1965 Map of Waimea Canyon

About this map

Waimea Canyon dominates the landscape of western Kauai, where the erosive force of the Waimea River has carved deep into the island's basaltic shield. This mid-1960s field survey details a complex geography of water management and conservation, showing the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve and the high-elevation Alakai Swamp. Infrastructure for hydroelectric power and agriculture is evident through the Mauka Powerhouse, a Penstock, and numerous ditch and flume systems that divert water from the interior ridges to the drier lowlands. Historical land use is captured in the network of pack trails and jeep trails that navigate the steep walls of the canyon, connecting remote outposts like the Waialae Cabin to more accessible points like the Waimea Canyon Lookout. Notable vertical features include the dramatic Waipoo Falls and Waianuenue Falls, while the lower Makaweli River valley shows evidence of irrigation at Kepani Res.