I decided to recreate a hike that we did for Chico’s finish almost two years ago. Too close for comfort.

Trailhead

Parked in the neighborhood that started off as the Manana ahupua’a which was turned into pineapple fields and evolved into the residential neighborhood as it exists today. Solitary hike today as the usual suspects had other plans on the platter.

Manana Trail

Hiked the 5.5 miles of the ungraded ridge trail that was seemingly comprised of endless humps and knobs as the darkness slowly began to be erased by the increasing illumination of the sunrise.

Manana Summit

Arrived at the 2,660′ dew soaked summit to be met by a wall of whiteout. Expect nothing. Get nothing. Turned right on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains to continue my hike in the clouds.

Eleao Meadows

Passing through the wind swept grassy area that we had once foolishly camped overnight. Needless to say, we did not enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Followed the fence line until the gate breached it and allowed me passage down the hill to regain the ridge line.

KSRT

I soon caught a break as airflow, temperature and moisture intersected to provide a window into the valley views.

KSRT

Passing the large landslide as I descended towards the saddle and the reflective sign that marked the 2,160′ summit of Waimano.

Waimano Summit

Photo of myself with the background of Waihe’e Valley bordered between Kalahaku Teeth and Eleao Windward. I contemplated going down Waimano Trail as the mud soaked trail, intermittent rain showers and overgrowth from Manana was trying to tell me something. However, I had barely scratched the morning and was hard of hearing, so I decided to press forward on the trail.

KSRT

Scrambling out of the saddle, I looked back to see the seven mile graded trail beckoning to me. I was also myopic.

KSRT

Traversing over the stretch of cardio hills and false summits that was aggravated by overgrowth that gave me unwanted acupuncture treatments many times over and mud slicked trails that resulted in my hands cramping for the first time ever as I had to compensate for the loss of traction by disproportionately using more of my upper body strength climbing up the multiple hills. Just falling victim to Father Time.

Waimalu Meadows

Climbing up the spongy hill as I made my way out of the neither mythical nor magical meadows today.

KSRT

Working my way in and out of the clouds.

KSRT

Pitter patter of rain that soon turned into a wet mess that was sandwiched between a downpour and torrential rain.

KSRT

The trail that kept giving.

Aiea Summit

I reached the 2,805′ summit shortly after dark. My dreams were dashed of finishing the hike when the sun was still out. Time to make new dreams.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Going down the gem of a ridge as described by Stuart Ball, I have never felt more exhausted by a trail as today. I felt like cowboy camping on the lower parts of the trail. The only thing that stopped me was a streak of stubbornness and the fact that I was saturated and soaked head to toe.

All pau

My 14.02 mile hike that didn’t turn out as well as I expected tested me to my limits today. Many thanks to Kenny and Akira who met me at the deserted road where a neighbor couldn’t believe that I had finished hiking at this ungodly hour. Thanks to Kenny who drove me home and saved me from a potential accident on the road and Chico who drove me the next morning to collect my vehicle.

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.

Aida, Aileen, Akira, Amber, Chris, Ferlino, Orion, Roger, Tessa, and myself got together to celebrate fireworks, ring in the new year and bear witness to a good friend completing his last section needed to finish the entire Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST).

Trailhead

We were two short of a baker’s dozen due to a no show and another one stopped for an OVUII. The show must go on.

Manana Trail

Passing through the eroded section of the trail under artificial illumination.

Manana Trail

Amber talking to her errant roommate.

Manana Trail

The group approaching the 2.5 mile marker.

Manana Trail

Climbing up one of several eroded hills.

Manana Trail

Passing underneath the tree arch.

Manana Trail

Going over the gated fence line as we passed the 3.5 mile marker.

Manana Trail

Scrambling up another hill in the land of rolling hills.

Manana Trail

Taking a break at the helipad as we gazed ahead to the erosional remnants of the massive shield volcano that was sharply etched against the morning sky.

Manana Trail

Somebody used their background in operatic singing to good use.

Manana Trail

A small cheehoo in return. I did not attend the University of Maryland College Park.

Manana Trail

The last sunrise of the year breaking over the mountains. It was going to be a hot day.

Manana Trail

Traversing the ridge punctuated with knobs and humps and with the strikingly clear Waianae Mountain Range in the background.

Manana Trail

Are we there yet?

Manana Summit

Approaching the 2,660′ summit.

Manana Summit

Group photo at the massive knob with photobombers in the background.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Stepping foot on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains.

KSRT

Shadows in the mountains as we left the summit behind us.

KSRT

Overlooking Kahalu’u Pond, Kaneohe Bay and the Sandbar.

Eleao Meadows

Standing in one of multiple meadows that populate the mountain range.

Eleao Summit

Looking down at the ridge that drops down into the valley. The stuff of some hiker’s dreams or nightmares.

KSRT

Following the only stretch of fence line that we would run across today. The eyesore fence line started to make their appearance in the mountains circa 2001. They are meant to control the invasive ungulates from devouring and destroying the native fauna and flora.

KSRT

Leaving the gate for greener pastures on the other side.

KSRT

Descending the grassy slope to stay on trail.

KSRT

It must have been nice to have a wide brim hat on this sunny day.

KSRT

Practicing my controlled descent down the Windward side.

KSRT

Contouring our way around the landmark landslide as we dropped down to the saddle.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit that overlooks Waihe’e Valley, where we also had our lunch.

KSRT

Climbing our way out of the saddle.

KSRT

Somebody was “shaking it off” in the mountains.

KSRT

Enjoying our office views.

KSRT

Approaching the largest meadow on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Waimalu Meadows

Getting off the ridgeline as we dropped into the spot many have described as magical and mythical.

Waimalu Meadows

Amber doing a handstand for her legions of fawning admirers on Tik Tok.

Waimalu Meadows

Ferlino jumping for joy. I think he wanted to attract the same type of followers on social media.

Waimalu Meadows

Tessa looking out towards the Windward views.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo in the verdant oasis that was surprisingly free of winds and clouds. A magical moment indeed.

Waimalu Meadows

Chris standing on one of the mounds in the meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Trudging up on the spongy ground as we climbed our way towards the summit of Waimalu.

KSRT

Back on the undulating ridgeline.

KSRT

Clouds lingering over the mountains due to increases in air pressure and temperature.

KSRT

Spike repair service in the mountains.

KSRT

Looking down at a broken spectre with glory rings which is the result of the sun shining behind a person who is looking down into a cloud of water droplets. It was around this time that a genetically gifted person shared their water with me. Danke, genetisch uberlegener mensch.

KSRT

Climbing our way towards one of the bigger peaks on the ridge.

KSRT

Rose who was recently released from captivity, joined us on the trail, as she had taken multiple naps since hiking up from Aiea.

KSRT

Chico with the last sunset of the year.

KSRT

Time to turn the headlamps on.

KSRT

Night marchers. In person.

KSRT

Are those people on the mountains? Taken by Jeremy Uota from Kahuku.

KSRT

Scrambling up to the powerlines on the ridge. Are we there yet?

KSRT

Looking down on the Windward side, the aerial fireworks had commenced earlier in the day and had picked up its pace, but not by much.

KSRT

The final push to the 2,805′ summit.

Aiea Summit

#21. I fumbled my speech due to me being dead tired, but my faulty recall was along the lines of “Congratulations to Chico for completing the Ko’olau Summit Trail in its entirety. He got here due to his commitment, dedication and perseverance.” I finished with my customary champagne dousing. Full bottle. This man is truly an inspiration. Always ready with an off-color joke, positive attitude and unbridled energy on and off the trail. Truly fun company and a good friend. I also believe at 67 years young, he is the oldest person to have finished the KST. On New Year’s Eve to boot. Major props.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Going down the gem of a ridge hike, per Stuart Ball. I’m not sure that applies to night time conditions. It was fitting that we started in the dark on a ridge and ended the next day in the dark on a ridge.

Aiea Ridge Trail

As soon as the clock struck midnight, the aerial fireworks on the West side picked up in terms of frequency and intensity. The 105,000 pounds of illegal fireworks that was seized, failed to put any noticeable dent in the unrestrained orgy of pyrotechnics of every shape, size and form. You can’t put the toothpaste back into the tube.

All pau

We ended our hike on the paved street of Aiea Heights Road on New Year’s Day 2024. Post hike meal was a stick of butter for one special person. The rest of us got cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches and pork adobo courtesy of Jasmin and Lilia. We also got a free newspaper thrown to us and we don’t even live in the area.

GPS Tracks

Our unexpected and unplanned 24-hour hike that spanned New Year’s Eve 2023 and New Year’s Day 2024 covered over 14 miles with a solid group that saw Chico connect the KST dots at the finish line. Thanks to the group for the most part that stuck together on the extremely taxing hike in more ways than one. Nobody complained. Everybody helped each other out. Outstanding teamwork. Congrats again to Chico for one of the most memorable KST finishes in recent memory. I was glad as well to complete my 17th finish of the KST at the same time.

Postscript

We all gathered to have a proper celebration of Chico’s KST accomplishment the next day at his house. Thanks to everybody that came out to party the night away. Group photo left to right: Jasmin, Orion, Ferlino, Roger, Justin, Rose, Groot, Chico, Amber, Lilia, Xena, Quan, Lilyn, Akira, Aida, Jen, Tessa, Mari, Aileen, Chris, and myself.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Amber Fonte, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Ferlino Carinio, Orion Satori, 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 spent the weekend in the mountains hiking a section that we usually do in a day. Change of pace. Literally.

Aiea Loop Trail

Day 1
Thanks to Matt for dropping me off at one of the most trafficked hikes on the island in the afternoon. Somebody was running late so I decided to push off on the straight forward trail.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Enjoying the views while I had them from the 2,441′ hill.

Aiea Ridge Trail

I soon passed descending hikers who let me know there were two other hikers ahead of me.

Aiea Summit

Talking to the pair whose original plans were to hike to Stairway to Hell, but the soupy weather dissuaded them and they went back down to the powerline towers to set up camp.

Aiea Summit

The clouds soon cleared at the 2,805′ top and revealed sweeping views of Kaneohe Bay and the Windward coastline.

Aiea Summit

Looking down at our campsite for the night.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Rose soon joined me at the summit and we began our descent down the ridge line.

KSRT

Approaching camp. Now if the rain would just cooperate and stay its hand until our tents were pitched. Thank you Mother Nature!

KSRT

We retired early in the mountains to hear the sounds of voices in the far off distance. Night marchers? Also known as huaka’i po, are spirit manifestations of Hawaiian warriors that have been recorded as marching down from the mountainsides carrying torches and blowing conch shells. Bottom line, best not to mess with them.

KSRT

Day 2
The next day we woke up and looked across the valley to find out the source of the voices, the two hikers who I had met earlier yesterday. Sometimes the physical world can be more scary than the spiritual world.

Waimano Trail

Meanwhile, down in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, Jen and Tessa started off on what has been described as one of the best preserved graded trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) back in the 1930s.

KSRT

We broke down camp and hit the trail with the goal of passing the invisible demarcation line of the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail and the Ko’olau Summit Trail. Tomato. Tomatoe.

KSRT

Hiking on the cloud soaked ridge line, where the views were measured in feet and not miles.

KSRT

What goes down …

KSRT

… must go back up.

Waimano Trail

Jen switch backing her way to the summit.

KSRT

Scrambling our way through the moisture rich vegetation that was getting a steady feed from the blanket of clouds around us.

Waimalu Summit

We gained the boggy summit to be greeted by parting clouds with Windward views.

Waimalu Meadows

Dropping in on the mythical and magical meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo at the relatively wind and cloud free grasslands, an uncommon experience in my books.

KSRT

Back on the ridge line as we left one of the largest meadows on the KST behind us.

Waimano Summit

Where are they? Did somebody rush themselves into a lather by confusing Waimano for Waimalu?

KSRT

Approaching the low point in the mountains marked by a noticeable landslide.

Manana Trail

On another ungraded trail, Chris had hopped off the delayed plane from the mainland and jumped right into the hiking frying pan. So many moving parts on different trails that would join at the summit of Manana.

KSRT

Going down the slippery slope.

KSRT

Alternating between the rut and ridge to get to the summit.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ saddle before Rose took our leave of us due to mobility concerns.

KSRT

Traversing over the landmark landslide.

KSRT

Hiking on the edge.

KSRT

Going up the cardio intensive hill(s).

KSRT

Scrambling up the last big hill towards the fenced ridge.

KSRT

A lot of elbow grease was required to open the rusted gate. Somebody couldn’t wait and climbed over the fence.

KSRT

Following the fence with sweeping views towards our right.

Eleao Meadows

Taking in the “pocket” meadows.

KSRT

Almost there!

Manana Summit

Group photo at the 2,660′ knob. Sometimes you feel like a nut and sometimes you don’t. I was definitely the Mounds candy bar today. The original plan of reaching Camp Rusty below the summit of Waiahole was swept off the table and we decided to stay put and make camp.

Manana Summit

Due to no vacancy, Chris left to make his home at Waimano Summit.

Manana Summit

Trying to decide who got the better spot for their tent.

Manana Summit

We soon got a return visitor as Chris came back to borrow a battery charger for his phone and then hiked back under dwindling daylight hours.

Manana Summit

City lights.

Waimano Summit

Day 3
Chris got a sunrise inside and outside his tent.

Manana Summit

Our sunrise viewing was kept strictly outside. We didn’t have spare tents to burn.

Manana Trail

Going down the trail that I thought I would never step foot on again. That’s what I get for thinking.

Manana Trail

The roller coaster of peaks and valleys and seemingly endless false peaks is why I beg to differ with Stuart Ball’s characterization of this trail as the best of of the ungraded Ko’olau ridge trails. To each their own.

Manana Trail

Working our way through the rutted section of the trail.

Manana Trail

Mountain shadows.

Manana Trail

Climbing up the hill to the gate that marks 3.5 miles left to hike.

Manana Trail

Taking a break at the clearing where Jen rested her back and Tessa rested her foot.

Manana Trail

Documented slip and fall.

Manana Trail

Pushing up the last false peak of the trail.

Manana Trail

When Marco doesn’t meet Polo. Unexpected surprise that Chico came to meet us at the picnic shelter and came bearing cold beverages. What a guy!

Manana Trail

Balancing ourselves across the eroded section of the trail.

Manana Trail

Group photo at the end of the trail where we jumped into Chris’s van and Chico went back home.

Pearl City

We honked the horn for an open house but visiting hours were over, so we picked up our other car and met at Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area to wait for the last member of the group to come down from the mountains.

All pau

Picked Chris up from Aiea Loop Trail, where we drove to the nearby Alley Restaurant to have our post hike meal of oxtail soup.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend camping hike while it didn’t go as originally planned, still covered 13.7 miles with a fun group.

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Jen Odence, 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.

It was a reunion of sorts in the mountains as I haven’t hiked with Alexis in over seven years. Her personality hasn’t changed for good or bad.

Trailhead

Who let the dogs out? The hunters. The age-old question has finally been answered, never mind the Baha Men.

Trailhead

The cats let themselves out.

Trailhead

Somebody got confused about the meeting place. Not once. But twice. We finally all got onto the trail after one of us got hello checked by the resident homeless while using the bathroom.

Manana Trail

Let’s follow the hiking sign, shall we? And let’s try not to get spooked by the cloud of screaming parrots. Somebody please find them a zoo!

Manana Trail

Standing on the bench to see the sunrise. Somebody wanted to sit down.

Manana Trail

Waiting to offer Roseann assistance if needed coming over the narrow cliff. Or maybe just to laugh at her if she fell. I think more the latter.

Manana Trail

Roseann passing under the bent arch. A precursor of things to come. Old age and all.

Manana Trail

Group photo at the gate. Two more miles to go!

Manana Trail

Passing through the tall grass and uluhe ferns. Scratch city.

Manana Trail

First aid clinic in the mountains. One of the million uses for duct tape.

Manana Trail

All fixed up and ready to go!

Manana Trail

Eating away at the last mile before the summit.

Manana Trail

Almost there!

Manana Summit

Group photo at the somewhat socked in 2,660′ knob. Luckily the winds soon blew the clouds away.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit for greener and overgrown trails.

KSRT

Windward views to the left and Leeward views to the right.

KSRT

Looking straight down Eleao Windward and neighboring Kalahaku Teeth, two of the hardest hikes I’ve done to date.

KSRT

Passing Eleao Meadows as we followed the fence line.

KSRT

The gate soon spit us out onto the grassy slope with commanding views of the mountain range and surrounding areas.

KSRT

Jason not letting the gate hit him where the sun don’t shine.

KSRT

Coming down in a controlled descent on the soft under footing, more or less.

KSRT

What a view!

KSRT

Back on the ridge line.

KSRT

Looking down into Waihe’e Valley and points beyond.

KSRT

Hills for daze.

KSRT

Roseann passing the landslide section before dropping down into the saddle summit.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit.

Waimano Summit

Somebody had to get their obligatory shoefie picture in somehow against the backdrop of Waihe’e Valley. Jason?

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle.

KSRT

Traversing the seemingly serpentine ridge line.

KSRT

Up and down. Up and down. You get the picture.

KSRT

Views for daze.

Waimalu Meadows

Approaching the large grassy field under the shadow of the flat topped peak.

Waimalu Meadows

Roseann on the ridge looking out to Waiahole, Ohulehule, Manamana and Kualoa ridges.

Waimalu Meadows

The meadow, The myth, The legend. Group photo in the oasis in the mountains that was unusually calm and clear. No complaints from the peanut gallery.

Waimalu Meadows

Trudging our way up the spongy hill to higher ground.

Waimalu Meadows

Crossing over the connecting ridge to more spongy ground.

Waimalu Meadows

Leaving the mythical spot behind us as we slowly grinded our way to the top.

Waimalu Summit

Roseann standing on the grassy summit.

Waimalu Summit

Leaving the summit for more rolling hills.

KSRT

Back on the edge. The cliff edge.

KSRT

Aileen making her way up against the Windward backdrop.

KSRT

The hills have hills. Never ending.

KSRT

Are we there yet?

KSRT

Dropping down the grassy slope. Whichever way it takes to get there.

KSRT

Alexis looking back at the mountain range we had just partially traversed.

KSRT

Approaching the power line tower on the ridge line, signaling that we were close to the summit.

KSRT

Looking out as the sun made its last call over the peaks and valleys.

Aiea Summit

Our last summit group photo at 2,805′ elevation.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Climbing our way down from the power lines tower and onto the trail.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Setting the tone for the rest of the trail. Hiking in the dark until my batteries died. My cuss words didn’t die out. Just like the Energizer Bunny.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Hiking by the city and highway lights. Somebody rolled their ankle pretty bad on the trail. Thankfully it was mere moments from the trailhead. Need a hand? How about a hiking stick?

All pau

We were all plumb tuckered out from our long day and night in the mountains. Some more so than others. Luckily for somebody, there was a nearby fire hydrant.

Drive-thru

Thanks to Richie for picking us up and feeding us shakes, sodas and chicken nuggets in the back of a speeding truck. Good eats. Good times.

GPS Tracks

Our 14.3 mile hike was blessed with good weather, spectacular scenery and great company. Fun times.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Alexis Catarina, Jason, Roseann Fai 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 spent the weekend in the mountains celebrating the harvest and other blessings of the past year.

Keaiwa Heiau State Recreations Area

Day 1

Walking under the moonlight with nothing but feral cats and nothing else I hope to keep me company. Thanks to Marilyn for dropping me off.

Interstate H-3

Leaving the loop trail as I caught a glimpse of the interstate highway that is not connected to other states but built to the same standards.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

This was pretty much my last view at the 2,441′ summit as I continued my climb towards the top of the ridge line.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking back at the power-line tower that I contoured to get back on the ridge.

Aiea Summit

Cloudy and rainy at the 2,805′ summit. Just another day in the Ko’olau Mountains.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

I followed the HECO (local utility) ropes down the knee high overgrowth and muddy trail as I approached the second power line tower.

KSRT

The constant drizzle and moisture laden clouds kept the peaks and dips of the ridge sufficiently saturated.

Waimalu Meadows

Descending down towards the largest meadow on the Ko’olau Mountains where brisk winds and rain kept my stay short.

Waimalu Meadows

Climbing out of the meadow as I looked back at the native palm trees dotting the landscape.

KSRT

The strong winds intermittently punched through the clouds to tantalize me with Windward views.

Waimano Summit

Dropped down to the 2,160′ summit in the saddle and left my John Hancock in the bauble of a log.

KSRT

Climbing up to the fence line to find that there is now a gate that makes it easier to navigate in socked in conditions.

Eleao Meadows

Somebody must have plucked one of these dew kissed crimson flowers from an ohia tree. In Hawaiian mythology, Ohia (tree) and Lehua (flower) were two lovers who were turned into local flora by a jealous Pele (Goddess of Fire). It is said that if you pick the flower from the tree, then the skies will be filled with rain, much like today.

Manana Summit

Reaching the 2,660′ knob where my stay was cut short due to nothing to write home about.

Corner

Scooping up water in the bug and foam filled creek.

KSRT

The weather finally started to break apart as I approached the Waiawa Gap.

Camp Ko’olau

I had my fill of the rainy ridge conditions and decided to make camp at the flattest spot I could find on the ridge.

Waiawa Gap

Day 2

The next day was quite a change from yesterday. The sun was out and the clouds were high in the sky. Picture perfect.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping down through the grove of Loulu palm trees.

Waiawa Gap

Looking towards the Waianae Mountains in the middle of the field of flowers that were swarming with bees.

KSRT

Enjoying the views after I lost my brand new phone on the trail which I luckily recovered and then the wind plucked the cap off my head. Needless to say, my enthusiasm to continue the hike had been considerably dampened.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Passing the summit of Kipapa as I left behind the ridge trail.

Camp Rusty

Relaxing in the middle of the stand of Japanese Sugi pine trees.

KST

Pushing my way through the knee to shoulder high overgrowth on the trail.

Tree of Life

Approaching the backside of the horizontal leaning Japanese Sugi.

Tree of Life

Enjoying an uncommonly clear day at this spot.

KST

Pulling myself up the fence line with Windward background views.

KST

Looking back at the trail system that contours it way through the mountains.

KST

The peaks of Manana, Ohulehule and Kanehoalani in the distance.

KST

Shadow hiker.

Schofield-Waikane Summit

The unmatched 2,360′ summit view of the valleys of Kahana, Ka’a’awa, Hakipu’u and Waikane.

Pauao Junction

Looking down into the ridge that drops down into Kahana Valley.

KST

Traversing the trail that was blasted out of the side of the mountains back in the 1930s.

KST

One of multiple gates on the trail meant to keep out the foraging pigs.

Poamoho Cabin

I was expecting solitude at the oldest cabin on the KST and instead found two hikers that I knew and two others along with their dogs. Quite a pleasant surprise.

Poamoho Cabin

Day 3

Cabin companions. We soon all went our separate ways as Dana and Shari were going down Schofield-Waikane and Jon and Marissa were going down Pauao trail. I decided to not continue towards Laie and took the easy way down after Jon gave me the combination to the gate.

KST

Hiking over the cloud soaked boardwalk.

Cline Memorial

I bypassed the wind swept and socked in 2,520′ summit and hurried down the mud soaked trail.

Poamoho Trail

HTMC and other parties did a remarkable job in repairing the landslide ravaged trail.

Poamoho Road

Shout out to Andy for picking me up on the road like the dirty hitchhiker that I was.

All pau

The end of my hike did not reach the planned destination but it was time still well spent in the mountains. Photo by Andreas Wiegand.

GPS Tracks

My three day hike covered almost 28 miles through the most cardio intensive and scenic stretch of the Ko’olau Mountains. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse, where we came too early for the prime rib.

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.

Met up with Lilyn and Quan for a camping weekend in the mountains. It turned out to be a shorter stay than expected. Photo by Art Young.

Aiea Loop Trail

Stepping foot on the popular trail as it already started filling up with trail runners and casual hikers. Thanks to Allison for shuttling us to the trailhead.

Junction

Trading the wider trail for a narrower one. Why are our packs so heavy? Perhaps because we are camping?

Aiea Ridge Trail

Passing through introduced and native trees on the trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Aiea Ridge Trail

We are going that way. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

The views were still holding steady as we paused at the 2,441′ peak.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Quan standing on top of the grassy clearing with commanding views of the Windward side. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Aiea Summit

Looking back at the Leeward side with its multiple ridges leading to the summits.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ top with uncommonly clear views of the Windward side.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Beginning our roller coaster ride on the ridgeline.

Valley of the Temples

A cramp perhaps of spiritual design directed somebody’s gaze to where her parents are buried. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

KSRT

Lilyn contouring her way past another powerline tower.

KSRT

The summit of Waimalu seemed so close, yet so far away. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Climbing our way up … Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

… to enjoy the valley views. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Lilyn preparing for colder temperatures that thankfully never materialized.

KSRT

The ups and downs seemed to go on and on. Cardio city.

KSRT

The panoramic views never get old.

KSRT

Are we there yet? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Summit

Our second summit of the day which turned out to be our last as we were running out of daylight.

Camp Waimalu

We pitched our tents and settled in for the sunset that never quite showed up.

Camp Manana

However, it did show up for Aida and Art who were camped on Manana Ridge. Lucky them. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Camp Manana

Camping night lights. Photo by Art Young.

Camp Waimalu

Somebody was “volunteered” to take our night lights.

Camp Waimalu

The morning moon greeted us rather than the sun peeking out from the mountains.

Waimalu Meadows

Hikers in the morning mist.

Slip’n’Fall

Pictures or it never happened. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Meadows

Hiking down into the clouds. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Meadows

The girls coming down the spongy ground.

Waimalu Meadows

And then just like that, Mother Nature snapped her fingers and lifted the cloud veil. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Meadows

Our individual and not collective photographic memories of the meadows.

Water Cooler Talk

Somebody just had to get past the off-putting color and floating dead bugs to taste the H20.

Waimalu Meadows

One last look around at this magical and mythical place before we took our leave. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Waving from the edge. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Leaving the largest meadows on the KST behind us.

KSRT

Quan enjoying a wide section of the trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimano Summit

Panoramic view of from the 2,160′ top of Waihe’e Valley bordered by the toothy ridges of Kalahaku and Eleao Windward.

Waimano Summit

Our parting group photo as the girls decided to cut short the hike and go down the seven mile graded trail.

KSRT

Crossing over the landslide section. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

KSRT

Looking down into the saddle as the girls saw me off on what turned out to be an abbreviated journey for myself as well.

Eleao Meadows

Following the fence line as it lead me through the bowl shaped grassy field.

Manana Summit

Aida enjoying another uncommon view from the 2,660′ knob, before she made her way down. Photo by Art Young.

Manana Summit

The heat had gotten the better of me, so I decided to go down Manana instead.

Manana Summit

Art being recalled from the semi-dry watering hole.

Manana Ridge Trail

Traversing our way through the multiple humps on the ridge. Where is Aida?

Manana Ridge Trail

Passing through the gate with no latch and the 3.5 mile marker. Photo by Art Young.

Manana Trail

We left behind the countless false peaks and enjoyed the relatively flat trail as we made our way out.

Yellow Bird

Just glad it wasn’t us being airlifted. Even though we might have appreciated the ride.

All pau

Who wants to be my Popeyes? Thanks to Tessa who picked us up and brought ice cold beverages. Photo by Art Young.

GPS Tracks

Our camping hike covered roughly 13.5 miles, give or take. It seems the mileage varies with what GPS unit is tracking the hike. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where Lilyn, Narissa and Quan joined us. We were then segregated based on our odorous scents. At least oxtail soup was still on the menu. Fun weekend with good friends.

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.

Picking up from three weeks ago; met up with Art and Tessa at the Manana trailhead where we got a ride to Keaiwa Heiau State Park. Mahalo to Robert for shuttling us.

Trailhead

The park gates were surprisingly open, which saved us about 10 minutes of walking up the road. Not surprising, was the rain that came down. Photo by Art Young.

Aiea Loop Trail

Somebody was hoping for no repeat of swooping owls or screeching birds. Photo by Art Young.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking back at the large peak of Pu’u Kawipo’o where I could faintly pick out Art and Tessa at the 2,441′ top.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Approaching the powerline tower. Forget about the high voltage, expect high winds. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Aiea Summit

Art using his knife to open the water valve for Tessa.

Aiea Summit

Group photo by Art Young at the 2,805′ freezing summit. We are going ahead rain or shine. Does that include extremely high winds?

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit behind us as the winds tested our balance on the ridge line. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Descending down the hill towards the other powerline tower.

KSRT

Art rolling down the hill. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Coitus interruptus

After Art had his fun, he squashed somebody’s else fun. At least they went out with a bang.

KSRT

Catching our breath or more accurately just trying to breathe. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Art “enjoying” the windy rollercoaster of a ridge line. Whose idea was this again? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waimalu Summit

Enjoying the windy panoramic views around us. The spectacular scenery revolved around us on the whole hike, but the chilly and gusting winds minimized the picture taking.

Waimalu Meadows

Descending on the spongy ground towards the meadows. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waimalu Meadows

Art and Tessa crossing over one of the largest meadows to be found on the KST.

Waimalu Meadows

Meadow life. The watering holes were surprisingly mostly dry and what little H20 had was a dark shade of brown with an unappetizing surface skim of dead bugs. Glad we didn’t need to filter water for our hike.

Waimalu Meadows

Quick group photo at the meadows so that we could freeze on the ridge line instead of in the meadows.

KSRT

Back to battling the stiff winds on the ridge line.

KSRT

Going up and down a couple more times until our next summit stop.

Waimano Trail

Looking out towards another landslide that has seemingly interrupted the Waimano trail. Still not as bad as the ones that ravaged the Poamoho trail that we were witness to last weekend.

Waimano Summit

Summit life where we took a pause to find out that the winds were so strong that it popped one of Art’s lens from his glasses. Perhaps we should’ve took a swig from the found liquor to keep us warm on the trail.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ saddle summit.

KSRT

Tessa passing the landslide as she made her way down the ridge line.

KSRT

Almost there. To the meadows that is. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Jackson Chameleon

Eye see you. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Climbing up the hill as we saw the fence line across the ridge line.

KSRT

Hanging on to the fence line for dear life as the winds whipped around us. The winds were no joke on this day. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Eleao Meadows

Passing through the bowl shaped meadow that is slowly being fenced in. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Manana Summit

Feeling wet, cold and exhausted at the 2,660′ knob.

Manana Trail

Stepping foot on what I would respectfully disagree with Stuart Ball’s characterization of this trail as “the best of the ungraded Ko’olau ridge trails.” Especially at the end of a long hike.

Manana Trail

Some of us were more tired than others. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Manana Trail

Trying to beat the sun going down. An exercise in futility.

Sunset

The sun setting behind the Waianae Mountain Range. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Manana Trail

Art and Tessa approaching the gate which marked the 3.5 mile marker. Time to switch on the headlamps.

Manana Trail

The only company we had hopping on the trail with us. Who else would be hiking in the dark on a Sunday night?

All pau

The end of the road for us.

GPS Tracks

Our grinder hike covered over 14 miles on a mud soaked trail made even more exhausting by the super windy “take our breath away” vacuum conditions that prevailed in the mountains. No post hike meal as we couldn’t find a establishment that was open to eat in. A trying and testing hike for all, made bearable by good 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.

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.

Back for another grinder in the mountains. Misery loves company. I had a lot of them today.

Aiea Loop Trail

Thanks to Jasmin and Art’s brother for dropping us off at the park before the gates opened. Group photo left to right: Chris, Aida, Art, Lilyn, YawYaw #1, myself, YawYaw #3, YawYaw #2 and Ferlino.

Aiea Loop Trail

The group pushing off on the rooted trail.

Aiea Loop Trail

Enjoying the easy part of the hike while it lasts. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Sunrise

Greeting the sunrise with a shaka. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Analyn digging past her double shot espresso cans and boiled eggs as she looks for her makeup bag. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

It was just me and the dolphin at the windy 2,441′ summit.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Approaching the power lines tower as the clouds settled in and blanketed the mountains.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ summit where we found no views and no sign. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Chris descending towards the second power lines tower that straddle the mountains.

KSRT

Making sure everybody was grounded to prevent any static discharges.

KSRT

Starting our roller coaster of a hike.

KSRT

Anne and Tessa going primate as they climbed up the seemingly never ending hills. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Aida making her way on the ridge.

Mountain clinic

Tessa had some major bulging blisters on her foot; but with Lilyn’s medical tape and Ferlino’s magic hands, she was ready to get back on the trail.

KSRT

Panoramic view of the Windward coastline.

KSRT

The group maintaining social distancing on the trail. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Ferlino sweeping the trail. Photo by Art Young.

Kalahaku Teeth

Aida looking at the toothy ridge as it sloped down from the mountain range. Photo by Art Young.

White ginger

Chris rooting out the aromatic rhizome. To eat or not to eat?

KSRT

Looking back as the ridges seemed to keep the clouds collected on the Leeward side. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Waimalu Summit

Tessa shivering in a space blanket. Who said you can’t freeze in Hawaii?

Waimalu Meadows

The group coming down from the misty mountains.

Waimalu Meadows

And then just like that … the clouds cleared and gave us sweeping views of the magical and mythical meadows and points beyond. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waimalu Meadows

The group sliding their way down to the grassy field. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waimalu Meadows

Looking back at one of the largest meadows to be found on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Waimalu Meadows

Everybody finding their individual and collective 15 minutes of photographic fame in the lush and windy landscape.

Waimalu Meadows

Somebody wished they had that space blanket right now as she balled up into the fetal position. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waimalu Meadows

Our group photo on the meadow mound.

Waimalu Meadows

Leaving the greener pastures for overgrown ridges. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Climbing out of the meadows. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Lilyn following the curvature of the ridge line. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

The rise and fall of the hikers.

KSRT

Looking down into Waihee Valley that are bordered by the twin sister ridges of Eleao Windward and Kalahaku Teeth. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

The sound of the yawyaws preceded their arrival to the 2,160′ summit.

Waimano Summit

Group photo before Aida, Anne and Art decided to go down the Waimano Trail…

Waimano Summit

… but first, the mutually consenting butt grab in the mountains. Must be a female thing.

KSRT

The rest of us climbed out of the saddle as the other three made their way down the graded trail. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Looking back at the assorted colored hikers making their way along the ridge.

KSRT

Chris pushing towards the 2,660′ summit of Manana.

KSRT

Tree envy?

KSRT

Chris climbing up as we noticed the fence topped ridge line ahead of us.

KSRT

I guess imitation is not the sincerest form of flattery. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Following the partially completed fence line up the ridge.

Eleao Meadows

Lilyn taking in the smaller grassy field.

Manana Summit

Our last summit for the day. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Manana Ridge Trail

The group descending down into the clouds.

Manana Ridge Trail

Losing elevation as well as cloud cover.

Manana Ridge Trail

The fence sprawl has spread to the Manana ridge. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Manana Ridge Trail

Our last group photo at the halfway mark. Only 3.5 more miles to go. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Manana Ridge Trail

Tessa and Lilyn climbing their way down.

Manana Ridge Trail

False peaks for daze. At least the trail was thankfully not congested with uluhe ferns.

Manana Trail

We soon caught up to Chris who was napping at the picnic shelter.

Manana Trail

Chris catching the sunset. Mostly everybody had to have their “Lion King” photo experience.

Manana Trail

Time to bust out the head lamps. Night marchers on the trail.

All pau

Mahalo to Art who brought us ice cold carbonated beverages to wash the tiredness away. Shout out to Jasmin for picking us up and entertaining us with her usual verbal gymnastics. Post hike meal at Pho 97. They should stick with what they know best and skip the oxtail.

GPS Tracks

Our grinder hike covered 14.3 miles through weather and terrain that seemingly changed on a dime. Another fun adventure with good friends.

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.

We spent a memorial weekend, in more ways than one, in the majestic mountains of the Ko’olau Range.

Uber for Hikers

Thanks to Ferlino and Jasmin for dropping Anne, Bill, Shirley, Tessa and myself off at the Poamoho Trailhead where we met up with Analyn and hopped in Zack’s truck for the off road ride up. We also met up with Aida, Janell, Margaret and Quan who came in a separate jeep. Photo by Jasmin Carinio.

Where’s the Beef?

Sharing the road with the large domesticated ungulates. Photo by Aida Gordon.

GoPro Time

Enjoying the bumpy ride up the trail. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Search and Rescue

One bump too many and my phone popped off my stomach and fell through the tailgate crack and onto the ground. Luckily it didn’t fall into the huge chocolate milk puddle and Janell didn’t run it over as well. Photo by Janell Tuttle.

Trailhead

Group photo left to right: Margaret, Analyn, Quan, Janell, myself, Tessa, Anne, Aida, Bill and Shirley. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Poamoho Trail

Hiking on the recently cleared trail that cut through the cascading wall of uluhe ferns. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Poamoho Trail

Janell passing by one of many downed trees on the trail.

Halfway spot

Yielding to a group of trail runners.

10 minute call

Quan deftly jumping her way across the placid stream. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Poamoho Summit

Group photo that partially blocked the sweeping views of Punalu’u, Kahana and Ka’a’awa Valleys. It was a typical cold and windy day. Somebody forgot their rain jacket.

Poamoho Summit

The views at the 2,520′ summit did not fail to disappoint.

Paws on the Path

We ran across a friendly pooch on the trail. The group coming back was not so lucky and almost had to run for the fence.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Janell against the scenic panoramic backdrop.

Poamoho Cabin

Brief stop at the cabin to sign the logbook and fill up on water for the weekend.

Poamoho Cabin

We got photo bombed by another hiker who instantly recognized the famous surely.i.am and automatically asked for her autograph. I believe money exchanged hands. We parted ways with the other group and continued our trek through the mountains.

KST

Setting foot on the historic trail blasted out of the mountains back in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

It’s hard to believe that beasts of burden used to trod on these trails back in the day.

KST

Crossing through one of many small meadows on the sheltered Leeward side. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Pauao Junction

Looking down into the overgrown trail that drops down into Kahana Valley. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Following the fenced trail as it hugged the ridge line. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Traffic Jam

Passing another group of hikers who were going down the Schofield-Waikane Trail.

KST

Making our way to the S-W Junction. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Schofield-Waikane Junction

Some of us enjoyed bottled wine and smashed eggs at our break spot.

KSRT

The clouds soon rolled in and immersed us in white out conditions as we resumed our hike.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

Taking the higher trail as we had no desire to drop down into Waikane Valley.

KST

Bill and Shirley scampering across the landslide area.

Terror on the Trail

Analyn practicing fern-jutsu on the most feared inhabitant of the KST – the inchworm. Photo by Bill Yogi.

KST

Bill enjoying the views and showing his approval with two thumbs up. Or was that two birds up? Where is the bail out trail?

Tree of Life

We dropped down into the meadow to enjoy the cloudy views of the horizontal sugi pine tree. Somebody found out that their water broke as well. And she wasn’t even expecting.

Tree of Life

Ms. Groot. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

KST

Standing in the notch before the descent into the grove of sugi pine trees. Photo by Anne Fai.

Camp Rust

Camping on the grounds of the former Kipapa Cabin. Goodnight from Waiahole. Photo by Anne Fai.

Camp Schofield-Waikane

Day 2 – The morning view from S-W Junction. Thanks to Edgar who dropped Chris off at Poamoho yesterday after work, where he would catch up with us on the second day. Speedy Gonzales. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Camp Rust

When three yawyaw pinays overstay their welcome in your tent and move to another tent to take a group “snow” selfie. Thanks to everybody for my birthday cake.

Dancing for Dollars

Anne practicing her moves so she can pay for new leggings. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

KST

Wait for Lola! Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Climbing out of the clouds and into more clouds.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We passed the Kipapa Summit which marked the beginning of the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail. Tomato. Tomatoe. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Sliding down into the cloud soaked gap. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waiawa Gap

The group crossing over to get back onto the ridge line.

Repeat after me

Okinnayo … nga … Babbai. Does that mean happy birthday? I’ll just stick with laulau poke. Photos by Shirley Gloriani.

Waiawa Gap

The clouds briefly cooperated to give us a clear group photo with Waikane Valley and points beyond as the backdrop.

Waiawa Gap

Chris soon caught up with us and loaned Bill a much appreciated rain jacket. Now we can hike in comfort. Relatively speaking.

Waiawa Gap

The group tried to cover from head to toe for the anticipated onslaught of the murder hornets. Slight exaggeration. Just honey bees that never showed up.

Waiawa Gap

Looking ahead to the stiff and spongy climb ahead of us.

Waiawa Gap

The theme of the day was cardio climbing. All day.

KSRT

Some spots we literally had to pull ourselves up the ridge with the uki grass as erosion has taken its toll.

KSRT

Are we there yet? Photo by Anne Fai.

Corner

We stopped at our first water source since the cabin to replenish our water from the creek.

Corner

Chris and Tessa filtering and filling up their water bottles.

Sounds of Silence – NOT

Three yawyaws in the meadows.

Corner

Climbing out of the windy meadow with heavier packs. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Tricky turn

The group navigating the counter-intuitive junction.

KSRT

Every now and then, Mother Nature would tease us with scattered views.

Manana Summit

Mahalo to Art who hiked up the roller coaster Manana trail to bring us water, coke and freshly made joong. Thanks to Tessa for my second birthday cake.

Manana Summit

Group photo left to right: Tessa, Chris, Art, Anne, Analyn, myself, Shirley and Bill at the 2,660′ knob.

KSRT

Making our way to the summit of Eleao with Art who joined our group for the cross over to Waimano.

Eleao Meadows

Chris in the windswept grassy field. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Making sure we headed down the right spur ridge to connect back to the KSRT. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Descending down into the clouds.

KSRT

We crossed paths with two other hikers doing the exact opposite of our route, Aiea to Poamoho.

KSRT

Crossing over the landslide area as we dropped into the saddle.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit before Art took his leave of us and went down the Waimano Trail.

Camp Waimano

There was some debate about pushing towards Waimalu Summit for our camp, but in the end, we spread out on the trail in three different spots.

Camp Waimano

Some yawyaw was yelling “we have the best view.” No argument here. Then she fed her face with camp cooked popcorn. The mountains enjoyed a temporary silence.

Camp Waimano

Day 3. Chris “catching” the sunrise. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Waimano

We experienced two types of sunrises at the summit. One was the stink kiss followed by you don’t deserve my dirty underwear. Romance is alive and well in the mountains. Just have to wash the pekpek to rekindle the fires. The second one was the chicken and dumplings experience where you spill food in somebody’s else tent and run outside for the sunrise.

KSRT

Climbing out of our camp site to spectacular views all around. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Looking ahead to the unrelenting hills ahead of us. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Looking back at the stretch of mountains and beyond we had been hiking this weekend.

KSRT

Making our way down the somewhat narrow ridge line.

KSRT

Climbing our way back. The theme of the day – what goes down, must go back up.

Waimalu Meadows

We soon dropped down into what is arguably one of the most breath taking spots on the Ko’olauu Mountains, weather conditions permitting, the mythical Waimalu meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Somebody was not correctly filtering water in one of these pictures.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo by Bill Yogi.

Waimalu Meadows

It was a rare clear day at the meadows and everybody took advantage of the countless photo opportunities.

Waimalu Meadows

Our packs heavier with water, we pushed up the spongy hill. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Waimalu Summit

The grassy plateau afforded us 360 degree views of the island. Some left early to get a jump on the trail. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

We could see the powerlines for the mountains.

Ohi’a lehua

Analyn with a patch of uncommon yellow lehua flowers.

KSRT

Looking back we saw two other hikers on top of Waimalu Summit.

KSRT

Roller coasting hiking. All day.

KSRT

What many of us called the mini Lanihuli Wall.

KSRT

The hills had hills.

KSRT

The last push to the summit.

KSRT

Chris was the first to reach the 2,805′ summit, where Aida, Cisco, Lilyn, Quan and Sally had hiked up to meet us. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Aiea Summit

Thanks to Aida for my still semi-frozen Coke and Lilyn for bringing my last birthday cake of the weekend. Mahalo to everybody for coming out to meet us.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Dropping down from the summit where we contoured around the power line tower.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Rain drops kept falling on our heads which made for quite a muddy trail going down.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Rainbows followed the rain at the 2,441′ cleared peak. Photo by Anne Fai.

Ohi’a lehua

Bouquets of unplucked crimson flowers lined the trail going down.

All pau

We ended our three day hike at the top of Aiea Loop Trail where Dale, Kamalani and Ferlino met us with a bucket of KFC, rice and thanks to Quan for the ice cold beverages. Photo by Bill Yogi.

GPS Tracks

Our three day fun filled hike covered 19 or 26 miles, depending which GPS track you asked, that covered the most cardio intensive section of the KST. Great times with great friends. Thanks to everybody that came out.

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.