Discover the Powerline Trail in Princeville, a scenic Kauai hike featuring lush rainforest, sweeping mountain views, and adventurous backcountry terrain.
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Area: North Shore / Princeville
Length: 11 miles one way
Map: Google Maps
For hikers seeking an adventurous escape into Kauai’s rugged backcountry, the Powerline Trail delivers an unforgettable experience. Beginning at the northern trailhead in Princeville, this route winds across some of the island’s most remote and scenic terrain, from dense rainforest to sweeping ridgelines with panoramic mountain views.
The trail gets its name from the high-voltage power lines that parallel portions of the route. Stretching roughly 11 miles across Kauai’s interior, the trail connects Princeville on the North Shore with an area near Keahua Arboretum farther inland. Although the trail can be accessed from both points, the Princeville entrance is the most popular because of its convenient access and dramatic scenery. The first two to three miles from the north trailhead are relatively wide and fairly level, though conditions are often muddy and wet.
Years ago, the route functioned as a dirt access road, and parts of it can still be traveled by four-wheel-drive vehicles or ATVs. However, the trail is best enjoyed on foot or by mountain bike. Driving here can be risky due to deep mud, ruts, and heavy vegetation that can easily damage vehicles.
The hike begins alongside walls of lush vegetation, offering only small hints of the scenery ahead. About half a mile in, the landscape suddenly opens to reveal dramatic mountain ridges and hidden valleys. Around the one-mile mark, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views into the upper Hanalei River Valley. Beyond this point, the trail alternates between shaded forest sections and open stretches with expansive mountain vistas.
Many visitors choose to turn around after two or three miles, satisfied with the incredible views already experienced. More ambitious hikers and mountain bikers sometimes attempt the full 11-mile route to the southern trailhead near Loop Road, while others complete the trail in reverse from the east side.
In recent years, sections of the trail became heavily overgrown and difficult to follow, making navigation challenging in some areas. Although much of the route has since been cleared, conditions can change quickly as vegetation grows back. Hike only as far as you feel comfortable, and avoid venturing too deep into the backcountry without proper preparation and navigation tools.
Several side trails branch off within the first two miles from the north trailhead, so pay close attention to your route. It is surprisingly easy to lose the main trail in this area. The surrounding trail network is also popular with mountain bikers, and local riders have built and maintained several bike-friendly routes near the trailhead parking area.
The trailhead is located in Princeville at the end of Kapaka Street. Parking is available on the grassy roadside near the water tanks. The trail begins to the right of the tanks.
Powerline Trail Photos
