Kawaikini facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kawaikini |
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|---|---|
| Mount Waialeale | |
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 5,243 ft (1,598 m) |
| Prominence | 5,243 ft (1,598 m) |
| Listing |
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| Geography | |
 Kawaikini
Location in Hawaii
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| Location | Kauai County, Hawaii, United States |
| Parent range | Hawaiian Islands |
| Geology | |
| Mountain type | |
| Volcanic arc/belt | Hawaiian–Emperor seamount chain |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | Ancient Hawaiians (Unknown Time) |
| Easiest route | Mountaineering Trek |
Kawaikini is the tallest point on the beautiful Hawaiian island of Kauai. It stands at 5,243 feet (about 1,600 meters) high. This impressive peak is the top of an inactive shield volcano called Mount Waialeale.
Kauai has other cool mountains too. Some of them are Waialeale (5,148 feet), Namolokama Mountain (4,421 feet), and Kalalau Lookout (4,120 feet).
What Makes Kawaikini Special?
Kawaikini is known for its incredible amount of rainfall. A special tool called a rain gauge is placed near Waialeale lake. It measures how much rain falls every day. Because of this, Kauai's peaks are often on the list of places with the most rain each year!
Why is Kawaikini Hard to Reach?
Getting to the top of Kawaikini is a real challenge. The huge amount of rain makes the paths very slippery and muddy.
Also, a large area called the Alakai Wilderness Preserve is located to the west. This preserve has miles of thick, swampy forest. This makes it very difficult to walk through and reach the summit. On the north, east, and south sides, Kawaikini is surrounded by very steep and wet cliffs. These natural barriers protect the mountain.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name Kawaikini comes from the Hawaiian language. It means "the multitudinous water." This name perfectly describes the island's famous high rainfall. It shows how important water is to this amazing place.
