August 3, 2025
A 32-year-old woman from California was rescued by Kauai Fire Department personnel Saturday afternoon after injuring her ankle on the popular Waipoo Falls Trail in Kokee State Park, reports the County of Kauai.
The incident occurred shortly after 1:20 p.m., when first responders received a report of an injured hiker unable to walk. Firefighters from the Waimea fire station quickly mobilized and hiked approximately a quarter mile into the trail before locating the woman. She was found alert and responsive but unable to continue the hike on her own.
Firefighters stabilized her ankle with a splint, then carefully transferred her into a litter outfitted with a wheel for the trek back to safety. The rescue team navigated the uneven trail to reach the Pu‘u Hina Hina lookout parking area, where American Medical Response personnel evaluated her condition. From there, the visitor was taken to Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital by private vehicle for further treatment.
The popular Waipoo Falls Trail (Canyon Trail), a moderate 3.2-mile roundtrip hike known for its panoramic canyon views and waterfall lookout, can pose challenges even for experienced hikers, especially in wet or muddy conditions. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear, hike with companions, and carry adequate water and first-aid supplies when attempting this hike.
This latest rescue underscores the importance of preparation and caution when exploring Kauai’s remote and rugged trails, where help may be several miles — and several hours — away.
PHOTO: Waipoo Falls Trail file photo by Kauai Magazine
