Chin of the Sleeping Giant – Nounou Trail Shelter loop from Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve
Chin of the Sleeping Giant – Nounou Trail Shelter loop from Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve
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Chin of the Sleeping Giant – Nounou Trail Shelter loop from Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve
04:42
14.6km
350m
Hiking
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that may be dangerous
Parts of this route comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience is required.
After 5.20 km for 13 m
After 6.92 km for 107 m
After 7.17 km for 32 m
After 8.91 km for 13 m
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
1.44 km
Hikinaakala Heiau
Ruins
2.30 km
Wailua Beach Park
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
5.21 km
Coastal view from Nounou East Trail
Highlight • Viewpoint
Sturdy shoes are recommended.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.95 km
Rock Window With View of the Pacific Ocean
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.99 km
Chin of the Sleeping Giant
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
7.08 km
Sleeping Giant (Nounou Mountain) Summit View
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
7.32 km
Nounou Trail Shelter
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
14.6 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.02 km
3.96 km
3.16 km
1.21 km
862 m
348 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.96 km
5.07 km
3.03 km
348 m
198 m
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Elevation
Highest point (310 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Sunday 21 June
29°C
23°C
9 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging hike with incredible rewards on Kauai, the Chin of the Sleeping Giant – Nounou Trail Shelter loop from Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve is a difficult 9.1-mile (14.6 km) hiking route with 1160 feet (354 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 4 hours and 41 minutes to complete. This loop is perfect for experienced hikers seeking panoramic views and a good workout.
What to expect on Chin of the Sleeping Giant – Nounou Trail Shelter loop from Kalepa Mountain Forest Reserve
The journey begins by winding through thickets of guava and ironwood trees, with the West Nounou Trail offering an "epic pine forest" experience in its lower sections. As you ascend, the trail steadily climbs, presenting steep and rocky sections that can become very muddy after rain, especially on the West trail. You'll navigate switchbacks before reaching panoramic ridgelines that open up to sweeping views of the Wailua Valley, Kapaʻa town, and the coastline. The highlight is reaching the "Chin of the Sleeping Giant" and the picnic shelter near the summit, offering 360-degree vistas. This route is best suited for confident hikers prepared for a sustained ascent and potentially slippery conditions.
Planning your visit
The Nounou Trail is a popular half-day experience, so arriving early is advisable, especially if you're aiming for a sunrise hike to catch the best east-facing views on Kauaʻi. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, particularly after rainfall, and wear appropriate footwear. Always carry plenty of water, as the ascent can be strenuous. While specific permit requirements for this exact loop aren't detailed, it's always wise to check local regulations before heading out.
Trail details
- Distance: 9.1 miles (14.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 1160 feet (354 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 41 minutes
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