It was time to hit up the mountains one last time before our trip to Europe. Why not make it a saddle hike?

Route 63

Thanks to Aileen’s friend, Kenny and Tessa for dropping us off on the side of the highway named after King David Kalakaua’s sister.

Kalihi Valley

Making our way up the short and steep trail used by HECO workers to service the powerline poles at the top.

Kalihi Saddle

Trade winds greeted us at the top which was a welcome relief from the oppressive humidity that existed in the land of the wallabies.

Camp Centipede

Glad no predatory arthropods came out to greet us.

Camp Centipede

Duct tape can fix anything.

Kalihi Saddle

We contoured around the knob as we set foot on the trail.

Kalihi Saddle

Threading our way on the narrow ridge line bordered by thick overgrowth on the Leeward side and sheer drops on the Windward side.

Witch’s Hat

The group climbing up using a mixture of grass, branches and old suspect webbing.

Witch’s Hat

Val watching Aileen scramble her way up the conical shaped peak.

Witch’s Hat

The group climbing down from the other side.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling and scooting on the space deficient ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Andy was probably muttering “Den Gipfel erreichen.”

Kalihi Saddle

Val scrambling up the fractured rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira sprinting across one of many narrow stretches. No fear.

The Hump

Are we humping the mountain or is the mountain humping us? I think it’s the latter.

Kalihi Saddle

The group traversing over the rolling and restricted ridge line.

Tabletop

Andy trying to secure reservations or just a good handhold.

Tabletop

The rest of the group clambering over the oddly placed rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Hanging on by a very thin sliver of crumbly rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Val wasted no time on this narrow of narrow sections, not a good place to dawdle.

Rock Triangle #1

Climbing up on the Windward side of this rockface where I dislodged a good sized rock that plummeted down to the valley floor that gave somebody a panic attack.

Rock Triangle #1

Somebody was determined not to duplicate and pass on my anxiety inducing attacks.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Aileen making her way around the overhanging ledge.

Rock Triangle #2

The rest of the group waiting for their turn to go up the second rockface. Which begs the question, is it better to go first, middle or last?

Rock Triangle #2

Jeremy using his USMC background to climb this very surmountable obstacle.

Kalihi Saddle

Passing over the area where a broken webbing was one of two witnesses to a hiker that fell two years ago from this same spot. A story best told after everybody has left the area.

Broken Wave

Scrambling my way up the trail of raining rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

The group preparing to leave the ridge line and plunge into heavy overgrowth.

Dirty Slide

Can you see the hikers for the overgrowth? The passing rain shower didn’t help as well.

Kalihi Saddle

Everybody had to eat their Wheaties in order to make the exhausting climb up the flank to regain the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger contouring his way around the slippery slope.

Kalihi Saddle

No rest for the weary.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling our way up the dirt ribbon of a ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody said this was the hardest part of the saddle. Could it be a former member of the military branch that was established in 1775?

Kalihi Saddle

We left behind the “technical” and “sketchy” sections of the saddle to continue our hike on typical KST ridge lines filled with multiple false peaks.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the cleared 2,740′ summit. Views all around. Lunchtime.

Ko’olau Summit RIdge Line (KSRT)

We left the saddle behind us as we resumed our hike on the dormant fragmented shield volcano. Yes dormant.

Tripler Summit

Our last summit photo with wrap around views of the Windward coastline.

Tripler Ridge

The group exiting the KST.

Tripler Ridge

Aileen “Jackson Chameleon Whisperer” Agustin discovered a rather plump looking invasive lizard which were originally imported from Africa in 1972 as stocks for a pet shop. Then they were intentionally set loose and the rest is history.

Tripler Ridge

The group preparing to descend down a spur ridge into the valley.

End of the Road Trail

The three horned male version of the invasive lizard that eats native insects, spiders, and snails.

All pau

We soon dropped off the ridge and plunged into head high ginger plants and California grass. The overgrown trail eventually became a rather cleared road where we met Kenny and the collective group walked out of the valley and back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our introductory saddle hike for some covered 6.43 miles, mileage may vary depending on whom you ask. Solid day with a great group that helped each other out on what many hikers consider as the “hardest” section of the KST to complete. Post hike meal venue was supposed to have been at Alley Restaurant, as somebody was pushing for their chocolate desserts. Excessive wait time forced us to consider Mexican. Closed. Chicken. No. We all then drove to Pearlridge Center to eat at Big City Diner where Aida, Kenny and Tessa joined us.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Andreas Wiegand, Jeremy Cannone, Roger Schiffman, Val Wang and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

Weather forecasts had predicted windy conditions this weekend to possibly paraphrase the saying “fools rush in where wise men fear to tread.” We all met up relatively on time, except for the “new CB.”

Moanalua Valley

The group crossing one of the seven storied bridges and cobblestone paths that at one time gave passage to the Damon family’s horse drawn carriages. Samuel Mills Damon was bequeathed over 6,000 acres of land (Moanalua Ahupua’a) in 1884 from Ke Ali’i Bernice Bishop, who was the last living member of the House of Kamehameha. The ahupua’a of Moanalua at one time encompassed the valleys of Moanalua and Halawa down to the edge of Pu’uloa (Pearl Harbor). Over time it has shrunk due to the US government’s condemnation of huge tracts of land for military bases, and the selling off of land for commercial and residential development. Moanalua Valley was also the original route for the H3 highway until court battles forced the State to construct in its present home, Halawa Valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Is this the way to Stairway to Heaven?

Kulana’ahane Trail

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of the hau trees, I will fear no evil, for high winds await me on the mountains.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Haig crossing one of over 28 stream crossings on the trail. Nobody was counting. Mathematically challenged.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Some of the guys clearing the trail. There is no scientific evidence that a certain complex plant made of major compounds makes people stronger, rather it has a reputation for decreasing athletic performance. Hence, the rock did not budge even one inch. Not even a centimeter.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Chico passing his stone. Pretty painful.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Have rock, will fix spike.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Leaving the valley floor as we climbed up the steep and short spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo at the windswept summit, left to right: Chris, Robin, Aileen, Haig, myself, Akira, Aida and Chico.

Moanalua Saddle

We left the summit to practice our balancing skills on a narrow ridge line with wind gusts pushing us around for good measure.

Moanalua Saddle

The group transitioning from bipedal to quadrupedal locomotion. Whatever will get us there.

Moanalua Saddle

Woman down! The first rule of falling is don’t fall. The second rule is if you have to fall, go in the direction of the Leeward side. The last rule is do not fall on the Windward side. Luckily, Robin followed the second rule. Haig came up from the rear and safely guided her back to the ridge, where she belonged.

Moanalua Saddle

Some of us went up the direct route.

Moanalua Saddle

Others chose the longer route and contoured around the rock face.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring and climbing our way up the Windward side. What was that about Rule #3?

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way to the most famous obstacle, the Dirt Triangle.

Dirt Triangle

Contouring around the grassy and slippery slope.

Dirt Triangle

Aida pulling herself up on the Leeward side. What was that about Rule #2?

Dirt Triangle

Robin’s turn to go up.

Dirt Triangle

That expression on your face when you know you’ve made it to the top. Priceless.

Moanalua Saddle

We don’t need no stinkin’ webbing!

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the exposed crumbly climb as we noticed rain showers in the valley. Wind + rain. What could go wrong?

Moanalua Saddle

Haig climbing to the top of the last “technical” section of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

It’s not well known is that Akira was the original Karate Kid until Hollywood decided Ralph Macchio looked more the part. Much like how David Carradine got the lead role in the TV show Kung Fu because Bruce Lee was too “asian.” A little known fact is that the iconic martial artist was not 100% Chinese, he was of Chinese and European ancestry.

Moanalua Saddle

We ran into an imported goat from the province of Pangasinan. This particular one was sure footed and fleet of foot.

Moanalua Saddle

Aileen climbing up one of the last eroded sections as the rain showers marched their way towards us.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Approaching one of the platforms that was used to suspend six antennas across Halawa Valley during WW2. Each antenna spanned 6,955′ and was suspended 1,968′ above the valley floor. Quite an engineering feat back in the day.

KSRT

Wondering if the grass is greener on the other side of the stairs.

KSRT

Hazing ritual.

KSRT

The rusted stairs soon ended and the rain showers finally made their appearance.

CCL Building

Haig on top of the building that will still be here after the stairs are long gone.

CCL Building

What every girl wants on her birthday. Chocolate? Flowers? Jewelry? Nope. A stick of butter. Happy Birthday Aida! While we took shelter from the cold and driving rain outside, muted mutterings about bailing began to circulate. Optimism still ran high with some in the group.

Stairway to Heaven

Dear hikers, can you hear the wind blow?
And did you know
Your stairway lies on the last gasps?

KSRT

The weather soon cleared and we all agreed to push to the next saddle. We still have enough daylight. Right?

KSRT

Dropping down the ridge to the defunct radar tower.

KSRT

Sit not stand.

KSRT

Akira climbing up for some elevation change.

KSRT

I am high high!

KSRT

Passing the transmission tower lines as we made our way up the rutted trail with panoramic Windward views to our back.

Tripler Summit

Brief break at the 2,760′ grassy peak. Is that the way down to the valley in the back of us?

KSRT

We left the summit and continued our hike on the ridge as the winds that we thought we left behind us returned with renewed gusts.

KSRT

Ferlino would climb it! I guess peer pressure only works so far.

Bowman Summit

Group photo with the obstructed Leeward background at the 2,740′ peak.

KSRT

The birthday girl about to drop down into the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Butt scooting our way down the crumbly ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Robin climbing over the bulging rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Bottleneck as everybody was taking their time to traverse …

Slippery Slope

… around this soft patch of dirt.

Dirty Slide

Just missing the lasso.

Dirty Slide

Chris shadowing Aida on her way down.

Dirty Slide

Maybe should change the name to Grassy Slide.

Broken Wave

Stay in your lane. Deja vu.

Broken Wave

Haig walking it down.

Free Fall

Aida climbing her way down the constantly changing character of the saddle.

Rock Triangle #1

Clear? NOT YET!

Rock Triangle #2

Robin navigating her way through the severely eroded section on the Leeward side.

Rock Triangle #2

Akira going over the edge.

Rock Triangle #2

I had my fill of rocks being rained down in my direction.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Going down on the denuded and eroded stretch. I had wanted to make Witch’s Hat before sundown. I also wanted to play in the NBA. Dashed dreams.

Kalihi Saddle

The city lights below us started turning on. Time to get our headlamps ready.

Rock Triangle #2

Climbing down the Windward side, my headlamp started to flash which meant it was slowly losing illumination. I could barely see going down but was assisted by the bright light of CB’s lamp down below.

Rock Triangle #2

CB guiding the rest of the group down.

Tabletop

Driving rain pelted us as we went down the jumbled slabs of rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

High winds and the darkness kept us on all fours most of the time on the ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

City lights on the left and trees on the right.

Kalihi Saddle

Are those people up there in the mountains?

Hump

Scooting our way over the irregular rounded rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

We could see the conical shaped rockface. We are close to the end!

Witch’s Hat

It would have been a lot easier for some if they had a broomstick to fly up instead of climbing up.

Witch’s Hat

Going down the backside.

Powerlines Trail

Getting out of the wind and off the ridge and down to the valley floor. What a relief!

All pau

A big shout out and hearty appreciation to Agnes and Tessa who waited for us way past their bedtime and brought us drinks and food. Props to the group for helping everybody come out safely in the dark and keeping it together.

GPS Tracks

Our unforgettable saddle hike covered 7.98 miles through high winds, rain and darkness with a solid group that was there for each other. The constant peppering of our faces with wind blown volcanic dirt left our ears fertile ground and bloodshot eyes.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Haig Van Roubian, Robin Farr, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

Picked up from the last time when I tweaked my ankle and knee. Thanks to Ferlino for dropping Lilyn, Tessa, and myself off on the side of the highway as we started off unusually late for our hike.

Powerlines Trail

Going up the steps that time forgot, apparently the landscape service as well.

Powerlines Trail

We pushed up the wrecked trail to start hiking the saddle.

Camp Centipede

Tessa contouring around the knob.

Kalihi Saddle

Stepping foot on the saddle that was marked by a thin and crumbly ridgeline.

Witch’s Hat

This webbing looks familiar.

Witch’s Hat

Tessa climbing to the top of the conical shaped rockface.

Witch’s Hat

We were just missing a cauldron, black cats and broomsticks.

Witch’s Hat

Somebody forgot their broomstick so they had to climb down.

Kalihi Saddle

Resuming our hike as we slowly gained elevation with each crumbly rock that we either climbed or dislodged.

Scenic Spot

No time for vertigo.

Hump

Up and over another crumbly rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody was muttering that they are going to retire this hike. Promises. Promises.

Tabletop

Looking for handholds and reservations.

Tabletop

The rest of the group climbing their way up.

Kalihi Saddle

Keep your hands and feet inside the ride at all times.

Rock Triangle

Lilyn climbing up the Windward side of the rockface.

Rock Triangle

Taking a picture of the person taking a picture. Redundancy at its finest.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking on the edge.

Hot Wheels Track

Pausing at the area that was completely denuded of any vegetation.

Rock Triangle

Going up the second triangular rockface.

Rock Triangle

Not as hard as it looks.

Deja vu

I delayed telling inquiring minds where the spot was that another hiker had fallen 100′ down on the Leeward side a couple months ago.

Broken Wave

Tessa climbing up to the spot I named after her. Inside joke.

Dirty Slide

Pulling ourselves back up to the ridgeline.

Dirty Slide

It was all upper body strength on this one. Who needs the gym?

Slippery Slope

Tread lightly.

Kalihi Saddle

Lilyn coming up the grassy slope with the panoramic views of the Windward coastline behind her.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Climbing towards our first peak.

Bowman Summit

360 degree group photo at the 2,740′ summit of Pu’u Kahuauli.

KSRT

Traversing between summits.

Tripler Summit

Clear views from the 2,760′ grassy knob.

KSRT

Somebody wished they had balls where they could stand up and swing them.

Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe

Passing the flat 2,820′ summit where we followed the rutted trail to the top of Haiku Stairs.

CCL Building

Just missing her wings.

CCL Building

Where is everybody? It was deserted. Not a soul in sight.

CCL Building

Except these spooky spirits caught on camera.

CCL Building

Don’t we know this guy?

Stairway to Heaven

Time was not on our side so as not be a burden on the taxpayers of the City & County of Honolulu, we were forced to go down the safest trail on the island. What other trail has stairs and rails from top to bottom? Exactly.

Stairway to Heaven

Sunburst over Moanalua Saddle. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Stairway to Heaven

Tessa relaxing and pondering what it would be like to hike down the adjacent ridge from us. Only one way to find out.

All pau

Looking back at the old and new stairs. Thanks to Allison for letting us exit through her backyard. Fun Halloween hike with good company. Post hike meal at Kizuna. Domo arigato gozaimasu. Ni shuo shenme?

Photos taken by Lilyn Avendano, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

Met up with familiar and not so familiar faces to hike what would later be known as the Ko’olau Summit Trail according to the fourth estate. Not far off from the mark.

Kalihi Valley

We got dropped off on the side of the highway where we started our hike in the valley of introduced macropods and outdoor mechanics.

Powerlines Trail

Got to the top of the saddle to find out that Amber, Justin and his friend Jackson had arrived earlier to catch the sunrise.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up the first ropes of the day.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody pointing to their three favorite peaks and photobombing at the same time. Multi-tasking at its finest.

Camp Centipede

Passing through the land of predatory arthropods.

Kalihi Saddle

The early birds coming down from their lofty perch to join us on the trail.

Witch’s Hat

Climbing up the backside.

Witch’s Hat

Looking down at the congo line making its way up.

Witch’s Hat

Chico going down against the backdrop of the imposing and steep saddle.

Witch’s Hat

Somebody was waiting for a holiday to fly off the conical shaped rockface.

Hump Rock

It was only Sunday. It’s going to be a long week.

Kalihi Saddle

Thomas walking across the skinny ridge line.

Tabletop

Does your group have reservations? Party of nine.

Tabletop

Can’t beat the view from the saddle.

Rock Triangle #1

Chico climbing up the Windward side.

Rock Triangle #1

Jen topping out as the others waited their turn.

Kalihi Saddle

The group traversing over the crumbly and eroded ridge line.

Hot Wheels Track

Everybody in the holding pattern, waiting to climb up the next obstacle.

Rock Triangle #2

Negative Ghost Rider, the pattern is full. Drone fly by.

Rock Triangle #2

Gecko eye view of the group climbing up.

Crumbly Contour

Watch your webbing on the way up.

Kalihi Valley

We soon heard the sounds nobody wants to hear in the mountains, “Somebody fell.” We climbed back down to make a better assessment of the situation and found out that that Jackson needed to be extracted for medical attention. The call was made to 911 and the response was swiftly forthcoming.

Kalihi Valley

The harness being lowered by Air Rescue after Jackson received on site medical attention by the first responder.

Windward

Jackson being extracted to the landing zone in Kaneohe. What lead to his fall is all a matter of conjecture, as only he can answer that question. What we do know for sure; is that accidents happen, the group reacted and responded well to the events that unfolded and a big thanks to HFD for their urgent help in this matter. Best wishes for his speedy recovery.

Broken Wave

Nothing to see here, except a rain of rocks, move along.

Dirty Slide

It was all about upper body strength on this section. For many, this was the hardest part of the trail.

Kalihi Saddle

Thomas using his wide wingspan to grab the next rock. According to one study, the average adult man has an arm span 2.1 inches longer than his height. That would give Thomas a whopping 6’5″ wingspan, still not good enough for the NBA.

Kalihi Saddle

The group scrambling out of the saddle.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Amber practicing her survival skills. Uki grass is your best friend in the mountains.

KSRT

Hiking our way to the first summit of the day.

Bowman Summit

Somebody was out of the Navy.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the 2,740′ summit.

KSRT

Traversing between summits.

Tripler Summit

Group photo with Trump and his MAGA supporters at the summit of Kaho’omoe’ihikapulani.

Tripler Summit

Justin launching his drone from the 2,760′ summit.

Kalihi Saddle

As the drone flies. Straight to the summit of Lanihuli.

Kalihi Saddle

Return trip.

Tripler Summit

Close, but no cigar. The saying originated from early carnival days when cigars were the prizes.

KSRT

Making our way to the second set of powerline towers.

KSRT

Chico keeping his feet grounded.

KSRT

The group making their way to the summit of Pu’u Keahi’a’kahoe.

KSRT

Rose in the rutted trail that is almost a continuation from Moanalua Middle Ridge as we made our way to the Communications Control Link (CCL) building that was built back in 1942.

CCL Building

We asked a Marine to take our group photo and not to cut off the radar dishes at the top. I got this. Semper Fi.

Stairway to Heaven

The plan to continue our saddle hike was aborted in favor of getting off the mountain quickly as we didn’t want to be the source of repeat business.

Stairway to Heaven

Somebody finally noticed Profile Rock on our way down. Better late than never.

Stairway to Heaven

Going down the last of the 3,922 steps, give or take, that makes up the infamous “attractive nuisance.” The fate of these stairs, which literally draws thousands of people from the four corners of the world, is up in the air as the political winds keep shifting the goal post.

Stairway to Heaven

The group stepping off the stairs and into Haiku Valley.

All pau

Mahalo to Jasper, Allison and Quinn for showing us the way out, while the rest of the group went to church. Thanks to Lilia for picking us up.

GPS Tracks

Fun hike that covered a little over four miles and was tempered with a dose of reality with new and old friends. Post hike meal at Pho My Vi, where the burning question was how big are your carrots?

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Amber Fonte, Chico Cantu, Jen Odence, Justin Nambounmy, Rose Mathis, Thomas Barrett and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

The surf was up over at Waimea Bay for the Eddie and the saddles were a go for Aileen, Art, Tessa and myself over in Moanalua Valley.

Kulana’ahane Junction

We soon caught up with a group that had pushed off earlier than us from the bathrooms. They were headed to the hike du jour – Stairway to Heaven via Middle Ridge. Or so they thought.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Our paths crossed again on the valley trail. “You guys going the right way?” “We know the way. Thanks Unko.” A few minutes later. “The trail is to the left.” Looks at their phone. “We are supposed to be to the right.” Face palm.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Examining part of the wreckage that was scattered from a Thunderbolt fighter plane that crashed into the valley back in 1948. The pilot parachuted out and was picked up on Moanalua golf course.

Moanalua Valley

Leaving the maintained for the unmaintained. Always an experience.

Moanalua Valley

Going up the short puff of the steep spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo at the top with Haiku Valley and H3 behind us.

Moanalua Saddle

The group making their way up the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the first crumbly climb.

Moanalua Saddle

Anchor assistance.

Moanalua Saddle

The report of the trail death was an exaggeration.

Moanalua Saddle

Why go Leeward, when you can go Windward?

Dirt Triangle

Approaching the most famous obstacle on this side of the saddle.

Dirt Triangle

Contouring our way around the face side.

Dirt Triangle

Aileen climbing her way to the top of the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Art bringing up the rear.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the pile of rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Erosion constantly changes the character and “face” of the mountains. It’s almost like having Alzheimer’s. It’s always a new day in the mountains.

Moanalua Saddle

Going straight up the eroded cliff. No detouring.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa gaining the top of the crumbly climb.

Moanalua Saddle

The biggest little climb.

Moanalua Saddle

Will the real dirt dragon please sit down?

Moanalua Saddle

All the “sketchy” parts were behind us. Just straight forward ridge hiking until we reach heaven.

Moanalua Saddle

Art in between platforms.

Moanalua Saddle

There’s a lady who’s sure, all that glitters is gold, and she’s buying a stairway to heaven.

CCL Building

The inside was remarkably free of rubbish, save for somebody’s tent.

Haiku Stairs

Looking down at the stairs whose fate seems to lie in the hands of money and politics.

Stairway to Heaven

A bystander took our group photo in exchange for some sunscreen. Not off my face.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit of Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe.

KSRT

Look ma, no hands!

Tripler Summit

We bumped into members of the HTMC at the 2,760′ grassy knob.

KSRT

Leaving the powerline towers behind us as we traversed the ridge line.

Bowman Summit

No stopping at the 2,740′ summit.

Kalihi Saddle

Descending down the sliver of a crumbly ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Aileen sliding her way over the rock and clinging to the rope at the same time. Multi-tasking at its finest.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa looking for the proper footing to cross over.

Kalihi Saddle

We set up a human double anchor so that Aileen could safely do the walk of faith.

Dirty Slide

The climb down was more a mixture of dirt and dry grass.

Dirty Slide

Contouring our way back to the ridge line.

Broken Wave

Goofy footing my way down. No crowds here. Zero points.

Broken Wave

Falling rock zone.

Broken Wave

Now somebody can chalk up a broken stake in addition to the broken wave.

Broken Wave

Tessa making short work of the down climb.

Kalihi Saddle

Art making his way down the “twister” of a climb.

Rock Triangle

Tessa going down the first rock triangle.

Rock Triangle

Hey, how about a spot? Hold on! I’m checking my FB status. Priorities.

Hot Wheel Tracks

We scooted over the narrow “bridge” while …

Hot Wheel Tracks

… Sugar Daddy in Training just skipped over with a song in his heart. I guess he’s not in training anymore.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Arresting Art’s fall at the expense of my hand.

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting our way down the saddle.

Rock Triangle

Checking out the Windward drop.

Rock Triangle

Aileen coming down the rockface whose Windward holds have eroded over time.

Kalihi Saddle

More scooting. Theme of the day.

Kalihi Saddle

One step at a time.

Kalihi Saddle

Let’s not make it three for three. Broken tree.

Tabletop

Contorting and climbing our way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at the group descending down the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Going up the wave crest.

Kalihi Saddle

The ridge slightly widened and then narrowed again. Just like a funnel.

Kalihi Saddle

Approaching the scenic point.

Witchs Hat

Making our way down to the last obstacle for the day.

Witchs Hat

The sun was setting as we made our way to the conical shaped rockface.

Witchs Hat

Golden hour.

Witchs Hat

Get busy hiking or get busy walking in the dark.

Witchs Hat

Tessa climbing her way up.

Witchs Hat

Tick tock. Daylight time was running out.

Witchs Hat

Making our way down the backside, Tessa had a bowl of snap, crackle and pop. Not talking about the cereal either.

Kalihi Saddle

All roads eventually lead to home.

Powerlines Trail

Going down the last rope climb with proper illumination.

Powerlines Trail

Approaching the lighted HECO substation as we made our way down to the service road.

All pau

You look familiar? We came out to find a cop pulling special duty on the side of the town bound highway which was closed for construction. Mahalo to El for picking us up despite the detours and taking us back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle traverse covered roughly 7.6 miles over crumbly ridges, great scenery and with good company. Post hike meal at the only eatery still open. McDonald’s! All food tastes great in the mountains, that doesn’t necessarily hold true at sea level.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Art Young, Tessa Bugay and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

I put together this hike to help somebody tackle this particular saddle, but they ended up staying home instead. The show must still go on; so met up with Art and Aya at Moanalua park in the early morning.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Art and Aya crossing one of seven bridges that span the trail. Chris was running fashionably late. Surprised?

Moanalua Valley

Chris catching up with us on the trail. Speedy Gonzales.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Ducking and weaving our way through the hala grove.

Moanalua Falls

Looking at the dry falls to our right as we made our way up the short and steep spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Segregated group photo by gender. I guess the all gender movement hasn’t migrated to the photographic world.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris climbing up the first crumbly rock section. Many more to come.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

Why climb, when you can contour on the Windward side.

KSRT

What’s going on here?

Moanalua Saddle

Aya and Art regaining solid ground on the ridge line.

Dirt Triangle

Traversing our way to the most famous obstacle on the saddle.

Dirt Triangle

Aya pulling herself up.

Dirt Triangle

Art making short work of the crumbly obstacle.

Moanalua Saddle

Aya at the top of the dirt triangle and enjoying the views.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris going up another crumbly pile of rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back to the other side of hell. The flip side of heaven.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris scrambling up the hot mess of rocks that passes for a crumbly ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Almost there.

Moanalua Saddle

I don’t need no string on a twig to climb this!

Moanalua Saddle

Panoramic view of the saddle overlooking H3 freeway below us in Haiku Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the stairs that Mother Nature is slowly reclaiming.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the backdrop of the Waianae Mountain Range as we made our way up the dilapidated stairs.

Moanalua Saddle

The stairs soon petered out to be replaced by a cable that lead us to the top.

Moanalua Saddle

Are we in heaven yet?

Stairway to Heaven

Danny, Quan, Roseann and Tessa had taken the stair shortcut to meet us at the top.

Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe

Wishing Art and Chris both belated happy birthday wishes in heaven. How long will it take before somebody recognizes the guy in the shades being hand fed and sitting on top of the building?

CCL Building

Come out and join the crowd!

CCL Building

Group photo left to right: Roseann (stuffing her face), Aya, Chris B, Art, Yuki, Chris F, Quan, Danny, Tessa and myself.

Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe

Some eat with forks, others use their fingers. To each their own.

KSRT

We soon took our leave of the summit as Danny and Tessa went back down the stairs and Chris F and Yuki went back down the ridge.

KSRT

Pointing to our exit destination.

KSRT

Roseann enjoying the views.

KSRT

Making our way down to the landmark defunct radio tower.

KSRT

Some preferred to get “shocked” …

KSRT

… while others chose to remain grounded.

KSRT

Chris in between poles.

KSRT

The group climbing up to the grassy knoll.

Tripler Summit

Group photo left to right at the 2,760′ summit: Art, Roseann, myself, Quan, Aya and Chris.

Tripler Summit

Wait! Let me apply my facial before we leave. Does it contain serum or semen?

KSRT

The group traversing to the last summit before the descent down into the saddle.

Bowman Summit

Taking a quick bite and naps before our “serious” hiking starts.

KSRT

Leaving the summit for harder pastures ahead.

Kalihi Saddle

The group coming down the grassy slope.

Stepping Stone

This rock was made for sitting.

Slippery Slope

Somebody needed additional traction and decided to put it on the crumbly side of an exposed cliff with a huge drop. Well, maybe not that huge.

Dirty Slide

I need a helping hand! Or was that a pair of good hands?

Dirty Slide

That was fun! Let’s do it again! Just pass the wipes.

Broken Wave

Going with the flow of the falling rocks.

Broken Wave

Aya climbing her way down one crumbly rock at a time.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing and contouring down the side of the crumbly ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Quan making her way down the tricky climb.

Rock Triangle #1

Roseann going down the hardest climb on this side of the saddle.

Rock Triangle #1

Quan climbing her way down the near vertical section of the rock face.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris watching the rest of the group making their way down.

Rock Triangle #1

Roseann watching Art with her open mouth, I mean eagle eyes.

Hot Wheels Track

Chris giving YawYaw#1 a helping hand to cross a particularly narrow section.

Kalihi Saddle

Quan keeping her center of gravity low by scooting down the narrow and uneven ridge line.

Rock Triangle #2

Climbing our way down on the exposed Windward side.

Rock Triangle #2

Don’t rain any rocks on my parade!

Tightrope

Applying downward pressure to my forward movement, as I didn’t want to experience any downward movement.

Table Top

Art and Roseann climbing their way down the jumbled rock pile.

Standing Wave

Before one can walk, one must learn to crawl first.

Kalihi Saddle

Walking and scooting our way on the narrow strip of rock and dirt bordered on one side by shrubbery and the other side by an exposed drop to the highway.

Scenic Point

Aya striking a pose.

The Hump

Is today Wednesday or Sunday?

Kalihi Saddle

Chris climbing his way down the ridge line.

Witchs Hat

Quan striking a pose before the final up climb.

Witchs Hat

Roseann making her way up the conical shaped rock face.

Witchs Hat

The last tricky down climb.

Witchs Hat

Watch out for snapped webbing!

Camp Centipede

Our last group photo before hiking down into the valley.

Powerlines

Reflecting.

Powerlines Trail

Who brought a headlamp?

All pau

Thanks to Richie and Tessa for meeting and picking us up at the gate. Good job to Aya and Quan for popping their cherry saddles on our 7.59 mile traverse through crumbly terrain, spectacular scenery and good company.

Post hike meal at Zippy’s, one of the few places that was nearby and still open for business at this time of the night. You know service standards are slipping when you send back your lukewarm oxtail soup to get it heated and it comes back at the same temperature. Somebody was too hungry to care and would have slurped down the soup even if it was ice cold. The joys and pangs of hunger.

Photos taken by Art Young, Aya Asanuma, Chris Bautista, Quan Haberstroh, Roseann Fai, Tessa Bugay and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

I burned off a vacation day to take some visitors from Alaska on a hopefully memorable hike. Photo by Orion Satori.

Trailhead

Thanks to Quan for dropping Chris, Jackie, Orion and myself off at the power station. Photo by Orion Satori.

Powerlines Trail

The group coming up the recently cleared stairs.

Powerlines

Catching the breaking sun as we gained the saddle.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Making our way on the ridge line as we passed the knob and Camp Centipede. Photo by Orion Satori.

Witch’s Hat

Approaching the conical shaped rockface. Photo by Orion Satori.

Witch’s Hat

Scrambling up the backside.

Witch’s Hat

Chris waiting for his broomstick. Photo by Orion Satori.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up and over the hump. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Orion watching the rest of the group make their way up.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing queue. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Jackie making their way over the dip. Photo by Orion Satori.

Tabletop

No reservations required. Photo by Orion Satori.

Tabletop

Can I see your vax card and ID please?

Rock Triangle #1

Climbing up on the Windward side of the rockface. Photo by Orion Satori.

Rock Triangle #1

Orion on his way up.

Hot Wheels Tracks

Enjoying a relatively flat spot on the saddle. Photo by Orion Satori.

Hot Wheels Tracks

Chris checking out the sunrise views while Jackie made her way around the curved and crumbly ridge. Photo by Orion Satori.

Rock Triangle #2

Jackie pulling herself up the rockface. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Rock Triangle #2

Orion reaching his way to the top.

Broken Wave

Chris coming up the crumbly slope. Photo by Orion Satori.

Dirty Slide

Contouring around the ridgeline through the overgrown and loose under footing flank. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Dirty Slide

We all got our upper body workout on this section.

Kalihi Saddle

Jackie caught between a rock and a hard place. Photo by Orion Satori.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing out of the saddle. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

We were making good time so we took a small break and enjoyed the views.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the overgrown summit with wrap around views.

KSRT

Jackie traversing a couple small hills until the next summit. Photo by Orion Satori.

Tripler Summit

Group photo at the grassy summit with panoramic views of the Windward side.

KSRT

Hiking the well trodden and rutted trail with safety ropes courtesy of HECO, the local electric utility. Photo by Orion Satori.

KSRT

Approaching the second set of powerlines and the now defunct radar station. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Shadow shaka.

KSRT

Orion showing us his balancing skills. Photo by Jackie.

KSRT

Looking back at the ridgeline characterized by its dips, peaks and man-made structures. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Puu Keahi a Kahoe

Passing the slightly muddy 2,820′ peak known as the “fire of Kahoe.”

Puu Keahi a Kahoe

Jackie hiking in the trenches. Not as bad as Moanalua Middle Ridge. Yet. Photo by Orion Satori.

Stairway to Heaven

Group photo in front of the CCL building with other hikers in the background for atmosphere.

Stairway to Heaven

Looking down at part of the 3,922 steps that are slated to be removed. Who knows when is anybody’s guess. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing down the backside of the stairs. Photo by Orion Satori.

Moanalua Saddle

Hiking down the often rusted and twisted cable assisted trail.

Moanalua Saddle

The red-headed stepchild of the more famous stairs on the front side. Photo by Orion Satori.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing down to one of five anchor platforms that was used to hang 7,600′ of cable antennas to the other side of the valley.

Haiku Valley

Looking down into amphitheater shaped valley that was ideally suited for naval communications during WW2 based on the mountain topography. Photo by Orion Satori.

Moanalua Saddle

The erosion begins. The fun begins.

Moanalua Saddle

Orion climbing down a particularly steep section of the ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris making his way down. Photo by Orion Satori.

Moanalua Saddle

The group climbing down the slippery rocks.

Dirt Triangle

Jackie climbing her way down the Leeward side of the rockface. Photo by Orion Satori.

Dirt Triangle

Chris making his way down. Photo by Orion Satori.

Dirt Triangle

Contouring our way around the ridge with background views of Moanalua Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

Back on the crumbly ridge line. Photo by Orion Satori.

Dirt Triangle

Orion with the background of the aptly named obstacle.

Moanalua Saddle

Dropping down the Windward side of the ridge with the bombproof transmitter building down on the valley floor known as the Omega Station. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Moanalua Saddle

Jackie contouring her way back to the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking down at the entrance tunnels for the H3 highway which runs roughly 5,000′ underneath the Ko’olau Mountains. Photo by Orion Satori.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing down the last “tricky” section of the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

The group coming down the narrow ridge line.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo at the terminus of our ridge line hike.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going down the spur ridge to hit the valley floor.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Crossing one of 23, 25 or 28 stream crossings. Who’s counting? Photo by Orion Satori.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Making our way underneath the twisted canopy of hau tree branches.

Kulana’ahane Junction

Back on the main trail that runs through Moanalua Valley.

Moanalua Valley

Crossing over one of seven stone bridges that pass over Moanalua stream. Photo by Orion Satori.

All pau

The introductory hike was a tad shy of eight miles and served up some challenging terrain with generous servings of spectacular views. Post hike meal at Dave & Busters where Taco Tuesday is now fashionable again.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers.

Neither clouds nor rain nor wind nor gloom of day will stay these hikers from their slow and steady completion of their appointed saddle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Trailhead

Thanks to CJ’s brother for dropping Aida, Chris, CJ, Justin, Lilyn, Tessa and myself off at the highway. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Powerlines

Rain showers swept the ridge line as we made our way up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Camp Centipede

Playing the waiting game. It should pass. Right? Group photo by CJ Mendiola, left to right: myself, Tessa, Lilyn, Chris, CJ, Aida and Justin.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Watching our footing as the rain finally left us. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Social distancing as we approached the witching hour. Comment credit Lilyn Avendano. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Witch’s Hat

Climbing up the backside of the conical shaped rock. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Witch’s Hat

Going down the front side. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Witch’s Hat

Watching everybody else make their way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling up the narrow ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Split Rock

Justin sitting on his perch with a commanding birds eye view of the ridge line. Just don’t stand up. Like somebody.

Split Rock

Everybody getting their photo on the scenic spot while the rock lasts. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Tabletop Rock

Left or right? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Take my picture. Please! Photo by Justin Suga.

Kalihi Saddle

Aida climbing her way around the eroded section. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Kalihi Saddle

Lilyn skipping on the saddle without a care in the world.

Rock Triangle #1

Justin scrambling up the Windward side of the rock face. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Rock Triangle #1

Smile for the camera. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up towards the next obstacle. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Tessa bringing up the rear. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Hot Wheels Track

The group hanging out as they discussed their deep thoughts and thought provoking matters at hand.

Rock Triangle #2

Watch out for falling rocks. Not to mention the wet ropes and wet rocks. Photo by Justin Suga.

Rock Triangle #2

Chris climbing his way up. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Rock Triangle #2

Is it really that vertical or is it just the camera angle? Enquiring minds want to know. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Rock Triangle #2

Lilyn making her way up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Broken Wave

Seeking shelter as showers of dirt and rocks were kicked loose by the ones going up. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Broken Wave

Weep crocodile tears for the wave that is gone, for it shall never return to its native land. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking ahead as some of the group had dropped off the ridge line to contour on the grassy Leeward side.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody apparently wanted to climb instead of contour but was talked out of it.

Dirty Slide

Justin pulling himself up the shifting slope. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Dirty Slide

Lilyn coming up after her minor tumble back down while trying to recover CJ’s spike. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Dirty Slide

You put your right foot there. You take your right foot out. You put your right foot there. And you pull yourself up. You do the hokey pokey. And you fall back down. That’s what it’s all about.

Dirty Slide

I updated my motivational playbook with a simulated golden shower to motivate somebody up a steep and slippery slope. Tony Robbins I am not. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Dirty Slide

Chris had his own form of motivation. It was more verbal than physical. Earplugs optional.

Dirty Slide

The elevator service was working overtime today. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Shaken but not stirred. Lilyn force fed Aida at finger point and kept her mind on the trail. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

CJ scrambling up the ridge line and out of the saddle.

Bowman Summit

Clear views to be had at the summit by all. Sushi and pho what was for lunch. Chris took his leave of us as he had to go home and cook for his sister’s birthday.

KSRT

The group traversing towards the last summit of the day.

Tripler Summit

Girls just want to have fun. Boys had to be talked into it.

Tripler Ridge

Going down the long ridge as we saw Chris passing others on his way down the neighboring Moanalua Middle Ridge. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Tripler Ridge

The rest of us coming down the trail that HECO marked. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

End of the Road

Marker 12 or bust? We had to recall some of our group to keep the ridge abbreviated. Photo by Justin Suga.

End of the Road Trail

Descending down the mossy and strawberry guava tree lined trail. Photo by Justin Suga.

End of the Road Trail

Some of us had so much mud on our shoes, that worms were right at home.

End of the Road Trail

Which tree? The big tree? Which tree?

Moanalua Valley

Following the pink ribbon that lead us through the overgrowth on the valley floor. Photo by Justin Suga.

Kulana’ahane Junction

We left the overgrown trail for … Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kamananui Valley Trail

… muddy trails. I don’t know which one is worse. Photo by Aida Gordon.

All pau

Exiting the trail at the Moanalua Valley Park where CJ’s son and daughter picked us up. Photo by Justin Suga.

GPS Tracks

Our protracted saddle hike covered a little over seven miles with new and old friends. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where we enjoyed the outdoor parking lot dining atmosphere.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers.

To begin this story, I have to rewind the clock back six days as Chris asked me to chronicle his KST one shot from South to North. Bear with me as I wasn’t with him until the last day. LOL.

Makapu’u Puka

Day 1 Sunday, November 8, 2020 – Tessa dropped Chris off at Makapu’u to start his journey across the Ko’olau Mountain Range. Nothing like a cold bottle of caffeinated cola to start ones day.

Sunrise

Catching the sun rising over the bulging eye.

Kamehame

Chris and his shadow to keep him company on the hike. It also pays to talk to oneself on the hike as well.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Safety tip: Always wear a hard hat while hiking to avoid being conked on the head by those falling pine cones.

Kamiloiki Summit

Enjoying the views of the Waimanalo coastline.

Tom-Tom Summit

Don’t worry, keep hiking.

Mariner’s Summit

Chris left the hard hat behind for other hikers that are a little bit more safety conscious.

Hahaione

Taking a picture as it will last longer.

Lost & Found

Chris found Quan’s cap that was lost on an earlier hike.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Setting up tent at the helipad. Home for the night.

Sunset

Capturing the sun as it goes down over the communications tower.

KSRT

Day 2 Monday, November 9, 2020 – Dropping in between the valley.

Sedan Rock

Contoured and met back up with the ridge line.

K2 Summit

No views at one of the testicles. Hold and cough.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Coming down the cloud soaked ridge line.

Chimney

Taking a break from selfies and taking a shoefie instead.

Chimney

Looking back at the hardest obstacle on this saddle as Chris made his way down past the notches and down to the lookout.

Camp Pali

Lilyn, Quan, Tessa and myself met up with Chris after work to give him food, drinks and company. Quan got her cap back as well. We left before the night marchers came out. Sleep tight.

Pali Puka

Day 3 Tuesday, November 10, 2020 – Looking for those views.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going up the crumbly saddle as the clouds rolled in from the ocean.

W

Chris about to contour and climb the donkey kong obstacle.

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle and onto more solid footing.

Lanihuli Summit

Clear views at the 2,700′ summit.

Kalihi Saddle

Taking another break from the selfies as Chris gets ready to ride the dirt dragon.

Lanihuli Wall

Testing out the new webbing.

Can Opener

Chris at the iconic photo spot, right before he got stuck going up the Doorstop. Elevator services were offline.

Doorstop

Looking back at the steepness that is Lanihuli Wall. Best appreciated in person from far away.

Bunny Ears

Coming off the pair of hills and heading towards Shark Fin. Getting hungry for Chinese food.

Powerlines

Dropping down towards the middle of the saddle as Chris pushed on. No rest for the weary.

Witch’s Hat

Looking back at the conical rock face.

Rock Triangle

Heading towards the hardest of the rock triangles. But first, Chris had to flash a shaka.

Kalihi Saddle

Heading towards the summit of Bowman after polishing off the saddle.

Tripler Summit

To camp or not to camp? Too early.

Stairway to Heaven

Only one soul in heaven today.

Food Pantry

When the rats are more thirsty than you.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris going down the stairs that time forgot.

Dirt Triangle

Somebody made use of the yellow rope that was sitting up there.

Camp Kulana’ahane

Chris pitched his tent on the summit with sweeping views of Halawa Valley and points beyond.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Day 4 Wednesday, November 11, 2020 – Catching the morning valley views.

Red Hill Summit

Still no closure after five years. Sad for the family.

Stairway to Hell

Never enter Hell without your tetanus shot.

REI Outlet

The selection was quite sparse. They need to stock up.

North Haiku Stairs

No views. Just shaka views.

KSRT

Rounding the bend around the fenced plant enclosure.

Aiea Summit

The man and his sign.

KSRT

Catching the Windward views.

KSRT

Rolling hills ahead.

Waimalu Meadows

The winds were blowing something fierce and snatched Chris’s phone out of his hands and flung it a good distance. Lucky it landed on the spongy ground and not off the cliff.

Waimano Summit

Home for the night with views overlooking Waihee Valley.

KSRT

Day 5 Thursday, November 12, 2020 – Looking back at the fluted flanks of the Ko’olau Mountains.

Eleao Meadows

Fence by fence, they will take over the mountains.

Manana Summit

End of trail? Not for Chris.

Corner

Last chance for H20.

KSRT

Approaching Waiawa Gap.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping into the gap.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing out of the gap.

Waiahole Windward

Reminiscing about the ridge from bushwhacking hell.

Kipapa Summit

Where the KSRT becomes the KST. Tomato. Tomatoe.

Tree of Life

Windy as usual. Stay here long enough and you too will become bent over.

KST

Keep the country country.

KST

Soaking in the spectacular Northern views.

Schofield Waikane Junction

To camp or not to camp? There were still a couple hours of daylight left. Press on.

KST

The rare Ko’olau Goose is getting long in the tooth and shorn of feathers.

Pauao Junction

Chasing the sun.

KST

The notch that dynamite built.

Poamoho Cabin

Home for the night.

Poamoho Cabin

Watching the sunset.

Poamoho Cabin

Day 6 Friday, November 13, 2020 – The morning sun streaming through the windows provided the wake up call in the mountains.

Poamoho Summit

Enjoying one of the best views on the island.

Cline Memorial

How many more miles do I have left?

KST

Going my way?

KST

Lobelia in bloom.

KST

Lobelia along the fence line.

Da Boot Junction

Surprising that the boot has held up this long.

KST

Lobelia in the meadows.

KST

The fence line following the convoluted topography of the KST.

KST

Lobelia overload.

Rabbit Hole

Slogging through more mud pits.

KST

Following the fence line to Papali.

Papali Junction

Running into Charlie at the summit. Small world.

KST

They don’t call this section the muddiest for nothing.

KST

Native loulu palm trees interrupting the ridge line.

KST

Sunbather or sacrificial lamb?

KST

Let’s get in one more mud bath, shall we?

Koloa Cabin

Open for business, despite the rumors.

Koloa Cabin

What’s for dinner? Oxtail soup? Prime rib, crab legs and asparagus? Salmon and Poke? Let’s get back to reality. Filipino sardines and rice it is.

Laie Trail

Day 7 Saturday, November 14, 2020 – Tessa and I met up at the trailhead to hike the six mile trail to the summit to meet Chris and continue with him to the finish line.

Koloa Cabin

Last day to be in the mountains!

Laie Trail

Tessa told me to wait at the summit for her, as she had to fertilize the mountains.

Laie Trail

Going up the humid, overgrown and wet trail. The joys of hiking.

KST

Chris leaving the cabin for the summit.

Laie Trail

The woman of the mountains.

KST

The man of the hour.

Laie Summit

Group photo in the foxhole. Chris got his requested Coke and snacks. Much needed nourishment after seven days in the mountains.

KST

Leaving the 2,240′ summit for the most overgrown section on the KST. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Making our way on the trail as the windmills pinwheeled in the background.

Maleakahana Junction

The glove that Chris left many years ago to replace the green sign that used to mark the spot.

KST

Winding our way through the lush landscape. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Halfway there and time for our lunch break.

KST

Tessa disappearing into the uluhell overgrowth.

KST

Tessa pulling Chris’s leg and then some.

KST

Pushing up the last hill through the strawberry guava corridor.

Puu Hina

Group photo at the summit overlooking the North Shore.

KST

Heading down to the finish line.

Black Junction

My traditional champagne dousing of the finisher. This time Chris got two for the price of one. Major congratulations to Chris Bautista for his second KST one shot (first documented both ways, North-South and South-North) and his sixth overall finish of the KST. #beastmode.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

We didn’t expect to see this individual when we popped out of the trail.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

You have cold beer in your backpack? Chris’s best buddy.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

Swinging my way down the road. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

Greet and scare. Aida, Lilyn and Quan were waiting in the bushes to surprise us. It worked for some.

All pau

Group photo left to right: Lilyn, Quan, Chris, myself, Tessa, Arnold and Aida. It was high time for somebody to take a shower as well.

Post hike meal

Dale also came up to congratulate Chris on his accomplishment. Thanks to the gang for bringing us cold drinks, pizza and chicken. Mahalo to Quan for making Chris a Corona lei. That beer didn’t help him catch any chickens. Also found out that chickens will eat their own kind. Fried to boot. Thanks to Lilyn for driving us to the showers and back to our cars in Laie.

Post hike meal Round 2

Chris, Tessa and myself then drove to Waianae for the WST one shot turned KST one shot party as well at Bill and Shirley’s house. One shot for the one shot team. Chris could finally dig in to oxtail soup, prime rib, crab legs, grilled asparagus, poke and mashed potatoes. Thanks to Shirley for giving me the only Coke in the house. Mahalo to Analyn for the oxtail soup to go order. Fun times with Analyn and Chris, Liezl and Micah, Mia, Matt, Mike and Amber.

GPS Tracks

Chris’s traversal from Makapu’u to Pupukea covered over 52 miles in seven days. Amazing accomplishment Chris! Props to you my friend.

GPS Tracks

Tessa and I hiked 12.8 miles in nine hours through some of the worst overgrowth this side of the KST. Fun times all around with good friends during and after the hike. Thanks to all that came out to support Chris. Mahalo!

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers.

Somebody’s apiphobia with well stung reasons found us back in the saddle again.

Trailhead

Thanks to Quan for dropping Katie, Lilyn and myself off on the side of the highway.

Powerlines

The kid gloves are off. The $5 safety gloves are on for what some claim is the hardest section of the KST. The jury is still out on that.

Powerlines

Looking ahead to the saddle whose summit was sheathed in clouds. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Starting our day off right. Forget the waterfall hikes. This is where it’s at. LOL.

Witch’s Hat

When a hat doesn’t look like a hat. From the backside. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Witch’s Hat

Climbing up our first obstacle of the day. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Witch’s Hat

Katie making her way to the top.

Witch’s Hat

What goes up, must come down. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Witch’s Hat

When a hat looks like a hat. From the frontside.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic view from the iconic spot. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking ahead to our climb up the saddle.

Tabletop

Climb or contour. Go big or go home. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Walking on a tightrope of a ridge.

Rock Triangle

Katie going up the Windward side of the rock face. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Rock Triangle

No time to check out the jaw dropping views behind us.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Now we have time.

Rock Triangle

Katie spotting me with her GoPro. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Rock Triangle

No elevator services required. It warmed the cockles of my heart.

Broken Wave

Katie scrambling up the hill whose small rocks and dirt constantly move underfoot. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Broken Wave

Putting one foot in front of the other and you will get to the top.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring in the grassy fields.

Dirty Slide

Going up the slippery and sliding hill that requires upper body strength in abundance. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Dirty Slide

Lilyn coming up the saddle that she described as her favorite hike. Still feel the same?

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way around the Leeward side of the heavily eroded ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way out of the dusty saddle.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Traversing the several false peaks before the summit of Kahuauli. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Bowman Summit

Congrats to Katie for completing the three saddles of the KST. We were going down the backside of another as a bonus. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Going down the rutted trail also used by HECO workers as marked by their heavy duty ropes.

KSRT

We are not climbing. We are not trespassing. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Going up towards the peak that towers above the Windward neighborhoods and valleys.

Puu Keahi a Kahoe

Making our way up to the eerily deserted CCL building. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Stairway to Heaven

We were not walking down the flight of 3,922 steps. We were taking the easier way down.

Stairway to Heaven

Going down the backside.

KSRT

Checking out the views from one of several platforms that once housed antenna wires that were strung across the valley. Engineering marvels of its day. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Lilyn coming down the overgrown stairs.

Jump

Photo bomber. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

The candid face hiking.

Moanalua Saddle

Perched at the scenic overlook. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Why climb down when you can jump down.

Moanalua Saddle

Going down the most eroded section of the saddle. Which is not saying much; as the whole saddle is slowly falling apart, rock by rock, dirt by dirt. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Katie spotting Lilyn with her GoPro.

Moanalua Saddle

Scooting our way down the crumbly ridge line. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Lilyn mindful of her footing coming down the rock pile after Katie dislodged a rock. Rock by rock. Piece by piece.

Dirt Triangle

Contouring our way down the ridge line. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Dirt Triangle

Trying to take a photo and not get hit by falling rocks. Multi-tasking at its finest.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the biggest and most well known obstacle on this saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring down the Windward side. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Katie making her way along the narrow strip of dirt that passed for a trail.

Moanalua Saddle

What are we looking at here? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Human anchor pressed back into service. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

The candid face at rest.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving the saddle behind us.

Kulana’ahane Summit

All smiles. Done with the saddles. Time to head down. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going down into the valley that are home to five distinct forest types and nine miles of streams. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Nobody kept track of the stream crossings. It was hard enough to keep track of the seven bridge crossings.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Heading into one of many hau tree groves that dotted the trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Valley

End of the trail. We still had that seemingly never ending road to walk out. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

All pau

End of the road. We piled into my truck and headed to our KST party.

Post hike meal

We met up with Aida, Allison, Analyn, Anne, Ed, Janell, Laredo, Quan, Sally and Tessa at the not so secret spot to have our celebration to thank everybody for their support during our KST one shot hike. Thanks to everybody for cooking, coming out and putting up the makeshift tent.

Post hike meal

Despite the fact that it literally rained on our parade, it was good times with fun company and scarfing down the chicken and papaya, oxtail soup, pancit and cheesecake.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered 7.8 miles that had us passing through heaven and ended with good friends and ono eats. Not a bad way to spend the day.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers.