The birthday boy wanted a repeat of Kalihi Saddle for his hike. So we did it with a twist today.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks to Matt’s dad for dropping Akira, Amber, Matt, Roger, Tessa and myself where we possibly glimpsed a rare yellow striped macropod hopping through the valley.

Camp Centipede

Group photo where we stashed extra food and water for our return trip back down.

Kalihi Saddle

Scenic pisses. Not to be confused with golden showers.

Kalihi Saddle

Traversing on the narrow ridge line as we approached Witch’s Hat.

Witch’s Hat

Somebody was probably thinking “Didn’t we just do this two weeks ago?”

Witch’s Hat

Tessa climbing her way down against the backdrop of Windward Oahu.

Witch’s Hat

Scooting our way down the front side or back side. Depends on which way you’re going.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way up on exposed rocks on the eroded ridgeline. Or was it the other way around?

Kalihi Saddle

Amber looking back at the scenic spot of Witch’s Hat.

Hump

Climbing over the hill to get to the destination. Wishing each other happy hump day, to acknowledge that the hike can be challenging.

Wave

Hiking with the flow.

Kalihi Saddle

Watching our steps as we made our way along the uneven, narrow and crumbly ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger scrambling up past the tabletop rockface.

Rock Triangle #1

Rope inspection. Nothing to see here. Move along.

Rock Triangle #1

Akira pulling himself up to safe ground.

Rock Triangle #2

Clouds started to roll in that was accompanied by passing sprinkles.

Hot Wheel Tracks

The group making their way over the shelf of rock and dirt seemingly hanging precariously off the cliff.

Rock Triangle #2

Matt flashing the obligatory shaka in the mountains. Many theories abound as to the origin of the state’s official gesture; ranging from a train guard, to a shark bite and to immigrants. But most all agree that the shaka means the aloha spirit.

Broken Wave

The mountains seemed to be steaming as we made our way up the eroded runway of a ridge line.

Dirty Slide

Contouring our way on the uneven and overgrown flank of the mountain. The hardest part of the hike.

Dirty Slide

Why pull, when you can claw your way up the eroded top? Exactly!

Kalihi Saddle

Staying on the cloud free side of the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger making his way around the short stretch of exposed and eroded ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Falling rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

What goes up must come down. Truer words have never been spoken by Isaac Newton.

Kalihi Saddle

Getting back on the ridge line.

Broken Wave

Roger watching Amber make her way down the rain of rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt descending down to the section where a fellow hiker had fallen over a year ago, after the webbing had snapped on him.

Kalihi Saddle

More falling rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Play Misty for Me. And now here’s a pretty one for lonely hikers on a cool, cool day. Creative license taken.

Rock Triangle #2

Matt climbing his way down. Somebody put shiny webbing on this rockface that can be seen from miles away. Slight exaggeration.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Roger leaving the rock fall prone area for safer ground. Relatively speaking.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Happy Birthday Akira-san! Many more smoky returns.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Amber going down the eroded shelf of dirt barely passing itself off as a ridge line.

Rock Triangle #2

An aerial perspective as Matt launched his drone.

Kalihi Saddle

Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a drone!

Rock Triangle #1

Looking for my next foothold as I made my way down.

Rock Triangle #1

Drone view of the group climbing down the rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Amber going over the new dirt dragon.

Kalihi Saddle

Waiting for the rest of the group as we soaked in the views on the postage stamp sized seats.

Tabletop

Leaving as we didn’t have reservations.

Wave

Going against the flow.

Hump

Climbing down an obstacle is infinitely less preferable than going up. You got to do what you got to do.

Witch’s Hat

It was too early for Halloween.

Witch’s Hat

Amber looking back at the steep climb we had just descended.

Witch’s Hat

Watching the rest of the group making their way down along with some stray rocks that made their way down as well.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking back to our starting point.

Camp Centipede

Lunch in the mountains. Beef and cheese sticks, musubi, ramen and spam and of course, steak and rice. All washed down with carbonated sodas and H20. Shall we continue?

Powerlines

Passing the powerlines as we pushed towards the direction of Lanihuli.

Shark Fin

Climbing and contouring our way around this particular rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

This side of the saddle is longer, but generally less steep and not as denuded as the other side. Just my opinion.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way towards the peak of Lanihuli. Pipe dream.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira balancing on the thin ridge line. First rule of falling. Don’t fall. Second rule of falling. If you have to fall, fall on the Leeward side.

Bunny Ears

Standing on the magic mushroom rock. Natural high in the mountains.

Bunny Ears

The group climbing their way up the thin, weathered ribbon of rocks.

Bunny Ears

Making our way to the clump of pine trees on the peak of the first rockface.

Bunny Ears

Roger climbing up to another clump of pine trees on the second rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

I can see the Dirt Dragon! Look, but don’t touch.

Doorstop

Akira climbing his way down the eroded rockface. Hey, where is everybody else? The spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak. The rest of the group decided to call it a day. I had at least wanted to make it to the Dirt Dragon. But it was not in the cards. Well, the mountains will always be there.

Pimple

I climbed to the top and briefly stood up as the gusty winds buffeted me, so I lowered my center of gravity lest I become a pimple on the saddle myself.

Doorstop

Akira trying to fruitlessly secure the ropes against the strong winds that were fighting against his good intentions.

Doorstop

Making my way to the top.

Doorstop

It was time to turn around and go back home.

Doorstop

The group hiking to rejoin Tessa who had stayed on the last Bunny Ear due to leg cramps.

Bunny Ears

Scooting our way down the crumbly side of the rockface.

Bunny Ears

Tickling the Bunny Ears as we traversed between the two rockfaces.

Bunny Ears

The group climbing down the last Bunny Ear. Too late for Easter.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking on the edge. Luckily, the islands have trade winds for the most part, which pushes us away from the sheer drops. Kona winds are not your friend in the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

Drone view of the group climbing down from Shark Fin.

Powerlines

Making our way down to the col in the saddle.

Powerlines

Last group photo of the day.

Powerlines

The drone has landed. No severed or cut fingers.

All pau

Amber and Matt playing on a natural teeter-totter in the woods. Mahalo to Matt’s dad for picking us up and taking us back to our cars!

GPS Tracks

Our back and forth hike covered less than four miles of focused climbing and scrambling all day. While we did not complete the intended goals, it was a fun day for all and there is always a next time. Kudos to the group for agreeing to my plan and coming down safely in one piece.

Max’s of Waipahu

Akira has a new love in his life now. Just look at that smile. Any more wider and his face would split open. Move over Tessa.

Max’s of Waipahu

Thanks to Agnes, Aileen, Cat, Dale, Edgar, Mari, Marilyn, and Mona for coming out to celebrate Akira’s birthday with good company and fun times.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Amber Fonte, Matt Vidaurri, Roger Schiffman, 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.

We picked up where we had left off from last weekend. Staged our cars at Moanalua Valley and briefly talked to the police officers (popo) watching the valley 24/7 while somebody used the bathroom. The slang “popo” originated in Southern California when police officers on bicycles wore t-shirts with PO (police officer) printed on them. Riding in pairs, they would spell out po-po. Thanks to Cinja for giving us a ride before her hike. Amber was there just for the photo shoot.

Kalihi Saddle

Left the humid valley of yet to be seen wallabies and broke out on the exposed ridge cooled with abundant trade winds.

Kalihi Saddle

Skirting the narrow ridge bordered with bushes on one side and steep drops on the other side.

Witch’s Hat

Roger climbing up the back side.

Witch’s Hat

Tessa climbing up the conical shaped rockface.

Witch’s Hat

Looking ahead to the steep and unrelenting climb ahead of us.

Witch’s Hat

Akira downclimbing the front side of the hat.

Kalihi Saddle

Which rock is crumbly and which one is not? Playing Jenga in the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of the group cresting over one of many high points on the ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Keeping our center of gravity low as the winds pushed us around on the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira keeping his balance as he “rides” the wave on the ridge line.

Tabletop

Roger finding his own way.

Tabletop

Tessa climbing her way up the rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Straddling the new dirt dragon. The other one is set to retire soon.

Rock Triangle

Climbing up on the exposed Windward side.

Rock Triangle

Roger providing photographic support.

Rock Triangle

Pulling myself up on the Leeward side of the rockface.

Rock Triangle

Roger climbing his way up.

Rock Triangle

Tessa’s turn to climb up the rockface.

Broken Wave

Akira coming up the uneven runway of loose and shifting dirt and rocks.

Dirty Slide

Everybody had to eat their Wheaties to make it up this one. It was probably the most physically exhausting in terms of upper body strength.

Dirty Slide

Akira standing on the crumbly edge. Not too far out, just far enough.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger scrambling over the bulging rock.

Kalihi Saddle

The group climbing up the thin strip of loose dirt that passed for a ridge line.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Soaking in the mountain views after our climb out of the saddle.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the 2,740′ summit of Pu’u Kahuauli (Bowman).

Bowman Summit

Chef Suzuki cooking up his signature steak in the mountains. More butter and medium rare please.

Bowman Summit

Secondhand smoke. Psychoactive collateral damage?

KSRT

Traversing between summits, as we left Kahuauli (Bowman) and headed towards the summits of Kaho’omoe ‘ihikapulani (Tripler) and Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe (Stairway).

KSRT

Climbing up the hill as we left the defunct relay station behind us.

KSRT

Are we on Moanalua Middle Ridge? The ruts that serve as the paths of least resistance for water erosion and foot travel have taken its toll on the landscape.

Stairway to Heaven

This is where I asked AI to step in and construct what a hike past this point would look like given the current conditions surrounding this controversial and iconic symbol.

Stairway to Heaven

Roger had never stepped foot before on Haiku Stairs. Thanks to AI, he can now say he was on part of the 3,922 steps that make up the storied stairway.

Stairway to Heaven

AI showing us going down to the first platform behind the CCL building.

Stairway to Heaven

This is what one of the detached modules looks like according to AI.

Stairway to Heaven

AI rendering of our group on the last platform before the trail descends down into Moanalua Saddle.

Stairway to Heaven

I think there was a glitch in the AI as it showed me on the grassy slope instead of on the stairs. Still got some bugs to work out.

Stairway to Heaven

Roger can thank AI for showing him on both sides of the stairs.

Stairway to Heaven

This is what AI thinks Stairway to Heaven looks like. Close but no cigar.

Stairway to Heaven

AI will have to generate new deepfake photos when the stairs are finally relegated to the dustbin of history.

Stairway to Heaven

I asked for an AI rendering of heaven at the top. Nothing is perfect.

KSRT

Retracing our steps, as we hiked back to the summit of Bowman. Not going to lie, that was more exhausting than we had originally thought it was going to be.

Bowman Trail

We left the KSRT as we took the trail off the summit.

Bowman Trail

Passing through the extremely wet environment that dominated this particular patch in the mountains.

Bowman Trail

Finding our way as it was extremely overgrown at the top. Ribbons and faint paths helped us to get back on the trail.

Bowman Trail

Switch backing our way down the side of the mountain with ropes that have probably been there as long as the mountain itself. Slight exaggeration.

Bowman Trail

Can you see the face for the mountain?

Commando Shortcut

Going down the spur ridge pioneered by the hardy folks at HTMC.

Kalihi Valley

We followed the trail of bottles and sound of motor vehicles to find our way out of the tropical valley that borders northern Honolulu.

Likelike Highway

Broke out of the valley and took a rest on the highway that was first built in 1954 and fully open to the public in 1968.

Likelike Highway

Thanks to Agnes for picking us up on the side of the highway with drinks and snacks.

All pau

“You guys wasn’t the one that posted the picture?” “This morning?” “You guys went post a pic of the popo and stuff like that? Thats you guys eh?” “I get the picture right here.” It’s always nice to be recognized in public. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where the food order did not match the food delivery.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Akira Suzuki, Roger Schiffman, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order. Congrats to Roger for making his first saddle look like a piece of cake and the rest of the group for the always fun company.

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 Chris, Chun, and Ferlino in Moanalua Valley to be shuttled by Jasmin to the trailhead. Photo by Chris Bautista

Trailhead

We waited for Anne as the weekend traffic whizzed passed us; expecting oxtail soup, but instead was just graced by her presence. I guess that will have to do.

Kalihi Valley

Panoramic view of the jagged saddle overlooking the valley that was once known for its fishponds, but now home to a colony of rock wallabies.

Powerlines trail

Hammering our way up the powerlines trail.

Powerlines

The hammer had more balance than somebody on this sawed off pole. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up to Camp Centipede, thankfully the tenants were not home.

Kalihi Saddle

Rounding the knob through knee high shrubbery.

Witch’s Hat

Making our way up the crumbly backside. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Witch’s Hat

Coming down the conical shaped rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking ahead to the crumbly ridge line ahead of us.

Kalihi Saddle

Chun had the best seat in the house.

Kalihi Saddle

Humping it over the rock, hiking like it was a Wednesday. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Kalihi Saddle

Chris all smiles after crossing a saddle on a saddle. Photo by Chris Chun.

Kalihi Saddle

Making my way to tabletop rock. Photo by Chris Chun.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling up by branch, rock or root; whatever would safely get us up.

Kalihi Saddle

Approaching the first rock triangle. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalihi Saddle

Thankfully we had favorable weather on our saddle hike today.

Kalihi Saddle

I forgot if I was yawning or yelling. Photo by Chris Chun

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of the group making their way on what I call the Hot Wheels Track, a chunk of earth seemingly suspended above the earth.

Kalihi Saddle

Is this thing safe? Photo by Chris Chun

Kalihi Saddle

Hanging out at the broken wave.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring on the Leeward side of the ridge. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalihi Saddle

Pulling ourselves up the dirty slide. Photo by Chris Bautista

Kalihi Saddle

No views at all up here, let’s check Facebook to keep us occupied until the others make it up.

Kalihi Saddle

Dirt surfing on the saddle. Photo by Chris Chun

Kalihi Saddle

Chun pondering the age old question; over or around?

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Looking towards Heaven as the clouds slowly collected and gathered near the mountains.

KSRT

Pushing up the final steep climb to …

Kahuauli Summit

… where we had our lunch at the socked in summit of Bowman.

KSRT

Shaking off the kanak attack, we resumed hiking on the cloud soaked ridge.

Tripler Summit

What? Nobody wants to do the sun dance? Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KSRT

Chris nearing the second set of power lines on the ridge.

KSRT

Climbing up the hill towards the defunct relay station or is it now active?

KSRT

I guess hanging upside down is not the same as climbing. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Lady avoids being on the six o’clock news. Chris bumped into this visitor who thought this was the way to Stairway to Heaven.

KSRT

This is the way to Heaven, filled with mud and a deeply rutted trail.

Stairway to Heaven

Group photo at the CCL building. Heaven was closed for business. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Stairway to Heaven

Weather conditions did not look too sunny, so the group decided to take the safer route back down. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Moanalua Middle Ridge (MMR)

Leaving Heaven behind us as we dropped in elevation.

MMR

Escaping the clouds but not the erosion and crowds on the trail. At least we got the views back.

MMR

Chillin’ in my own cave. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kulana’ahane Trail

To knock or not knock down? Such is the age old question.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Chun looking forward to hiking four more miles in the valley.

All pau

When you have too much time with your feet, you end up playing hopscotch in the dirt.

GPS Tracks

Short and sweet saddle hike with good friends. When you confuse Salt Lake with Moanalua, you end up eating at Ramen-Ya for your post meal hike.

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.

Helped a friend to finish a ridge and another to celebrate her birthday today. It was also a nice day to be alive and hiking as we all managed to survive the false missile alert that gave everybody a pause yesterday.

Trailhead

Met up with Daryl and Mia at the parking lot as Amber, Anne, Clayton, Jan and Robin had already pushed off on the trail. Chris was running late.

Kamananui Valley Trail

The construction bees have been quite busy in the back of the valley. Unsubstantiated rumors that the concrete roads are meant for soon to come paying tours to crowd out the free loading hikers from these trails filled the air.

Kamananui Valley Trail

The stairs? Where we’re going, there are no stairs.

Marker 12

Passing the traditional short cut to Tripler Ridge. We were not being traditional today.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Met up with the rest of the group at the start of the spur ridge we called Pueo after the sign that marks the trailhead.

Pueo Ridge

We followed the clearly trodden trail through knee high uluhell ferns until …

Pueo Ridge

… the trail took on a steeper pitch packed with strawberry guava trees.

Pueo Ridge

Group photo as we gained the semi-exposed ridge. Photo by Anne Fai.

Pueo Ridge

Looking out towards Moanalua Valley with her cloud puffs.

Pueo Ridge

The point where Clayton turned around on his prior solo hike. Time to push forward.

Pueo Ridge

Making our way under and over the twisted trees. Photo by Clayton Takemoto.

Pueo Ridge

Rotten rocks and questionable trees laid ahead of us.

Pueo Ridge

After a short stretch of raining rocks and voices in the valley, we soon scrambled to more solid footing on the ridge.

Pueo Ridge

Sometimes I think a pair of knee pads belongs in my pack. Photo by Clayton Takemoto.

Pueo Ridge

Anne threading her way through the barrier of strawberry guava trees to step foot on Tripler Ridge. Photo by Clayton Takemoto.

Tripler Ridge

Group photo left to right: Chris, Daryl, Clayton, myself, Amber, Jan, Mia, Anne and Robin.

Tripler Ridge

We bumped into members of the HTMC group on the ridge.

Naupaka Kahakai

Passing the happy half of the flower in the mountains.

Tripler Ridge

We ran into Rich Bailey who was videoing the group on their hike.

Tripler Ridge

Pushing up the last hill on the ridge to the summit.

Tripler Ridge

Waiting for our lunch to be delivered.

Tripler Summit

A visual feast for the eyes.

Max’s of Manila

Thanks to Anne for making oxtail soup, Filipino spaghetti, and kalua pig and cabbage. We had a fully loaded feast on the summit. Talk about a kanak attack. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Cake Couture

Blowing out the candle and making a wish. Photo by Clayton Takemoto.

Tripler Summit

Group photo by Rich Bailey.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit behind along with Amber and Clayton who went down Moanalua Middle Ridge.

Bowman Summit

Mia passing the 2,740′ summit of Pu’u Kahuauli.

KSRT

The group scooting their way down the grassy ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking by the seats of our pants.

Kalihi Saddle

Robin contouring on the Leeward side of the cracked ridge.

Creeping Corner

Mia making her way around the sliding dirt area. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Dirty Rope Slide

One at a time going down. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at the others climbing and cramping their way down.

Coca-Cola

The pause that refreshes. Photo by Robin Farr.

Saddle Orientation

We are going down there. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Jan making her way down past the broken wave.

Kalihi Saddle

Mia scooting along the narrow ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Jan climbing down the first rock triangle with rope that was a tad short from the bottom.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl, despite advice given and not taken, took the butt express slide down. Mia and Anne took the belly express slide down. Chris sticked his landing and then fell flat on his face. Fun in the mountains and we didn’t even have to pay for it. Photos by Robin Farr.

Kalihi Saddle

The weathered tree had finally withered away.

Kalihi Saddle

Going down. Photo by Robin Farr.

Kalihi Saddle

Going down the Windward side of the second rock triangle to avoid the hanging, clustered ropes on the Leeward side.

Kalihi Saddle

The group passing tabletop rock on their way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Everybody taking their turn to scoot over the hump.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl spotting the rest of the group making their way down.

Majestic Mountains

As we were dropping into the saddle, a familiar red jacketed individual appeared at the top of Witch’s Hat. Photo by Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Eye in the sky. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Coming down the mountain.

Witch’s Hat

Climbing up the hat. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic view from the top.

Witch’s Hat

Which way do we look? Photos by Anne Fai and Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Jan on her way to the knob.

Kalihi Saddle

Dropping down the backside of Witch’s Hat. Photo by Chris Bautista.

All pau

It was lights out as Mia had the last cupcake that was meant for the other birthday boy who couldn’t make it to today’s hike. Photo by Chris Bautista.

GPS Tracks

Our birthday hike covered a little over six miles that was filled with ono food and fun company. Mahalo to Clayton and Richie for picking us up on the side of the highway. Post hike meal was satisfied on the spot thanks to Clayton bringing us tasty beverages to wash down the still warm chicken sandwiches.

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.

Back in the saddle. Met up with Chris, Ethan, Khym and Scott in Kaneohe.

Trailhead

Thanks to Scott’s friend, Alvin, for dropping us off on the side of the highway.

Kalihi Valley

Looking for wallabies …

Kalihi Valley

… deep in the valley. I think we found some. Rather large ones. Let’s keep our distance.

Commando Trail

Shout out to HTMC for clearing this shortcut to the Bowman trail.

Commando Trail

Chris hanging around. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Commando Trail

We are not alone. We are not pigs.

Commando Trail

Scott making his way up the short and steep spur ridge.

Commando Trail

End of the cleared and defined trail. What is everybody looking at?

Commando Trail

Oh, the view. Kodak moment.

Bowman Trail

The “face” of Bowman.

Bowman Trail

Looking up at two moons. Which one is brighter? Photo by Scott Bowling.

Bowman Trail

Topping out at the “face” of Bowman. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Bowman Trail

Scott walking through the dewy bog at the top.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the 2,740′ socked in summit of Pu’u Kahuauli (Bowman), left to right: Scott, Ethan, myself, Khym and Chris. Where are you going? That way? No, this way. Wanna bet?

KSRT

No plucking of the flowers. We already got clouds. Don’t need rain as well.

KSRT

Time to put on our spikes and gloves for those so inclined. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

KSRT

Dropping down into the clouds. Photo by Scott Bowling.

Kalihi Saddle

Khym making his way along the fractured ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting over the crumbly rocks. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Psst, it’s this way. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Khym and Scott coming around and down the crumbly hill.

Kalihi Saddle

Got webbing? Inside joke. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Scott making his way down the slippery slope.

Kalihi Saddle

Clouds, clouds go away. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Please don’t kick any rocks my way. Thank you. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

The shaka brothers making their first appearance at the top.

Kalihi Saddle

Ethan barreling down the broken dirt wave. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Windward views.

Kalihi Saddle

Khym making his way down the first rock triangle.

Kalihi Saddle

How Scott deals with OCD behavior. “I hear you Khym. I’m just ignoring you.”

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way past the overhang. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

What a view! Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

What’s up?

Kalihi Saddle

Almost there. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Khym scooting down the crumbly rocky ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

One hand on the ridge and one hand for the shaka. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Scott coming down the second rock triangle, as the shaka brothers make another appearance.

Kalihi Saddle

Valley views.

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving behind the second rock triangle.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking out to the clear summit of Lanihuli.

Kalihi Saddle

The group coming down tabletop rock. We found a cut or discarded rope at the base.

Kalihi Saddle

Crossing the mini-saddle. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

The group coming down the skinny ridgeline.

Kalihi Saddle

The Silence of the Saddles. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Thinking. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

The group making their way along a narrow dike section.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way down the crumbly ridgeline. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up Witch’s Hat. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Contour? Where we’re going, we don’t need contours. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Kalihi Saddle

Khym pulling himself up.

Kalihi Saddle

Group photo on top of Witch’s Hat.

Kalihi Saddle

Coming down the backside of Witch’s Hat. We found another cut or discarded rope at the base.

Kalihi Saddle

Almost there. Really. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Kalihi Saddle

Goodbye Bowman, until next time.

Powerlines Trail

Last group photo.

Powerlines Trail

Making our way back down to the valley floor.

Powerlines Trail

Somebody left the gate open.

Kalihi Valley

Chris and Khym seeking shelter from the hot sun.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks again to Alvin for picking us up on the side of the highway.

All pau

Our breezy ride back to the Windward side.

GPS Tracks

Our short saddle hike covered a scant 3.64 miles over crumbly ridgelines with a great group. Post hike meal at Dean’s Drive Inn. Food tastes better when it’s free. Sorry about the beer. That’s what you get when you ask a non-drinker.

Note: I have been made aware the 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.

I met up with Matt and Thessa deep in the heart of mini-marsupial country.

Trailhead

Matt and Thessa going down the electric road. Thanks to David Kwong for dropping off us in style. German style.

Kalihi Valley

Route 63 slicing through the edge.

Sunrise

We caught a nice sunrise sandwiched between the clouds and mountains.

Deja Vu

Back in the saddle. Again. It was cold and windy. Time to put my beanie and sweater on. Safety first.

Kalihi Saddle

We left the power lines to contour around the knob.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt and Thessa making their way up the hump.

Kalihi Saddle

Thessa and myself on the hump. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Making my way up the saddle. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Thessa coming down Witch’s Hat.

Kalihi Saddle

It was a nice and breezy day to be on the saddle. The wind could have been dialed down just a tad.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt and Thessa coming down Sailor’s Hat. I just made that up.

Kalihi Saddle

Hey, is this rope clear? Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt making his way up.

Kalihi Saddle

The photographer being photographed. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Where? There! We saw two hikers coming up behind us on the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt brushed past me to answer the call of nature. The fermented smell of kim chee and bolgogi hit the air like a taekwondo kick. Sucked to be downwind.

Kalihi Saddle

The last known sighting of the saddle “wave.”

Kalihi Saddle

Matt shooting the curl.

Kalihi Saddle

Thessa closing out the wave.

Kalihi Saddle

One step forward. Two steps back. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Spikes and upper body strength recommended on this crumbly section.

Kalihi Saddle

In the brown room, before somebody *ahem* closes it out. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Thessa coming around the last crumbly section.

Panoramic view

Windward view.

KSRT

Traversing to Pu’u Kahuauli (Bowman) summit with Tripler Ridge and Haiku Stairs in the background.

KSRT

Looking back at one of the false peaks that eclipsed our view of the saddle.

Bowman summit

Group photo at the top looking down towards Bowman Windward, left to right: myself, Matt and Thessa.

Bowman summit

The two hikers that were trailing us, happened to be part of a larger group. They were the “goats” of the group. Group photo by Matt Vidaurri, left to right: myself, Steve, Paul and Thessa.

Bowman trail

We had a short lunch at the summit sunning ourselves. When it was time to leave the summit, Paul and Steve decided to join us going down the Commando trial.

Bowman trail

Thessa in the bog.

Bowman trail

Switch backing down the mountain.

Bowman trail

A clear day on the Waianae Mountain Range.

Bowman trail

Matt and Thessa coming down the “face” of Bowman.

Commando trail

Paul and Steve heading down the Commando trail, a spur ridge pioneered by HTMC. Thanks to Lonnie Hammack for the information and tracks on this trail.

Commando trail

The trail was a nice shortcut from the Bowman trail. Probably shaved at least five miles.

Commando trail

Looking back at Kalihi Saddle as we made our way down to the valley floor.

Commando trail

Civilization sighted. Matt and Thessa were still off in the woods, trying to find those elusive wallabies.

All pau

We parted ways with Paul and Steve who had their own arranged pick up. Mahalo to David for picking us up again.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered a scant three miles. Post hike meal at Au’s Garden. It was the least we could do to eat at David’s restaurant since he dropped and picked us up. Craving Chinese food? Chow down at Au’s Garden in Kalihi. Then crave again 30 minutes later.

Note: I have been made aware the 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.

Met up with Justin, Pip and Thessa to get back in the mountains and hike a saddle.

Haiku Stairs

We found over three dozen hikers clustered inside and outside the CCL building. I found out the majority of the hikers had simply strolled past the guard at the bottom and climbed up the stairs. What the heck? The only current legal access is through Moanalua Valley.

Haiku Stairs

City lights.

Relay station

Passing the defunct radar station nestled in between Moanalua Middle Ridge and Tripler Ridge.

Dawn

The magical moment before the sun crests over the horizon. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Sunrise

Good morning from Kahuauli (Bowman) summit. Group photo by Justin Hirako, left to right: myself, Justin, Thessa and Pip.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

Looking back towards Stairway to Heaven.

Bowman side

Leaving the summit to start our descent down into the saddle.

Bowman side

Justin making his way over one crumbly rock at a time.

Bowman side

Bowman’s crumbly character has not aged well since I last paid a visit.

Bowman side

The crew watching to see if I would pull an Icarus or billy goat.

Bowman side

Watching out for showers of dirt and falling rocks as Thessa made her way down.

Bowman side

We contoured around to get back on the crumbly ridge.

Bowman side

Are those webbings safe? Well, let’s see. They’ve been out here, for who knows how long. Weathered by the sun. Pounded by the rain. Used repeatedly by countless hikers of unknown weights. 24/7. Yeah, we should be good. Always bring your own webbing to the party.

Bowman side

Justin soaking in the view.

Bowman side

The watcher being watched. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Bowman side

Let’s stop and take a group photo on this crumbly ridge. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Bowman side

Pip hiking on the edge of the ridge.

Bowman side

Justin making his way down.

Bowman side

Pip climbing down one of the rock faces.

Bowman side

Justin making his way down.

Bowman side

Pip straddling the baby dirt dragon.

Bowman side

Justin taking a selfie. On a crumbly ridge.

Bowman side

Thessa making her way around a wobbly rock.

Bowman side

Pip making his way down to the Witch’s Hat.

Bowman side

Justin and Thessa scooting over the hump.

Bowman side

Pip climbing up the Witch’s Hat. Somebody left a rope. Ropes everywhere. A good and bad sign that certain trails are becoming more popular.

Bowman side

Justin making his way over the skinny ridge.

Bowman side

Pip cruising to the middle of the saddle.

Bowman side

We dropped over 1,000′ in elevation going down into the saddle.

Power lines

Justin and Thessa coming over to join us in the shade for a little break.

Lanihuli side

What goes down must go back up. We still had to climb up 1,200′ in elevation to make it to the top of Lanihuli.

Lanihuli side

The crew threading their way on the skinny ridge.

Lanihuli side

Approaching Shark’s Fin. I could go for some Chinese food now.

Lanihuli side

Pip coming down the backside.

Lanihuli side

Making our way to the bunny ears.

Lanihuli side

The crew making their way down the backside of the last bunny ear. Where was the foot?

Lanihuli side

Thessa coming down the doorstop, Justin in the middle and Pip popping the pimple. Say that three times real fast.

Lanihuli side

The can opener. Time for lunch. Hmmm, did I bring my can of Spam?

Lanihuli side

Group photo by Justin Hirako below the can opener.

Lanihuli side

Pip contouring around the can opener.

Lanihuli side

Justin and Thessa climbing up the Lanihuli Wall.

Lanihuli side

Justin and Thessa on the last leg of the Wall.

Lanihuli side

Pip contouring along the Wall.

Lanihuli side

Almost there. Our upper body strength was put to good use on this section.

Lanihuli side

There. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Lanihuli side

No rest for the weary. Up, up and more up.

Lanihuli side

The three amigos riding the dirt dragon.

Lanihuli side

False peak.

Lanihuli side

Justin popping up over the ridge.

Lanihuli side

Enough sightseeing. Back to hiking.

Lanihuli side

Almost there. We can see the summit.

Lanihuli summit

Who wants to go to Pali Puka? Crickets. Okay, let’s go down the valley. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Alewa Ridge

Justin going down the ridge. Thessa set a good pace and was blazing down the trail. Guess she really wanted to go home in a hurry. Or she was just really hungry. Photo by Valentin Ordonez.

Alewa ridge

Justin going down the spur ridge that would take us down to the valley.

Mo’ole Valley

The crew taking a short break at the base of the ridge.

Mo’ole Valley

One of seven waterfalls fed by the Mo’ole stream. A teasing trickle. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Mo’ole Valley

Walking through the valley, formerly known as Hillebrand Glen. Photo by Justin Hirako.

All pau

Awesome hike with a great crew. Our hike covered roughly 9.22 miles. We had a small problem when we popped out of the valley and found ourselves sitting next to the Pali Highway. Our ride called in sick. Uber? No drivers in the area. 422-2222? Quick. Jump in Lindsay’s car before Frank Delima chases us down. Post hike meal at Dennys. More bang for your buck.

Note: I have been made aware the 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.

Back in the saddle again. A heavy soaking the day before had actually aborted our saddle hike. However, after going all over the board with alternate hikes to do, we ended up doing the saddle anyway. The skies were clear, so despite the weather sometimes changing on a dime up in the mountains, we decided to take our chances. Photo by David Johnson.

Burmeister Overpass

We carpooled to the end of Kalihi Street to minimize our footprint, as ever since Naohia Falls has been shut down, the neighbors have been quick on the telephone draw. After quickly making our way up the side road, we crossed over the Burmeister Overpass and headed up to the spur ridge.

Bowman shortcut

The Bowman shortcut shaved three miles off the traditional trail, but we paid for it with buckets of sweat. Okay, maybe not buckets, but at least little teacups. The ridge was short and steep and the humidity level was high. No signs of surveyors today.

Bowman trail

Enjoying the easy part of the hike while it lasted, which was about three miles.

Little green men

I always wondered who leaves these plastic soldiers behind, as they are scattered on trails throughout the island.

Mr. Bowman

Thessa crossing over an eroded trail section, with the prominent knob that resembles a face (see the “eyes” and “nose”?), looking down at us.

Kalihi Saddle

The cloud deck started to get lower and darker over the saddle. Pretty please, don’t rain on our parade.

Needs a name

Climb this rock and get the right to name it, much like Griego Wall and Dorito Tower. Just kidding. It already has a name. That big piece of rock sticking out of the hillside.

Climbing the knob

Switchbacks made it easier to climb up the knob. No straight shot to the top.

Panoramic view of the Leeward side

Clouds started to roll through the saddle, which still left clear views of town. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki

Meadow

Jose and Thessa crossing a grassy meadow near the summit.

Bog

The top was home to a bog, similar to ones found at Ka’ala and other high spots on the mountains.

Pu’u Kahuauli

Cloudy summit at 2,740 feet. At least we could hear the cars on the highway down below us.

What’s over that peak?

After taking a short break at the summit, we made our way over this small peak that leads to the saddle.

No turning back

Group photo back to front: Jose, Thessa and myself.

Into the clouds

Hiking into the clouds.

Windward side

Jose contouring around the Windward side of the ridge.

There’s the saddle

As we dropped below the cloud deck, the saddle popped into view.

Slightly eroded

A taste of what was in store for us.

Stay high

Spikes definitely helped to grip the crumbly and eroded ground as we made our way down the saddle.

Say cheese

Now the fun begins. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Shaky tree

Hmmm, what is this tree for?

Going down

Oh, to help us climb down the side of this crumbly ridge. The tree was shaking the whole time Jose was climbing down and it looks like it could pull out one day. Maybe we should bring it some Miracle-Gro. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Clear

Thessa making her way down. We had to space ourselves apart, especially when down climbing the heavily eroded sections, as rocks and dirt would get dislodged. None of us were wearing hard hats.

Got room?

The winds were noticeably absent. That was a good thing. Usually I welcome the brisk trade winds to help cool off. Not today.

Checking out the views

The views, when the clouds cooperated, were just to die for. Sorry, poor choice of words.

Left or right?

Jose and Thessa went down the left side that had the vegetation. I decided to see if my spikes would hold me coming down the right, rocky side. They held.

Getting lower

The HECO building at the base of the saddle seemed so close from so far up. The summit of Lanihuli seemed so far away, capped in clouds.

Climbing down

Thessa climbing down a pile of rocks. Most of the rocks on the saddle looked fractured and split, ready to come off at the wrong time.

Getting cloudy

Never a dull day on the saddle.

Grassy spot

The angle makes this part of the ridge look ready to fall off one day.

Dirt triangle

Thessa climbing down from the “dirt triangle.” Fellow hiker, David Concepcion, named the obstacle when he last did the saddle.

Wide open area

Looks wide from this angle.

Clouds rolling in

And skinny from this angle. All about perspective.

Somewhat narrrow

Huge drops on the Windward side. Actually both sides.

Are we having fun yet?

Yes. Why else would we be hiking on a severely eroded ridge? Photo by Jose Luis Delaki

Mahalo for the ropes

Many thanks to the hikers that have left ropes on this trail and shared advice on this hike. The ropes and/or anchors that are here today, may be gone tomorrow. Trail conditions change frequently, especially on this saddle. Hikers that have done it, always seem to report that the saddle becomes more eroded with each visit.

Don’t let go

Thessa looking for a place to land her feet. Maybe we should have come down the right side. Oh well, we all need a little challenge every now and then.

Best seat in the house

Seats single file only.

Balancing act

No margin for error.

Narrow ridge

Most parts of the ridge had to either be “saddled”, crawled, scooted or skirted on the side with precious little purchase beneath our feet.

Another perspective

Looking back at the saddle.

Is this rock safe?

The answer is no. The rock wobbled when we pushed it.

Don’t pull on the webbing

We didn’t rely on the webbing going down as we didn’t want that rock landing on our heads. Talk about a bad hair day.

Crossing the ridge

Jose crossing a mini-saddle on the saddle. Well, that’s what it looked like to me.

Coming down the mountain

Thessa coming down the saddle, with the most difficult sections behind us.

Too early for trick or treat

Jose approaching the last obstacle, dubbed “Witch’s Hat” by hiker, Pete Clines.

Scooting

Thessa coming over one of the last “humps.”

Witch’s Hat

The base of the “hat” was somewhat steep and then leveled off to a “walkable” grade.

Leave the webbing behind

Thessa coming down the backside of the “hat.” Jose donated his webbing to the saddle. Gracias.

No climbing involved

Jose contouring around the Windward side.

I want to go back up

Not today.

All pau!

Just as we made it down to the power lines, the clouds released her rain. Perfect timing.

Goodbye Kalihi Saddle

Until we meet again. She was a lovely ride.

Hitchhiking to Kenny’s

Shout out to Chris and Brian for picking us up on the side of Likelike Highway. What’s for dinner? Prime Rib! Photo by Chris Hiona.

GPS Tracks

The 4 mile hike now ranks as my hardest hike to date. Many thanks to Jose and Thessa, who have done the saddle numerous times, for keeping me company on this trail. Would I do it again? Yup, but going up, as going down was a crazy albeit fun experience.