Waimea Canyon
The name Waimea refers to the reddish water (wai = fresh water, mea = red) that floods from the canyon after heavy rains. Think about the forces of nature working over eons of time, building then carving away layer upon layer of lava to expose the interior of Kauai’s original volcano.
Getting to the Parks
To visit Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Parks, drive up from the coast on Highway 50 from the town of Kekaha, which is about 3 miles past the town of Waimea.
Along the Road
ON THE ROADFor those who don’t have time to hike, there is still much to see and enjoy along the roadsides in Koke’e State Park. See Shop for Road Guide to Koke’e and Waimea Canyon State Parks.
Geology
Kauai is 5.5-6 million years old. During that time, wind and water have carved away the original volcano to reveal layers of old eruptions
Trails - Waimea Canyon State Park
To visit Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Parks, drive up from the coast on Highway 50 from the town of Kekaha, which is about 3 miles past the town of Waimea.Weather
Kauai’s mountain parks encompass distinct micro-weather systems.Weather in these upland parks is highly variable and sometimes unpredictable. Generally speaking, you can expect more consistently good weather May-mid October, with winter-spring rains after.
