Kalalau Trail Weather

December 2014, Andy and I went on a backpacking trip on Kauai’s scenic Kalalau Trail. Little did we know that days of rain can cause raging rivers that are impassible. The only way across the rivers was to wait or catch the Kauai’s rescue helicopter.

County spokeswoman Sarah Blane said the Kauai Fire Department reported about 10 individuals were stranded on the far side of Hanakapiai Stream around 4 p.m. on Monday. Ocean Safety personnel made contact with the group and provided them with food and water to remain overnight, since weather conditions did not allow for a rescue.

On Friday, 2 days after the Kalalau Trail was closed due to Storms Iselle and Julio approaching, a 19-year old woman was swept downstream while attempting to cross the stream at Hanakoa. The woman, who had been camping at Kalalau with a 24-year old male friend, was last seen as she was swept away downstream. The friend attempted to find her as he made his way down to the shore but was unsuccessful. He then hiked out to contact authorities.

It was confirmed on Monday that the body found on Thursday, April 17 was that of Daniel Foster (31) from Frisco, Texas. An autopsy performed by authorities determined that he died of injuries consistent with a fall.