Kuamo'o Nounou Trail

The Kuamo'o Nounou Trail is the longest of three trails that climbs up Nounou Mountain, also called the Sleeping Giant.At just over 1000' in elevation gain, the bulk of the climbing comes over the final mile. The trail begins in a neighborhood and first wraps along the flank of the mountain through forested shade. The trail has a tendency to be muddy and a little dense with mosquitoes here. Eventually, the route meets up with the Sleeping Giant West Trail, and continues up a series of switchbacks, gaining in elevation as views over the island's east shore appear.The Kuamo'o Nounou Trail is the least popular of the three, however as the trails begin to merge near the top, you'll encounter more and more hikers on this popular mountain.Upon hitting a plateau, the wider more well-worn trail comes to an end at covered tables and a couple scenic benches. Beyond here, a single track path continues climbing toward the peak of Nounou Mountain, coming to rock outcroppings with wide panoramic views stretching across this side of the island if the day is clear. It's a great spot to take in the views, before turning and retracing the route back down.Parking is available along the shoulder outside of the trailhead gate. There are no bathrooms or water anywhere along the trail. Plan accordingly.