Had an epic night out, crashed, and struggled to get up? Not a flashback to the college days!
Here’s the cool story – locals call Nounou Mountain the Sleeping Giant, and if you check it out from Kapa’a on the east side of Kauai, you’ll see why!
Beyond the legend, Nounou Mountain offers two awesome trails for hiking enthusiasts: the Sleeping Giant Trails, taking you up to the giant’s chest. And for the bold ones, there’s the trek to the chin, nose, and forehead, treating you to mind-blowing 360-degree views of the east side of Kauai.
The West Sleeping Giant Trail is shorter, less strenuous (starting from a higher point), more shaded, and honestly, way more picturesque, in my opinion!
Now, the East Sleeping Giant Trail links up with the West Sleeping Giant Trail after a steeper, longer climb. Both trails merge for the last half-mile or so.
Feel like exploring? Get ready for some giant adventures!
Hike Sleeping Giant Trail: Fast Facts
Sleeping Giant Trail Difficulty
Both Sleeping Giant Trails earn a tough difficulty rating.
The West Sleeping Giant Trail is the more manageable option, yet it tends to get muddier after rains.
Sleeping Giant Trail can get seriously muddy and slippery post-rain
Sleeping Giant Trail can get seriously muddy and slippery post-rain
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While generally, both trails are moderately challenging, certain sections may require some rock scrambling.
And if you push beyond the picnic tables on the chest, the Sleeping Giant Trail turns genuinely tough. Brace yourself for a roughly 70-degree rock wall, though not completely vertical.
Sleeping Giant Trail Length
The West Sleeping Giant Trail spans approximately 0.9 miles, totaling a round trip distance of 1.7 miles for this out-and-back trek.
Meanwhile, the East Sleeping Giant Trail stretches around 1.6 miles, resulting in a total round trip distance of about 3.2 miles, nearly double the distance of the other trail.
Venture beyond the picnic tables, and you’ll likely tack on an extra half mile to the above distances.
Sleeping Giant Elevation Gain
Embarking on the Sleeping Giant Trails means conquering steep inclines to reach the summit of Nounou Mountain.
The West Sleeping Giant Trail boasts an elevation gain of about 700 feet, while the East Sleeping Giant Trail demands a more substantial climb, with an elevation gain of about 1300 feet.
Expect some serious elevation changes on the journey to the summit of Nounou Mountain.
Sleeping Giant Trail Time Taken
Completing the West Sleeping Giant Trail typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours on average, while the East Sleeping Giant Trail requires approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Thinking about bringing kids and dogs along on the Sleeping Giant Trail in Kauai?
Leashed dogs are welcome on both Sleeping Giant Trails.
While I’ve spotted families with older kids on both trails, I wouldn’t suggest taking younger kids on the hikes, especially beyond the picnic tables.
Getting to the Sleeping Giant Trailhead
Locate the West Sleeping Giant Trailhead at the end of Lokelani Road, nestled in a residential area of Wailua (refer to the Sleeping Giant Trail map below).
For the East Sleeping Giant Trailhead, head to Haleilio Road next to a Department of Water pump site. Pass Wailana and Makani Roads, and as the road starts to curve left, you’re on the right track.
Sleeping Giant Trail Parking
The West Sleeping Giant Trail offers limited parking spaces next to the trailhead (follow the posted signs). Arriving early is a must to snag a parking spot.
On the flip side, the East Sleeping Giant Trail boasts a more spacious parking area right at the trailhead.
Enjoy the view of Kong Mountain from the West Sleeping Giant Trail hike in Kauai, Hawaii
Enjoy the view of Kong Mountain from the West Sleeping Giant Trail hike in Kauai, Hawaii
Sleeping Giant Trail Reservation & Permit
No reservations or permits are needed for the Sleeping Giant Trails. There’s no entrance fee either. These trails are entirely free, setting them apart from many other hikes in Kauai.
Sleeping Giant (Nounou) Trail Information
Both Sleeping Giant Trails guide you through the Nounou Forest Reserve to the summit of Nounou Mountain.
I noticed the trails are well-marked, featuring 1/4 mile markers and clear signage at junctions. These two trails are part of Hawaii’s Na Ala Hele Trail system and receive regular maintenance.
Your main focus should be returning to your starting point – choose the right trail at the junction.
West Sleeping Giant Trail to Junction Point
The West Sleeping Giant Trail kicks off along a residential home fence (keep it hushed to respect locals) and swiftly transforms into a muddy path through a forest.
Shortly, you’ll encounter a stunning Cook pine grove, with majestic pine trees towering above.
Pass the Kuamoo Trail junction (stick to the left), and start ascending the mountain on a well-shaded, forested trail featuring mostly non-native invasive trees like the African albizia, planted to combat erosion.
Approximately 0.75 miles into the trail, you’ll stumble upon a bench engraved with Aloha, offering the first open views from the mountainside. Behold Kong Mountain in the distance, overlooking the plains and the ocean.
Kong Mountain in the background, on the Nounou trail, towards Sleeping Giant, on Kauai
Kong Mountain in the background, on the Nounou trail, towards Sleeping Giant, on Kauai
A few minutes later, you’ll hit the junction of the Nounou East Trail and the continued Nounou West Trail.
East Sleeping Giant Trail to Junction Point
Embarking on the East Sleeping Giant Trail involves navigating a series of switchbacks, ascending Nounou Mountain through the Nounou Forest. The trail is adorned with mostly non-native trees like ironwood, silk oak, and fruit trees including breadfruit, guava, and strawberry.
Occasionally, glimpses of the Sleeping Giant’s head, your ultimate destination, can be caught along the trail. Enjoy fantastic views of the east coast of Kauai and Wailua throughout the hike.
Look out for a small junction where you must veer right. Choosing the other path leads to a rock wall with pink spray paint, quite slippery, requiring retracing your steps.
Around the 1.5-mile marker, the shade diminishes, and you reach the junction of the Nounou West Trail (on the right) and the Nounou Trail Shelter (on the left). Turn left onto the shared trail toward the picnic tables shelter.
Sleeping Giant Trail – Common Section
Discover two picnic tables with benches under a rain shelter roof. You’ve now reached the giant’s chest, right under his chin!
This area is still forested, featuring trees like the koa haole, hala, and ti. Spot fruit trees with vibrant red strawberries (edible and delicious!), guava, breadfruit, hala, and more.
As you head to the bench (bearing “Respect” carved on it), relish the breathtaking panoramic views from this lookout.
This marks the official end of the Sleeping Giant Trails, and many choose to turn back after enjoying the views and perhaps a picnic.
For the adventurous souls, there are trails that lead further up. Be cautious, though; these are somewhat precarious with steep 100+ feet drops and involve scrambling up rocky paths and walls.
Now on the ridge, progressing toward the chin and nose, you’ll find a small side trail on the left leading to a cave-like structure with two openings offering spectacular views of Wailua, Kapa’a, and the coast.
The trail to the nose and forehead culminates in a flat mud platform and a rocky outcropping. From this vantage point, savor fabulous 360-degree panoramic views.
Expect to take in sights of the Wailua River, mountain peaks of Wai’ale’ale and Kawaikini to the west, Makaleha mountains to the north, and the Pacific Ocean, Kapa’a, and Wailua to the east.
Read Also: 13 Best Snorkeling In Lahaina & West Maui
Sleeping Giant Trail Map
The following Sleeping Giant Trail map displays the positions of both trailheads and the ultimate destination along the trail.
Hawaiian Birds to Spot on the Sleeping Giant Trail Hike
When trekking the Sleeping Giant Trail, be sure to bring a quality pair of binoculars as the hike offers excellent opportunities to spot some beautiful Hawaiian birds, including both introduced and endemic species found nowhere else!
Look out for the rose-ringed parakeet, a highly invasive bird species, the vibrant red-crested cardinal with its distinctive crest, and the warbling white eye boasting a characteristic white ring around its eyes.
You might hear the melodious song of the white-rumped shama, a skilled songbird often found near forest streams. The ‘apapane, an endemic Hawaiian bird, can be spotted amidst the native ohi’a lehua trees, feeding on the nectar from the tree’s pretty red or yellow flowers.
For avid birdwatchers, the Wailua River State Park with its waterfalls and river provides an even better spot to observe these and other stunning Hawaiian birds.
Check our comprehensive post on Hawaiian birds to identify and learn more about these species, some exclusive to Hawaii and not found anywhere else in the world!
Hawaiian Plants, Trees, and Flowers on the Sleeping Giant Trail Hike
The Sleeping Giant Trail, located on the lush windward side of Kauai, showcases numerous common and easily recognizable Hawaiian plants, trees, and flowers.
During the hike, you’ll encounter iconic Cook pine tree groves, traditional canoe plants like breadfruit (ulu) and ki (ti) brought by ancient Hawaiians, hala trees identifiable by tufted aerial roots, and the invasive strawberry guava fruit trees, among others.
Refer to our detailed post on Hawaiian plants to identify and learn more about these plant species, some exclusive to Hawaii and found nowhere else in the world!
The Best Kauai Tours
Have you secured bookings for these top Kauai guided adventures?
1. Sunset catamaran tour of the Na Pali Coast (relatively more stable ride, views on good weather days!)
2. Doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai (unobstructed views, a chance to see more of the island than you can by land, no middle seats!)
3. Kayak on the Wailua River plus hike to a waterfall (a super fun activity for active travelers, albeit a little muddy sometimes!)
4. Raft trip to the Na Pali Coast plus snorkeling (prepare to get wet on this exhilarating adventure!)
5. Eurocopter ECO-Star helicopter tour over Kauai (the most booked Kauai helicopter tour on Viator with close to 2K reviews and a 5-star rating!)
Renting a Car in Kauai
The best things to do in Kauai are scattered all over the island.
Public transport options on Kauai aren’t great, so if you want to explore the island beyond your base, you’ll want to book a rental car for your Kauai trip.
We always use Discover Cars to book Kauai car rentals. They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.
Lihue Airport-Hotel Shuttle
Not planning to pick up a rental car at Lihue airport? Pre-arrange round trip transfer from the airport to your hotel and back!
This shared shuttle serves hotels or vacation rentals in Princeville, Kahala, Poipu, Kapaa, or Lihue, and then back again. It’s convenient and inexpensive, and saves time and hassle!
Where to Stay in Kauai
Depending on whether you want a vacation rental with more room and the option to cook some of your meals, or you want a resort or hotel experience, and depending on which part of Kauai you want to choose as your base, you have a variety of options.
Since you’ll likely want to base in a couple places on your trip to Kauai, we suggest starting your search for Kauai accommodations by browsing vacation rentals on VRBO.
We have stayed in VRBO rentals in both Poipu and Princeville and find that the choice and quality are generally great.
Want detailed recommendations for accommodations in Kauai? Check out our comprehensive guide to the best places to stay in Kauai!
Beautiful Norfolk and Cook pine grove near the start of the West Sleeping Giant Trail hike, Kauai
Beautiful Cook pine grove near the start of the West Sleeping Giant Trail hike, Kauai
More Kauai Travel Inspiration
Considering a trip to the Garden Isle in Hawaii? You’ll definitely want to check out some of our other comprehensive Kauai travel and attraction guides!
If you are a first-time visitor to Kauai, start by discovering the best things to do in Kauai! From beaches and botanical gardens to cliffs, canyons, and waterfalls, Kauai has it all, and our round-up lists all of Kauai’s must-experience activities and attractions.
Planning to split a week between Kauai and another island? We have 3 days in Kauai itinerary article you must read to help flesh out what you would like to see and do!
Read our in-depth guide to visiting the Na Pali Coast of Kauai. We give you the full scoop on the best ways to visit this stunning coast in the remote northwest of the island.
Discover our round-up of the nine spectacular state parks in Kauai, which house some of Kauai’s most treasured natural wonders.
Waimea Canyon State Park
We also have visitor’s guides to popular parks like Waimea Canyon State Park, which protects the namesake canyon, nearby Kokee State Park, and the remote but beautiful Polihale State Park.
Also check out the ultimate guide to visiting Haena State Park on Kauai’s north shore, and a full guide to hiking the epic Kalalau Trail.
Check out our round-up of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kauai, from waterfalls you can view from the road to falls that require hiking and falls that are best seen from a helicopter or sightseeing flight.
Read our guide to Wailua River State Park to discover two easy-to-access Kauai waterfalls, and our trail guide for the easy hike to Ho’opi’i Falls. We also have an article on the best Kauai waterfall hikes.
And if a helicopter tour is part of your plans for Kauai, read our article on the top-rated helicopter tours in Kauai!
Hiking enthusiasts will want to read our article on the best hikes in Koke’e State Park: the trails here are some of the best hikes in Kauai!
We have detailed trail guides for the most popular Koke’e hikes, from the scenic Canyon Trail to the top of Waipo’o Falls, to the epic Awa’awapuhi Trail, challenging but very rewarding!
Also discover the best hikes in Waimea Canyon State Park, and the best hikes on Kauai’s north shore.
We also have a trail guide for the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail on Kauai’s scenic south shore, an article on how to hike the Sleeping Giant Trail, and a guide to the Kuilau Ridge Trail, one of the easy hikes on Kauai.
Get the scoop on the best botanical gardens in Kauai, from Limahuli Garden on the north shore to McBryde and Allerton Gardens on the south shore.
Learn about the best things to do in Hanalei, the charming town that sits in the middle of Kauai’s scenic north shore.
Read our guide to the best swimming beaches on Kauai, from Hanalei Bay on the north shore to Poipu Beach on the south shore! We also have a guide to the best snorkeling beaches on Kauai, and a round-up of the best Kauai north shore beaches.
Conclusion
Embarking on the Sleeping Giant Trail in Kauai promises an exhilarating adventure, unveiling the breathtaking beauty of Nounou Mountain. The trail system, comprising the West and East Sleeping Giant Trails, caters to both novice and seasoned hikers. With varying difficulty levels, hikers can choose their preferred route, from the more manageable West Trail to the challenging yet rewarding East Trail. The panoramic views from the summit, overlooking the lush landscapes and coastal scenery, make the effort worthwhile. The absence of permits and entrance fees, coupled with well-maintained trails, adds to the allure of this outdoor experience.
As you traverse the Sleeping Giant Trails, the opportunity to spot diverse Hawaiian birds and encounter unique plant species further enriches the journey. Whether reveling in the cool shade of Cook pine tree groves or marveling at the vibrant hues of indigenous flowers, the trail offers a glimpse into Kauai’s rich ecological tapestry. Additionally, the flexibility to explore beyond the picnic area, scaling rock walls for more expansive views, caters to the adventurous spirits.
In essence, the Sleeping Giant Trail is a testament to Kauai’s natural splendor, providing an immersive encounter with the island’s diverse flora, fauna, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or a nature lover, this trail beckons with its charm and rewards those who venture along its paths.

I’m Justin Taylor, your go-to guide at “Go Hawaii US.” I’ve been soaking in the colors and stories of Hawaii for a while now, and I want you to join me on this fantastic journey. At Go Hawaii US, we’re all about making your Hawaiian adventure unforgettable. It’s not just a guide; it’s like turning information into a real, vibrant experience. Come along, and let’s explore the wonders of Hawaii together!