The Trail to Kalaupapa

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There are three options for getting to Kalaupapa: 1) fly 2) hike the trail 3) ride a mule down the trail.

The hike is... strenuous. 1600 feet. 26 switchbacks. If you do the hike switchback number 18 is reputed to be about halfway. Takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Flying in is a bit of an adventure - note the breaking wave at the end of the runway in the last photo, and yes that is the direction into which the planes normally take off.

But the views are spectacular and the town and history are amazing.

There is a big sign right at the top of the cliff...$500 fine for unauthorized entry. To go to Kalaupapa you must be part of a tour. Check out this site for more pictures and info: http://www.nps.gov/kala

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Photos

The start of the trail.
$500 fine without a permit!