Throwback. The mountains were calling and we must go. Or was that Heaven? Hope it wasn’t the other dark and dank place.

Moanalua Valley

We all met up in the valley that was once owned by Samuel Mills Damon who inherited it from Bernice Pauahi Bishop in 1884. The C&C employee promptly opened the gates to the park at 0700. Mahalo.

Kamananui Valley Road Trail

Crossing over one of seven bridges built to accommodate the horse drawn carriages of the Damon family back in the day.

Kamananui Valley Road Trail

Kenny checking out the “stone of the old woman.” This boulder carved with petroglyphs stopped the H3 construction in its tracks. It was of course re-routed through Halawa Valley at an insane cost of $1.3 billion and took 37 years from planning to completion in 1997. The current Skyline will easily exceed the time and money spent.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Plunging into the trail intersected with 28 stream crossings and tangled thickets of hau branches.

Kulana’ahane Trail

One of multiple stream crossings.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Short and sweet cardio climb up the spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

We caught up with Jace, Allie and Samuel at the terminus who had mistakenly taken the wrong ridge to their destination. Saddle. Ridge. Tomato. Tomatoe.

Moanalua Saddle

Our group remained the same in numbers, but the composition was slightly different as Jace replaced Kenny in the group.

Moanalua Saddle

Jeremy climbing up the direct path as he upheld the three core values of the Corps. Courage, Commitment and Honor. Semper Fi. Besides, he didn’t want to hear those motivating words from Gunnery Sergeant Hartman. “Are you quitting on me? Well, are you? Then quit, you slimy fucking walrus-looking piece of shit! Get the fuck off of my obstacle! Get the fuck down off of my obstacle! NOW! MOVE IT! Or I’m going to rip your balls off, so you cannot contaminate the rest of the world! I will motivate you, Pvt. Pyle, EVEN IF IT SHORT-DICKS EVERY CANNIBAL ON THE CONGO!”

Moanalua Saddle

Deborah electing to take the Leeward contour. She wasn’t in the military.

Moanalua Saddle

The group clinging on the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Regaining the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way towards the triangular shaped obstacle that lay in our path.

Dirt Triangle

Contoured on the right to climb the flank of the cliff while keeping our footholds and handholds firm to avoid sliding down the hill.

Dirt Triangle

One at a time. Falling rocks for everybody behind. Climbing helmets optional.

Dirt Triangle

Deborah pulling herself up, one step at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing over small rocks to get to bigger rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Slow and steady will get you across the finish line.

Moanalua Saddle

A curious helicopter with no markings buzzed us briefly and peeled off as the weather conditions worsened.

Moanalua Saddle

This was probably the most fractured and crumbly section of the saddle. Every visit shows a different character of the saddle as it constantly changes due to weather and traffic.

Moanalua Saddle

Now that we didn’t have any aerial gawkers, we could safely concentrate on climbing up this near vertical section.

Moanalua Saddle

Deborah slowly making her way up on the crumbly rocks, checking it twice, gonna found out which rocks are naughty and nice.

Moanalua Saddle

Six faces of determination. One even had a good sized rock fall in his lap. More determination.

Moanalua Saddle

All the “technical” sections were behind us. Just had to look forward to hiking in the rain.

Moanalua Saddle

We decided to have a quick bite to eat at the first landing.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the ladder to see first hand the results of the “Brazilian wax” that stripped most of the metal from the ‘aina.

Moanalua Saddle

Going down to the second landing. Back in the day, each landing had an A-frame that in total hung five suspended antenna cables across the amphitheater shaped valley that was used by the US Navy to communicate with far flung ships and submarines in the Pacific.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the CCL building that was built to house emergency communication back-up for the ground communications link during WW2. The twin microwave antennas on top of the building were installed after the war ended, for use by the US Air Force and later the US Coast Guard.

CCL Building

Group photo at the terminus for the storied 3,922 steps, count is actually less as people have stripped some of them for souvenirs, that make up the Stairway to Heaven. You can thank Bill Adams and Louis Otto who climbed the seemingly insurmountable cliffs in two weeks to lay the foundation for the original wooden Haiku Ladder in 1942. The fate of the stairs is tied up in the courts as FHS and the City both have opposing agendas.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We left the summit of Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe to continue our traverse on the muddy ridge line.

KSRT

Leaving the defunct radar station in the clouds and rain.

KSRT

Passing multiple sets of power line towers that transfer power from East to Windward.

Kaho’omoe’ihikapulani

Last group photo of the day at the summit most commonly referred to as Tripler, for obvious reasons.

Tripler Ridge

We left the 2,706′ peak and the clouds and rain as sunshine and other company soon greeted us on the trail.

Tripler Ridge

Going off the ridge and descending down the “End of Valley” trail. There used to be a green HTMC sign that marked the junction, now the only visual reminder is a weathered rope. Perhaps a victim of weather or scavengers.

Moanalua Valley

Hitting the valley floor that is initially covered in head high ginger plants and California grass.

Moanalua Valley

We soon met up with a patient Kenny who had been waiting for us at the Kulana’ahane Junction and we walked out the long road together.

All pau

Our day in the mountains covered 10.66 miles through inclement and sunny weather made bearable by hearty company. Post hike meal at Wendy’s so that the carnivores could join us. One to eat and one to socialize.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Deborah Tom, Jace Quinata, Jeremy Cannone, Kenny Lui, Scott Peterson, 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 did a saddle too far, for some today.

Moanalua Valley

Meeting with others that had already come down from their sunrise visit to the stairs.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Crossing over one of seven storied bridges that were built for the Damon family when they used to own the entire valley that was bequeathed by Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop.

Kamananui Valley Trail

We ran into Barry who had come to say his final farewell to the iconic stairs.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Impromptu history lesson on the nearby rock of the old woman, Pohaku ka Luahine, that stopped the H3 highway from being built through this valley. In 1965, the State determined that out of four options: Moanalua corridor, Kalihi corridor, Kalihi alternate, and Nu’uanu corridor; that Moanalua was the most viable one. Protests and lawsuits served to further stall construction, until in 1977, the US DOT directed the State of Hawaii to look at other routes through Halawa Valley, despite their protests that no “reasonable and prudent” alternatives to Moanalua Valley exist.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of the saddle, I will fear no drop, for you are with me; your rappelling gear and your webbing, they comfort me.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Matt giving directions to tourists who had lost their way to the stairs.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going over one of two dozen or so stream crossings in the valley. Who’s keeping count?

Kulana’ahane Trail

Heading deeper into the back of the valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Climbing up the short and steep spur ridge with the trickling Moanalua Falls in the background.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Allison warming up for the saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Agnes approaching the terminus which straddles the sloping saddle of Moanalua.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Deep thoughts. Daily affirmation. I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me!

Kulana’ahane Summit

Matt demonstrating how being harnessed up will work to a highly receptive audience.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Shall we go while the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak?

Moanalua Saddle

The first few steps are always the hardest.

Moanalua Saddle

Point of no return. Allison gave it the old college try. Props to her for getting this far out of her comfort zone. Sandra and Allison would retrace their steps back down after they saw us off.

Moanalua Saddle

The rest of us continued climbing up to what I call the baby triangle which is before the dirt triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes and Matt coming up the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up one crumbly rock at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Watching our steps as we contoured up to the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Matt bringing up the rear.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes walking down the wide runway.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing on the Leeward side of the dirt triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes making her way up the near vertical section.

Moanalua Saddle

Eye in the sky.

Moanalua Saddle

The face you make when you reach the top.

Moanalua Saddle

Drone view from afar.

Moanalua Saddle

Drone view up close.

Moanalua Saddle

Matt pulling himself up.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the “cliff” section.

Moanalua Saddle

So close, yet so “far.”

Moanalua Saddle

Matt starting his climb up the “cliff” section.

Moanalua Saddle

Who said it was a good idea for somebody to go down the saddle?

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the stream that feeds Moanalua Falls.

Moanalua Saddle

Somebody was looking for a native bird. Not a dodo bird.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the saddle stairs.

Moanalua Saddle

Soon, this view with the stairs will be but a memory.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes about to make her way through the tree tunnel.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up to the cloud shrouded CCL Building.

CCL Building

Matt taking a last sip of water before staying the night to rappel Moanalua Falls the next day.

CCL Building

Our last group photo together as Matt was staying the night. He preferred the company of a dark and dank place.

Haiku Stairs

Somebody had taken the last step of the stairs home before it gets ripped off the mountain. Great minds think alike.

Haiku Stairs

Making memories in the mountains.

Haiku Stairs

There’s a lady who’s sure all is gone. And she’s hiking Stairway to Heaven before it’s really gone.

Haiku Stairs

Oh-oh-oh-oh-whoa.

Haiku Stairs

Ooh, it makes me wonder. Ooh, I will really miss this wonder.

Haiku Stairs

In a house on the ridge,

Haiku Stairs

there’s a view that sings.

Haiku Stairs

Sometimes the handshakers are misgiven about the stairs.

Haiku Stairs

The voices of those who stand looking while hiking outside the stairs.

Haiku Stairs

Dear Amber, can you hear the weak cheehoos blow? And did you know your stairway lies on the whispering wind of legal recourse?

Haiku Stairs

There’s still time to change the road we’re on. If not, some shall hike on the ridge itself.

Haiku Stairs

There’s a feeling I get when I look to the East. And my spirit is crying for leaving. But I’ll be back to hike that ridge next over.

Haiku Stairs

And a new day will dawn for those who have stood on the stairs. And the forests will echo with silence. Except for the highway sounds from the nearby H3 highway.

Haiku Stairs

There’s signs on the barricade, but she wants to be sure. ‘Cause you know sometimes words have two meanings. Go stay go.

All pau

Walking on the access road, we noticed multiple branches on the ground that were seemingly not the work of Mother Nature. Hmmm.

Postscript

Sandra decided to go up the stairs one last time with Matt’s group of friends who were planning to all meet up at the top. Agnes and I ate at Alley Restaurant for our post hike meal. Salamat for the oxtail soup and crunch cakes. Great hike with good people.

Postscript

The stairs at twilight.

Postscript

Sun setting behind the mountains and the stairs itself.

Postscript

View of Kaneohe Bay at night.

Postscript

The Hoist House under natural and artificial illumination.

Postscript

Good night from the mountains.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Allison Banks, Matt Vidaurri, Sandra Walter, 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.

Why do two hikes when you can do just one? Why see only one stairway when you can see both? Rhetorical questions aside, that is how we found ourselves at top of Aiea Heights this morning. Thanks to Chris for dropping us off.

Aiea

Campers and chickens were sleeping as we walked up the road that was slowly being illuminated by the breaking sun.

Aiea Loop Trail

Turning off the loop trail, we were treated to a colorful cascade as the sun torched the mountain peaks.

Aiea Ridge

Multiple downs …

Aiea Ridge

… and multiple ups.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Taking a short break at the 2,441′ grassy peak.

Aiea Ridge

Heading into the home stretch of the 5.5 mile ridge trail.

Aiea Ridge

Coming up the last hump on the ridge.

Aiea Ridge

Aida enjoying the sweeping views of the windward side from the grassy clearing.

Aiea Ridge

Milling around the base of the power-line tower.

Aiea Ridge

The group finally got enough of the eye candy views and started making their way down.

Aiea Ridge

You can take the man out of the ironworks, but you can’t take the ironworks out of the man.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ clear summit.

Aiea Summit

William trying to talk to the locals. Perhaps it was his Midwestern accent that was getting lost in translation.

Ko’olau Summit RIdge Trail (KSRT)

The group contouring on the leeward side of the ridge under clear skies.

KSRT

Stunning views to be had all around as we traversed the ridge.

KSRT

Views like these are icing on the hiking cake.

KSRT

Contouring around the fenced native plant enclosure. I have yet to see one, then again I don’t know what I’m looking at either.

KSRT

Descending down into the verdant windswept pastures of hell.

Stairway to Hell

Group photo at the stairs that the US Navy started but never finished. The views were uncommonly clear and striking.

Stairway to Hell

William tried talking to the locals again. A hint of pidgin thrown in for good measure. No luck. What kind of neighbors are we?

KSRT

This place is going to hell in a handbasket.

KSRT

Climbing out of hell for greener pastures.

KSRT

Overlooking the engineering marvel that was the most expensive interstate highway ever built back in 1997 at a cost of 1.3 billion. The current rail system costs pegged at over 12 billion will easily eclipse it and make H3 look like a bargain.

Red Hill Summit

Group photo at the terminus of the trail that starts down in Moanalua Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

The group traversing over the crumbly section with the tree trip hazard in the way.

Moanalua Saddle

Descending down the western half of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

It was just a walk in the park. A windy park.

Moanalua Saddle

Following the serpentine ridge to the next summit.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo in the “pocket” of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

The winds started to pick up as we began our ascent of the Eastern half of the saddle. I turned my cap backwards, not to emulate athletes or rappers, but to serve as a hiking windsock.

Moanalua Saddle

When hiking turns back the clock to when we used to drag our knuckles.

Moanalua Saddle

Just when I thought was out of the elevator service, they pull me back in.

Moanalua Saddle

Minding the huge windward drops on our right side.

Moanalua Saddle

Somebody was glad to be back on relatively level ground.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the most well known obstacle this side of the saddle – The Dirt Triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Oh, I get up with a little help from my friends and some extra webbing.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up a particularly chossy section of the ridge. The gusting winds had blown the assist ropes to the far right side. Time to recover them.

Moanalua Saddle

The ropes were returned to its rightful place for the rest of the group to use.

Moanalua Saddle

Chico pulling himself up one crumbly rock at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Passing a cascade on our right that feeds the main Moanalua Falls.

Moanalua Saddle

Chico traversing over an eroded section of the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

The start of the “other” stairs to heaven.

Moanalua Saddle

Knockin’ on heaven’s back door.

Moanalua Saddle

Closing the gap to the CCL building with its distinctive dual microwave antenna perched on the top.

CCL Building

Group photo at the top of the stairs that the city wants to keep. Demolish. Keep. Demolish. Bipolarism at its finest.

Stairway to Heaven

We started going down the 3,922 steps as weeks ago I was contacted by a quasi-official entity that wanted me to count and verify the number of steps for possible future wasted resources. They were also going to pay me. Check’s in the mail. Yes, I’m also the type that believes that I have a snowball’s chance of hell in winning the Publisher’s Clearinghouse Sweepstakes. There is one born every day.

Stairway to Heaven

The windward views were indeed heavenly on this day.

Stairway to Heaven

Who’s keeping count? Chico?

Stairway to Heaven

I believe at this point, William gave up trying to communicate with the locals. Instead he made an impassioned plea to save the stairs. I think it fell on deaf ears.

Stairway to Heaven

Catching the setting sun behind the mountains.

Stairway to Heaven

It took two Navy men in 1942, 21 days to climb from the bottom to the top to install the original ladder. Thanks to their pioneering efforts, travel time is now measured in hours instead of days.

All pau

Thanks to Lilia for picking us up at the exit point. Post hike meal had to be someplace quick as most of the group didn’t want to sit and wait for their food. Fast food. McDonald’s. Drive-Thru.

GPS Tracks

Our back to back stairways hike covered 10.1 miles with almost perfect weather conditions with good company.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Chico Cantu, William Mayo 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.

A couple guys wanted to go to heaven, who am I to deny somebody eternal bliss?

Moanalua Valley

Somebody is sleeping in on this Sunday. It’s already past 0730.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Where there are hunters …

Kamananui Valley Trail

… there’s hunting dogs.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Passing through pockets of dense tree groves and 28 stream crossings.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going up the short and steep slope with a trickling falls in the background.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Looking back at the valley that contains five distinct forest types and over nine miles of streams. This was also the original corridor for the H3 highway, but a sacred petroglyph rock stopped the development in its tracks.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Nature’s air conditioning was cranked up something fierce at the panoramic summit.

Moanalua Saddle

Clambering up the first crumbly rock pile. More to come.

Moanalua Saddle

Why climb straight up when you can contour on the Windward side?

Dirt Triangle

Ryan climbing up past the anchor tree that has since been displaced and uprooted.

Moanalua Saddle

Enrique reaching the top of the last major crumbly rockpile.

Moanalua Saddle

Ryan leaving all the hard parts behind us. The price of admission comes with some blood, sweat and tears.

Moanalua Saddle

We took a short break at one of the platforms that used to support the antenna cables that were strung across Haiku Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

Ryan going up the back door to heaven. Knock Knock. Who’s there? God. God who? God dammit open these stairs back to the public!

CCL Building

Group photo with the legendary Rainbowman who was also in the company of a female. Staying true to form.

Stairway to Heaven

Fallen angels. I don’t know about the angels part.

Hoist House

Let’s do that spur ridge. I see no ridge. I hear no ridge.

Stairway to Heaven

Coming down the 3,922 steps, which are slated to be demolished by the City sometime in the near future after repeated inflated budget costs and pushbacks. Stay tuned.

Stairway to Heaven

We could have been there instead of here. Next time. Promise?

All pau

Our hike covered 7.57 miles through crumbly and windy conditions, complete with helicopter flyovers and stunning scenery all around. Thanks to Quan for picking us up. Post hike meal at Kenko-ya where yosenabe was good for the soul.

Photos taken by Enrique Chavez, Ryan Meyer 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.

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.

Thanks to Art for dropping Katie, Tessa and myself off at the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area. Quite a mouthful to say so early in the morning.

Aiea Loop Trail

Early hikers get the trail all to themselves.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Passing out assorted tapes to alleviate somebody’s blistering feet. Unfortunately, the blisters won out and Tessa had to turn around. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Crossing over a relatively level section of the trail, that Stuart Ball calls a gem of a ridge hike. Today it was a muddy ridge hike.

Aiea Ridge Trail

We finally saw a landmark through the dense clouds that had completely soaked the mountains. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Katie contouring the base of the powerlines to ascend to the summit.

Aiea Summit

We actually had panoramic views at the 2,805′ top. It was uncommonly clear.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit to continue our muddy trek on the trail. Photo by Katie Bingham.

KSRT

Appreciating the Windward views as the drifting clouds slowly erased them.

KSRT

Windy. Slight exaggeration. But not by much.

KSRT

Katie coming down the gusty ridge to the wind blasted spot in the mountains reserved for bad hikers. We are home.

Stairway to Hell

Nothing to see here. Move along. Photo by Katie Bingham.

REI Outlet

We retreated to the bunker to have our lunch of hot noodles. Does a body good. Photo by Katie Bingham.

KSRT

Climbing out of the freezing environ of Hell.

KSRT

Crossing over. I read that a 1993 Nissan Sentra once sat on a hill in this area. I find that urban legend hard to believe. But if true, what a sight that must have been. Photo by Katie Bingham.

KSRT

Looking for bees on our way to Red Hill, we must’ve blinked.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the eroded saddle as clouds, rain and wind kept us company. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Katie coming down the thin river of dirt that ran through the uluhe overgrowth.

Moanalua Saddle

Keeping our center of gravity low as the brisk winds buffeted us on the saddle descent. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Finding temporary relief from the winds on the Leeward contour.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Decisions. Decisions. Decisions. Press on in gale like conditions or walk out that long a** Moanalua Valley Road. It was a no brainer. I guess we are not left-brained hikers.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the saddle as we saw a sliver of a waterfall trickling down the chute. At least the rain parted company with us. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the saddle with the Interstate H-3 in the background, the rail of its day back in the 1980s.

Moanalua Saddle

Is the elevator working today? Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Katie contouring up the Windward flank to regain the ridge line.

Time out

If you want HFD, just whistle. Just have to whistle louder than the wind.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking ahead to the main obstacle on the saddle. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Preparing to contour around the ridge line to climb up the main obstacle.

Dirt Triangle

Stuck between slippery rocks and loose dirt. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Dirt Triangle

Katie pulling herself up the Dirt Triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

The climbing continued over boulders of assorted sizes and placement.

Moanalua Saddle

Working out the cramps while enjoying the saddle views.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the last eroded and vertical section. The winds continued unabated on our climb up the saddle. Made for an interesting hike to say the least.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching double tiered waterfalls on our ascent. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at Moanalua Saddle in her entirety. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the stairs that time forgot. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Eggs ‘n Things

Sloppy side up. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Stairway to Heaven

Group photo at the deserted CCL building. Who would be crazy enough to hike in these conditions?

South Haiku Stairs

A medical emergency forced us to take the most direct route down without inconveniencing the hard working taxpayers of this fine city.

All pau

Mahalo to Quan for picking us up after coming down all 3,922 steps, give or take. Post hike meal at Easy ‘Que where Aida and Lilyn also joined us. Recommended off the menu was the mac’n’cheese that was supposedly the best thing since burnt ends, well not according to the Southerner.

GPS Tracks

Our bookended stairway hike covered over 10.3 miles through some of the windiest conditions I have encountered on these trails to date. Props to the moonshiner for her perseverance on todays hike. What better way to usher in the first hike of the year?

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.