1991 Map of Waialeale

About this map

Waialeale and the peak of Kawaikini crown this high-altitude landscape on Kauai, where the headwaters of several major river systems diverge. The survey illustrates a complex hydrologic network including the Wainiha River flowing north and the North Fork Wailua River pushing east. Infrastructure for water management and power is evident at the Upper Powerhouse and the associated Upper Powerhouse Dam. The terrain is defined by deep incisions such as Makaveli Canyon and Olokele Canyon, while numerous Rain Gages and Gaging Stations across the Halelea Forest Reserve and Alakai Wilderness Preserve signal the area's significance as a primary watershed. To the southeast, the geography transitions toward the Kilohana Crater, showing the early 1990s extent of the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve and the small settlement at Kapalaoa.