I decided to cut today’s hike in half as I didn’t feel like hiking in the dark. Been there. Done that. Thank you very much.

Kolekole Pass

Thanks to Matt for dropping us off despite the gate not being open at the advertised time. Jeremy called Range Control and they came to open the gate for us.

Hapapa Trail

Nothing like early morning cardio to wake one up.

Hapapa Trail

Nobody wanted to be beheaded vicariously.

Hapapa Trail

Our first group photo of the day at the bench.

Hapapa Trail

Obviously my directions to take the less direct route fell on deaf ears.

Hapapa Trail

Group photo on the protruding dike where we met Kassaundra and Hannah looking for a group to join. Or maybe they were just waiting for us to move out of the way. I think it was the latter.

Hapapa Trail

Akira, Robin and Tessa standing on top of what I like to call the rock corridor.

Hapapa Trail

Deborah scrambling up the first notch.

Hapapa Trail

I guess break time is over.

Hapapa Trail

The group scrambling up to the second notch.

Hapapa Trail

Aida and Akira pushing their way up the hill.

Hapapa Trail

Jeremy meeting up with the inevitable fence line in the mountains.

Hapapa Trail

Robin on the creaking catwalk with sweeping valley views below us.

Hapapa Trail

Passing the tent as we approached what I still call the summit while others put it at the hump we had just put behind us.

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo on the square postage stamp sized of a summit.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

We left the summit as the two girls retraced their steps back to Kolekole Pass.

WST

Tessa climbing her way down one of many boulders interrupting the relatively smooth traverse of the ridge line.

WST

Akira coming down from his natural high.

WST

Group selfie on the rocky outcrop protruding from the ridge line.

WST

Contouring along the eroded section of the ridge line.

WST

Mount Ka’ala was strikingly clear in the background.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Lying down photo at the 2,778′ knob.

WST

Jeremy contouring along the trail as we made our way back to the ridge line.

WST

Looking back at the summit of Kanehoa as the group worked their way around the rocks and overgrowth.

WST

Aida climbing her way up back to the ridge line.

WST

Making our way down the slippery slope of pine needle covered rocks.

WST

Robin and Tessa approaching the “Christmas Tree” that marks the nearby twin rock formations known as Gorilla Heads.

Gorilla Heads

Making our way up the smaller Gorilla Head and the one that actually resembles its name from a certain angle.

Gorilla Heads

The rest of the group climbing up.

Gorilla Heads

Approaching the largest rock formation.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up the roughly 80′ plus hill.

Gorilla Heads

Jeremy making his way up to the top.

Gorilla Heads

Somebody said they didn’t know if it was harder going first or going last, either you wait at the top or at the bottom.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing down the backside and making our way around the boulder that interrupts a relatively smooth climb down.

Gorilla Heads

Robin lowering herself down over the boulder.

Gorilla Heads

I think it’s spelled Aloha.

WST

Climbing up and through the wobbly fence line.

WST

Looking back at the two “toothy” formations of the Gorilla Heads.

WST

Back on the fence line.

WST

The group making their way to the base of the last rock climb of the day.

WST

The bus is over there. Recycled joke.

WST

Jeremy scrambling over the top of the rocks.

WST

The tangled overgrowth was literally choking the trail as we went up and over the “ladder” fence.

Pu’u Kaua

Group photo at the island’s third highest peak. No time to check out the panoramic views from the overgrown grassy top. We had two hours of daylight left in the mountains.

Kaua Trail

Leaving the 3,127′ summit as we made our way down the trail.

Kaua Trail

We got to the valley floor as darkness descended upon us.

Kaua Trail

Following the trail out as we had to stumble through chicken cages in the dark and climbed over a makeshift fence. Found out later that the trail corridor had been re-routed.

All pau

Waiting in the dark for Matt to pick us up as the neighbor’s dog kept us company and the owners even checked in on us and offered us food, water and a ride to the highway. Mahalo! No time to check out the farm today.

GPS Tracks

Our wild wild west hike covered a little over five miles with a fun group. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Deborah Tom, Jeremy Cannone, Robin Farr, 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 that time to connect the shortcut and hope it doesn’t turn out to be another long day.

Kolekole Pass

100% ID check. Thanks to Edgar for dropping us off at the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range.

Kolekole Pass

Going up the wooden steps.

Kolekole Pass

Who wants to be on the chopping block?

Kolekole Pass

We have our first victim, I mean volunteer.

Kolekole Pass

This must be the way.

Kolekole Pass

Our first group photo of the day in the meadow and certainly not our last.

Hapapa Trail

Why take the contour when you can take the middleman out of the picture and go straight up?

Hapapa Trail

Enjoying the morning view. Just needed a cup of coffee.

Hapapa Trail

Hello from the other side.

Hapapa Trail

Scrambling out of the notch.

Hapapa Trail

Looking back at the group on the second notch.

Hapapa Trail

Slowly gaining elevation as we hiked up the ridge.

Hapapa Trail

The sunbeams were trying to fight the clouds and the clouds were winning.

Hapapa Trail

Following the fence line to the top.

Hapapa Trail

Passing through the tent shelter.

Pu’u Hapapa

In the clouds at the 2,883′ summit.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Traversing the fenced ridge line with far reaching views of the largest coastal valley on the island. Crossing unstable fences can lead to involuntary castration. Jockstrap optional.

WST

Looking back at the red and white striped twin guy masts that stand over 1,500′ tall and were built in 1972.

WST

Craning my neck upwards to get a better perspective of the spire rock.

WST

Thomas traversing over one of the elevated rock dikes on the trail.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Breakfast club at the 2,778′ knob.

WST

Headed into one of many small clumps of trees on the ridge line.

WST

CJ approaching the Christmas tree.

Gorilla Heads

Going up the smaller of the rock formations and the one that closely resembles its name.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up the rock formation whose bark is worse than its bite.

Gorilla Heads

Thomas would agree.

Gorilla Heads

Can you see the gorilla for the mountains? I’m not talking about Aileen.

Gorilla Heads

Swinging over the backside.

Gorilla Heads

It helps to have long legs.

Gorilla Heads

Scooting our way down.

Gorilla Heads

You put your left foot out. You put your left foot in. And you climb it down. You do the Hokey Pokey. And you turn yourself around. That’s what it’s all about.

Gorilla Heads

CJ scrambling out of the simian shaped rocks.

WST

Thomas caught between a hard rock and a wobbly fence.

WST

Somebody sprained their ankle around here. Nothing that a little duct tape can’t fix.

WST

We don’t need no stinking webbing.

WST

Group photo on the slanted rocks.

WST

Pushing our way through the insufferable overgrowth.

Pu’u Kaua

Lunch at the the 3,127′ grassy area that is the third highest peak on the island.

WST

Climbing our way down through the insufferable overgrowth. Deja vu.

WST

Breaking out into the relatively open ridge line that was dotted with barrels and jugs of non-potable water.

WST

All smiles as we left the fence behind us.

WST

Traversing the ridge line that is dominated by these wind swept trees.

WST

Passing through the split rocks.

WST

Checking out my built-in ventilation.

WST

Just follow the rope on the way down. Easy peasy.

WST

Aileen climbing her way down the rock.

WST

Some went high …

WST

… others went low.

Pohakea Pass

Looking over at the crumbly cliff that has been tamed with questionable webbing.

WST

Contouring off the ridge line.

WST

Just here for the views and the photos.

WST

Sliding our way down through the narrow crack.

WST

All the dots are connected. All is right in the world of hiking.

Pohakea Pass Trail

Leaving the ridge line to head down into the valley.

Pohakea Pass Trail

Missed me by that much.

Pohakea Pass Trail

We soon joined up at the junction where we had come up from the mosquito infested valley back in April.

Pohakea Pass Trail

Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Hike. Hike who?

Pohakea Pass Trail

The trail going down seemed wide open at first and then it just disappeared into head high itchy grass, rocky under footing and scattered blowdowns.

Pohakea Pass Trail

We finally emerged from the overgrowth to the jeep road that was literally two steps away from the route we had taken up to the ridge line in April.

All pau

Thanks to Doug for picking us up at the end of the road. Small world.

GPS Tracks

Our scenic stretch of the Waianae Mountain Range covered less than six miles with a great group. Post hike meal criteria was that the place served the daily dietary staple of the people of ancient Mesopotamia. Chili’s fit the bill.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, CJ Mendiola, Thomas Barrett, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Back on the west side for sunshine and rain showers. Equal parts. Met up with Chris, Lilyn, Quan and Tessa in Kunia to start our hike as the chickens and dogs announced our arrival.

Kunia

Who let the dog out? Give me food or I’ll bark and/or bite. All five pounds of me.

Kaua Trail

We passed the 1959 Punahou Memorial Grove as the trail wound its way through the forest floor carpeted with kukui nut shells.

Kaua Trail

The sight and smell of a pig pseudo rat hanging on the fence made somebody’s day.

Kaua Trail

No rodents were harmed in the testing of this rat trap. The irony.

Kaua Trail

The pitch of the trail picked up as the kukui nuts were soon replaced with a thick carpet of leaves which at times made the footing slippery.

Kaua Trail

Lonely hearts rock.

Kaua Trail

Quan climbing towards the summit that was marked with steep climbs and ropes and webbing of indeterminate age.

Kaua Trail

Looking back at the central plains as we neared the top.

Kaua Summit

Group photo at the ti leaf marked 3,127′ summit, the third or fourth highest peak on the island. Depends on whom you ask.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

We left the summit and some of the group decided to climb the fence instead of contouring. To each their own.

WST

Going down the uluhe fern corridor sliced open by the fence line.

WST

Dropping down the fenced ridge line as the twin obstacles started to get larger than life.

WST

Going down the front way. Where is everybody?

WST

The rest of the group decided to follow the webbing and contour their way down. To each their own.

WST

Lilyn following the fence line back to the ridge.

WST

Chris trying to see if he could climb down without using the fence.

WST

In the end, everybody used the fence.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up the first and bigger of the Gorilla Heads. Visiting hours are open.

Gorilla Heads

Push and pull gets the job done.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn pulling herself up and over the boulder.

Gorilla Heads

Chris going down face first.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn coming down the steeper section of the obstacle. Maybe it’s just the angle.

Gorilla Heads

No acting was involved in the taking of this photo.

Gorilla Heads

Traversing to the smaller simian shaped rock. It’s all about angles and perspectives.

Gorilla Heads

The group coming down the last Gorilla Head.

WST

O Tannenbaum to be later corrupted to O Christmas Tree. The German song was originally written about a fir tree and later came to be adopted by the Christmas camp.

WST

All that’s missing is the mistletoe.

WST

Looking back at the twin rock formations. Visting hours are over.

WST

The cactus are not your friend in the mountains. Look but don’t touch.

WST

Making our way through the pine needle carpeted forest.

WST

Somewhere in the mountains, it’s lunchtime.

WST

Somebody wanted to join us for lunch or be lunch.

WST

Quan lowering herself down the rocks before going back up.

WST

Pushing through the tangled mess of overgrowth to reach the flat topped peak.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Come back so we can take a group photo!

Pu’u Kanehoa

Group photo at the 2,728′ summit, our second summit. No, we are not flashing peace signs.

WST

Chris passing over a severly eroded section of the trail, where another side trail takes one down to Kunia if so desired.

WST

Take my photo!

WST

Me too!

WST

The group scooting, straddling, climbing and walking over the narrow rock dike.

WST

Sighting of the bearded moss hiker.

WST

Looking for the trail in all the wrong places.

WST

Dropping below the ridge line to contour around the boulders.

WST

Trying to climb to impossible heights.

WST

Following the fenced trail in white out conditions soon to be followed by Mother Nature’s sprinkler.

Pu’u Hapapa

Okay let’s take our group photo and get out of this rain. Art, if you are reading this, this will always be the summit to me.

Pu’u Hapapa

It was perfect timing as we hit the shelter just as the rain showers came down like cats and dogs.

Pu’u Hapapa

We mulled over our exit options in the pouring rain, which were go down the loop trail which was longer but avoid the slippery rocks or go down the shorter but slippery way? Let’s throw some tupig on the barbie as we think about it.

Pu’u Hapapa

Looking back at the helipad as another hiker enjoyed the solitude and showers all to himself.

WST

We left our shelter and decided to go down the direct way to save on time and the rain started to slack off.

WST

Chris standing on the slippery rock.

WST

Going down the loop trail by mistake, until a distant voice recalled us to the more direct route.

WST

The swirling clouds painted a surreal picture of our descent down to the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range.

WST

Approaching the first of two notches on the trail.

WST

Chris standing on top of the second notch.

WST

Tessa climbing her way down the wet and slippery rocks.

WST

Fighting against gravity. Pushing against gravity.

WST

Are we in Machu Picchu or are we in Hawai’i?

WST

Hiking our way down the side of the cliff.

WST

Chris on the first notch with clouds soaking the ground and saturating the skies.

WST

Double shaka, near sighted and far sighted.

WST

The girls peering into the cloudy abyss.

WST

Hanging like a koala on the paperbark tree native to Australia.

WST

Last group photo at the scenic overlook as the weather cleared. Never fails.

Kolekole Pass Rock

Quan wanted a bigger stick.

All pau

The porta potties and hand washing stations were gone from the trailhead, so we started to walk down the rainy road as we had nothing else to do. Thanks to Aida and Art for picking us up at Kolekole Pass and Popeye’s and shuttling us back to our cars in Kunia.

GPS Tracks

Our hike covered 5.23 miles through the rugged terrain of the Waianae Mountains. Fun hike with good friends. Post hike meal at Thelma’s, where apparently Coke means Pepsi. I guess it must be my accent.

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Lilyn Avendano, Quan Haberstroh, 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.

Chris, Ferlino and myself decided to traverse the entire Waianae Mountain Range this Veteran’s Day Weekend. From the other side.

Nanakuli Valley

Day 1

Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us in the kiawe infested valley.

Nanakuli Valley

The chilly morning was soon replaced by the heat and humidity of the valley as we made the short and stiff climb to gain the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Escaping the oppressive sauna box as we gained the ridge line. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Nanakuli Ridge

Standing out on the rocky ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Looking back as the rising sun torched the top of Heleakala ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Climbing up the exposed ridge to gain the shade of the forested canopy at the top. Photo by Chris Bautista

Nanakuli Ridge

Looking back over into the largest coastal valley on the island that is also home to two of the tallest antenna towers in the Western hemisphere. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Chris coming up the sweaty hill.

Palehua

Running across one of many military or government structures that dot the island.

Palehua

Ferlino making good use of his hiking poles on the paved road. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Palehua

What many call the “official” start or end of the Waianae Summit Trail.

Palehua

Chris rolling through the Indiana Jones boulders after passing Mauna Kapu which once had a heiau at the point. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Palehua

Ferlino overlooking the valley views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Palehua

Going up the staircase after we passed an area rich in endemic fauna and flora. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Palikea

Group photo at the 3,098′ ti leaf summit.

Heleakala

Looking at the ridge that descends to the “Hawaiian Pyramid.” Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Awash in a sea of uluhe ferns, clawing and scratching us as we went down.

WST

Following the fenced ridge as we lost some of the elevation we had just gained.

WST

Treading softly on the mossy corridor. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Getting ready to drop into the pass. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Come on down and join the fun!

Pohakea Pass

Climbing down the 80′ cliff. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pohakea Pass

Ferlino finally getting to climb the pass after so many missed attempts.

Pohakea Pass

Chris about to climb off the pass.

WST

Ferlino climbing up the crack.

WST

Back on the ridge line to have the sun shining down on our sweaty faces. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

We still had a little more rock climbing and scrambling ahead of us. Nothing to break a sweat over. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Chris pulling himself up and around a rock blocking the ridge line.

WST

Nature’s rock climbing gym. Free. Just pay with your sweat and hopefully no blood.

WST

Putting distance between us and the imposing and intimidating pass. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Climbing over the fence to continue our climb along the rocky ridge line.

Camp Kaua

We set up camp at the 3,127′ grassy summit.

Camp Kaua

Watching the sunset. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Camp Kaua

Good night from the third highest peak on the island.

Pu’u Kaua

Day 2

We broke down camp and welcomed the second day of our hike.

WST

Some people had to take the harder way instead of the contour. To each their own.

WST

Ferlino climbing his way down to the first obstacle. Sliding down works as well. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Chris climbing down the rockface.

Gorilla Heads

Looking at the backside of the larger of the gorilla head obstacles. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Gorilla Heads

Ferlino climbing up and over the boulder.

Gorilla Heads

Going down the frontside of the crumbly rockface. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Gorilla Heads

Watching Chris and Ferlino making their way down.

Gorilla Heads

Chris the Redeemer and a photobomber on the smaller rockface. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

O Tannenbaum. 42 days to be exact. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Approaching the summit of Kanehoa.

WST

Scrambling over the rocky section after we left the 2,778′ summit.

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo on the squared off pad with wrap around views of the island. I have it on good authority that the actual 2,883′ summit was more up the hill.

Pu’u Hapapa

Enjoying the coastal views below from the pallet runway. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pu’u Hapapa

Taking shelter from the brutal afternoon sun where we took a short nap.

Hapapa Trail

We woke up refreshed and resumed our hike down the ubiquitous fence line.

Hapapa Trail

Going down the exposed and rocky ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Ferlino approaching the second notch.

Hapapa Trail

Panoramic views from the top of the notch. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Descending down towards the larger notch.

Hapapa Trail

Looking back at the sheer cliff. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Sliding our way down through the stand of paperbark trees. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Ferlino checking out a possible camp site. It was rejected for not meeting milspecs.

Kolekole Pass

We set up camp at the lowest point in the Waiane Mountain Range. Thanks to Chris who met Mia down the road to pick up our doordash delivery from Popeye’s.

Kolekole Pass

Day 3

We broke down camp as a steady stream of hikers started to show up. Mahalo to CJ for bringing us unexpected breakfast and other goodies.

Kolekole Pass Rock

It’s hard to find a person to play the victim in a realistic manner.

Kolekole Pass

Who brought the metal detector? I guess we have to tread softly.

Kalena Trail

Going up the stiff and eroded climb as the sun broke over the mountains behind us.

Kalena Trail

A military geocache that has seen better days. Time for a new ammo can. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalena Trail

Hiking on the ridge line with the hazy mountains behind us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Scrambling up the narrow rock dike. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Clear views of both of our destinations – Kalena and Ka’ala, the two highest peaks on the island. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Enjoying the morning mountain views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Chris traversing another narrow dike on the trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalena Trail

Ferlino passing sexxxy ridge as he followed the fence line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Star Trek

Live long and prosper. Man down. The search for more cardio. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Hiking up the final and steep climb to the 3,504′ summit. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pu’u Kalena

Group photo at the second highest peak on the island.

Pu’u Kalena

Chris enjoying the shade from the sun on the moss carpeted ohia tree.

WST

We ran into two other hikers, Takashi and Susy, coming from the other direction.

WST

Chris and Ferlino contouring up the ridge line.

WST

Climbing in and out of the split fence line.

Hobbs

Resting before the final leg to the highest peak on the island.

WST

Pushing through the thick and thorny overgrowth. Punctures for days.

WST

Somebody didn’t let the weight of the hike crush his spirit.

WST

I didn’t know this swing determines if you are a goat or monkey. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Going up the steep and moss slicked boulders.

WST

Pulling myself up. It was rather taxing I must admit. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ka’ala Bog

Wandering through the misty rainforest home to endemic fauna and flora.

Ka’ala Bog

Meeting up with the boardwalk. We have no dogs. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ka’ala Bog

Ferlino approaching the 4,025′ summit and radar installation.

Camp Ka’ala

Bench with a view.

Camp Ka’ala

We set up camp after a worker nearby told us to be careful and spun some supernatural stories about this area. Sleep tight and don’t let the ghosts bite. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Ka’ala

Day 4

We woke up and broke down camp after a ghost free experience on the highest peak on the island. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Ka’ala

Looking back at the red blinking lights of the radar installation.

Mount Ka’ala

Walking down the road with the twinkling city lights of Waialua and Haleiwa in front of us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Ka’ala

Chris checking out the secret route to Stairway to Heaven. Hush hush.

Mount Ka’ala

Only one way traffic on the road this morning. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Leaving the road and going up the steep flank of the ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

The fence line served as our navigational aid in the dense sea of uluhe overgrowth.

Three Corners

Chris checking out the valley views of Makaha and Makua in front of him, Mokuleia was behind him. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Leaving the roughly 2,800′ hill as we followed the fence through dips and peaks along the way.

Makua Valley

Looking down into the valley where ancient Hawaiians believed man was first created. The original inhabitants were slowly driven out by the roaming cattle from nearby ranches and then completely evicted by the US military who wanted the verdant valley home to three temples and other endemic fauna and flora for bombing practice. The lease is set to expire in 2029. Let’s see if the land is returned as promised by the US military.

WST

Contouring off the ridge where we passed a snail habitat and a spread of blue flags denoting endemic plants.

WST

Back on the exposed fenced ridge line with coastal, valley and mountain views.

WST

Ferlino was too busy hiking to enjoy the splendid views of Makua Valley.

WST

Chris walking down the trail to connect to the jeep road.

WST

I flagged down one of the many 4×4 trucks driving on the road to see if any kind souls would sell us some ice cold soda. Shout out to the lovely couple that gave me a can of sparkling water to be split three ways. A cold beverage on a hot day on a dusty road never tasted so good.

WST

Leaving the jeep road. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kuaokala Trail

Can somebody get me a soda? Sorry, Chris was only making hot Korean ramen. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kuaokala Trail

Chris and Ferlino making their way through the pine forests and towards where I was sitting on top of the dodo rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Heading to the Makua Rim trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Where are those 4×4’s when you need them?

Kuaokala Trail

Taking a short break underneath the picnic shelter before our final push to the end. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kuaokala Trail

Enjoying the wide open trail while we can.

Kuaokala Trail

In search of a suitable trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kaena Point

Trying to stay on the off-beaten track is always a challenge.

Kaena Point

Putting the bushwhacking behind us.

Kaena Point

Straying off the off-beaten track after we lost the stalking truck.

Kaena Point

Our ten minutes of stress induced anxiety were finally over.

Kaena Point

Chris overlooking the westernmost point on the island, a place that ancient Hawaiians called the “leaping place for the souls.”

Kaena Point

Ferlino coming down from the mountain.

Kaena Point

Looking out towards the ocean where a little known volcano, Kaena, sank over two million years ago. Kaena along with Waianae and Ko’olau helped to create the island of Oahu. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kaena Point

#17. Group photo celebrating our first, third and eighth time finishing the entire Waianae Summit Trail. This also marked my twenty-first cumulative completions of both the KST and WST. 21 for 2021. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kaena Point

Somebody could already taste the ice cold soda coming down the grassy and rocky ridge.

Kaena Point

Thanks to Art, Lilyn and Quan for meeting us with cold carbonated beverages at the base of the ridge. It’s the little things that can pick you up after a long weekend. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Kaena Point

Hiking our way back over the two mile long trail that follows remnants of railroad tracks and home to cliffs harboring tidepools, arches and abandoned vehicles.

Kaena Point

No green flash for us, but the sunset was still striking.

Kaena Point

Obviously the coordination to pull off a triple champagne dousing was a little beyond us. But everybody still got wet. Photo by Jasmin Carinio.

Electric Beach

Plenty thanks as well to Aida, Jasmin, Marilyn and Tessa for joining us with enough delicious food to whet our caloric deficit. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

All pau

Our bellies were full and our hearts content. Thanks again to everybody that came out and supported us. Much mahalos!

GPS Tracks

Our original three day hike turned four day hike due to technical difficulties covered 28.6 miles through the entire Waianae Summit Trail. The hike was filled with soaring temperatures, rough terrain and unmatched views. Best of all, it was done with and the support from great 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.

Schofield Barracks was once again open to the hiking public this weekend. Thanks to Jamie for dropping Andy and myself off to the trailhead where we waited for Robert to drop off Aida, Andrew, Art and Lilyn.

Trailhead

We are hiking on a military base. Photo by Andreas Wiegand.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Hiking with hands in pocket. Photo by Art Young.

Kolekole Pass Rock

This is what happens when you try to copy Mr. Green.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Following the signs. Staying on trail. Don’t want to step on an UXO. Photo by Art Young.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Bench with a view. Why isn’t anybody on the bench? Photo by Art Young.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Shall we go up the steep route or the switchback way? Is that a rhetorical question? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Art standing on the edge.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Waiting for the rest of the group to join us. Photo by Art Young.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Enjoying the views of the largest coastal valley on the island. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Scrambling up the first notch. Photo by Andreas Wiegand.

Kolekole Pass Trail

G’Day Mates! Somebody finally got to say that in the proper context. Photo by Art Young.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Andy climbing out of the second notch. Photo by Art Young.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Making our way to the last major hill before it leveled off to a more walkable grade. Photo by Art Young.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Looking back at the highest mountain on the island that was strikingly clear. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Platform with a view. At least somebody is using the platform. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kolekole Pass Trail

Somebody was enjoying the solitary panoramic views. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kolekole Pass Trail

The group descending from the 2,883′ summit of Hapapa.

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo on the helipad left to right: Aida, Lilyn, myself, Art, Andrew and Andy. This will always be the summit to me.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the flat top as we descended down the steep and fenced ridge line. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Climbing down the assorted boulders that interrupted the ridge line. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

We crossed over multiple times as we sought the trail that was less green on the other side of the fence. Photo by Andreas Wiegand.

WST

Andy standing on a dead end with unbeatable views of the valley and surrounding areas.

WST

A different perspective of the trail we were traversing. Photo by Andreas Wiegand.

WST

It’s all about the posing. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Art and Andy going the contour way. No climbing show today.

WST

We all took different paths to get … Photo by Aida Gordon.

WST

… back on the same trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pu’u Kanehoa

This is the summit. Right Art?

Pu’u Kanehoa

Dropping down from the 2,778′ knob. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Contouring our way around the rockface and pushing through the overgrowth.

WST

Making our way over the multiple humps that characterized the ridge. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Watching the rain showers slowly marching its way towards us.

WST

Scooting our way down in confined spaces. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Approaching the two humps known collectively as gorilla heads or kriangles. Photo by Art Young.

Gorilla Heads

The group climbing their way up the smaller hump. Photo by Art Young.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing queue. Photo by Art Young.

Gorilla Heads

Art climbing his way to the top of the big hump as the rain showers slowly washed over us and then drifted away. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Gorilla Heads

Going down the backside. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Gorilla Heads

Andrew checking his six before hugging his way down.

Gorilla Heads

Our group bunching together in the middle of the saddle. Photo by Art Young.

Gorilla Heads

Art doing his best impression of “mountain climbing.”

WST

Going up the wobbly fence. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Everybody making their way over to the last climbing section.

WST

In addition to providing my standard elevator service, I also do chiropractic adjustments. Still only a nickel. What a bargain. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Art climbing his way above the gorilla heads.

WST

What would you do for a tangerine? Climb down a steep cliff to retrieve said citrus fruit. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

After our lunch break, we resumed our uphill climb.

WST

We can see the summit for the ridgeline. No we can’t. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Climbing up through the pollen saturated uluhe corridor. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Follow me, I know a shortcut. Famous last words. Photo by Aida Gordon.

WST

Aida climbing down the direct drop. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pu’u Kaua

Group photo at the 3,127′ summit where we were afforded panoramic views of the Westside valleys, the entire Ko’olau Mountain Range and the Wahiawa plain.

Kaua Trail

It was time to head down and get a bite to eat. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kaua Trail

Aida making her way down the initial steep descent.

Kaua Trail

Standing in for Ms. Lonely. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kaua Trail

Breaking out on the exposed trail.

Kaua Trail

Representing an anatomically inaccurate shape.

Kaua Trail

Further skewing the inaccuracy. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kaua Trail

Somebody was either trying to stomp on somebody or releasing excessive flatulence. My money is on the latter.

Kaua Trail

Climbing over the last fence of the day that also intersected with the Hono’uli’uli Contour Trail.

Handstand

When reality fails to meet expectations. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kaua Trail

Testing my balance. No water to break my fall. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

All pau

Walking back to our staged cars. Saved us several miles of walking out to the highway.

GPS Tracks

Our hike covered a little over five miles through the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range and ending at the third highest peak on Oahu. Post hike meal for the directionally challenged at Ono Steak and Shrimp in Kapolei. Fun hike with old and new 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.

Met up with Bill, Lilyn and Shirley to spend Easter in the mountains this weekend.

Kunia

Thanks to Jalen who dropped us off and wished us well on our “painful” hike, how did he know?

Sunflower field

Grow them and they will come. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kunia

Heading towards the tree line. We missed it by that much. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kunia

Making our way up the short and stiff spur ridge.

Kunia

The trail was a marked departure from the last time I hiked it three years ago, as some folks had cleared the overgrowth and marked the trail. We also found somebody’s stash of chemical leached bottled water. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Hono’uli’uli Contour Trail

We soon met up with the firebreak road that contours on the Windward side of the Waianae Mountain Range. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Hono’uli’uli Contour Trail

Leaving the trail that spans from Kolekole Pass to Palehua Road.

Kunia

Following the trail which soon dipped into a saddle.

Kunia

Looking back into the Kunia farm lands as we gained elevation in the mountains. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kunia

Lilyn climbing out of the saddle and up to the WST.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Stepping foot on the eroded remains of an ancient shield volcano. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Looking back as the rest of the crew emerged from the spur trail.

WST

We topped out on the ridge line just shy of Pu’u Kanehoa to be met by stiff winds and spectacular views wherever we cast our wandering eyes. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

The only sheltered spot on the ridge line from the gusting winds that dropped the air temperature and discouraged some from continuing the hike. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Photo of our group before we dwindled down to a pair of hikers.

WST

Bill and Shirley decided to explore the sheltered trails at lower elevations. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Dropping down the side of the rock face. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Two dots on the ridge line. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Lilyn making her way on the exposed ridge line buffeted by the strong winds. Nature’s air conditioning.

WST

Ready to plunge into the forested spot of the ridge line. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Breaking out of the forest and back onto the exposed ridge line.

Gorilla Heads

Meeting up with the first pair of obstacles. One small and one big. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn working her way up the smaller rock face.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up the bigger head. Webbing optional. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn climbing up while trying not to lose her Chicago Cubs hat. No mean feat by itself in these windy conditions.

Gorilla Heads

Going down the backside. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn looking for her next foothold or spot.

Gorilla Heads

Can you see the primate for the rocks? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Fence hopping. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Going up through the fence line that was interrupted by the rocky ridge line.

WST

Climbing up the fenced hill. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Lilyn overlooking the Gorilla Heads.

WST

We resumed our hilly climb to be briefly interrupted by several nasty patches of uluhe overgrowth before reaching the third highest peak.

Pu’u Kaua

Photo from the remarkably cleared 3,127′ summit.

WST

Leaving the summit and following the fence line where some spots of the trail were littered with non-potable water jugs and barrels.

WST

Enjoying the central plains view. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

We soon left the fence line behind us and started our program of rock climbing. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Lilyn angling her way down one of the rock climbs.

WST

Low center of gravity. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

High center of gravity.

WST

Lilyn contouring her way down the short and steep climb.

WST

Going down a short drop. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pohakea Pass

It was butterfly time as we made our way towards the imposing 80′ crumbly cliff. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pohakea Pass

Lilyn climbing up towards the base of the pass using ropes that have seen better days.

Pohakea Pass

Climbing straight up, always mindful of the chossy rocks. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pohakea Pass

Like somebody said, pictures do not do this climb justice.

Pohakea Pass

We both passed the pass.

WST

Lilyn scrambling back up the ridge line, thinking all the hard stuff was behind us. Think again.

WST

So far, so good.

WST

Enjoying the windy views. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Pushing up the last big hill. Promise?

WST

We had to jump the fence line multiple times to stay on trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

The suffocating uluhe overgrowth and the seemingly never ending false peaks were exhausting and irritating. This was the hardest section according to the backseat hiker. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Heleakala

Looking at our original exit route which got tossed out due to lack of time. I also switched my music from headset to speaker to serve as a pseudo-navigational aid, as the overgrowth and multiple trails were a tad confusing. It also helped to drown out the broken record. I didn’t know record players could work in the mountains.

Palikea

Happy Easter from the 3,098′ ti leaf summit where I marked my sixth time finishing the WST.

Palehua

Crossing through forest land teeming with native fauna and flora.

Palehua

Keeping the feral ungulates out but the two legged primates in. Or something like that. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Palehua

Leaving the pine tree forest behind us as we enjoyed central and town views on our way out.

Palehua

Rolling through the Indiana Jones boulder tunnel. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Palehua

End of the trail for us but the beginning of the long ass road that winded down to Makakilo.

Palehua Road

Pounding the pavement as several cars passed us on the road, all failing to follow protocol.

All pau

Hit the road, Jack. And don’t you come back. No more, no more, no more, no more. Hit the road, Jack. And don’t you come back no more. A more lyrical interpretation of the greeting we received at the end of the road. Thanks to Bill and Shirley for picking us up and giving us cold carbonated beverages. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

GPS Tracks

Our 12 plus mile covered the hardest climbing section of the WST, made even more taxing by the annoying overgrowth. Post hike meal at McDonald’s where we locked our doors for peace of mind as we ate our cholesterol drenched food.

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 went out the West side to dry out this weekend with Charlie, CJ and Tessa. Thanks to Matt for dropping us off at Schofield Barracks. Citizens of all country are welcome.

Trailhead

The start of the trail was teeming with hikers. We got a jump on them before the trail got too congested. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

KoleKole Pass Rock

I hope heads will not be rolling today.

Meadows

Group photo before Matt took his leave of us, left to right: Matt, Tessa, myself, CJ and Charlie. The brisk winds aborted Matt’s attempt at some drone shots. So he called it a day and bade us farewell.

Hapapa Trail

We took the crumbly and direct route up. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Hapapa Trail

The rest of the group making their way up. Somehow, somebody got lost on their way up. Excuse me, he was exploring. LOL.

Hapapa Trail

We made our way through the stand of paperbark trees and soon found ourselves at the towering rock dike. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Hapapa Trail

Climbing down to start our climb up the first notch. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Hapapa Trail

CJ and Tessa on the photogenic dike.

Hapapa Trail

Tessa sitting on her perch in the mountains. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Hapapa Trail

The girls on top of the second notch.

Hapapa Trail

Are we home for the night? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo on the square summit overlooking the West side. The best side.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

We left the 2,883′ summit to begin our hike on the fenced trail. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

WST

Looking back as Tessa climbs over one of many fenced junctions.

WST

Descending down towards the imposing rock dike which interrupts the ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

WST

Making our way around the eroded section. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

WST

Heading towards the knob of Kanehoa.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Group photo at the 2,778′ summit that offered splendid panoramic views.

Pu’u Kanehoa

One of the splendid views from the top.

WST

Looking back at the exposed summit. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

WST

Tessa hiking through the mixed tree section of the ridge.

WST

Approaching the “Christmas Tree” which is the gateway to the first set of obstacles before us.

WST

CJ and Tessa cresting over the small hill.

Gorilla Heads

Scrambling up the smaller head. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing down towards the bigger head. Don’t touch it too much. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Gorilla Heads

CJ making her way up. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Gorilla Heads

Charlie bringing up the rear. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Gorilla Heads

Looking for my next foothold. Where’s my spotter? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Gorilla Heads

Tessa’s turn to climb down. Step by step. Heart to heart. Left, right, Left. We all fall down. Wait, don’t follow the last lyric.

WST

CJ making her way up the interrupted fence line. Hard for the fence installers to follow the pitches of the ridge line.

Need webbing?

We soon left the fence line to climb up a rock face. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Bee in my bonnet

Tessa was being buzzed and it wasn’t from alcohol. I was of no help. Luckily CJ had a stick handy and flicked the bee out.

WST

Back on the fence line.

WST

Charlie pushing through the overgrowth. Visibility was mostly uluhe ferns in your face. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Pu’u Kaua

The 3,127′ summit was extremely overgrown, no stop here. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

WST

Back on the fence line with CJ pointing at our destination, which was still far away. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

WST

Climbing my way down. The start of the most rock climbing this side of the WST. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

WST

Charlie ready to climb down.

WST

Looking for our next rock face to climb down. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

WST

CJ making short work of the rock face. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

WST

Tessa climbing down the correct route.

WST

The other two decided on an “easier” descent and ended up losing their webbing. Apparently my words of advice were drowned out in the wind. LOL. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

WST

Contouring a somewhat tricky rock face. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

WST

The others following in my footsteps. Pack optional.

WST

Scrambling up another rockface. After another. And another. You get the picture. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

WST

Give me your hand and forget about losing your manhood.

WST

Contouring around the tree line to stay on trail.

WST

Tessa dropping off the ridge line. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

WST

The group hugging the rockface as we made our way down the sliver of a trail.

WST

Making my way down a short drop. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Pohakea

Camp life. We could have survived for quite some time in the mountains what with Charlie’s industrial sized can of butane fuel and copious amounts of unfiltered water. We were just missing enough food. We didn’t look appetizing to each other.

Camp Pohakea

Camp site. We pitched tent on what looked like the remains of another cabin or bunker. We were not breaking new ground.

Camp Pohakea

Good night from the Waianae Mountains. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Camp Pohakea

We woke up the next morning after rain showers pelted our campsite, made breakfast, broke down camp and left to tackle the biggest obstacle in the mountains. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Pohakea Pass

I won’t lie. Every time I see this 80′ crumbly cliff, I get butterflies in my stomach.

Pohakea Pass

Climbing and contouring our way up. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Pohakea Pass

The group queued up at the base of the cliff.

Pohakea Pass

Everybody ready to climb? Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Pohakea Pass

The climb up was greatly assisted with the red webbing that another group had left. Caution was still exercised as never fully trust webbing that wasn’t set by your own hands. It pays to also have somebody that can safely free climb obstacles in case webbing is suspect or lacking.

Pohakea Pass

Checking out the group coming up, the wind stalled somebody’s progress immeasurably. But everybody made it up safely. In the end, that’s all that matters.

Pohakea Pass

CJ perched on her rock. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Pohakea Pass

Hello from the top of the pass.

Bonsai Trail

Leaving the pass behind us.

WST

It was another steep climb up the fenced ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

WST

Wading through the sea of forest green uluhell.

WST

Water catchment break. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Palikea Summit

Group photo with the rainbow behind us in Lualualei Valley.

Palehua

Going down the stairs. We must be nearing civilization.

Palehua

Leaving the forest of pine trees as we left the gated area.

Palehua

Traversing the trail cut from the side of the cliff.

Palehua

Indiana Bugay coming through the boulder tunnel. Photo by Charlie Antonio.

Palehua

Switch backing our way to the bamboo forest.

Palehua

Going down the last set of stairs for the day.

Palehua

End of the trail and beginning of the road. We are not out of the woods yet.

Hiker Humane Society

I am not your Daddy! Photo by Charlie Antonio.

All pau

Mahalo to Quan for picking us up halfway on the road.

GPS Tracks

Our two day camping and climbing hike in the Waianae Mountains covered 9.5 miles with fun company and marked my fifth time completing the Waianae Summit Trail (WST). Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse where Aida, Chris, Lilyn and Quan also joined us on two separate tables. No clam chowder on the menu. What is this world coming to?

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 joined a different team this weekend to tackle the other mountain range on the island, the Waianae Summit Trail. Thanks to Mike for dropping Analyn, Bill, Shirley and myself off under the bright lights of the Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station to start our late evening hike. Team BASK.

Kaena Point

Walking on the remnants of the railroad tracks where only our shadows kept us company.

Kaena Point

I guess we should have gotten a 4×4. Whose name was on the rental contract?

Kaena Point

Passing one of several WW2 pillboxes on our way up the grassy and rocky ridge line that was under lunar illumination.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

Approaching the military installation that dominates the landscape of the 1,500′ ridge line.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

Somebody wanted to shed more light on themselves and bring unwanted attention to ourselves. Talks of hiking in the dark to our destination soon became a distant memory as we set up camp at the BSA shelter. Bill and Shirley shared a tent, while Analyn and I shared the picnic table.

BSA Shelter

We woke up the next day, broke down the tent, cleaned off the table and had breakfast.

Kuaokala Trail

Hiking the wide tree lined corridor that was strewn with pine cones and needles.

Kuaokala Trail

Making our way through the barren and rocky terrain where views of Makua Valley greeted us.

Kuaokala Trail

First contact with the fence line that is sprawled over the mountain range.

Kuaokala Trail

We followed the fence line down for a bit before it spit us back onto the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the well trodden trail for the overgrown one.

WST

We snacked on lilikoi passion fruit before trudging back up the road.

Moku

Turned a right at the geodic marker to pick up the trail.

Pahole NAR

Entering the 685 acres of protected ecosystems that are home to native fauna and flora. Mount Ka’ala looked so close, yet so far.

WST

Seeking scant shade from the blistering sun.

WST

Fences for daze.

Mokuleia Trail

We dropped down to the shelter to have our lunch and top off our water. Slim pickings for the oranges and avocados. Who the hell brings a chair to a hike? A comfortable person that’s who.

WST

Back to hiking under the hot sun.

WST

Giving our hands a workout as we went up and down the fenced hills.

WST

Approaching the summit where a shin high metal stake caught a couple of us on the way up. Ouch!

Three Corners

It was a nice day to be enjoying the sweeping views of Makaha, Makua and Mokuleia Valleys.

WST

Plunging through the dense uluhe corridor laced with thorny thimbleberry bushes. While hiking has a lot of joys. This was definitely not one of them.

WST

Looking ahead to the road that would take us to the 4,025′ summit.

WST

Coming down the steep hill, Analyn skinned her right hand on the fence coming down. Wear and tear.

Ka’ala Road

Two bumps on the road otherwise known as potential road kill.

Ka’ala Road

Click your heels together three times and say ‘There’s no place like home’ and you’ll be there. Unfortunately, this is not the movies and you are not Dorothy. This is the Ka’ala Road, hard and unforgiving. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Ka’ala Road

Putting our heads down and putting one foot in front of the other. This road sucks.

Ka’ala Road

End of the road. Thank goodness. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Camp Ka’ala

We set up camp; enjoyed a stunning sunset, munched on Godiva Chocolate and somebody got gassed to the point of retching.

Camp Ka’ala

Our morning view from the highest peak on the island, as rain showers slowly marched its way towards us.

Camp Ka’ala

Breaking down camp under a light drizzle of mountain rain.

Ka’ala Bog

On the boardwalk that crosses through 1,100 acres of ancient Hawaiian rain forest home to many native plants and animals. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Ka’ala Bog

The Northern KST doesn’t have the exclusive monopoly on deep sole sucking mud. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Ka’ala Bog

Finding the fence line and following it down to the ridge line.

WST

Going down the slippery slope. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Analyn climbing her way down.

WST

The girls climbing down and out from the moss covered boulder section. Photo by Bill Yogi.

WST

Bushwhacking through the fenced corridor of uluhe ferns and thimbleberry bushes. The overgrowth was too much for Bill’s selfie stick as I cracked the tip while clearing the trail, no fusion videos of the hike. My bad. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

The last time I saw my selfie stick before the overgrowth snatched it out of my pack. It’s supposed to be used for selfies and not bushwhacking. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

The girls passing through a stand of trees that were thickly padded with green and spongy moss.

WST

The trail overgrowth relented somewhat, but not that much. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Hobbs Junction

Taking a break from all that bushwhacking. Agony by a thousand punctures.

WST

Resuming our fenced hike with the second highest peak staring us in our sweaty faces.

WST

Making our way down the split ridge.

WST

Waiting for our turn to climb down. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Shirley contouring the crumbly ridge line. Photo by Bill Yogi.

WST

Looking for that ledge to land her size 7.5 shoes on. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Analyn climbing up one of the last rock faces before the summit.

Pu’u Kalena

Fabulous views of the West side from the 3,504′ peak.

Pu’u Kalena

What? No lunch break here? Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Back on the fenced trail to get to the eroded section over on the next hill.

WST

Lunch break and scenic photography spot.

WST

False peak after false peak.

WST

Selfie at one of the step fence sections. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Looking down at the hot mess of crumbly rocks otherwise known as Pu’u Ka’ilio.

WST

West side boy on the West side dike.

WST

Looking back at sexxxy ridge. No opportunity for sexxxy time. Next time. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

We left the fenced ridge line and made our way down the spur ridge.

WST

Analyn throwing out a shaka before going down another narrow dike section.

WST

There’s always time for another shaka on the dike. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Getting off the rocky ridge line as we descended towards the pass, the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range.

Lualualei Valley

Looking down into the largest coastal valley on this side of the island.

WST

Can you take a video of me sliding on my butt sis?

WST

Sure thing sis! Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Kolekole Pass

Why did the hikers cross the road? To get to the other hiking trail.

Pohaku Hupeloa

Everybody try and keep their heads about them.

Kolekole Pass

Approaching the clearing with sweeping views and looking for my carbonated beverage. Sorry Analyn.

Kolekole Pass

Thanks to Matt for bringing us the fried chicken without an apostrophe. Our group just got bigger by one. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Our bellies full, we climbed straight up the crumbly hillside to save 15 minutes. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Matt bringing the chicken with him. Leftovers are the best. For some people.

WST

The sun silhouetting Matt as we descended down to the notch.

WST

Bill and Shirley climbing out of the first notch.

WST

Coming over the second notch. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Almost there.

Camp Hapapa

We set up camp; enjoyed another spectacular sunset, no dessert this time and no gassing was reported as well.

Camp Hapapa

Twinkling city lights. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Camp Hapapa

The morning sunbeams spilling over on the central plain. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

We broke down camp and set out for the square sized summit of Hapapa.

Pu’u Hapapa

Our collective photographic poses on the 2,883′ peak.

WST

Leaving the summit.

WST

Misty mountains.

WST

Looking back at Matt and the valley that are home to two of the tallest transmission towers in the Western hemisphere.

WST

Contouring and not climbing. Photo by Shirley Gloriani

WST

Traversing the eroded section of the ridge line.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Cheesy pose by the girls at the 2,728′ summit. Not my words. From the cheesy person herself.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Watching Bill “No Breaks” Yogi moving on the ridge line. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Matt checking out the views and kicking himself for not bringing his drone.

WST

The clouds drifting over the mountains.

WST

Most of the clouds soon left, but some stayed. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

We went through a section of pine forest before getting back onto the exposed ridge.

WST

Approaching the “Christmas Tree” that marks the gateway to the first main obstacle.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up and over the smaller of the primate rocks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Gorilla Heads

Supplemental webbing does a body and mind good. Or so I heard. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Gorilla Heads

Bill climbing up the biggest of the ape rocks. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Gorilla Heads

Shirley’s turn.

Gorilla Heads

Passing resemblance to their Simian namesake. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Gorilla Heads

Bill climbing his way down.

Gorilla Heads

Spotting Analyn coming down. Catching services not included. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Gorilla Heads

Looking back at the two humps. And it wasn’t even Wednesday yet.

WST

The group going up between a hard rock and a fence. There was only one decision to make. Up.

WST

There’s always a photographic opportunity in the mountains, especially with these two. Photo by Bill Yogi.

WST

Blackhawk doing a fly by. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

You go right, I’ll go left. Who wants to follow? Webbing will be provided.

WST

Analyn contouring her way around the crumbly rock. We took a musubi break at this spot. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Following the fence line as we climbed up the rocky ridge.

WST

Pushing our way through the insufferable patch of uluhe ferns that was thankfully interrupted by the fence line.

Pu’u Kaua

Looking back at the mountains we had traversed from the third highest peak on the island.

Pu’u Kaua

Group photo by Analyn Baliscao, left to right: Analyn, Bill, Matt, myself and Shirley at the 3,127′ peak.

WST

What broad shoulders you have, the better to see the views with. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Bill coming down the rock face, the start of the most rock climbing on this section of the WST that you can shake a crumbly rock at.

WST

Team BASK perched on the rocks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

The girls climbing their way down and posing. Multi-tasking at its finest. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Follow me. Or maybe not. Some people have to learn the hard way. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Matt making his way around the rock that was in our way. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Contouring our way around the slippery and rooted hill to pick up the trail. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Analyn climbing down the short drop with the overhang. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

The pine tree corridor that took us to the main obstacle of the day.

Pohakea Pass

Going up the crumbly 80′ cliff for the fourth time and my stomach still had butterflies. The saving grace was the red webbing that was leftover from another group’s ascent. No free climbing needed this time. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Pohakea Pass

Bill climbing his way up.

Pohakea Pass

Shirley using the blue and red webbings to pull herself up. We just had to have a white webbing and it would have been a patriotic climb. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Pohakea Pass

Somebody was focused on getting to the top. Need a hand? Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Scrambling up and away from the sheer cliff.

WST

Shirley threading her way between the trees on the mossy ground.

WST

Pulling ourselves up the last major fenced climb.

WST

Pondering the anticipated removal of my facial hair after my self-imposed shaving hiatus that was to be lifted when I finished both mountain ranges in one shot. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Palikea

Brief stop at the ti leaf summit that at 3,098′ elevation had panoramic views of the West side. Only an hour left to the end of our hike.

WST

Trying to beat the sun to the bottom. Mother Nature would win.

Palehua

Our last selfie of the day as the daylight slipped away from us.

All pau

Not quite. We still had a roughly five mile road to walk down to Makakilo. We were going to pool our cash together to get a ride back down. But nobody answered the call of opportunity. So we ended up pounding the pavement all the way down to Makakilo. We piled into Matt’s truck and met up with Janell at the nearby shopping center where frozen cokes and bubbly were waiting for us.

Post hike celebration

Matt was the only one afforded the traditional champagne dousing over the head, as he had to head home. The rest of us retired to Bill and Shirley’s lawn and just sucked it down. I don’t know who got the better deal. Thanks again to Janell for giving us a ride. Photos by Janell Tuttle.

GPS Tracks

Our Labor Day weekend hike over the entire Waianae Mountain Range and then some, covered almost 33 miles through rugged and spectacular terrain that defines the West side. Amazing adventure with awesome friends. Until the next adventure.

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.

Today was the day to polish off the last chunk of the Waianae Summit Trail (WST) for the second time around. Joining me today were Chris, Justin, Ryan and Thessa. Mahalo to Matt for dropping us off at the crack of dawn at Schofield Barracks. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Trailhead

Nobody but us early hikers on the trail. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

The trail has been considerably cleared and marked from the last time I was here. It’s like Disneyland. Without the lines. Well, if you come early.

Kolekole Pass Rock

Hiking infractions are dealt with harshly on military bases. You have been warned.

Bench

We stopped at the meadow and looked out towards Lualualei Valley and the blinking antenna lights.

Notches

Looking up at the notched ridge silhouetted against the twilight sky.

Trail

Chris and Ryan making their way up the paperbark tree lined hill.

Notch

Maybe this was the cliff hazard the sign had warned us about earlier?

Notch

Justin looking out at Pu’u Ka’ilio and Lualualei Valley.

Notch

Thessa climbing her way out of the big notch.

Trail

Impromptu group photo.

Notch

Ryan making his way over the notch.

Notch

Justin climbing his way out of the smaller notch. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Looking back

Leaving Kolekole Pass, the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range, behind us.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Sun beams

The sun poking through the thick clouds over the Wahiawa plain and Pearl Harbor.

Slide trail

The fastest way to get down to the valley. Not recommended.

Puu Hapapa

Group photo by Justin Hirako at the 2,883′ flat topped summit, left to right: Ryan, Thessa, Justin, myself and Chris.

Trail

After a short break, we resumed our hike by following the fenced ridgeline.

Leeward view

Looking back towards the rest of the rugged Waianae Mountain Range. Spectacular scenery all around.

Central view

Despite the heavy cloud cover, we could see all the way out to Diamond Head. I’ll say it again. Spectacular scenery.

Trail

Multiple choice: Is Ryan a) stretching b) scratching his back or c) reaching for his gopro.

Trail

The ridge overgrowth started to get out of hand.

Chef Boyardee time

Who brings canned food on a hike? Justin. That’s who.

Trail

Looking down at the large rock formation straddling the ridge.

Trail

We contoured to the right of the towering rock edifice.

Trail

The jumbled and scattered boulders helped to break up the overgrowth.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Thessa enjoying the view from the 2,778′ summit.

Trail

Chris hiking through the overgrowth.

Central view

Looking out towards Lualualei Valley, the birthplace of the island of Oahu.

Looking back

Typical ridge hike composed of short ups and downs.

Trail

Scattered rain and rolling clouds helped to cool us down on the overgrown ridge.

Trail

The cool weather soon evaporated. At least we got our views back.

Ladybug

A seven-spotted lady beetle looking for lunch.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Gorilla Heads

We soon came across the rock formations known as “Gorilla Heads” or “Kriangles.”

Gorilla Heads

Looking back at Pu’u Kanehoa.

Gorilla Heads

Ryan, Thessa and Justin making their way up the first and smaller gorilla head.

Gorilla Heads

Chris climbing up to join me at the top of the second and larger gorilla head. Photo by Ryan Leano.

Gorilla Heads

Ryan and Thessa making their way up. When it was Justin’s turn, he dislodged a good sized boulder coming up. Stuck. Nothing that webbing can’t fix.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing down the backside of the larger gorilla head. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Gorilla Heads

Justin and Ryan making their way down.

Gorilla Heads

What goes down… Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

…must go back up.

Looking back

Leaving the Gorilla Heads behind us. It was fun.

Pu’u Kaua

Group photo by Justin Hirako at the 3,127′ summit.

Pu’u Kaua

Another group photo by Justin Hirako at the third highest peak on the island.

Trail

Back on the fence line. We could see Pohakea Pass in the distance.

Looking back

Leaving Pu’u Kaua behind us.

Trail

Chris and Ryan making their way down the ridge.

Trail

We didn’t have to worry about overgrowth from this point. It was going to be climbing up, over and around small and big rocks.

Trail

Up and …

Trail

… over.

Trail

Scrambling out of the small saddle.

Trail

Climb or contour?

Trail

Thessa looking back at Ryan and Justin making their way around a tree. Tight squeeze.

Trail

Chris climbing down the roughly 20′ rock face.

Trail

A short stretch of pine trees separated us from the pass.

Pohakea Pass

We meet again. Somebody had left their yellow rope at the pass. What the heck? Photo by Ryan Leano

Pohakea Pass

I climbed up from the base and tugged on the rope to check out the condition. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Pohakea Pass

The rope quickly jerked and snapped, leaving me with a dangling rope. Luckily I didn’t have my weight on that rope. Rope left behind by others may look comforting as a form of assistance, but they are exposed to the elements 24/7 and intermittent abrasion. Conversations heard at the base “It’s not worth it mann.” Back and forth shuffling. “Let’s take the snapped rope and go back down the valley.” Photo by Justin Hirako.

Pohakea Pass

I secured my webbing at the top and threw it down to the waiting crew. NEXT!

Pohakea Pass

Looking for a helping hand. The top of the pass was crumbly. Dirt crumbly.

Sunset

I alternated between watching the sunset and the crew making their way up the pass. Two great views.

Pohakea Pass

Conversations from the bottom to the top of the pass. “Who’s watching the webbing?” “I am! Your life is in my hands. HAHAHA” I always like to punctuate my replies with a hearty and reassuring laugh to build confidence in people climbing up a crumbly cliff. Hanging by a webbing. Literally. At one point.

Pohakea Pass

The sound of music.

Pohakea Pass

The hardest part of the WST behind us. Group photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

Hiking by head lamps.

City lights

Taking a well deserved break. Loads of bushwhacking through knee to waist high uluhe ferns lay ahead of us. In the dark. Photo by Ryan Leano.

Palikea

We reached the 3,098′ summit marked by ti leaf plants. One hour left to the road. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Palehua

Too dark to look for native snails and happy face spiders. Photo by Justin Hirako

All pau

Trail meets the road. The long five mile Palehua road. Luckily we had a ride.

GPS Tracks

The hardest segment of the WST covered 13.03 miles of bushwhacking, rocky ridges and cliffs and spectacular scenery. Fun hike with a great crew that didn’t bail. Cough. Almost. Post hike meal at Zippys. Eat then sleep.

Back to Pu’u Kaua. And beyond. Specifically to Kolekole Pass. Met up with Brian, James, John, Jose, Matt and Marvin on Kunia Road.

Keep on trucking

Plan A was to have Troy drop us off inside the farm. Marvin’s idea to save us some walking time. Photo by Troy Solano.

Parlez-vous francais?

Honest Abe is not welcome here. I don’t care if he has a twin. Don’t get friendly with the goats either. Parlez-vous NO? Back on the road again.

Plan b

These shoes were made for walking. Thanks for the five minute ride Troy!

The road isn’t so bad

We made our way to the trailhead without further incident.

Up the trail

Wet leaves on the trail was the only difference from last week. Same scenery, more slippery.

Pu’u Kanehoa in the distance

Looking out towards the Waianae Summit Trail.

Pu’u Kaua summit

Back on top for the second time in as many weeks. Group photo left to right: Jose, James, myself, Brian, Marvin, Matt and John.

Pu’u Kaua summit view

Click here for the larger image.

Follow the fence?

I didn’t know goats and pigs could run up the sides of mountains. Learn something new everyday.

Left side

We started hiking on the left side of the fence.

Right side

Terrain shifted, so we switched to the right side.

Which side?

And switched back again.

Take your pick

Most of us climbed over the rock face. James and Marvin decided to contour on the Kunia side which put them closer to the edge. Nice drop. Nice fence.

The easy part

Climbing down this short stretch put us close to the edge, so we used webbing coming down.

Gorilla Head #1

Jose going up the first obstacle dubbed “Gorilla Heads” or “Kriangles” by other hikers.

My turn

Have to work on that tan line. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Gorilla Head #2

Jose sitting on the smaller “Gorilla Head.”

Coming down

Coming down the crumbly backside and finding foot holds at the bottom was the hardest part of the “Gorilla Heads.” Photo by Jose Delaki

Looking down

Don’t drop that camera. Might bounce off Marvin’s head. Hmm. Tempting target. Photo by James Crabb.

Looking back

Bark is worse than the bite.

Hiking forward

Brian and John going down the second “Gorilla Head.” Yawn.

Hello?

We briefly talked to a guy that had come up a spur ridge. He was asking too many questions. Possible goat herder.

Boulder contouring

Marvin and James coming down the smaller “Gorilla Head.”

O Christmas tree

A lone Sugi Pine Tree stood out. Resisted the urge to decorate.

Goodbye “Gorilla Heads”

You were fun. Until we meet again.

Hello overgrowth

From the “Gorilla Heads” until Pu’u Kanehoa, the trail was unbearably overgrown.

Hands and knees

A tree is worth a thousand branches. Or more like a thousand pokes.

Exposed

Rain replaced the overgrowth on the trail. Brian was secretly cheering the inclement weather.

More rock climbing?

Nope. Just more contouring to the right.

Misty mountains

We all admired the mountains keeping the clouds at bay. Postcard picture. If it only could have kept the rain at bay too. Click here for the larger image.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Cloudy summit view at 2,778′ elevation.

Cloud free

Nobody wanted to stand up for the group photo.

Not this side

Except Matt.

Come on down

Tick tock. Brian is waiting.

So many rock faces to climb and so little time

Abundant rock climbs were sprinkled along the trail. Climb or contour. Take your pick.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Can you see us?

The views alternated between cloudy and partly cloudy, with chances of rain showers. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

All fences lead to the summit

At least this one did.

Up here

Looking up at the summit of Pu’u Hapapa. Long time no see.

Pu’u Hapapa

You say Hapapa, I say Hana Pa’a. Cool view from 2,883′ elevation. Gone were the army men that once ringed the summit.

Camouflage

Unusual coloring for a lady beetle.

Happy face spider?

Not happy at all.

Say what?

Leave your ATVs at home when you do this hike. Fair warning.

Don’t slip here

A nasty case of trail erosion. Nasty for the hiker if they slip and fall.

One way ticket

Down. Straight down. Several thousand feet. Photo by John Garrity.

Going down the ridge

Headed down towards Kolekole Pass.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Panoramic view

From sea to shining sea. Click here for the larger image.

Panoramic view

Clouds have cleared. Click here for the larger image.

Enough with the picture taking. Hike on.

We spent a considerable amount of time just soaking in the views and recording them for posterity. It was nice up here. Wouldn’t mind coming back again.

Climbing down the small notch

The group climbing down the first and smallest notch.

Looking back

Matt making his way down.

Climbing out of the notch

Jose climbing out of the first notch.

Going down the big notch

There are two ways to tackle the second and biggest notch. Easy way is contour to the right and the hard way is straight down the rock face. Take your pick.

Silhouette

Jose standing on the exposed dike.

Looking back

Looks bigger in person.

Going down

Scooting down the red dirt.

Meadow

Brian, Jose and John checking out the notches we had come down in the middle of a meadow overlooking central Oahu. Click here for the larger image.

Off with his head

Kolekole Pass Rock or Pohaku Hupeloa, supposedly once used for sacrificial purposes.

Heed the sign

The trail going down was slippery with pine needles.

See!

James did an excellent save and recover. I was not so lucky. Had a hard fall on my butt.

Hitchhiker

We saved this invasive critter from a horrible fate. She was trying to crawl up Marvin’s shorts.

Off duty?

100% ID check in progress.

Where’s our ride?

The original hike was supposed to end in Waianae, where I had staged my truck. Since that proved to be too ambitious, we came down Kolekole Pass and decided to terminate the hike. Matt arranged for his father to pick him up at the gate and then retrieved his truck in Kunia and came back to get us. Thanks Matt!

GPS Tracks

Our hike today was 7.9 miles through some of the most stunning scenery on the Waianae Mountains. Post hike meal was at Outback. Herb roasted prime rib for dinner. Yum! Congrats to Marvin for finishing the WST. I’m next. I hope.