Secret Falls Kauai Hike Difficulty
Is the Secret Falls hike in Kauai hard? Usually classed as moderately difficult, the Secret Falls Kauai trail is reasonably short without too much elevation change, and is suitable for most active visitors to Kauai.
One of the reasons the Secret Falls Kauai hike is classed as moderate is that the trail is often muddy due to frequent rains, though you’ll see boardwalk added in some sections to help with footing.
If it has rained recently, expect to wade through ankle-deep gooey squelchy mud that can be slick.
You’ll definitely want to wear shoes with good grip, and, if you join a guided tour, your guide will usually pass out sturdy walking sticks to help with footing. If you are going independently, look for the pile of walking sticks after the river crossing.
BEST Kauai Tours for Your Splurge Dollars!
| Family Fun | Snorkel on the South Shore 🐢 |
| Thrilling Adventures | Zipline 🌳 / Doors-Off Helicopter Tour 🚁 / Na Pali Snorkel by Raft 🐠 |
| Soft Adventures | Sightseeing Flight ✈️ / Na Pali Sunset Cruise 🌅 / Secret Falls Kayak + Hike 🛶 |
| Everyone! | Luau 🌺 / Garden Tour w/Chocolate Tasting |
The second reason for the Secret Falls Kauai hike being classed as moderately challenging is that you’ll encounter multiple stream crossings on the route. The initial one, where you cross the river, can feature knee-high (or even higher) water.
You’ll likely see a rope to assist you with the first river crossing that comes up soon after you start the hike. If it’s available, use it, because the water flow can be faster than you expect.
In any case, watch your footing during stream crossings as rocks can be very slippery.
If you visit the Secret Falls in Kauai on a guided tour, your guide will gauge whether the stream crossings are safe. Even when a day appears to be sunny and calm where you are, a storm brewing in the mountains can create a flash flood without warning.
That’s why it’s preferable to do the Secret Falls Kauai hike with a local guide. If you are caught on the other side of the river when a flash flood occurs, your guide will likely have an evacuation route in mind.
If you go it independently, do not attempt stream crossings if the water is rushing rapidly and is muddy or murky.
How hard is the Secret Falls Trail on Kauai?
While beginner hikers and habitual couch potatoes may find the Secret Falls Trail on Kauai challenging, most active hikers should not have trouble hiking Secret Falls Trail.
Wear proper footwear and be aware that there are stream crossings and the terrain is muddy.
Planning to do this fun Kauai kayak + hike? Bookmark our Secret Falls Kauai website for the complete rundown on every single detail!
Top-Rated Secret Falls Tours