KALAUPAPA NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK, MOLOKAI

It's quiet as you ride on your mule along the 2.9-mile trail to Kalaupapa. Perhaps it's because you're riding along the highest sea cliffs in the world (recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records) as an endless, blue seascape paints the horizon. Riding along Kalaupapa peninsula is enough to make anyone speechless.

Three miles, 26 switchbacks, and 90 minutes of magnificent north central Molokai views later and you're back to sea level in the town of Kalaupapa. It's scenic here, but the story of Kalaupapa National Historic Park, established in 1980, is even more compelling.

This special community was once home to Belgian missionary Father Damien. Beginning in 1873, this selfless priest treated and gave hope to Hansen disease victims who were exiled to this isolated location. Today, you can visit Father Damien's grave here at historic St. Philomena Roman Catholic Church. A statue in Father Damien's honor also stands in front of the State Capitol on Oahu.

This peaceful national park is a place of preservation and education and is only accessible by tour.

QUICK FACTS

Name:

Kalaupapa National Historic Park

What is it:

Scenic ride to the historic Kalaupapa peninsula

What to do:

Memorable mule ride, learn about Molokai history, take panoramic photos

What to bring:

Shoes, jeans for mule ride, jacket or windbreaker, sunscreen, camera, water

Directions:

Can be accessed by mule ride, tour, or airplane. Kalaupapa cannot be reached by car.