Nounou Mountain Sleeping Giant Hike This is one of the most satisfying hikes in all Kaua’i with ready rewards all along the way. On the lower reaches, you will go through one of the largest groves on Kaua’i of stately Cook Island pines growing on the western flanks of this charming mountain. To name a few, bird watch for Brazilian cardinals, shama and melodious laughing thrushes. Shade is the rule with great vistas from the ridges over Kapa’a, with the possibility on a clear day to see the distant island of Oahu to the Southeast. The reward at the end, panoramic views of the hinterland of the Wailua Homestead and the awe-inspiring fluted ridges of Mount Wai’ale’ale draped in the clouds beyond. At the summit, we will pause and lunch.