Nounou Mt East Trail, Kauai HI

• 3-star hike
• 3 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 970 feet
• Kauai, HI | Hawaii
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The image shows a scenic view from a high vantage point, likely from a hiking trail. In the foreground, there is a rocky cliff covered with lush green vegetation. The cliff has a rugged texture and is partially obscured by trees and bushes. To the right of the cliff, there is a narrow dirt path that seems to lead further up the hill. In the background, there is a panoramic view of a coastal town with numerous houses and buildings. Beyond the town, there is a body of water, possibly the ocean, with waves visible near the shore. The sky is overcast with clouds, giving the scene a somewhat moody atmosphere.

Nounou Mountain rises from eastern Kauai, where visitors enjoy reliable sunshine that makes this area perfect for outdoor exploration. The distinctive ridge is affectionately known as "Sleeping Giant" due to its uncanny resemblance to a slumbering figure when viewed from nearby Kapaa town.

Hawaiian legend tells of a giant who feasted so abundantly at a celebration held in his honor that he lay down for a nap and never awoke, transforming into the mountain formation visible today. This story comes vividly to life as you traverse what locals refer to as his body during your hike.

The East Nounou Trail, one of three routes up the mountain, offers a moderate 3-mile round-trip adventure that climbs approximately 1,000 feet to a summit elevation of 1,241 feet.

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⬤ 3★ Nounou Mt East Trail 2.8 mi out & back, moderate, gain 970 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

P Free parking

Beginning in a cool forest of Cook pines and native hala trees, the trail follows red dirt paths and gentle switchbacks through diverse vegetation. At roughly the one-mile mark, the landscape opens to reveal spectacular coastal views. The middle section crosses what would be the giant's chest, showcasing vibrant ohia lehua flowers, strawberry guava, and various ferns, while providing habitat for colorful native and introduced birds.

The final approach narrows considerably as you navigate the giant's head, with some sections requiring the use of tree roots for stability. Your efforts are rewarded at the summit—positioned at the giant's "nose"—where a wooden platform delivers breathtaking 360-degree panoramas of Kauai's eastern coastline, the Wailua River valley, and on clear days, even distant Mount Waialeale. While not as famous as the Napali Coast trails, Nounou Mountain offers accessible adventure with remarkable scenic payoff. The moderate difficulty makes it approachable for hikers of average fitness seeking to experience both the natural splendor and cultural heritage that make Kauai so special.

The image shows a close-up of a flowering plant with clusters of small, vibrant flowers in shades of yellow and orange. The flowers are surrounded by green leaves with serrated edges. The background consists of more green foliage, indicating that the plant is part of a larger bush or garden setting. The bright and contrasting colors of the flowers against the green leaves highlight the beauty of nature.

Tangents:
• AllTrails Public: Sleeping Giant
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