Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve |
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IUCN Category V (Protected Landscape/Seascape)
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 Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve
Location in Hawaii
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| Location | Kauai, Hawaii, USA |
| Nearest city | Waimea, Hawaii |
| Area | 9,000 acres (36 km2) |
| Established | 1981 |
| Governing body | Hawaii Division of Forestry and Wildlife |
The Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve is a special natural area on the Hawaiian island of Kauaʻi. Many people call it the Alakaʻi Swamp. It is a type of wet forest found high up in the mountains.
Even though it's called a swamp, it's not a true swamp. It has areas that are like bogs, which are very wet, spongy lands. This preserve sits on a flat area called a plateau. It is close to Mount Waiʻaleʻale, which is one of the wettest places on Earth!
Contents
What is the Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve?
The Alakaʻi Wilderness Preserve was created in 1981. It helps protect the unique plants and animals of Kauaʻi. This area is very important for nature. It is home to many rare species.
The preserve is known for its incredible rainfall. This makes it a very green and lush place. The constant moisture helps many different plants grow. It also creates a special environment for wildlife.
Exploring the Alakaʻi Trail
One of the best ways to see the preserve is by hiking the Alakaʻi Swamp trail. This trail is about 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) long. It often feels like you are walking right through the clouds! This is a rare experience you can have on Kauaʻi.
To reach this trail, you first take the Pihea Vista trail. This trail connects to the Puʻu o Kila lookout. This lookout is found on the Waimea Canyon road. The road to the trail is behind a gate. This gate is right next to the famous Kalalau Valley lookout.
What You Might See
Because of all the rain, the road to the trail can sometimes have potholes. This means the road might be closed often. But if you can get there, the views are amazing.
At the end of the Alakaʻi trail, you can look out into the distance. You might see Hanalei Bay far away. You can also spot several beautiful waterfalls from the lookout point. It's a truly stunning place to visit and explore nature.
Images for kids
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Kaua’i ‘Elepaio in the Alakaʻi Wilderness.
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Lysimachia daphnoides (lehua makanoe)
