Kaua‘i Fire Department rescues hiker on Hanakapi‘ai Trail on Saturday

Published on October 19, 2025

HĀ‘ENA – The Kaua‘i Fire Department (KFD) rescued a 57-year-old female visitor from Virginia Beach, Virginia, on the Hanakapi‘ai Trail in Hā‘ena on Saturday, Oct. 18.

According to a preliminary report, shortly after 2:25 p.m., personnel from the Hanalei Fire Station and Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 were dispatched to a report of a distressed hiker along the Hanakapi‘ai Trail.

Once on scene, crews located the hiker, who was experiencing apparent weakness, exhaustion, and nausea. The patient was assessed at the 1.5-mile landing zone and transported by Air 1 to the Princeville Airport, where care was transferred to American Medical Response personnel for advanced medical treatment.

The scene was cleared at approximately 3:40 p.m.

KFD reminds the public to plan ahead when hiking the Hanakapi‘ai and Kalalau trails. Conditions can be challenging due to steep terrain, heat, and limited access to drinking water. Hikers are encouraged to stay hydrated, know their limits, and turn back before fatigue sets in.

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