Somebody waited five years to finish this section. Good things come to those who wait.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Alex and Lilia for dropping Chico, Katie and myself off at our starting point today.

Pali Puka Trail

Inside or outside trail?

Pali Puka

Group photo in the hole in the cliff, that was witness to the Battle of Nu’uanu in 1795 that saw Kamehameha take over the island of Oahu.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Climbing up the short and slippery slope to regain the ridgeline.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the breaking sunrise over Olomana.

Incisor Rock

Time to put the spikes on to floss the slippery tooth.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the crumbly ridgeline.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way down the constantly changing character as erosion takes its toll. What’s here today, gone tomorrow.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Approaching the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pausing on the grassy hill overlooking Nu’uanu Reservoir #4 which was built in 1910 for flood control and water supply for the surrounding areas.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Katie descending down the flank of the hill to regain the ridgeline.

W

Contouring and climbing our way on the triple diked obstacle.

W

Making our way down the sliver of rock and dirt that seems a tad more slender on each visit.

Anvil

Whipping winds were blowing dirt into any exposed open orifices. Anybody got Visine?

Anvil

Chico pulling himself up the constantly crumbling hill that is still more preferable than the original contour route IMO. To each their own.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Our group making our way up to the hill after the long climb.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back as we saw the three trail runners catching up to us.

KSRT

Making our way towards the summit known as Swirling Heavens.

Lanihuli Summit

Adriana, Stacy and Susana soon caught up with us at the 2,700′ top and decided to join us to the finish line. The more the merrier.

KSRT

Descending from the summit against the expansive backdrop of the Windward coastline.

KSRT

Chico putting his ScuttleButt to good use on the grassy hill.

Kalihi Saddle

Sliding our way down into what some hikers argue is one of the hardest sections of the KST. I would argue it’s Diamond Head, but then again the iconic tuff cone is not part of the mountain range system.

Dirt Dragon

The group riding the dusty creature that is near the brink of extinction.

Kalihi Saddle

Susana and the rest of the group balancing our way down the skinny and crumbly ridgeline that is seemingly held together with grass, uki and woody climbers.

Lanihuli Wall

Katie descending down the long drop on the flank of the ridgeline.

Lanihuli Wall

Waiting for the rest of the group to descend down the wall which is notorious for falling rocks, I can bear witness to that.

Lanihuli Wall

The girls contouring their way around the Can Opener.

Can Opener

Katie and Susana under the shadow of the Can Opener and what I like to call the “Bulging Fridge.” A sizeable rock that seems to jut out inch by inch every time I pay a visit to this spot. Or maybe I just have an active imagination.

Can Opener

Group photo at the scenic saddle spot.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way down the brittle ledge.

Kalihi Saddle

Katie making her way down the near vertical drop.

Pimple

It was too windy to pop the pimple today, despite a willing volunteer.

Doorstop

Climbing queue, as Adriana and Stacy wait their turn.

Doorstop

Stacy approaching the top of the wedge shaped obstacle.

Bunny Ears

Pete Clines the legendary hiker was the one that gave these “silly names” to these obstacles on Kalihi Saddle so as to make them less intimidating.

Bunny Ears

Katie striking a pose on the mushroom rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Living life on the edge. Or as skydivers would say, “If you’re not living life on the edge, you’re taking up too much space.”

Kalihi Saddle

Searching for the triangle shaped obstacle.

Shark Fin

Thar she is!

Powerlines

Victory dance at the finish line. Congratulations Katie on completing the KST!

Powerlines Trail

Descending down into Kalihi Valley, that are home to a colony of Australian rock wallabies, that escaped from the private zoo of Richard Trent in 1916. The last survey conducted in the 1990s pegged the marsupial population to number in the 70s.

Kalihi Valley

Never let your feet touch the ground.

All pau

Walking out to the highway where we were picked up by Alex and Lilia.

GPS Tracks

Our KST completion hike covered 2.97 miles through two saddles and unexpected company. Congratulations again to Katie for a finish that was long in the making. Post hike meal at Nalu Health Bar & Cafe where I was pleasantly surprised by the menu offerings.

Photos taken by Adriana Hunter, Chico Cantu, Katie Lockerton, Stacy Paquette, Susana Escobar 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 had woken up earlier in an attempt to traverse all three saddles of the KST but were stymied by blue lights that were blockading the entrance to the valley formerly owned by the Damon family. The three of us decided to go back home and sleep on it. Met up later in the morning at the Pali Lookout to do an abbreviated version of the planned hike.

Pali Puka Trail

It was a short huff and puff up the mountain that made sure we were wide awake and not slumbering along the trail.

Pali Puka

Akira at the rock window that was witness to the brutal battle of 1795 that secured the island of Oahu for King Kamehameha.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Scrambling up the steep rocky flank that had been slightly moistened by the passing morning rain showers.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hiking on the exposed ridge line. A breath of fresh air. Literally.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Trying to stay grounded while soon to get our head in the clouds.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We know which way the wind blows on this side.

Incisor Rock

Time to pay a visit to the dentist in the mountains.

Incisor Rock

Flossing the cracks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

This webbing was getting long in the tooth.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Narrow as narrow gets.

W

Approaching the obstacle some call Donkey Kong or the true Pali Notches.

W

Akira coming down the grassy slippery slope.

W

Threading our way through the 23rd letter of the English alphabet.

W

Our group photo at the top with barely room to spare.

W

What does an upside W mean for somebody in particular?

Anvil

Going up the fractured path as we watched out steps.

Anvil

Moss only grows on trees and not crumbly rocks.

Lanihuli Summit

Taking a break in the swirling heavens.

Kalihi Saddle

Going down the other side of the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa climbing her way down the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Standing room only.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa climbing over the constantly eroding ridge line. Here today. Gone tomorrow.

Dirt Dragon

Straddling what is left of the receding physical manifestation of untamed nature.

Kalihi Saddle

Where’s my next foothold?

Lanihuli Wall

Perched on the side of the mountain.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira contouring his way back to the ridge line.

Can Opener

Group photo at the scenic spot with the saddle stretched out behind us.

Rotten Steps

Making my way down to the most visually striking of all the obstacles on this side of the saddle.

Rotten Steps

Tessa scrambling her way up to the next obstacle.

Pimple

The rest of the group contouring their way around the sliver of a rockface.

Doorstop

Going up the front whose character is always evolving over time.

Doorstop

Akira pulling himself up the eroded rockface.

Bunny Ears

It only feels fluffy at the top.

Bunny Ears

Akira climbing down and over the hump.

Kalihi Saddle

Sitting on the edge.

Bunny Ears

Tessa standing on the magic mushroom rock. Akira was looking for the magic marijuana plant.

Kalihi Saddle

We could soon see the powerlines for the trail and the lifeguard that was droning our hike.

Shark Fin

Climbing down the last major obstacle on the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

A drone view of Tessa and Akira traversing the narrow ridge line. I hope it was worth the $35 ticket.

Camp Centipede

Met up with Matt at his launching spot and also our lunch spot as well.

Camp Centipede

Chef Suzuki preparing his udon with beef garnished with green onion that was simmered in dashi broth. Nothing like hot food in the mountains.

Powerlines

Group photo at the col before heading down into the valley.

All pau

One was checking her spikes, the other one was posing for the camera and the last one was watering the plants. Hoped he washed his hands. Thanks to Matt for driving us back to our cars. Post hike meal at Kam Bowl Restaurant where the chicken papaya was sorely lacking in taste. Hard pass. The hike was not all that was planned, but everybody came down safely and had a good time. Not a bad way to spend the day.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Matt Vidaurri, 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.

Took a couple interested people to see the saddles firsthand, as seeing is believing as they say.

Likelike Highway

Mahalo to Ferlino for dropping Aida, Aileen, Akira, Chris, Haig, Tessa, and myself off the highway named after the last heir to the Hawaiian throne prior to its overthrow in 1893.

HECO substation

Stretching prior to the hike to avoid leg cramps or just carry mustard.

Powerlines Trail

Pushing our way through the overgrown trail to the lowest point between the peaks of Bowman and Lanihuli.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Bathroom views.

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle.

MIA

Aida had to donate her gold earring to the mountains in return for safe passage.

Shark Fin

Making our way to the first obstacle banned in Chinese restaurants.

Shark Fin

Climbing and contouring our way around the top through a thicket of trees.

Kalihi Saddle

The Kona winds blowing today were not strong enough to push us off towards the Windward side versus the usual trade winds which blows towards the Leeward side.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way down on the thin strip of trail in the mountains.

Mushroom Rock

Everybody getting their photo opportunity.

Kalihi Saddle

The washer bringing up the rear with panoramic views of the Windward side. I never heard of the term washer before, must be an Armenian thing.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira thinking “high,high” was either referring to elevation change or mood change at this moment.

Bunny Ear

Traversing between the “silly names” of the pinnacles that Pete Clines gave to reference them on the saddle.

Doorstop

Chris standing on the top of the obstacle named after something that prevents a door from banging against the wall. Let’s not bang our heads going down, shall we.

Doorstop

Aida climbing her way down.

Doorstop

Akira keeping his head away from the rocks.

Pimple

The group contouring their way around the spit of a rock.

Pimple

Haig keeping high on the contour, referring to elevation and not mood change.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris guiding Aida on her climb down.

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of the group making their way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling to higher ground.

Pimple

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.

Pimple

Popped.

Pimple

Chris clearing the loose rocks at the top.

Pimple

360 degree view at the top.

Pimple

Photobombing Chris as he pops the pimple.

Can Opener

Making our way up to the lunch spot.

Can Opener

Group photo in the shadow of the “Fridge.”

Can Opener

Contouring our way around the “little hook” that would be quite nasty, if not downright suicidal to climb it.

Lanihuli Wall

Tessa and Haig climbing the lower tier.

Lanihuli Wall

The rest of the group moved out of harms way as an earlier dislodged rock narrowly missed Akira and would have given him a different type of high high.

Lanihuli Wall

Aida coming up the upper tier.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira watching the rest of the group making their climb up from his crumbly perch.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up the “rotten” ridge loosely held together by native woody vines, perspiration and faith.

Dirt Dragon

This is after all, the Year of the Dragon. Take a seat Aida.

Kalihi Saddle

If there’s one constant on the saddles, it’s the crumbly character accentuated by constant erosion.

KSRT

Leaving the saddle behind us as we hiked into the clouds.

KSRT

Chris passing along nature’s Rorschach test. What do you see?

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the 2,700′ peak named “Swirling Heavens” in Hawaiian.

KSRT

Traversing the ridgeline as passing rain showers moisturized our epidermis.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going down the ridgeline as it seemingly keeps the clouds at bay on the Windward side.

Anvil

We decided to go down the more crumbly route instead of the standard contour route. WTF?

Anvil

Stay in your lane!

W

Standing on the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

W

Akira climbing down the fifteenth most used letter in the English language.

W

Haig contouring around the letter that was banned in Turkey from 1928 to 2013 due to the Kurdish population.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Moss don’t hit back.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Akira contouring around the steep flank of the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The rest of the group making their way down with what looks like more of a dentist’s nightmare than a letter in the background.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Losing elevation and gaining the muted views back.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Scooting on the narrow rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Standing on the narrow rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The rope guiding us down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Yawning is contagious in the mountains.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Aida climbing down to the toothy rock.

Incisor Rock

When climbing down is infinitely preferably to contouring down.

Incisor Rock

Spotting the rest of the group down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Tessa going down the narrow stretch of rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Haig bridging the gap.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hiking our way to the exit point off the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Descending down the flank of the ridge dotted with roots and loose rocks.

Pali Puka

Our last group photo before dropping down to the lookout.

Pali Puka Trail

Hiking down with the illuminated Pali Tunnels and cloud sheathed mountains in the background.

Pali Puka Trail

Night hikers marching down the trail. However, if you run across us, you don’t have to strip naked and lie prostrate before us. Unless that floats your boat.

All pau

Where did all the tourists go? Perhaps it was the haunted spirits of over 700 Hawaiian warriors that were either pushed or fell to their death in the Battle of Nu’uanu in 1795 that scared them away. Thanks to Haig for parking his unmolested car outside the gates.

GPS Tracks

Our introductory saddle hike covered roughly 3.27 miles with a fun group. Congratulations to Tessa for completing her fifth KST completion with this hike. Good job done by Akira and Haig on their first of many saddle hikes. Post hike meal at Tasty Korean BBQ where the soda carbonation was flat and the wait long. Should’ve waited for the other restaurant. Post hike ice cream dessert at Ferlino’s house courtesy of Haig.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chris Bautista, Haig Van Roubian, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

A former marine joined our saddle hike today who improvised, adapted and overcame with aplomb. Semper Fi.

Pali Lookout

Oh the weather outside looked frightful, but the hikers were so delightful, and since we’ve no place to go, Ferlino took us to the pali’s sheer cliffs which was so dreadful back in 1795 that claimed hundreds if not thousands of lives in the battle that lead to the eventual unification of the Hawaiian islands. We hopped over the rock wall that was thoughtfully repaired so that we wouldn’t trip over it under the cover of twilight.

Pali Lookout

Coming up the short and steep trail with the Pali Highway and tunnels behind me that was opened to the public back in 1962. Before that, there were no tunnels, just 22 hairpin turns that allowed people to traverse the narrow road from the Windward side to the town side. And before that, the Pali was just a cliff trail that had to be traversed with ropes and ladders. Times have changed.

Pali Puka

Chris trying to take the perfect sunrise shot through the puka in the rocks.

Pali Trail

Climbing our way up the steeply rooted and rocked hill laced with ropes for the assist.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Breaking out onto the narrow ridgeline that afforded a sweeping view of the rising sun as she lit up the landscape below us.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We saw a faint rainbow left over from the rain showers that had washed over the mountains earlier in the morning.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the chossy rocks through a combination of hand and footholds, uki grass and questionable ropes. Preferably in that order.

Incisor Rock

Paul straddling the narrow rocks. The ax that was once wedged in these rocks had taken their leave of the mountains. Perhaps by man or nature.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Time waits for no man. That man is Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the expansive views of the Windward side.

W

Approaching the 23rd letter in the alphabet to discover that the rope had snapped in several places.

W

Cresting the top of the first hill.

W

Descending down the steep flank.

W

Contouring and climbing through the double v shaped rocks using hand and footholds, uki grass, questionable wire and ratchet straps. Preferably in that order.

W

We both came down our own ways on that skinny finger of a mountain.

Anvil

Chris wanted to climb the hot mess of rocks, since the shaky anvil rock had finally bit the dust. A decidedly crumbly route. That’s a hard no.

Anvil

We had to trust the ropes coming down as it was now secured to another shaky tree or rock. It was a long roll down if things had gone the wrong way.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The hard parts were behind us as we traversed the cloud soaked ridge line. During the hike to the summit, I had clumsily hyperextended my left leg, tenderizing my knee and ankle. The hard parts were now ahead of me.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the summit of the massive mountain that is aptly named swirling heavens, more like socked in clouds today.

KSRT

Descending from the 2,700′ summit as we slipped under the cloud cover.

Kalihi Saddle

The wide terrain soon funneled into the classic narrow saddle ridgeline.

Dirt Dragon

Chris and Paul standing and sitting on the shell of its former self.

Dirt Dragon

What exactly is holding this pile of rocks and dirt together? I don’t think we want to know.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody almost took an unexpected one way ride down to 911 territory.

Lanihuli Wall

Dropping down the steep flank of the ridgeline.

Lanihuli Wall

Contouring our way around the Can Opener and back to the ridgeline.

Kalihi Saddle

Taking our group photo under the shadow of the bulging refrigerator rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Coming down the “rock terrace.”

Pimple

Paul climbing down as Chris couldn’t wait to pop the pimple.

Doorstop

Going up the rockface that always seems to shed rocks every time I see it.

Doorstop

Climbing up the hardest obstacle on this section, everything left was “relatively” tamer.

Bunny Ears

Traversing between the two definitely not fluffy rock faces.

Bunny Ears

Paul hopping over the mushroom rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking down at one of the most expensive interstate highways ever constructed that was primarily built to connect Pearl Harbor to the Kaneohe Marine base.

Shark Fin

We dropped off the ridgeline to contour around and popped back out where we couldn’t see the fin for the mountain.

Shark Fin

Looking back at the dorsal shaped rockface.

Powerlines

Approaching the powerlines that marked the end of the Lanihuli side of Kalihi Saddle.

Powerlines

My knee and ankle were throbbing at this point, so I threw in the towel while Chris and Paul continued up the Bowman side of Kalihi Saddle and exited out through Tripler ridge.

All pau

Thanks to Ferlino for picking me up on the side of Likelike Highway and taking me back to Kaneohe.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered 3.09 miles for myself and slightly longer for Chris and Paul who had pushed a little further out to Moanalua Valley. Blessed with great weather and good company. Post hike meal for myself was leftover sinigang soup at Casa Carinio. Mahalo to Ferlino who also picked up Chris and Paul in Moanalua Valley.

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Paul Smith, 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 was spoiled by our recent trip to the mainland, as the trails were wide and maintained. Back to reality. Back in the saddles.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Jasmin for dropping Ferlino and myself off at the blustery lookout. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Pali Puka Trail

Going up the short and stiff climb towards the Puka. The pitter patter of rain came to keep us company in the mountains.

Pali Puka Trail

Standing below the imposing rock spire that I heard was successfully climbed by somebody who had skills. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Pali Puka Trail

Ferlino making his way towards the Puka with zero views. Nothing to see here. Move on.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We contoured the slippery slope and gained the ridge line to see which way the wind blows in the mountains.

Incisor Rock

The rocks were too slippery to safely climb them, so I decided to keep my center of gravity low and contour around the tooth shaped rock. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Ferlino making his way over the cloud soaked ridge line.

W

Gaining elevation as we approached the rock obstacles named after the twenty-third letter of the alphabet. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

W

Ferlino climbing and contouring his way in between the triple spiked rock dikes.

Anvil

Dropping down the eroded section via a bunch of ropes and webbing that were connected to a somewhat shaky rock. Maybe it was me that was shaky. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Pu’u Lanihuli

Summit view-less at 2,760′ elevation. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalihi Saddle

Descending down the ridge line with no break in the cloud cover. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalihi Saddle

Ferlino treading carefully on the cracked ridge seemingly held together by grass and woody climbers.

Dirt Dragon

The ride is still free. Views are extra. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Lanihuli Wall

Ferlino preparing to contour off the ridge line and down the steep, grassy flank of the mountain.

Lanihuli Wall

Making my way down the multiple tiered wall. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Can Opener

Ferlino coming down the crumbly rock terrace that was in the shadows of the bulging rock that will pop out one day.

Pimple

Rain, rain go away. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Pimple

Ferlino contouring his way around the sliver of a rock.

Doorstop

Standing on top of the wedge shaped rock. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Doorstop

The winds started to pick up and kick the clouds off the mountains.

Bunny Ears

We finally started to get views of the Windward side. Better late than never. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Bunny Ears

Looking back at the clouds swirling around the mountain tops. I can see how Lanihuli got its name, which means “swirling heavens.”

Kalihi Saddle

Enjoying panoramic views on our hike. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Shark Fin

Ferlino climbing down the dorsal shaped rock.

Powerlines

All smiles as we gathered for a group photo at the powerlines before making our way down into Kalihi Valley. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

All pau

Somebody had cleared most of the vegetation leading down towards the HECO substation, so much that at first I didn’t recognize the trail. Many thanks to Jasmin for picking us up and bringing us back home after our soaked three mile saddle hike.

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

We returned to the saddles for unfinished business and trail maintenance. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks to Quan for dropping Art, Lilyn, Narissa and myself off in the land of wallabies.

Powerlines

We gained the ridge where the wind almost drowned out the snap, crackle and pop of the power lines above us. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Shark Fin

Approaching the dorsal shaped rockface that Pete Clines “gave silly names to these menacing pinnacles.” Photo by Art Young.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody was drowning in the Windward views. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Narissa contouring off the ridge line and gaining a brief respite from the howling winds.

Kalihi Saddle

The winds had seemingly cranked up a couple notches from our last weekend visit. Photo by Art Young.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody got stung. Watch out for the bees Art!

Beehive

What bees? Photo by Art Young.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking on the edge.

Bunny Ear

Sitting on the edge. Photo by Art Young.

Bunny Ear

The group climbing up the second “silly” pinnacle.

Bunny Ear

Going up one crumbly rock at a time. Luckily the gusting winds kept us from overheating. Photo by Art Young.

Bunny Ear

The group scooting their way down the backside or frontside. Perspectives.

Bunny Ear

In between the ears. No coverage. Just a lot of wind passing through. Photo by Art Young.

Bunny Ear

Going up the last of the upright and relaxed pinnacle.

Doorstop

Narissa making her way down one of the harder pinnacles on the saddle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Doorstop

Art climbing his way down the wedge shaped pinnacle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pimple

Contouring our way around a rather thin piece of real estate. Photo by Art Young.

Pimple

Looking back as we left the Doorstop behind us.

Pimple

Elevator service is alive and well in these mountains. Photo by Art Young.

Kalihi Saddle

The group making their way out of the notch.

Can Opener

Climbing up the “terraced” steps to our lunch spot. Photo by Art Young.

Can Opener

Group photo with the backdrop of all those “silly” pinnacles we had climbed. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring below the Can Opener with the menacing sofa sized block of rock just waiting to fall out.

Lanihuli Wall

Going up the grassy slope scattered with rocks of assorted sizes. Photo by Art Young.

Lanihuli Wall

Narissa coming up the lower tier with the backdrop of the saddle behind her.

Lanihuli Wall

Lilyn pulling herself up the steepest part of the wall. Photo by Art Young.

Lanihuli Wall

The group contouring their way back to the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

With a little help from my friends. Photo by Art Young.

Kalihi Saddle

Battling the fierce winds as we climbed up the ridge.

Dirt Dragon

The group straddling the sliver of its former dusty self.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing out of the saddle. One down. One more to go.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Time to take a panoramic photo of the Windward views. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

How many false peaks to the summit? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Lanihuli Summit

Greg ran into our group as he was coming up behind us on the saddle and went down the Kapalama Trail.

KSRT

Ready to drop into the next saddle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group resisting the urge of gravity to just go with the flow on their descent. Photo by Art Young.

Anvil

Nobody captured my “action movie” move. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Anvil

Narissa didn’t need any action moves and simply stepped over to begin her climb.

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Climbing up the sliver of a rockface. Photo by Art Young.

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The group climbing and contouring their way around the triple dike obstacle.

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Going up the Leeward side offered us brief shelter from the battering winds. Photo by Art Young.

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Art waving at us to come back so we can re-take the action movie.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Narissa making her way up the eroded and crumbly ridge line. Photo by Art Young.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Lilyn trying not to get tangled in a web of her own making.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group descending down the narrow ridge line. Photo by Art Young.

Incisor Rock

Lilyn watching Narissa making her way down.

Incisor Rock

No climbing. Just contouring. Photo by Art Young.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Narissa climbing down from one of many rocks on the saddle.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Trying to be one with the tree. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the last hill on the saddle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Narissa going down the slippery slope. Photo by Art Young.

Pali Puka

Final group photo of the day.

Pali Puka Trail

Looking down at the historical pali (cliff) where over 700 warriors were either pushed or jumped to their deaths after being defeated by King Kamehameha’s army.

Pali Lookout

Mahalo to Quan for bringing us frozen cokes and picking us up. Super windy hike that saw everybody having a good time and finishing safely. Post hike meal at Easy Que where we were joined by Aida and Quan. Taste wasn’t up to snuff according to a certain picky eater. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

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.

It was supposed to be a promising day to be in the mountains today. A sucker is born every minute.

Trailhead

Thanks to Barry for dropping Aida, Art, Chris, Marilyn, Quan and myself off at the Pali Lookout. Somebody woke up late and still forgot their spikes. See you on the next hike.

Pali Puka Trail

Quan scrambling up the short and stiff climb. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Pali Puka Trail

Catching the breaking sunrise that was textured with the drifting clouds.

Pali Puka

Marilyn making her way to the hole in the cliff.

Pali Puka

Group photo left to right: Marilyn, Quan, myself, Aida, Chris and Art.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The group making their way up the steep contour littered with blowdowns and loose under footing.

KSRT

Climbing our way up through the forested flank of the ridge line. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Aida at the top of the ridge line. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Cloudy and windy conditions greeted us on the ridge line. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Aida pulling herself up the first of many humps. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Trying to keep our balance on the skinny ridge without getting blown off. Photo by Marilyn Bermudez.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing down past the leaning tree of Nu’uanu.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group making their way up and over the rugged ridge line. Photo by Art Young.

Incisor Rock

Quan hugging the boulder as she makes her way down. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Incisor Rock

Aida contouring the rock shaped tooth. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Lehua blossoms

Passing a cluster of the endemic red stamen flowers. Photo by Art Young.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Everybody was busy climbing while Chris checked into Instagram. Photo by Art Young.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group climbing up the crumbly ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Gaining elevation as the moisture laden clouds enveloped the ridge line and released its cargo. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Are we having fun yet?

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hiking in the clouds.

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Can you see the 23rd letter for the clouds? Photo by Aida Gordon.

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Dropping off the hill to contour our way around the fourth-to-last letter of the alphabet. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

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Don’t look down!

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Contouring and climbing our way up and over the rock obstacle. Photo by Art Young.

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One will be amazed to find the assortment of climbing aids in these mountains. Wire. Printer Cable. Webbing. Rope. Twine. String. The best climbing aids are a few good friends.

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Going down the narrow spire of a rock. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

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Aida climbing down as the winds were whipping something fierce. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group making their way to the what many think used to be another puka (hole) in the mountains before erosion took its toll. Photo by Art Young.

Anvil

Quan going down the point of no return where a small section of the trail had been washed away from a landslide. Actually, there was a point of return which the girls took to double back down to the Pali. Mahalo to Narissa for picking them up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Anvil

Art making his way down the one way trail. Gender segregation.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris climbing his way out of the saddle.

Lanihuli Summit

White out conditions at the 2,700′ peak. Decisions, decisions, decisions. Stick with the original plan or go down with Chris?

Kapalama Trail

Heading down the trail as rain showers saturated the ridge. Good call on Plan C.

Kapalama Trail

When plants provide amusement for others. Photo by Art Young.

Jackson’s Chameleon

Sighting of the invasive species that got its name from the first Governor of Kenya. Photo by Chris Brower.

Napu’u Mai’a

We dropped almost a 1,000′ in elevation as we took in the views from the 1,831′ hill.

Kapalama Trail

Walking down the pine needle carpeted trail while hearing multiple choppers overhead and sirens in the distance. Unanswered calls. Dark thoughts. Unfounded thoughts. Photo by Art Young.

Kapalama Trail

Nearing Na Pueo Park as the city views unfolded before us. Photo by Art Young.

All pau

We met up with two hikers going up the mountain who were training for the Kalalau Trail, which is still on my bucket list. Thanks to Quan for picking us up.

GPS Tracks

Our Independence Day hike covered a little over five miles that included a crumbly ridge line, inclement weather, good company but no fireworks. Somebody finally got to finish this section, while two others have to come back one day when trail and weather conditions are more favorable. Post hike meal at Pieology.

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 Chris, Cinja and Tess to tackle another saddle this weekend. Thanks to Quan for dropping us off at the Pali Lookout. Back open for business. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trailhead

Skirting the fence that was part of the border wall meant to reduce unwanted migration. Same outcome. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Trail

Enjoying the city lights from our perch on the pali.

Pali Puka

Group photo in low light conditions.

Trail

Cinja straddling one of many blowdowns on the trail.

Trail

Climbing up the slick rocks peppered with blowdowns and shifting rocks underfoot. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Trail

Tess climbing up to the ridge line. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking ahead to the saddles. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Catching the breaking sunrise over Olomana and Pali Notches.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Flow with the saddle and bend with the trees. Some sage zen hiking advice. Just ran out of words to write.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing around the incisor rock. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Contouring around the incisor rock.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The dense cloud cover masked the drops and the sporadic sprinkles kept the underfooting slightly moist.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Cinja climbing up the saddle with the seemingly steaming ridge line behind her.

Nu’uanu Saddle

On bended knees, we shall still continue our hike. Photo by Chris Bautista.

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We could finally see the 23rd letter of the alphabet through the clouds that reduced visibility to near zero. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the soggy hill.

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We dropped down and contoured our way around the rock faces. Photo by Tess Cochran.

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Climbing up and over the last two “fingers.”

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Tess making her way down the tall and skinny rock face. Photo by Chris Bautista.

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Chris and Tess climbing down from the alphabet soup. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Anvil

Somebody saw the rock move. Good to know that ones anchor point is somewhat unstable.

Anvil

Tess dropping down the side of the grassy cliff towards the sliver of a trail. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trail

Climbing our way up through the thorny bushes and back to the ridge line. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making my way up the eroded and steep hill. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving one saddle behind as we traversed a couple small hills swathed in deep green uluhe ferns to our midway point. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Lanihuli Summit

Enjoying our no views at the 2,700′ summit.

KSRT

The group coming down from the swirling heavens.

Kalihi Saddle

The clouds soon cleared and the showers stopped as we dropped down the ridge line. Everything is going to be alight now. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Hello Kalihi Saddle!

Kalihi Saddle

One of the few times one can stand instead of scooting. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Tess back to scooting her way down the crumbly ridge line.

Dirt Dragon

Riding the legendary creature that was a shell of its former self. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Capturing the various modes of movement along the saddle. To each their own.

Lanihuli Wall

Dropping off the saddle as we contoured down the flank of the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Lanihuli Wall

Crabbing our way towards the second drop. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Lanihuli Wall

The group coming down the last section of the “wall.”

Kalihi Saddle

Please keep all arms and legs inside the ride until we come to a complete stop.

Can Opener

Group photo under the shadow of the bulging refrigerator.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way down the crumbly landscape.

Kalihi Saddle

The group making their way down to the next set of colorfully named climbing obstacles. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Always a tad trickier downclimbing an obstacle. Helps to have another set of eyes and longer legs. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Pimple

Climbing up the narrow and crumbly rock face. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pimple

Human anchor pressed into service. My nickel fee must be too cheap. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Pimple

Tess contouring her way around the blister of a rock pile.

Doorstop

Just call me Otis. Photo by Tess Cochran.

Doorstop

Chris tried a different way coming up, but fell back on the usual route. Photo by Tess Cochran.

Bunny Ears

Are those ears on your head or are you just glad to see us? Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Bunny Ears

There was nothing soft and fuzzy about these obstacles.

Bunny Ears

Cinja making her way towards the mushroom rock. No psychedelic experiences included, maybe just psychologically scarring.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing on the edge. Edgier. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic shot of our office view today. Air conditioning included.

Kalihi Saddle

The group about to contour off the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Shark Fin

Looking back at the last major obstacle on the saddle as the dorsal shaped rock became more clearly defined from this perspective. Photo by Cinja Strickland.

Powerlines

We saw a group of waterfall explorers waiting for us ahead. Photo by Tess Cochran.

Powerlines

Heading down towards the terminus of our hike. Who has the Coke? Photo by Aida Gordon.

Trail

When the people you intend to scare end up having a good laugh instead. Fail.

Trail

Group photo left to right: Aida, Lilyn, Quan, Art, myself, Cinja, Tess and Chris.

All pau

When you have too much time on your hands. Idle hands are the hiker’s workshop. Thanks to Breanna and Somphet for picking our group up and shuttling us back to our cars. Photo by Aida Gordon.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered barely three miles with new and old friends. Post hike meal at Pieology. Some of us still had to stuff our face with McFlurry’s.

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.

Deja vu. I found myself back doing the same hike from last weekend, this time to help Bill and Shirley finish their KST for the first and second time respectively. Thanks to Lilyn for dropping Analyn, Bill, Matt, Shirley and myself off at the tourist-less attraction. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Pali Lookout

Making our way up the rocky and steep climb with artificial illumination.

Pali Puka

Looking into nature’s window on the mountain. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Ducking and weaving our way up the flank of the ridge. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

KSRT

Bill climbing his way to the top of the ridge line. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Waiting for the rest of the group. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Dropping into the saddle.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Brisk winds and cloudy conditions were our company on the hike.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Catching the Windward views. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Contouring and climbing on the saddle. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Incisor Rock

No slipping off the rock this time. Got video as well. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Incisor Rock

Bill contouring on the Windward side as the others waited their turn.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Masking and social distancing on the hike.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Bill enjoying a flat section of the ridge line. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Back to the up and down climbing.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Grabbing what views we could since the clouds decided to hang out.

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Bill approaching the climb to the second main obstacle on the saddle. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

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The group on their way up.

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Hello from the other side. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

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The group climbing and contouring their way around the cloud soaked rock faces.

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It was getting crowded at the top. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

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Making our way slowly down the narrow rock face.

Anvil

Bill using all available resources on his climb down. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Analyn pulling herself up the severely eroded hill. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

KSRT

Traversing between the false peaks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Lanihuli Summit

Our group photo at the top of lani “no-can-see” huli. Photo by Bill Yogi.

KSRT

After our late breakfast, we resumed our hike in the misty mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving the clouds behind us as we dropped in elevation down the ridge. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Kalihi Saddle

Bill walking on the ridge line through clumps of uki grass, the mountain grass that will save your life one day.

Dirt Dragon

Trying to figure out how to fit five people on this mound of crumbly dirt.

Dirt Dragon

Four people sitting and one standing. That’s how you make it fit. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Kalihi Saddle

Heading down the ridge, one of my favorite hikes. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Kalihi Saddle

The group climbing over the ridge smothered with native woody climbers.

Kalihi Saddle

The group scooting and hiking down the exposed and barren section of the ridge. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Lanihuli Wall

Getting ready to climb down the side of the ridge, but first take our photo. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Lanihuli Wall

Looking back at the steep flank we all descended. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Lanihuli Wall

Analyn going down the shorter and second tier.

Kalihi Saddle

Analyn contouring below the bulging can opener.

Can Opener

I guess the girls were not ready. Of all people not ready to get their picture taken. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing down the crumbly hill to climb another crumbly hill. Saddle hiking.

Pimple

Looking ahead to the rock faces that were ahead of us. Colorful names makes it more fuzzy and less intimidating. Or so the theory goes. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Doorstop

Climbing to the top of the wedge shaped rock face. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Doorstop

Extra webbing is always appreciated.

Bunny Ears

Nothing soft and fuzzy about these “ears.” Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Bunny Ears

I believe somebody “suggested” that since I visit this area quite frequently, that I should at least have the decency to clear the trail of any offending overgrowth. No comment.

Bunny Ears

Climbing down the last rock face of the pair.

Kalihi Saddle

Bill traversing the exposed skinny ridge line with steep drops down to the highway. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Shark Fin

The girls climbing down the dorsal shaped rock face.

Powerlines

All smiles as the journey to complete the KST had come to its conclusion. Congrats to Bill and Shirley for their first and second KST completions respectively!

All pau

What KST finish would be complete without the celebratory champagne dousing? Exactly. Although one was more enthusiastic than the other about the waste of perfectly good alcohol. Perhaps walking back up the service road in bare feet had something to do with it. Bill was also Lucky #13. As in the 13th person I have helped finish the KST. I guess that would make Shirley #14. Oh wait, I only count first timers and not repeat business. LOL. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Post hike meal

Thanks to Analyn for bringing the ono-licious lumpia and pancit and Bill’s stash of cold beverages. Good enough to take home for leftovers. Mahalo to Chris for picking us up and taking us back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered a little over three miles in bi-polar weather with great company. Another KST completion hike in the books. Congrats again to Bill and Shirley!

Video by Matt Vidaurri of Bill and Shirley’s KST final hike.

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

Back in the saddle again with Katie and Lilyn. Thanks to Quan for dropping us off at the deserted lookout. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pali Lookout

Climbing up the short and steep hill under the cover of darkness.

Pali Puka

Only one of us got illuminated, the rest of us had to stay in the shadows. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We contoured around the towering rock edifice and scrambled our way up the flank of the ridge that was littered with blowdowns and crumbly rocks. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Catching the fiery sunrise at the top.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Dropping down into the saddle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Panoramic view of the saddle and Windward views.

Incisor Rock

Did you get the video of me slipping off the rock? Yes, I got it. Photo by Katie Bingham. No video by Katie Bingham.

Incisor Rock

Katie contouring as she didn’t want any videos.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the steep and crumbly ridge. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Katie coming up the ridge line with Pali Notches and Olomana in the background.

Nu’uanu Saddle

You want me to take that picture? Why? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Katie cresting at the top of the ridge as clouds started to roll in our way.

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The clouds have arrived. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The clouds breaking up at the lower elevations, which gave a surreal vibe to the mountains.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Top of the ridge line with views of Nu’uanu Reservoir in the background. Photo by Katie Bingham.

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Going straight up and over?

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Perched on the 23rd letter of the alphabet. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

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The girls coming down the tallest and skinniest of the rock faces.

Anvil

Dropping off the super crumbly ridge line. It’s just a matter of time before it gives way. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Anvil

You can use the footholds on your right or just slide straight down. Whatever is the easiest.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Katie pulling herself back up to the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The struggle was real. It was a short and exhausting climb up the eroded section.

KSRT

Making our way to the halfway mark. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Lanihuli Summit

It was a surprisingly clear day on the summit. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Going up the last false peak before dropping down into the saddle. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Kalihi Saddle

Following the curvature of the ridge line. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting our way down the saddle.

Dirt Dragon

Straddling the serpentine mound of crumbly dirt that was barely holding itself together. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Standing on a barren spot of ridge with jaw dropping views at our feet. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Kalihi Saddle

Treading carefully around the constantly crumbling pile of rocks that passes for a ridge.

Lanihuli Wall

Coming down the steep flank of the ridge. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Lanihuli Wall

Going down the second tier of the wall. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring below the Can Opener.

Kalihi Saddle

Iconic group shot with the saddle and points beyond in the background. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

The girls climbing down the unstable ledges.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way down to the colorfully named obstacles. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

The girls scrambling down from the steep section.

Pimple

Human anchor at your service. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pimple

Lilyn checking out the biggest obstacle on the saddle short of the wall, while Katie contoured her way around the swollen spit of rock.

Doorstop

Rope? We don’t need rope where we’re going. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Doorstop

Katie pulling herself up just before a piece of the rock face that she was using as her foothold decided to fall off. A heart stopping moment to say the least.

Doorstop

Kicking back. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Bunny Ears

The photographer taking a picture of the photographer taking a picture of me. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Bunny Ears

The girls traversing between the two hills.

Kalihi Saddle

Perched on the arch. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Bunny Ears

Coming down from the last hill and over the blowdowns blocking the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic view of the saddle and Windward views. Never gets old. Maybe it will one day. But not today.

Kalihi Saddle

Hikers in different elevations on the ridge. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Lunch time

How do you split two packages of mama ramen amongst three hikers? Use two containers and share. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

We spent a long lunch break on the mountains and then had to move again. It was harder for some than others.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking on the edge. Literally. Don’t look down if you have vertigo. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Shark Fin

Katie contouring off the ridge line to avoid the particularly steep top section.

Shark Fin

The girls climbing down the dorsal shaped rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Approaching the powerlines that marked the terminus of our hike. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Powerlines Trail

Coming down the HECO approved trail.

Powerlines Trail

Is anybody home? Are the lights on? Photo by Katie Bingham.

All pau

We left the valley with the moon not wanting to come out and play. Thanks to Quan for picking us up and taking us to our post hike meal.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered a little more than three miles, while it fell short of its original destination, it was still an amazing hike 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.