Incredible Kalalau Trail Hike, Kauai: Updated| 2024 ✅✅

Explore the Kalalau Trail for an adventure along the stunning Na Pali Coast. This trail guides you through five lush valleys to reach two beautiful beaches, crossing several streams along the way. If you’re open to detours, you can also visit two enchanting waterfalls: Hanakapi’ai Falls and Hanakoa Falls.

The absolute best trail in the Hawaiian Islands? Sounds like a big claim, right? Well, let’s talk about the Kalalau Trail on Kauai, and you might just agree.

Starting at Ke’e Beach and winding its way to the stunning Kalalau Beach, this trail spans 11 miles one way. Picture this: lush green valleys, majestic waterfalls, tropical rainforests, and beautiful white beaches along the Na Pali Coast – it’s an 11-mile stretch of pure beauty.

But here’s the deal – it’s not a walk in the park. This epic 22-mile round trip is no joke. It’s a trail for the pros, the experienced hikers who plan and prepare like it’s a military operation.

Yet, if you’re a hiking enthusiast, chances are it’s already on your Kauai bucket list. The Kalalau Trail offers monumental rewards – think stunning views of Na Pali coast with those steep, fluted mountains as a backdrop.

Even if you’re not a pro, don’t worry. The trail’s so breathtaking that even beginners tackle the first few sections. So, if you’re chilling on Kauai, why not give it a thought? Maybe just dip your toes into the initial parts of the Kalalau Trail and get a taste of what’s on your Kauai bucket list. It’s worth considering!

Kalalau Trail Hike: Fast Facts

Kalalau Trail Difficulty

Kalalau Trail Difficulty

The Kalalau Trail difficulty is no walk in the park; it’s rated hard, and you should only attempt it if you’re an experienced hiker armed with the right gear and a solid plan.

This trail doesn’t demand technical climbing skills or ropes, but that doesn’t make it a cakewalk. Here’s why it gets the hard label:

  1. Tricky Terrain: Expect lots of rain in the area, turning the trail into a muddy, slippery challenge. Locals even dub the mud “Hawaiian ice” because navigating it can be treacherous.
  2. Flash Floods: Sudden downpours can transform calm streams into raging torrents within minutes. Foolhardy hikers attempting to cross turbulent waters in a hurry risk getting swept away – the Hanakapiai stream crossing is a hotspot for accidents.
  3. Mountainous Hazards: The narrow trails, especially in the Crawler’s Ledge section, coupled with the mountainous landscape, make missteps potentially dangerous. Rock falls are also a real risk during rainy conditions.
  4. Dangerous Waters: The beaches on the trail, though beautiful, have strong currents. Swimming or even entering the water is a big no unless you’re an expert. Winter brings huge swells and high surf warnings, upping the risk of injury from rogue waves.

Now that you grasp the risks, plan accordingly or consider tackling only parts of the hike. Many opt for the initial stretch to Hanakapiai Beach or venture to Hanakapiai Falls, making an 8-mile round trip.

Kalalau Trail Length

The Kalalau Trail length is a whopping 11 miles, making it a long-haul adventure. The complete out-and-back journey clocks in at around 22 miles.

If you’re eyeing the Hanakapiai Falls and back, your round trip distance is a more manageable 8 miles. For a shorter yet satisfying trek, hit the Na Pali Coast viewpoint and back (1 mile) or the Ke’e Beach viewpoint and back (0.4 miles).

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Kalalau Trail Elevation Gain

Kalalau Trail Elevation Gain

Prepare to climb – the Kalalau Trail elevation gain is about 725 feet, starting near sea level (roughly 75 feet elevation) and peaking at around 800 feet. Despite the misleading numbers, the trail is a rollercoaster of ups and downs, with almost no flat sections.

Overall, the trail boasts an elevation gain of about 6,500 feet, so you’ll be ascending quite often. While no technical climbing skills are required, certain sections, like Crawler’s Ledge, get narrow with steep drops.

Kalalau Trail Time Taken

Hiking the Kalalau Trail demands time; think at least 8-10 hours or even a multi-day trip if camping is on your agenda. On average, completing the trail and back takes about 12-13 hours.

Under good conditions and with fitness on your side, you might average 30-45 minutes per mile. It’s worth noting that the Kalalau Trail is a popular running trail, with some speedy folks completing it in under 4 hours (unsupported).

In less ideal conditions or if you’re taking frequent breaks to soak in the views, expect a slower pace of 60-90 minutes per mile. Listen to your body and adjust your speed accordingly – safety first!

What about Kids and Dogs on the Kalalau Trail?

Kids and Dogs on the Kalalau Trail

Dogs can’t join you on the Kalalau Trail. It’s a no-go for our furry friends.

If you’ve got kiddos, keep them away from the Kalalau Trail beyond Hanakapi’ai Beach, especially the initial 2 miles.

Taking the little ones to Hanakapi’ai Beach might be okay, but it really depends on the child. I’ve spotted older kids (around 8 and up) handling the first part of the trail, but keep a close eye on them!

Getting to the Kalalau Trailhead

The starting point for the Kalalau Trail is at the very end of the last parking lot at Ke’e Beach in Ha’ena State Park.

A sign marks the beginning of the 11-mile Kalalau Hiking Trail along the northern shore of Kauai, Hawaii, USA. If you’re arriving by road, take Kuhio Highway (Route 560) to Haena State Park.

Remember to make advance reservations online before heading to the park—don’t just drive up! Continue on the road in Haena State Park until you reach Ke’e Beach parking lot, which is literally the end of the road.

1. Drop Off & Pick Up

Drop Off & Pick Up

Arrange for someone to drop you off and pick you up. Rideshare or private services work too. There’s a dedicated drop-off area near the park entrance. Plan ahead due to limited cellphone service in the park and on the trail.

Padding into the pickup time is a good idea.

2. Shuttles

Shuttles are a solid choice, running every 20 minutes from Waipa starting at 6:20 am, with the last pick up from Haena State Park at 5:40 pm. Park free at Waipa Park & Ride from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm daily.

Reservations are a must for the shuttle and park entry.

Check in at Waipa Park & Ride at your reserved departure time.

Boarding at other stops needs prior approval and specific conditions.

Return rides are first-come, first-served, with peak times between 2:00-4:00 pm from the state park.

3. Driving and Parking

Driving to the trailhead and parking is your least favorable option. With limited parking (70 lots for 960 visitors), it’s a real challenge.

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Kalalau Trail Reservations

Kalalau Trail Reservations

Reservations are key for accessing Haena State Park and the Kalalau Trail, considering its popularity. There are three main options, all inclusive of park entry, Ke’e Beach visit, and Kalalau Trail hike to Hanakapi’ai Beach and falls.

Remember, if you plan to go past Hanakapi’ai Valley on the Kalalau Trail, reserve a Kalalau Trail camping permit, even for day hikes. Dates open 30 days in advance at 12:00 am HST and 90 days in advance for camping permits. Act fast, as availability goes quickly.

Entry reservations only ($5 / person)

Entry Reservations ($5/person): Ideal for those using ride-share or drop-off/pick-up services. Don’t attempt to park outside and walk up—parking/towing fines are substantial. Violating terms of purchase. No cell service at the entrance, so plan foolproof pickup arrangements!

Shuttle + Entry Reservations (only available roundtrip): 

Shuttle + Entry Reservations

Best option due to availability. Shuttle reservations are roundtrip, $35/adult (16+), $25/child (4-15), free for 0-3 (on lap). Includes entry to State Haena Park and day hike portion of Kalalau Trail (up to Hanakapi’ai Valley). Must ride the shuttle to use entry reservation. Check in at Waipa Park & Ride; free parking from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm (no overnight parking or parking at other stops).

Parking + Entry Reservations ($10/timeslot + $5 entry/person): 

Parking based on timeslots (morning: 6:30 am – 12:30 pm; afternoon: 12:30 pm – 5:30 pm; evening: 4:30 pm – sunset). Rates: $10/timeslot + $5 entry/person. Enter any time after timeslot begins, leave by timeslot end. Buy multiple timeslots if needed. All named on reservation must arrive together in the same vehicle. This option sells out quickly; try again at specific times for cancellations.

Kalalau Trail Camping Permit

Kalalau Trail Camping Permit

Required to go past Hanakapi’ai Valley, regardless of camping plans. Only valid for Hanakoa and Kalalau Beach. Maximum 5 consecutive nights; 1-night camping (each way) at Hanakoa. Purchase online ($35/person/night, non-Hawaiians) starting midnight (HST) 90 days in advance. Permit lists all hikers; ID cards checked at park entrance. Includes entry to Haena State Park and the trail. Overnight parking available at trailhead after camping permit purchase. Not needed if staying before Hanakapi’ai Valley.

Best Time to Hike the Kalalau Trail

Open year-round; beautiful throughout. Kauai temperatures: mid-70s to mid-50s. Expect rain, with most in April, May, and November. Winter months offer whale sightings but more rain. Best time: early morning, cooler and drier. Overall, recommend summer (late May to early October).

Kalalau Trail Map

Kalalau Trail Map

The Kalalau Trail map gives you all the details about the trail and its different sections mentioned below.

Kalalau Trail Information

The Kalalau Trail guides you along the rugged and breathtaking Na Pali Coast. It leads you through five lush valleys to two stunning beaches, with multiple stream crossings.

If you’re up for some detours, you can explore two beautiful waterfalls—**Hanakapi’ai Falls** and Hanakoa Falls.

The initial 11-mile hike covers the first half within the Hono O Na Pali Natural Area Reserve, and the latter half is part of the Napali Coast Wilderness Park.

Day hikers can manage the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add an extra 4-mile round trip to Hanakapi’ai Falls.

However, proceed with the remaining nine miles only if you’re an experienced hiker equipped with the necessary camping permits and proper gear.

The Kalalau Trail has historical roots dating back to the late 1800s, serving as a connection between native Hawaiian settlements along the Na Pali Coast.

1. Ke’e Beach

 Ke’e Beach

The Kalalau Trail kicks off at the end of the Ke’e Beach parking lot. Take a moment to explore this beach, especially on your way back while waiting for the shuttle or pickup. Snorkeling and swimming at Ke’e beach are fantastic during calm days and low tide. Make use of the comfort station here since the next one is at Hanakapi’ai Beach, likely an hour or two away. The hike begins on a trail of old paving stones, slippery when wet, immediately climbing through a jungle path. The initial one-mile climb reaches about 600 feet, one of the steeper sections.

2. Ke’e Beach Viewpoint (0.2 miles)

A short 0.2-mile distance from the Kalalau trailhead, you reach the first of many beautiful viewpoints, the Ke’e Beach Viewpoint. Turn around to admire the beautiful beach below and the Na Pali Coast vista—a perfect Instagram photo opportunity.

3. Kalalau Trail Coast Viewpoint (0.5 miles)

Kalalau Trail Coast Viewpoint

At 0.5 miles from the trailhead, you arrive at the Kalalau Trail Coast Viewpoint, offering a panoramic view of the Na Pali Coast. This viewpoint is one of the more magnificent ones, providing a great opportunity to catch your breath after the climb.

4. Hanakapi’ai Beach (Kalalau Trail First 2 Miles)

Just after the 2-mile marker, you reach the Hanakapi’ai Stream. For the most part, the stream is calm, but be cautious if hopping from rock to rock, as some can be slippery. After heavy rain, the stream can become a raging torrent, posing risks. Deaths have occurred here; exercise extreme caution. Hanakapi’ai Beach is beautiful, but swimming is not recommended due to strong currents. In winter, beware of rogue waves during high surf warnings. Many hikers turn back here, and a side trail to Hanakapi’ai Falls offers an extended hike.

4a. Hanakapi’ai Falls (2 miles using a side trail)

A 2-mile hike from Hanakapi’ai Beach takes you to the stunning 300-feet Hanakapi’ai Falls. Exercise caution for potential flash floods, especially during rainstorms. The waterfall is a highlight and worth the detour.

5. Hoolulu Valley & Waiahuakua Valley

Hoolulu Valley & Waiahuakua Valley

Leaving Hanakapi’ai Beach, the trail ascends to its highest elevation of about 800 feet. The steep climb with switchbacks offers a view of Hanakapi’ai Beach from an elevated trail. You’ll cross two valleys, Hoolulu and Waiahuakua, both beautiful hanging valleys. As you leave the busy part of the trail, it becomes narrower and more overgrown. Look out for a sign warning of snares for feral pigs. The trail crosses streams in Hoolulu and Waiahuakua Valleys, often dry unless it recently rained. Don’t venture too far off the trail due to snares for wild pigs. Fill up on water at Hanakapia’ia stream for purification.

6. Hanakoa Valley (6 miles)

Around the 6-mile marker, you find yourself in the midst of the stunning Hanakoa Valley, another, larger, hanging valley with the Hanakoa stream winding through its base. Many hikers break camp here, especially those who trekked to Hanakapi’ai Falls. There’s a composting toilet at the campsite, and you can observe remnants of terraces cut into the hillside by native Hawaiians who once lived here. The trail takes you deep into the Kanakoa valley and back out, crossing the Hanakoa stream closer to the falls at an elevation of 500 feet.

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6a. Hanakoa Falls (0.5 miles)

If you’re on schedule, consider a short detour to Hanakoa Falls, another stunning waterfall in this remote jungle. The trail is challenging to follow, so use a downloaded AllTrails map and GPS to avoid getting lost. The hike to Hanakoa Falls via the Kalalau Trail is one of the best Kauai waterfall experiences.

7. Crawler’s Ledge (Kalalau Trail Mile 7)

Crawler’s Ledge

Leaving Hanakoa, you hike back toward the beautiful Na Pali coast, encountering a challenging part of the Kalalau Trail known as Crawler’s Ledge. This section hugs the cliffside with steep drops to the rocky ocean below. It requires a good head for heights as you navigate a narrow ledge trail with waves crashing far below. Exercise caution, especially in windy conditions, and wear sturdy hiking shoes with proper grip. No technical climbing is involved, but vigilance is crucial.

8. Kalalua Valley (10 miles)

Around the 10th mile marker, you enter the stunning Kalalua Valley, a gorgeous expanse that opens out to the ocean. Cross the famous Kalalau sign urging preservation of this marvelous place. After a stream crossing, you’re close to your final destination.

9. Kalalua Beach (11 miles)

Kalalua Beach

The Kalalau Trail gradually descends to the famous, secluded Kalalau Beach, reachable only through the challenging 11-mile hike. Relax and savor the moment—you’ve completed one of the most beautiful yet highly dangerous hikes in the Hawaiian islands! The trail concludes at Kalalau Beach, blocked on the far side by forbidding cliffs. Campers can enjoy the facilities, including compostable toilets, natural water sources, and picturesque sunset views.

Kalalau Trail Camping

Camping is permitted only at two locations: Hanakoa and Kalalau Beach. A purchased Kalalau Trail camping permit, listing all hikers, is mandatory for these sites. Basic facilities, compostable toilets, and natural water sources are available. Proper equipment for treating and purifying water is essential for drinking purposes.

Hawaiian Birds to Spot on the Kalalau Trail Hike

Hawaiian Birds to Spot on the Kalalau Trail Hike

Make sure you take a good pair of binoculars with you; the Kalalau Trail hike is an excellent opportunity to spot some beautiful Hawaiian birds, both introduced to the islands and some endemic birds (found nowhere else)!

Some of the common Hawaiian birds you can expect to see, especially in the rainforest areas of the trail, are the rose-ringed parakeet (a highly invasive bird species), the red-crested cardinal (pretty red-headed birds with a crest), and the warbling white eye (with a characteristic white ring around its eyes).

Rose-ringed parakeet

Red-crested cardinal

Warbling white-eye

We saw red junglefowl near the start of the Kalalau Trail in Haena State Park; these are wild ancestors of chicken.

We could hear the beautiful song of the white-rumped shama near the Hanakapi’ai Stream but couldn’t spot it.

White-rumped shama

The Kalalau Trail is great for spotting some of the common Hawaiian seabirds like the Great Frigatebird, the yellow-billed tropicbird, and the red-footed booby.

Great frigatebird

Yellow-billed Tropicbird

Red-footed booby

Hawaiian Plants, Trees, and Flowers on the Kalalau Trail Hike

The Kalalau Trail is a forest and coastal hike, with many common and easily identifiable Hawaiian plants, trees, and flowers to look for along the trail!

Along coastal sections of the Kalalau Trail, you are likely to see niu (coconut palm) trees and the naupaka kahakai, one of the indigenous Hawaiian plants, with unusual half-flowers!

Niu, or coconut palm tree

Naupaka

The forested sections of the trail have many endemic trees, including ohi’a lehua, koa acacia, and hala.

Ohia Lehua

Koa acacia

Hala tree

The lush ground cover for the rainforest sections of Kalalau Trail includes typical native fern trees like hapu’u fern and uluhe fern.

Hapu’u fern

Uluhe fern

Hiking the Kalalau Trail: What to Pack?

Hiking the Kalalau Trail

Obviously, what you pack will differ based on whether you are day hiking or camping.

You will need to bring a good pair of hiking shoes, ideally shoes with an excellent grip that breathe and dry out fast when they get soaked (which they most likely will).

I found a pair of walking sticks useful, but your mileage may vary. If you didn’t bring your own trekking poles, you may find walking sticks at the trailhead: if you do, be sure to pick up one, or a couple!

Definitely pack bug spray! You are in a tropical rainforest, and mosquitoes and other bugs are common, especially early dawn and after dusk.

I used something called “After Bite” that relieves itching after mosquito bites.

Pack lots of water and snacks, and water purification gear if you plan to refill your water using the streams and waterfalls.

A light rain jacket is handy. A hat or some kind of head covering will help; some parts of the trail are open, and you may be trekking in the hot sun. You will need sunscreen.

You won’t have cell service on the trail or Haena State Park, so consider a satellite phone and GPS.

If you plan to hike and camp, use camping gear that is lightweight. Check the weather conditions; most likely, you will not need thermal insulation beds, which tend to be heavier.

Bring food that you can easily consume at the camp. Note, you are expected to carry out your trash!

Tips for Hiking the Kalalau Trail

Before you even plan for the trip, make sure you watch all the safety videos and trail information since that will help in your planning!

The Kalalau Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails on Kauai. Make your reservations as soon as your date opens up.

If you miss, don’t give up. You need to check the site from 7:00 am to 8:00 am (Hawaiian time) daily in case someone else canceled.

You also have multiple options for getting to the trail and day hiking instead of camping.

The typical weather on the Kalalau Trail is hot, humid, and rainy! You will sweat a lot, so dehydration is a real risk, and a lot of hikers succumb to it!

Start as early as you can, usually cooler early morning. Bring lots of water, sunscreen, a hat, and a light rain jacket.

Check current conditions before you leave, so you are ready for the weather, surf, and trail conditions.

There is no cell service / reception on the Kalalau Trail or the Haena State Park. Download everything you need including your reservations / permits, maps, and trail guides.

I strongly recommend you download AllTrails maps for the two side trails to the waterfalls, if you are planning to hike those.

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Sturdy hiking shoes and walking sticks are a no-brainer.

If you do not have a camping permit, don’t go past Hanakapi’ai (it doesn’t matter if you don’t plan to camp).

Most of all, enjoy the hike, the beautiful views and nature.

Finally, heed the sign below, leave no trace, pack out your trash!

Kalalau Trail Deaths

Kalalau Trail Deaths

You need to be fully aware that the Kalalau Trail is a difficult hike, and you must take the necessary planning steps and safety precautions.

Many hikers have died on this trail. Some were accidents on the trail itself when unwary hikers slipped and fell off cliffs.

The large bulk of the deaths (more than 100) have occurred at the Hanakapi’ai Stream crossing and Hanakapi’ai Beach.

The stream crossing can be very dangerous during rainstorms, and flash floods can happen very quickly.

Swimming at Hanakapi’ai Beach is dangerous, especially at high surf, when the waves and currents can trap unwary swimmers.

The Best Kauai Tours

Have you booked these top Kauai guided adventures yet?

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, 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

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!

The Kalalau Trail, one of the best Kauai hikes, along the Na Pali coast

The Kalalau Trail, one of the best Kauai hikes, along the Na Pali coast

More Kauai Travel Inspiration

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 a 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.

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

Conclusion

Kalalau Trail on Kauai offers a mesmerizing journey through lush green valleys, majestic waterfalls, tropical rainforests, and pristine white beaches along the Na Pali Coast. Spanning 11 miles one way, this trail is a challenging adventure suited for experienced hikers. The difficulty arises from tricky terrain, potential flash floods, mountainous hazards, and dangerous waters. Despite the risks, the trail rewards hikers with unparalleled views of the Na Pali coast and an opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of Kauai.

For those contemplating this epic hike, careful planning and preparation are essential. The trail’s length, elevation gain, and time commitment make it imperative to assess one’s physical readiness. Hiking beyond the initial sections requires a camping permit, and campers can relish the beauty of Hanakoa Valley and the final destination, Kalalau Beach. While the trail presents challenges, it also offers a chance to spot Hawaiian birds and admire the diverse flora, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for those who choose to embark on this extraordinary journey.

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