua`i's rivers maintains an abundance of plants and underwater life. Keep all soap out of the rivers. Be aware that sunscreen can wash off your skin into waterways while you're swimming. Wait to apply sunscreen after dipping in.
• Don't wrap rocks with Ti leaves : You may discover areas where a collection of rocks are wrapped in Ti leaves. This is not a Hawaiian tradition and it disrespects the basic rules of not moving rocks and refraining from picking native flora. The best way to demonstrate your sense of the sacred is to tread lightly and respectfully.
• Learn More : The Explorer's Guide to Kauai offers tons of eco-tips and links to many organizations working toward sustainability on the island. Our island-style Ebook guide has over 30 pages of maps and highlights to island towns plus a whole lot more...

Local Eco-Groups

• Sierra Club : For more information about how you can help with preservation of Kauai's precious natural resources, you can connect with the Sierra Club's Kaua`i Chapter. Also, check out Ecovents that highlight guided Kauai hikes led by Sierra Club members.
• Kaua'i Path : Kaua`i Path is an organization working towards creating a pedestrian and bicycle (multi-use) trail system envisioned to connect Lihue and Anahola. Some sections are complete and the second phase of construction is underway. More information can be found at kauaipath.org.

Now you're in the know... are you ready to go?