I have passed this trailhead a couple times on our way to traversing the Ko’olau Mountains in the past. Today, Mari and I hiked this short loop trail on the North Shore.

Trailhead

We parked at the end of Pupukea Road, walked past the Boy Scout Camp and Sunset Ranch to start our hike.

Kaunala Trail

Watching our feet on the ground while looking up at the moss spackled trees, as there were dog poop mines dropped on the trail.

Kaunala Trail

We soon caught up with another group on the Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road.

Kaunala Trail

Mari entering the grove of paperbark trees to start the official trail.

Kaunala Trail

The other group decided to follow us. Hiker see. Hiker do.

Kaunala Trail

Signs that we were on a Na Ala Hele trail.

Kaunala Trail

Mari descending on the switchbacks to the gulch.

Kaunala Trail

Trail clearing needed.

Kaunala Trail

Looking into the 1,129 acre Pupukea-Paumalu Forest Reserve. Thanks to TPL for the acquisition of this forested area to prevent further development.

Kaunala Trail

Mari coming down the stepped section of the trail.

Kaunala Trail

Mari crossing Paumalu Stream.

Kaunala Trail

Moss covered tree stump on the trail.

Kaunala Trail

Follow the sign.

Kaunala Trail

Greener pastures.

Kaunala Trail

Another stream?

Kaunala Trail

Where’s the bridge?

Kaunala Trail

Mari hiking out of the gulch.

Kaunala Trail

Mari contouring on the side of the ridge.

Kaunala Trail

Steep climb up the rooted trail.

Kaunala Trail

We turned right on the gravel road.

Kaunala Trail

All uphill.

Kaunala Trail

Our scenic point on the trail, where we gained a little over 700′ in elevation.

Kaunala Trail

We left the trail and turned right back onto the paved road.

Kaunala Trail

Passing the picnic shelter.

Kaunala Trail

Looking out towards Kawailoa Wind Farm.

Kaunala Trail

Walking in the rain.

Kaunala Trail

Here she comes, coming round the bend.

All pau

Time to start dodging all that dog poop again until we make it back to our car.

GPS Tracks

Our loop trail through the densely packed forest covered 5.33 miles. Post hike meal at Papa Ole’s. Gravy over everything makes the food taste better.

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.