Kōkeʻe State Park sits at around 1,000–1,200 metres on the western highlands of Kauaʻi, above and beyond Waimea Canyon. The park covers about 4,600 acres of montane forest and bog, with 45 miles of hiking trails, a natural history museum, and the Kalalau Lookout — arguably the single best view on the island. On clear days, the lookout gives you a bird's-eye view of the Nā Pali Coast valleys and the ocean beyond, with the green ridges of the cliffs falling away for hundreds of metres below.
The forest here is different from what you find at sea level — cooler, quieter, and home to a community of native Hawaiian plants and birds. The Alakaʻi Swamp Trail leaves from near the park lodge and leads into the wilderness preserve beyond. Several easier trails through the forest offer good birding opportunities.
The Kōkeʻe Lodge, the only facility in the park, serves breakfast and lunch and is a good place to warm up after hiking in the frequently cool, foggy conditions at altitude. The state cabins at Kōkeʻe can be booked in advance through the Division of State Parks and offer a base for multi-day hiking.