Met up with Chico, Jen, Laredo, Lilyn, Mari, Quan, Tessa, and William for our third leg of the perimeter walk today.

Waiahole Poi Factory

We took our group photo that we missed from the last walk after Chico and Lilia staged the truck at Kualoa Beach Park.

Kamehameha Highway

It was too early to get a treat of Sweet Lady of Waiahole, so we pushed off on our walk.

Kamehameha Highway

What’s that? I forgot something? My medication?

Kamehameha Highway

Tessa rubbing elbows with the legend.

Kamehameha Highway

Somebody’s on the wrong side of the bridge.

Waikane Store

Pop Quiz: What is Chico doing?
A) Panhandling from a passing car
B) Looking for free samples
C) Getting his truck keys

Kamehameha Highway

We saw these and other signs that loudly proclaimed “The People United Will Never Be Defeated” and “No Development Keep the Country Country” and “New City…What A Pity! No Development.” The problem dates back to the 1880s when Lincoln McCandles and brothers arrived in the islands and began drilling artesian wells to feed the sugar industry and in the process amassed considerable land holdings. Fast forward to 1974, when his daughter attempted to to urbanize 1,337 acres in Waiahole and Waikane Valleys with local developer, Joe Pao who promised affordable housing with his “New City” development. Sounds familiar? Massive protests erupted and was temporarily simmered when the State purchased 795 acres in Waiahole Valley to manage the land. Fast forward to 1987, when the Housing Finance and Development Corporation was created to promote affordable housing, the predecessor to today’s Hawaii Housing Finance & Development Corporation. The HHFDC claims they are running a deficit managing the water resources and below market rents for the approximately 100 valley residents and must raise rents to stay solvent. Both sides have retained lawyers and are slugging it out in court. Who will win? Most certainly, the side with deep and corrupt pockets will prevail against the residents.

Kualoa Ranch

Entering the cattle ranch and tourist attraction that sits on over 4,000 acres. This valley was considered sacred to ancient Hawaiians and was purchased by Dr. Judd from King Kamehameha III for the sum of $1,300 in 1850. That would be $50,560 in today’s money.

Kamehameha Highway

Passing through the often seen Coral Kingdom Shop & Restaurant but never visited.

Kamehameha Highway

When the traffic mirror doubles as the selfie mirror.

Kamehameha Highway

The public picking of parya (bittermelon) leaves.

Kualoa Ranch

Looking for the private tour.

Kualoa Ranch

Group photo in front of the 50′ artistic representation of Manaiakalani, Maui’s fish hook that was used to capture the sun.

Mokoli’i

Looking out towards the basaltic islet in Kaneohe Bay that was once owned by the Judd-Morgan family until the City & County of Honolulu purchased it back in the 1970s.

Chinaman’s Hat

Group photo in front of the conical shaped island. Advocates are pushing to erase the name of Chinaman’s Hat as it’s not culturally correct and politically offensive to some. But for most locals, it will always be called that.

Kualoa Sugar Mill

Wandering through the ruins of the first sugar mill built in the islands during 1863-1865. Due to lack of rainfall, the mill ceased operations in 1871 and was left exposed to the elements where it sits today.

Kamehameha Highway

Leaving the prominent Kualoa ridge behind us. I wonder if anybody has ever climbed that mountain?

Kamehameha Highway

The fish were biting today.

Kamehameha Highway

Bunker exploration. Where’s Scotty?

Kamehameha Highway

The color of death.

Kamehameha Highway

When there’s no sidewalk, one has to walk on the bridge.

Kamehameha Highway

Roadside summer snacks. Lychee was introduced to Hawaii in 1873 when Ching Chock brought the evergreen tree from China and planted it on the Afong property on the corner of Nu’uanu and School Streets.

Kamehameha Highway

Chico got his own summer snack. Free shave ice!

Ka’a’awa 7-Eleven

Motorists yielding to pedestrians. Refreshments at the convenience store that was originally named Tote’m Stores and later changed to reflect the operating hours. Time to change again?

Kamehameha Highway

No touch the girl or the golf cart?

Crouching Lion Inn

Trying to see the resemblance of the rock formation above the shuttered eatery. Originally built as the Larsen residence in 1927, it was converted to a restaurant in 1952 and closed in 2008 due to cesspool violations.

Crouching Lion Hike

Where is the trailhead?

Kamehameha Highway

Clucking like a chicken.

Kamehameha Highway

Bridge crossing.

Kahana State Park

I still haven’t found a working pay phone yet.

Kamehameha Highway

Words to live by.

Kamehameha Highway

View of Kahana Bay.

Kamehameha Highway

Swinger.

Kamehameha Highway

Walking on the road next to traffic. The Handi-vans were especially too close for comfort. I think they were looking for future customers.

Punalu’u

Group photo at the beach park. The town name means “coral dived for” or “spring dived for.”

Punalu’u

We may have walked on the wrong side of the bridges, but never jumped from them.

Punalu’u

End of the road for us. Food outside.

Punalu’u

Drinks inside. Pay inside too.

Punalu’u

Eating on the beach. Laredo preferred to sun on the beach.

Punalu’u

Quan trying to burn off her caloric intake.

Route 60

Everybody have exact change? Three dollars.

Route 60

Time to get off the bus and give the riders some relief.

Kualoa Beach Park

Happy Birthday Mari!

Kualoa Beach Park

Pinay Hat.

McDonald’s Temple Valley

Thanks Chico for the soft serve ice cream cones!

Chico’s Bar

One shot for the road.

GPS Tracks

Our fun walk covered 10.4 miles through the Windward coastline.

Photos taken by Chico Cantu, Jen Odence, Lilyn Avendano, Mari Saito, 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.

It was time to raise the bar or at least get the juices flowing on today’s hike. Or as somebody put it “get back in the windward ridge game.”

Trailhead

We all met up in Kahana Valley where Matt surprised us with 808 Random Hikers T-shirts that he had made in Korea. Group photo left to right: John, Cisco, myself, Aida, Allison, Ryan, Quan, Enrique, Marilyn, Narissa, Lilyn, Matt and Tessa. Lucky 13.

Kahana Valley

Passing through Hawaii’s only public ahupua’a or subdivision of land.

Trail

Enjoying the wide open and dry trail while it lasted.

Dam

Some of the group took their shoes and socks off so as not to get wet. You guys know there are a couple more stream crossings? Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Dam

All swing and no splash.

Trail

Welcome to the jungle.

Trail

Soak, rinse, repeat. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Trail

Matt gave an impromptu speech on the importance of promptness and then Chris showed up. The definition of irony.

Trail

Allison looking at True Manana and Two Apes Talking. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Trail

Last stream crossing for some of us. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Trail

Somebody was feeling good about themselves. It would not last for long.

Trail

Pushing our way through the patch of uluhe ferns that dominated the trail. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Trail

The group climbing up the first of many hills.

Trail

Verdant valley views behind us. Photo by Allison Banks.

Trail

We could see the saddle for the mountains. Photo by Allison Banks.

Trail

You guys don’t take 5 or 10 minute breaks? Who’s in charge of this hike? Oh, the death marcher. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kahana Saddle

Group photo, left to right: John, Aida, Narissa, Chris, Marilyn, Matt, Cisco, Allison, Quan, Lilyn, myself, Enrique, Tessa and Ryan.

Kahana Saddle

Tessa belting out another rendition of Ms. Lonely.

Trail

Enrique scrambling up the steep hill towards the summit.

Trail

Gaining elevation with each step that we took. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Trail

Lilyn pulling herself up. All those hours in the gym were finally paying off.

Trail

Allison climbing her way to the summit. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Pu’u Ohulehule Summit

What’s going on here? A) Matt is slaking his thirst by drinking the water pooling in Ryan’s poncho. or B) Matt is administering a mountain massage with a happy ending.

Pu’u Ohulehule Summit

Photo bombers in the rain. Kahana was living up to its reputation as one of the wettest valleys on the island.

Pu’u Ohulehule Summit

Group photo at the rained out summit. Zero visibility. We sat out the summit as rain saturated the area around us. Ideal conditions for climbing an unknown ridge. Whose ideas was this?

Trail

We waited until the rain clouds blew over and then we separated into the hardy and the foolhardy groups.

Northeast Ridge

Somebody in blue said this ridge is not that bad. Famous last words. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Northeast Ridge

Time to break out the webbing. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Northeast Ridge

Pushing through the woody climbers as we made our way down the ridge. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Northeast Ridge

Descending from the clouds as we had to be mindful of the abundant dead trees and branches that broke off under our grasp. Instead of braking our descent, they could have easily accelerated our descent. Not a good thing.

Northeast Ridge

The ridge became narrower as the views got better with each drop we did. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Northeast Ridge

Matt climbing as rocks got dislodged with each step. Luckily no rocks were dislodged during my climb down. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Northeast Ridge

Chris hugging the sliver of a ridge as he climbed his way down.

Northeast Ridge

Somewhere in the mountains, there is elevator service. We also saw the hardy group going down the Northwest ridge from our precarious perch. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Northeast Ridge

Just call me Otis. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Northeast Ridge

The rest of the group waiting their turn to climb down the webbing secured with an existing anchor. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Northeast Ridge

The rolling rocks had rolling rocks on this ridge. They definitely gather no moss here. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Northeast Ridge

Matt checking out the next drop. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Northeast Ridge

Going down. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Northeast Ridge

Keeping my distance from the spiked shoes.

Northeast Ridge

Drop after drop. Do we have enough webbing? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Northeast Ridge

Bye bye. For reference’s sake, I was talking to an inanimate object and not a living person. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Northeast Ridge

Straddling the skinny ridge. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Northeast Ridge

The rest of us scooted down on our bellies, whereas Chris let his feet do the walking. Perhaps it had something to do with the beer belly. Perhaps not.

Northeast Ridge

Matt lowering himself down using the lip of the rock as an anchor.

Northeast Ridge

It was just a hop, skip and slide for Lilyn. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Northeast Ridge

Contouring and climbing my way up for what passes as a pile of crumbly rocks topped with skinny trees and dry grass.

Northeast Ridge

Tessa making herself comfortable as she hunkers down for the oncoming inclement weather. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Northeast Ridge

We temporarily suspended all climbing as we watched …

Northeast Ridge

… the rain showers slowly march in from the ocean and saturate the ridge and us with its watery cargo.

All clear

Tessa ready to start hiking again after the brief burst of H20. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Northeast Ridge

Matt climbing down the last drop for the day.

Northeast Ridge

Traversing the moss carpeted ridge line punctuated with trees of varying density and depth. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Northeast Ridge

Approaching the Kualoa ridge dominated by the peak of Kanehoalani.

Northeast Ridge

What’s going on here? A) I was so happy to find out that Matt’s test came back negative. Not saying what kind of test it was. or B) We were bucking the stereotypical roles while re-enacting the 2005 movie helmed by Ang Lee.

3 Corners

We took our individual and collective photos at the intersecting spot with sweeping views of the mountains, valleys and ocean.

Trail

Is this the way to the gardens?

Ka’a’awa Valley

Bench with a view. What a view. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Hakipu’u Valley

Bye bye. Inanimate object. I think I can speak for the group when I say that the Northeast ridge is one of the hardest trails we have done in recent memory. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Cow Patty

When you got to go, you got to go. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Jurassic Park

Watching out for droppings from the winged reptile. Who let the animal out? Oh, what long nails you have!

All pau

Where’s the beef? Thanks to Aida, John and Quan for picking us up on the side of the highway. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

GPS Tracks

Our adrenaline adventure that took us over old and new grounds clocked in under six miles. Glad to have done it with this bunch of friends. Thankful that everybody made it down safe, albeit the minor mishap of the out of towner that tumbled down and landed on the skinniest person. Post hike meal at Kenko-ya as the other choices were closed or did not offer dine in service.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqR5vE96oOE&t=337s

Video by Matt Vidaurri of our ridge 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.

Some friends wanted to hike this fun ridge, I agreed to return on the condition that we do it from the bottom up. More bang for your buck.

Kahana State Park

Met up with Aida, Art, Chris, Dale, Kat, Katie, Lilyn, Tessa and Sally at one of the wettest spots on the island. Today was no exception as the area had obviously been drenched the night before.

Trailhead

A homeless hiker or squatter pointed us in the general direction of the ridge. We trusted that this was not to his camp and hungry friends.

Trail

Climbing up the steep spur ridge as we enjoyed cloudy views of Pu’u Ohulehule and Kahana Valley.

Trail

Scrambling over some rocks as we made our way up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Trail

This was definitely not the spur ridge we had descended down six years ago. We must have turned up too early. The bright side was that this was a new spur ridge for all of us. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Trail

The look on Tessa’s face as Lilyn had just experienced a close call on the ridge. Photo by Sally Chow.

Human anchor

I was having flashbacks from Moanalua Saddle. Photo by Kat Fujiwara.

Piei Makai Ridge

Kat on the Piei ridge line.

Piei Makai Ridge

We began our gradual ascent up the ridge that became defined by narrow sections, drops of varying heights and overgrowth in all the right and wrong places.

Piei Makai Ridge

The cliff may appear larger than it seems. Photo by Dale Yoshizu

Piei Makai Ridge

I was climbing and trying not to get tangled in the snapped webbing when somebody suggested going the other way. Thanks Kat. Photo by Aida Gordon

Piei Makai Ridge

Katie scrambling her way up.

Piei Makai Ridge

Chris untangling the end of my webbing as we were going to be needing it again. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Piei Makai Ridge

Art at the approach to the first gap in the ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Piei Makai Ridge

The group downclimbing the notch.

Piei Makai Ridge

Lilyn hugging the rocks as she climbs her way up while somebody checks her watch, as Kat had shirts to fill and nails to hammer down.

Piei Makai Ridge

Need a helping hand? Don’t worry, I won’t bite. I’m not hungry yet. Photo by Tessa Bugay

Piei Makai Ridge

Scrambling up the ridge to probably the most photographed set of notches on the ridge, the ones where people recognize that this is Pu’u Piei Makai. Photo by Art Young.

Piei Makai Ridge

Going up and over was questionable as the rocks were steep and slick, so we dropped down to contour on the left. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Piei Makai Ridge

Making our way through the brush and rock. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Piei Makai Ridge

Lilyn pulling herself up.

Barefoot hiker

Tessa getting her feet dirty.

Piei Makai Ridge

Attempting to give pointers and motivation. Photo by Art Young.

Bus stop

Trying another form of motivation, climb up here or take the bus home. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Piei Makai Gym

When all else failed, Art and I did three sets of hoist the hiker up exercise. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Piei Makai Ridge

How windy was it on the ridge? Just ask Katie’s hair. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Piei Makai Ridge

Chris climbing up the wet ropes and slick rocks to the puka, while the rest of the group contoured to the right, claiming it was more sketchy their way. The jury is still out on that one.

Piei Makai Ridge

Scooting and scrambling our way on the ridge. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Piei Makai Ridge

Hugging and contouring our way along the narrow crest. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Piei Makai Ridge

Kat guiding Sally down.

Piei Makai Ridge

Aida climbing down the side of the rock. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Piei Makai Ridge

The group escaping the bee swarm that evidently I had stirred up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Piei Makai Ridge

Standing on the rock pillar overlooking Kahana Bay. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Piei Trail

Tessa making her way down the initial steep ridge descent.

Piei Trail

Contorting our bodies to fit through the numerous fallen and twisted trees that blocked the trail.

Piei Trail

Group photo with the sun in our eyes, left to right: Kat, Tessa, Dale, Aida, myself, Katie, Sally, Lily, Art and Chris.

Piei Trail

Dale passing the unmarked cross for the unknown.

Piei Trail

Walking through the crunchy droppings of the hala trees on our way down.

All pau

Back on the highway as we made our way back to the parking lot. Fun hike that covered a scant 2.67 miles with good friends. Some of us had extra money in their pockets, as they didn’t need to spend it on bus fare. Post hike meal at Big City Diner.

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.

Joined HTMC for a members only hike that advertised that “our goal is a saddle on the southeast valley rim.” Intrigued by the possibility of a “new hike”, I met up with the waiting members in the outer parking lot of Ahupua’a ‘O Kahana State Park. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Trailhead

The hike coordinator, Caitlin, advised us that this hike was simply a rebranded hike that lead up but not to the summit of Pu’u Ohulehule. She dangled the option of continuing to the summit on our own after the club hike to the saddle ended. After moving our cars further into the valley, we started hiking into the state’s only public ahupua’a that stretches from the top of Pu’u Pauao to Kahana Bay.

Dam

Everybody getting their feet wet at the first stream crossing.

Kahana Stream

Left the Nakoa Trail to ford the second stream teeming with who knows what.

Trail

We crossed two more narrow streams interrupted by a forest filled of lauhala aerial roots and crunchy leaves. The trail soon left the valley floor and began the long incline towards the summit, that was somewhat tempered by the recent clearing.

Trail

Janice and Don, veteran HTMC hikers, coming up the trail. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Kahana Saddle

Group photo left to right: Don, Janice, Caitlin, Lilyn, myself, James, Sonia, Yuchon, Dale and David. There were some stragglers still coming up the ridge that didn’t make the group shot. Six of us decided to continue to the summit, while the rest of the group turned back.

Trail

Lilyn leaving the flat spot on the saddle to begin our short but steep climb to the summit.

Trail

Caitlin pulling herself up the ridge.

‘ie’ie

Bug buffet. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Southeast ridge

Group photo with the ridge behind us that Stuart Ball called “the most dangerous hike on the island.” My suggestion that we hike down that direction was met with a mixture of laughter and dismissal.

Pu’u Ohulehule Summit

The typical photo shot of Pu’u Kanehoalani from the 2,265′ summit.

Trail

What goes up must come back down. Braking our gravity fueled descent with ropes and tree branches.

Northeast ridge

Looking back at the last ridge that we haven’t hiked to the summit of the pyramid peak. On the list.

Swimming hole

Caitlin plunged into the cool waters of Kawa Stream to seek a brief respite from the stifling humidity that hung in the air.

All pau

Should I or shouldn’t I? Plucking the pink ribbons off the tree branches so that the trail can remain in relative obscurity? Our fun in and out hike covered 6.75 miles through streams and steep ridges with spectacular valley views. Post hike meal at Waiahole Poi Factory where you can’t have Hawaiian food without chili pepper water.

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 had wanted to explore a different ridge descending from Poamoho Summit, but the best laid plans of mice and hikers often go awry.

Gate to Poamoho

Thanks to Jasmin for dropping Chris, Emily, Ferlino and myself off at the gate and Zack for driving us up the jeep road. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Jeep Road

We stayed under the speed limit so that none of us would get bounced from the back of the truck.

Trailhead

Group photo left to right: Ferlino, Chris, myself and Emily. Bees? What bees?

Halfway sign

We made our way up the mostly graded trail that were marked with pockets of blowdowns and muddy patches, until we took a short breather at the halfway point marked by the informational sign. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Trail

Heading into the gully where we soon crossed the somewhat stagnant stream. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Cline Memorial

Emily standing next to the stone monument that was hand carried piece by piece to the summit in 1978. Now that’s true friendship. Photo by Chris Bautista

Poamoho Summit

The photographer being photographed. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Poamoho Summit

Group photo at the 2,520′ scenic summit with valley views of Punalu’u and Kahana from end to end.

Poamoho Summit

Chris standing on the spur ridge with plunging views of Kahana valley. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

We dickered and dithered about exploring the spur ridge, but soggy weather won out as we headed on the raised boardwalk to the cabin.

Poamoho Cabin

The cabin was showing her age, having been built in 1998.

Poamoho Cabin

Pole dancing and autograph signing were on today’s cabin agenda.

Poamoho Outhouse

I hear you knocking, but you can’t come out. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Poamoho Cabin

The reports of the water catchment being bone dry were greatly exaggerated. Ferlino found out that the main valve in the back was turned off.

Poamoho Cabin

It must be the nearby compost that makes the local thimble berries grow so big. They almost look like strawberries.

KST

It’s always a treat to hike this storied and scenic stretch of the KST.

KST

Pushing through slight overgrowth on the Windward side of the trail.

KST

One of the most photographed spots on this trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

KST

It’s hard to believe that beasts of burden once traveled on these trails. Now we carry our own burden. Longing for the good ole days.

KST

Can I cross the fence without photobombing anybody? Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KST

Winding our way through a small grassy meadow on the Leeward side. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Emily climbing over the last gate on this stretch of the trail.

KST

Rounding the corner. Photo by Chris Bautista

KST

Looking out towards Pu’u Manamana.

KST

Heading towards a clump of native loulu palm trees which always loudly announces ones presence.

Pauao Junction

Ready to descend down the ridge into Kahana Valley.

Pauao Junction

But first, one more scenic picture.

Pauao Ridge

Emily descending down the ridge with views of Kaneohalani and Puu Ohulehule to keep her occupied.

Pauao Ridge

Making our way down the initial steep descent of the ridge. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KST

Looking over at the ridge that will be explored another day.

Pauao Ridge

Going up the roller coasting ridge. False summit after false summit.

Pauao Ridge

Taking our lunch break as we all tried to find a comfortable spot on the narrow ridge line.

Pauao Ridge

When the tree becomes the trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Pauao Ridge

Ferlino wading his way down through down a sea of uluhe ferns. Photo by Chris Bautista

Pauao Ridge

Photo spot.

Trail

We soon spotted the water tank and eventually made our way down the side ridge.

Slippery when wet

Sliding our way down the trail of lauhala leaves.

Kahana Valley

Hitting the valley floor.

H20 Tank

Trading the rough shod trail for a solid compacted road beneath our feet.

Kahana Valley

Who needs a selfie stick? Ask and Mother Nature shall provide.

Kahana Valley

We were just missing the tarp and smoke signals.

All pau

Leaving the valley where Jasmin was waiting to pick us up. Our Leeward to Windward hike covered roughly eight miles through some of the most beautiful views and rugged terrain on the island. Post hike meal at Ruby Tuesday’s as the prime rib was all sold out at Haleiwa Joe’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.

Met up with Ferlino, Mia and Shirley to salvage what we could from the originally planned camping weekend.

Poamoho Road

Ferlino opening the gate to where the cows sometimes stray from their barbed wire pastures and hunters roam the land looking for smaller sized ungulates.

Shake, Rattle and Roll

Thanks to Brian for the tailgate ride to the top and the impromptu social mixer with the hunters. Always awkward to meet irate individuals with guns and dogs. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Trailhead

Starting at the trail that prohibits two wheeled modes of transportation, but permits two legged means of transportation.

Poamoho Trail

Heading up the graded trail that cut a swath through the vegetation cascading down the mountain. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Poamoho Trail

The summit beckoned us with clear and inviting skies as we picked up the pace to make it there in under 90 minutes.

Poamoho Trail

Hiking in unmaintained territory, with nothing but the fence line to keep us on track.

Short people problems

Wait, don’t push me yet! Photo by Shirley.

Poamoho Trail

Heading into the gully. Almost there.

Poamoho Trail

Looking at this photo, would one think: a) Mia was asking Shirley for a hand to cross the dry streambed or b) passing her iPhone to get that perfect shot? Choose wisely, grasshopper. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Poamoho Trail

Heading to the summit where it’s usually a hit or miss in regards to the views. Today was going to be a home run.

Poamoho Summit

Stunningly clear day at the 2,520′ summit with panoramic views of Punalu’u and Kahana Valleys. Words can’t describe it and pictures just scratch the surface.

Poamoho Summit

Ferlino got arm blocked in our group photo.

Poamoho Summit

Some of us tried to look heroic …

Poamoho Summit

… while others could stand to lose seven pounds. Wait, did I get my captions mixed up? Photo and pose credit by Shirley.

Cline Memorial

We ended the photoshoot as we had squandered our early lead at the scenic swept summit and headed out to fenced pastures.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Leaving the fenced trail as we set foot on the historic trail carved out of the mountains back in the 1930’s. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KST

Contouring our way around the ridge line and the small pockets of land slides.

KST

Ferlino climbing over the locked gate. We are not illegals.

KST

Working our way back to the fence line, an ubiquitous sight in the mountains.

KST

Hiking our way across the rugged Northern Ko’olau Mountains.

KST

Shirley attempting to prove that her head is not that big. The fence failed to validate her claim.

KST

Looking out towards the strikingly clear Waianae Mountain Range.

Shoefie

We are not turning simple, well most of us that is. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Boot Junction

Leaving one side of the fence for another side of the fence.

Fence meadows

Crossing the spongy ground. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Fence meadows

Synchronized fence climbing against the valley backdrop.

KST

We can see the cabin for the mountains.

KST

Following the fence line as it wrapped around the valley.

Ko’olau Clinic

When you have to let your 7,126 followers know of your sprained ankle that was compressed with medical tape and webbing. Photo by Mia Garrison.

KST

Somebody was blocking the stunning views. Photo by Mia Garrison.

Kaluanui

Paying too much attention to the sign and not the fence. The other fence.

Kaluanui

Hiking across the 376 acres of mountains and valleys that are home to 29 endemic fauna and flora found nowhere else.

LifeCall

Shirley doing her best impersonation of “Mrs. Fletcher.” I’ve fallen and I can’t get up. All that was missing was the pendant.

Waterfall

Something new on the trail. Wait, this isn’t the trail. Well, at least we got to see a waterfall on the hike, which you usually don’t see on the KST.

KST

Back on the right trail after we spent an hour exploring, which is hiking jargon for getting lost.

Sock Junction

Just wondering if the sock fits the boot?

KST Junction

We took a slight detour off the KST to experience …

Mud Trail

… knee deep mud …Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ko’olau Mountains

… and stunning views of the Waianae Mountains. Photo by Mia Garrison.

Opae’ula Cabin

Group photo of the cabin with the Waianae Mountains in the backdrop, left to right: Ferlino, Shirley, Mia and myself.

Army Cabin

What happened in the cabin got etched very deeply into our photographic memories. Indelible.

Opae’ula Cabin

Time to leave as we had squandered our few remaining daylight hours for the cabin experience. I think the group thought it was worth it.

Mud Trail

Ferlino stepping to the side to avoid taking a mud bath.

KST Junction

Going down the rabbit hole.

KST

It was a hop, skip and a jump across the short muddy section before exiting the gate. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KST

Some of us embraced the mud more readily than the others as we passed the sun bleached pig jawbone.

Papali Junction

Our last group photo of the day as rain would keep us company the rest of the way down.

Papali Ridge

Descending down from the Ko’olau Summit Trail.

Papali Ridge

The rain blended in and drowned out the sound from nearby Castle Falls as we made our way down the fence. Besides, we already saw a waterfall today.

Papali Ridge

What goes down, must come back up. Something you learn very quickly in the mountains.

Castle Junction

Paying too much attention to the gate that drops one down into Kaluanui Stream and Punalu’u Valley. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ko’olau Mountains

Exploring the rain soaked fenced ridge line for a few hours before the curtain of darkness fell upon us.

Papali Ridge

Illuminating our way down the blackened ridge with a motley assortment of iPhone flashlights and headlamps. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Papali Ridge

The city lights looked so close and yet was so far away. Photo by Shirley.

All pau

Our 12.4 mile hike covered spectacular valley and rugged mountain views through sunny, cloudy and rainy weather. Our ordeal finally came to an end that was filled with graffiti and barking dogs. Great company made the all day adventure bearable and fun. A hearty shout out to Analyn and Clayton for picking us up in the dead of night bearing pizza, wings, banana lumpia and cold drinks. Post hike meal in the SUV. Much Mahaloz! Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

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 managed to coax a 10x veteran from retirement to join us on today’s hike. Met up with Agnes, Anne, Chris, Daryl, Lee and Mia at the beach park. Thanks to Alexis for dropping me off.

Ka’a’awa

The most dangerous start to any hike, crossing the road to get to the other side. Luckily, we made it without incident and it didn’t hurt that we were wearing bright colors.

Trailhead

Group photo left to right: Agnes, Sleepy, Mia, Daryl, Lee, Anne and Chris.

Cemetery Ridge

We skirted the cemetery and made our way up through the hala grove.

Cemetery Ridge

Climbing up the steep, rocky section.

Cemetery Ridge

Lee and Mia standing on Picture Rock, with views of Pu’u Piei and Kahana Valley. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Cemetery Ridge

The ridge widened at certain parts but kept the steady incline.

Cemetery Ridge

Agnes climbing up the moss carpeted ridge using the trees.

Cemetery Ridge

Daryl burrowing through the uluhell overgrowth.

Cemetery Ridge

The ridge leveled off somewhat with cloudy views of our destination to the right.

Cemetery Ridge

The right and wrong way of doing the oppa finger gesture. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Cemetery Ridge

The ridge picked up the pitch as we approached the top.

Turnover

Group photo at the 2,027′ summit of Manamana ridge.

Trail

Agnes plunging ahead into the mud and overgrowth.

Trail

Sitting in Agnes spot. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Lookout

Panoramic view from the 1,900′ spot before dropping down into the saddle.

Trail

Climbing down the steepest section before I realized this was where webbing would have helped. I didn’t even recognize this spot from five years ago.

Trail

Chris lashing his webbing to the rock for the rest of the crew. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Trail

Sweeping view of Kanehoalani, the detached spur mountain range, that sits on Kualoa Ranch.

Trail

Traversing the undulating saddle.

Trail

Mia contouring around a boulder on the narrow ridge. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Puka

Peering into Ka’a’awa Valley. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Trail

Daryl contouring on the Windward side around a knob.

Trail

Passionately psychedelic flowers on the ridge. Photo by Mia Garrison.

Trail

Panoramic view of Pu’u Manamana and True Manamana.

Trail

Heading to the summit that was reportedly first ascended back in 2010. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

True Manamana

Group photo at the roughly 1,530′ summit. What it lacked in elevation, it more than made up for the sweeping views of the valleys, ridges and mountains from our tiny little perch.

True Manamana

The Pepsi Challenge, going strong since 1975. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

True Manamana

This tour helo buzzed us pretty close. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

True Manamana

Trying to bushwhack through the back door. Nobody’s home. Checking out another interesting ridge dropping off Pu’u Ohulehule. Another hike for another day.

True Manamana

Leaving the postage stamp sized summit.

Trail

Making the return trip on the crumbly and jagged ridge.

Puka

How many hikers can you fit into a puka? Apparently only three. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Trail

Making our way out of the saddle.

Trail

Lee climbing her way back up the steep section. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Trail

Pushing our way up through the uluhell overgrowth. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Turnover

Mahalo for the mountain hospitality.

Manamana Ridge

Rainbow sighting off Kahana Bay.

Manamana Ridge

Going down the broad section of the ridge. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Manamana Ridge

It was a magical moment to witness the sunbeams piercing the clouds and bathing Kahana Valley. Photo by Mia Garrison

Manamana Ridge

Passing through the forested section of the ridge.

Manamana Ridge

Climbing our way up the steep, rocky ridge section. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Manamana Ridge

Making our way down towards the pointed and narrow peaks of the ridge.

Manamana Ridge

Mia climbing her way up to join Chris and Daryl at the top.

Manamana Ridge

Looking back at the sun slowly settling down behind the mountain range.

Manamana Ridge

Following the well trodden path on the ridge.

Manamana Ridge

The group negotiating their way down the rock face.

Manamana Ridge

Daryl the praying mantis whisperer.

Manamana Ridge

Chris pointing to one of many interesting curios left behind in the mountains for others to witness.

Manamana Ridge

Descending down towards the Crouching Lion rock formation.

Manamana Ridge

The ridge soon broadened and leveled off as we neared Kahana Bay.

All pau

We made it down to Kam Highway under the cover of darkness. Thanks to Richie for giving us a hop back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our dawn to dusk hike covered 4.46 miles with a super fun group. Agnes can now put this hike back into retirement. Post hike meal at Zippy’s. Segregated by gender. I should’ve ordered the usual Oxtail Soup. Mahalo to Daryl for driving me home.

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.

Glenn wanted me to set up a hike to this picturesque summit in the Ewa Forest Reserve for his 24 hour fitness buddies. A social mixer hike. The only problem was that his social buddies decided to work out at 24 Hour Fitness instead. At least Alexis, Brian, Chris, Dale, Daryl, Ferlino, Glenn and Josh showed up at Helemano.

Gate

Permit in hand, we swung the gate open to the six mile jeep road. Thanks to Brian and Glenn for driving up the road in their 4x4s. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Access Road

Ferlino clearing the trail of any stray branches that might scratch Glenn’s truck. Heaven forbid.

Poamoho Road

I’m sure glad the cows kept to their side of the fence today.

Poamoho Road

Off-roading through the deep ruts made by the lead 4×4. Thanks Brian.

Poamoho Road

One truck got the “shake, rattle and roll” treatment more than the other. Guess which one? Photo by Alexis Widick.

Trailhead

Group photo left to right: Dale, Chris, Glenn, myself, Brian, Ferlino, Josh, Alexis and Daryl.

Poamoho Trail

Poamoho stream trickling in the valley below us.

Poamoho Trail

Speak softly so the hunting dogs will not follow.

Poamoho Trail

Learning about the history of the Ewa Forest Reserve.

Poamoho Trail

Transitioning from the maintained to the unmaintained trail. Photo by Alexis Widick.

Poamoho Trail

Following the fence line up the ridge. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Poamoho Trail

Chris crossing the landslide section of the trail.

Poamoho Trail

Ferlino and Dale crossing the stream through the gulch crossing.

Poamoho Trail

Approaching the socked in summit.

Poamoho Summit

Hanging out near the Cline Memorial.

Poamoho Summit

Taking in the fleeting valley views from the 2,520′ summit, where windy conditions brought in more clouds and lowered the temperature. Photo by Alexis Widick.

Poamoho Summit

We took a bunch of pics, hoping that the clouds would clear in due time. Expectations clouded our judgment, so we left the summit and contoured on the Leeward side to reach the cabin.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Following the boardwalk that gave us a brief stay from the cloying mud. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Stepping off the boardwalk and onto the muddy switch backing trail.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Contouring around the fenced Leeward side of the ridge.

Poamoho Cabin

Carved pumpkins and assorted characters hanging out in the cabin.

Poamoho Cabin

Where failed pole dancers go to retire, toiling in anonymity. Photo by Alexis Widick.

KST

Brian and Glenn taking their leave of us as they had to drive the trucks back down the road. Thanks again for the ride guys.

KST

Passing through the gate as we contoured on the Leeward side.

KST

Approaching the man made notch from the Windward side of the ridge.

KST

Looking down into the cauldron of churning clouds in Kahana Valley.

KST

Rustling our way through the loulu palm trees.

Pauao Junction

Leaving the KST and going down the Windward ridge from 2,680′ elevation. Hats off to the HTMC for clearing this trail recently, giving us easier passage.

Pauao Ridge

Descending down the steep pitch of the ridge.

Pauao Ridge

Looking into Kahana Valley.

Pauao Ridge

Ferlino and Dale making their way down the moss carpeted trail.

Pauao Ridge

The ridge soon leveled off to a more walkable grade.

Pauao Ridge

Leaving the clouds behind us as we quickly lost elevation on the cleared trail.

Pauao Ridge

Looking back, we saw a multi-tiered waterfall. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Pauao Ridge

Heading down into the valley floor.

Pauao Ridge

Sliding down the slippery slope of wet hala leaves.

Pauao Ridge

Making our way down the “candy corn lane.”

Kahana Valley

Somebody was happy to be off the ridge. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Kahana Valley

It was a soggy but satisfying hike up and down the ridges.

All pau

Walking out to Chris and Ferlino’s vans that we had staged earlier in the morning for our ride back to Helemano.

GPS Tracks

Our pre-Halloween hike covered 13.97 miles through the raw, rugged beauty of the Northern KST. It was a day well spent with a fun group. Post hike meal at Dot’s in Wahiawa. Somebody didn’t show up even after somebody else washed their truck.

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.

Chris and I spent the Labor Day weekend backpacking in the mountains. Thanks to Daryl for dropping us off.

Hau’ula Valley

Passing the revolving wall of graffiti.

Ma’akua Ridge Trail

Leaving the road behind us.

Bench

Views of the Hau’ula coastline and Laie Point to our left.

Papali Ridge

We left the loop trail to continue the climb up the ridge.

Papali Ridge

Gaining elevation through the uluhe ferns, which were surprisingly trimmed back. We found out later that some fellow hiking friends had cleared it earlier for their upcoming backpacking hike. Lucky us.

Papali Ridge

Humping up the rollercoaster ridge.

Papali Ridge

We followed the ridge line as it curved to the left towards the mountains.

Papali Ridge

Looking ahead to the saddle crossing.

Papali Ridge

Even our boonie hats took a break in the field of flowers.

Papali Ridge

Looking back at the sweeping views of the Windward coastline.

Papali Ridge

Our first contact with the sprawling fence line.

Castle Junction

The trail down to Kaluanui Stream. Not today.

Papali Ridge

Hiking through the wide open swath made possible by the recently installed fence line.

Castle Falls

We hopped over the fence to take in a brief look at this waterfall nestled back in the valley.

Papali Ridge

Passing a moss-ified ohia tree on the trail.

Papali Ridge

Strolling to the summit.

Papali Junction

Standing on the Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST).

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

We meet again. Last time we saw this particular pua’a (pig), it had recently passed and was lying next to a tree on the other side of the fence. Somebody staked its skull to the fence post.

Trail

Going off the reservation. The KST reservation.

Mud pits

Trying my (un)successful best to avoid sinking into the mud. At least I didn’t sink waist deep, like on one of our last visits. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trail

Chris pausing to soak in the views of the Waianae Mountains.

Opae’ula Cabin

We arrived at the recently painted cabin shortly before 3pm. What time is check in?

Opae’ula Cabin

It was one of the best feelings to exchange our mud soaked shoes for slippers, that I just had to jump for joy. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Opae’ula Cabin

Watching the sun rays poking through the clouds and dancing across the land.

Opae’ula Cabin

Fiery sunset on the North Shore.

Opae’ula Cabin

Cabin life lit by a flickering candle that needs to be replaced soon.

Opae’ula Cabin

Morning bowel movement view.

Opae’ula Cabin

We checked out at 8am. Mahalo for the hospitality!

Trail

Extreme hula hooping. Forget plastic hoops, hikers do it with metal hoops.

Trail

Following the fence back to the gate.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Back on the KST. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

The rugged peaks of Manamana, Kanehoalani and Ohulehule poking out above the ridge line.

KST

Chris passing through another gate.

KST

It was a beautiful day to be in the mountains.

KST

Chris dropped down the fence line to follow the barely moist stream bed.

Trail

Standing on top of a trickling waterfall. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Jaw dropping views of the valleys kept us company.

Fence Meadows

Crossing the fence to get to the other fence.

Peahinaia Trail

Talks of exploring the overgrown and presumably lost trail soon fizzled out.

Boot Junction

Seated and waiting to try on a pair of boots. Make that singular. Shoelaces not included.

KST

Heading back into the jungle of uluhell ferns and assorted shrubs and trees.

KST

The fence line soon split into two forks. Which one to take?

KST

Outside the fence line.

KST

Inside the fence line.

KST

The contour below the ridge line is now fenced off. The gate is there if you look hard enough, otherwise climb over the fence.

KST

Hikers version of the fidget spinner.

KST

Chris getting off the ridge and fence line.

Poamoho Summit

Pitching tent at the summit for strictly photographic purposes.

Poamoho Summit

Chris climbed the hill to catch a better perspective.

Poamoho Summit

Clear day at the 2,520′ summit.

Poamoho Summit

Chris standing on one of the spur ridges looking down into the stunning valley views.

Cline Memorial

Leaving the breathtaking summit. I think over two hours was enough.

Poamoho Trail

Passing the gulch on our right.

Poamoho Trail

Transitioning from the unmaintained to the maintained trail.

Poamoho Trail

The trail going down was surprisingly bone dry. No complaints here.

Trailhead

Is that our ride? Wishful thinking.

Plantation Road

I switched to auto pilot going down the mentally and physically numbing road. One foot in front of the other. Repeat until needed.

Plantation Road

Our forward progress was momentarily halted by a rather large black cow that had planted herself squarely in the middle of the road and wasn’t budging. I waited for Chris to catch up as he had shed his red shirt as some cows were following him. We soon edged around the cow to resume walking down the road and thought we had saw the last of that heifer. We were sadly mistaken. Taking a break at the second gate, we heard loud bellowing and saw the same black cow had followed us! We climbed through the barbed wire to the other road and the cow soon lost interest.

All pau

No sign of the black cow. The red ninja hiker kept us safe. Mahalo to Dale and Kamalani for picking us up on short notice.

GPS Tracks

Our two day hike through some of the most scenic trails on the island covered 16.72 miles. Not a bad way to spend the weekend with good company. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse. Prime rib is what’s for dinner. Moooo!

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

Started at the crack of dawn with Chris, Lee, Mia and Yoly to hike a loop that I have been wanting to do for quite some time in Kahana Valley.

Trailhead

We all piled into Chris’s van to drive to the dead end road and kept a low profile to avoid disturbing the neighbors.

Waikane Valley

The trail was surprisingly obvious, a marked departure from my last visit.

Waikane Valley

Approaching a homeless shelter?

Pride Rock

Bucket loads of hikers and tourists make the short hike up to this rock, to gaze upon … Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pride Rock

… the stunning scenery of lush valleys, topped by rugged peaks and shimmering glassy waters.

Pride Rock

Group photo left to right: Chris, Lee, myself, Mia and Yoly.

Southeast Ridge

Proceeding past the tourist scenic spot. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Southeast Ridge

Approaching our second dike of the day.

Southeast Ridge

Hello there! Photo by Chris Bautista.

Southeast Ridge

Climbing up the dike that keeps the encroaching overgrowth at bay.

Southeast Ridge

Dangling legs above the treetops. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Southeast Ridge

Lee coming down the dike. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Southeast Ridge

Looking out towards the three peaks of Ohulehule, Manamana and Kanehoalani.

Southeast Ridge

The exposed rock ridge served as a firebreak lane through the suffocating overgrowth.

Southeast Ridge

Churning the moss covered landscape.

Southeast Ridge

To climb or to contour the looming dike?

Southeast Ridge

How do I climb up this thing? Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Southeast Ridge

Hiker see, hiker do.

Southeast Ridge

Mia, Lee and Yoly; three monkeys on the dike. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Southeast Ridge

We contoured to the left of the dike as the pitch of the ridge became more pronounced.

Southeast Ridge

Capturing the views now in case we lost them at the top.

Southeast Ridge

Yoly following the rope through the thick overgrowth.

Southeast Ridge

Climbing on the more exposed Windward side of the ridge.

Southeast Ridge

We had to climb over, under and through the thicket of trees that populated the ridge.

Southeast Ridge

At last, free of the overgrowth!

Southeast Ridge

Spoke too soon.

Southeast Ridge

Using trees, roots, vegetation and the occasional rope to climb up.

Southeast Ridge

Barreling and brushing past through the overgrowth.

Southeast Ridge

Pushing up the last major climb to the summit.

Pu’u Ohulehule

When you’re hungry, two twigs will double as chopsticks.

Pu’u Ohulehule

Group photo at the 2,228′ summit.

Pu’u Ohulehule

Sweeping views from the top.

Northwest Ridge

Once the multiple photo shoots were done, we took our leave of the summit.

Northwest Ridge

Looking ahead to the saddle that will connect us to our final summit destination.

Northwest Ridge

Climbing down the steep descent.

Junction

Taking the trail less trampled as we detoured off the ridge.

Saddle

The overgrowth on the Southeast was tame compared to this section. It was uluhell quicksand.

Saddle

Exhausted and spent on the trail. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Saddle

Treading carefully on the insane and unchecked overgrowth that masked the many false drops on the ridge.

Saddle

This ridge was sorely in need of a trail clearing.

Saddle

Threading our way through the brittle and decaying ohia trees.

Pu’u Koile

Looking back at Pu’u Ohulehule from the 1,613′ summit. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Saddle

Chris looking out to Pu’u O Kila. Photo by Lee Shreve.

Saddle

The saddle has become demonstrably more eroded from our last visit. Dirt and rocks became dislodged with each step that we took on certain sections. It was like playing Jenga on the mountains.

Saddle

Yoly making her way down the crumbling and shifting pile of dirt and rocks. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Saddle

Looking out towards the peaks of Piei and Manamana overlooking Kahana Valley. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Saddle

The sound of music was singing in the mountains. The earth was moving below us, and it wasn’t from that kind of satisfaction. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pu’u O Kila

We scribbled today’s date and our names on the log in the jar and plopped down for a well deserved rest. Photo by Lee Shreve.

Pu’u O Kila

Group photo at the tree trimmed 1,520′ summit.

Kahana Valley

Dropping down from the studio sized summit.

Kahana Valley

Enjoying the views of Pu’u Manamana and True Manamana on our way down.

Kahana Valley

Following the river of uluhell downstream.

Kahana Valley

Double Rainbow.

Kahana Valley

The group walking out the valley.

Kahana Valley

This is not the trail exit. Photo by Mia Garrison.

Kahana Valley

That’s the dam exit.

Kahana Valley

One of many trails that crisscrosses the wettest valley on Earth. Photo by Lee Shreve.

Kahana Valley

Damming the water for our group photo. Playing in the shallow end.

All pau

Group photo at the end of our bone crushing, exhausting but soul lifting hike.

GPS Tracks

Our hardscrabble hike registered only six miles of punishing overgrowth and crumbly ridges. Is the GPS tracking working? Really, that’s all? Great hike with a fun crew. Texting instructions for Pizza Hut. Post hike meal at Zippy’s. This is becoming a habit. Local habit.

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