Napali Coast Trail

The following are a few images from my recent trip to the Napali Coast on the North Shore of Kauai.  The Napali Coast Trail is an epic 12 mile hike that traverses hundreds of valleys, countless waterfalls and streams, and sheer cliff faces.  The trail is my favorite in all of the Hawaiian islands.  The views are spectacular, and the trail is challenging enough to leave even the most experience hiker wishing they had packed a little lighter.

 

The trail is amazing for photographers, but the isolation and lack of any camera stores in the area requires that you come prepared.  The natural elements will put you and your gear to the test. Frequent rain squalls, salt spray, mud, dirt, and sand should be expected. 

This is a list of essential gear I recommend for photographers going on the trail:

• Head Lamp
• Rain Poncho / Camera Cover 
• Micro Fiber Cloth (at least 2 since they will get wet and dirty )
• Rocket Dust Blower
• Sturdy / Lightweight Tripod
• Wide Angle & Medium Tele Lens 
• Large Capacity Flash Cards
• Multiple Camera Batteries
• Polarizing Filter
• Grad ND Filters
• Dry Bag for gear storage