Injured Hiker Rescued on Kukui Trail

First responders rescued an injured hiker in Kauai’s Kokee State Park on Tuesday, July 27th, 2021, reports the County of Kauai.

According to a preliminary report, first responders received a report at approximately 1:25 PM of a 48-year-old male visitor from California with a knee injury on the Kukui Trail in Kokee.

Crews with the Waimea fire station, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1, and American Medical Response responded to the incident.

Soon after, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 located the hiker 1.5 miles into the trail, secured him to Air 1, and transported him to awaiting firefighters and personnel with American Medical Response to a landing zone near the Kukui Trail. Responding medics with AMR assessed the hiker, who later declined medical treatment.

The Kukui Trail leads from Highway 550 down 2,000 feet to the base of Waimea Canyon. Ankle sprains and leg injuries are common on this steep trail that has more than a few loose rocks along the way. With little shade to offer, the trail can be hot and exhausting, leading to missteps. Bring plenty of water, energy food and sun protection to mitigate these factors when hiking the trail.