Tessa came out of her self-imposed semi-retirement to see her significant other complete the Waianae Summit Trail today.

Waianae Valley

Mahalo to Lilia and Kenny for dropping us off in the remote valley that was once home to taro, cattle and sugarcane. Now it’s home to the occasional chronic, abandoned cars and stray dogs.

Waianae Kaala Road

I guess we follow the arrow for the group photo and the hiking trail.

Waianae Kaala Road

Walking this road will never grow on me.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Some use pens. Others use stickers.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Crossing the dry streambed into the valley.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Taking a standing break after the short cardio climb up the hill.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Bolohead meets bolohead.

Waianae Kaala Trail

West side is the best side. Except when chronics come calling. Kenny was getting alerts from his Tesla indicating that his car was getting some unwanted advances from a nearby chronic.

Waianae Kaala Trail

No rope. No hope. Don’t be a dope.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Kenny soaking in the realization that this was the highest he has climbed to date. Only 800′ more feet to go!

Waianae Kaala Trail

Props to the peeps that carried power tools and composite steps to attach them to this boulder. While not absolutely necessary, it does make the climb easier.

Mount Ka’ala

Kuli at the entrance to the 1,100 acres of ecosystems that harbors multiple native plants and animals.

Mount Ka’ala

Group photo on part of the boardwalk that extends roughly 3/4 mile through the Ka’ala bog. We parted ways with Kenny who went on to terminate at the end of trail sign.

Mount Ka’ala

Kenny bumped into @blaquekangaroo on his way to the summit, a social media influencer on IG.

Mount Ka’ala

Picking our way through the faint and flagged trail.

Mount Ka’ala

Sole sucking mud seemingly waited for us at every turn on the path. Just ask Akira, who had to go fishing for Tessa’s shoe.

Mount Ka’ala

Man down!

Mount Ka’ala

Working our way through the moss encrusted stunted plant life.

Mount Ka’ala

Contact with the fence line that soon lead us off the highest point on the island.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Breaking out briefly on the ridge line that afforded expansive views of the Waianae Mountain Range and points beyond.

WST

You never let go of the ropes. Wise advice. Especially from somebody that just broke a tree branch as he was descending down the moss slicked boulders. This gave somebody else second thoughts but luckily it was just a fleeting one at that.

WST

Last one down.

WST

Helping hand at the leap of faith.

WST

Taking the direct route instead of the contour trail. Occam’s razor.

WST

The weight of the world was on Akira’s shoulders. Or at least a small piece of Waianae.

WST

The grass smells better on the other side of the fence line.

WST

Fence line keeping hikers away from the eroded sections.

WST

Plunging and pushing through the dense and insufferable uluhe fern overgrowth.

Hobbs Junction

Tessa is either trying to form the letter “H” or has the onset of arthritis in her hands.

WST

Following the fence line as it struggled to stay with the uneven ridge line.

WST

Crossing and climbing through a gap in the fence line.

WST

Tessa about to drop off the side of the cliff with the help of a rather faded and long in the tooth webbing.

WST

Chico picked up a traveling companion. These invasive critters that hailed from Kenya were released into the wild in 1972 and are responsible for the extinction or near extinction of many native species.

Pu’u Kalena

Taking lunch at what Hawaiian legend said was the nipple of a pregnant woman giving birth to the ocean. Mount Ka’ala was her pregnant stomach.

Pu’u Kalena

Group photo at the 3,504′ peak.

WST

Making our way down through the suffocating overgrowth as we followed the ubiquitous fence line.

WST

Climbing through the partially denuded section as we picked up elevation again on our climb back up.

Star Trek Junction

The group flashing the Vulcan salute made famous by Leonard Nimoy in the popular science fiction franchise show.

WST

Some took the hard way, while others took the easier way.

WST

Looking to our right, we were treated to views of sexxxy ridge and pu’u ka’ilio, both short and “punchy” hikes.

WST

Six o’clock views of the second highest mountain on the island.

WST

Chico descending towards the start of the narrow dike section. Not to be confused with intrusive igneous rock formations that identify with the rainbow coalition.

WST

Akira and Scott maintaining their sense of balance which was helped by the absence of stiff winds.

WST

Somebody was taking a break from crawling.

WST

Tessa bringing up the rear.

Pu’u Kumakalii

A familiar face greeted us at the 2,881′ peak.

WST

When do we get to the sketchy part? Is this it?

WST

Coming down the mountain. Yes we are.

WST

Akira scrambling his way down.

WST

The rest of the group climbing down the narrow dike.

WST

It looked like the mountains were letting off some steam today.

WST

We peeled off the ridge line and hiked down the valley towards the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range, where we also met up with Kenny again. A couple of folks in the group went off “exploring” and one had to be pulled from the edge of a cliff. Just another day at the office.

WST

Is Chico horizontally rappelling with his scuttlebutt?

WST

We walked through the valley of the shadow of UXO.

Kolekole Pass

#26 – No drinking the bubbly this time! Congratulations Akira-san on finishing the last section to complete the entire 26 miles of the Waianae Summit Trail.

All pau

Final group photo of the day, left to right: Scott, Jeremy, myself, Tessa, Chico, Akira, Kenny and CB. Thanks to CB and Kenny for shuttling us back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our completion hike covered a distance of 7.06 miles that saw us summit the two highest peaks on the island before ending at the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range, from the highest to the lowest. Congratulations again to Akira for finishing the WST. We were joined by Cat and Edgar for our post hike meal at Zippy’s.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Jeremy Cannone, Kenny Lui, Scott Peterson, 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 friend got sick and was unable to complete the KST this weekend, so Eric and I did a hike on the West side instead.

Waianae Valley

Thanks to Chico and Groot for dropping us off in the area that was once dominated by sugar and cattle plantations from roughly 1906-1946.

Ka’ala Trail

We passed some hunters who when they learned of our destination, suggested we take the road instead. No thanks, we’ll stick to the higher ground. There was enough pavement on this road leading up to the trail that was enough for me.

Ka’ala Trail

Old and new. Trail markers that is. The purple bottle caps was set by Waianae Steve many years ago and the pink ribbons by hikers many months ago?

Three Poles

Climbing out of the valley was a good stiff cardio exercise as we reached the top where we saw the prominent Bolo Head ridge next to us.

Ka’ala Trail

Eric climbing over the first boulder section.

Ka’ala Trail

Can you take my photo of me going up the ladder section? My phone is locked out.

Pu’u Ka’ala

Reaching the top of the highest mountain on the island, while the true summit was a short walk away, this was good enough for today. We also ran into two brothers from Texas who was unprepared for the inclement weather, as it’s always sunny in Hawaii right?

Pu’u Ka’ala

One of eight species of koli’i taken by the botanist on the hike, this particular one takes about five years to grow and then blooms its pink flowers and dies off.

Ka’ala Bog

Eric entering the 1,100 acre area that was once home to a fishpond and is now home to endemic plants and species.

Ka’ala Bog

Got mud?

Ka’ala Bog

Mud misery loves company.

Ka’ala Bog

The botanist identified this as kanawao, a species of perennial flowering plant of the Hydrangeaceae family, that is only found in Hawaii.

Ka’ala Bog

Contact with the fence line which lead us to the …

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

… overgrown and cloud soaked ridge line.

WST

Making my way down the slippery climb due to the prior rain and morning dew.

WST

Eric going across the Leap of Faith.

WST

When the weight on your shoulders is too much. Just let it roll down the valley.

WST

Two native plants – Hawaiian mint that has no smell due to no predators and the uluhe ferns that are important to the native ecosystem in terms of building soil and also impede hiking traffic on many a trail.

WST

I found the overgrowth presence on the trail was markedly less than on previous visits. No complaints here.

WST

Following the fence line on the undulating ridge line.

WST

The fence while a bane to some hikers and a boon to conservationists, it does help one to navigate more easily through the overgrowth, sometimes.

WST

Watching rain showers march across Lualualei Valley. the largest coastal valley on the Leeward side of the island.

WST

Passing by shrubs of Naupaka Kuahiwi, the mountain yin to the Naupaka Kahakai, the ocean yang. The half flowers symbolize division in Hawaiian mythology and when united, symbolize love and reunion.

WST

Eric making his way around the “split” fenced ridge line.

WST

Dropping down to a narrow shelf as we made our way on the trail.

WST

Eric climbing his way up.

WST

Contouring our way around the trail that was riddled with erosion and landslides.

Pu’u Kalena

Group photo on the second highest peak on the island that sits at 3,504′ elevation.

WST

We took a short break at the summit and then pushed our way through the overgrowth.

WST

Climbing our way through the denuded section of the trail.

Star Trek Junction

My Vulcan salute was looking pretty weak. Live long and prosper.

WST

Passing through the pine tree section.

WST

Making my way along the eroded section of the trail.

WST

Eric going over one of multiple fence crossings.

WST

Looking out towards sexxxy ridge, so named due to the razor thin ridge and sheer drops on both sides.

WST

Eric climbing down the hill towards the rock dike ahead of us.

WST

Trailing on the narrow dike.

WST

Leaving the fence line behind us as we descended down the trail which lead to another rock dike.

WST

Eric climbing his way down with Ka’ilio in the background.

WST

Making my way down the narrow dike.

WST

Passing through the “Martian” area while stopping to check out some red lichen on the rocks.

All pau

Lucky we are illiterate. Thanks to Chico for picking us up and bringing us coke floats. Big mahalos!

GPS Tracks

Our final hike of the year covered just under seven miles through a mixture of wet and dry terrain and cloud soaked and sun kissed views. Post hike meal at Chicken in a Barrel. They didn’t have any chicken left. Really? So we split a pizza at the nearby Old Town Pizzeria. Thanks Eric for picking up the pizza. Fun hike to end 2024.

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

Kolekole Pass

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

Hapapa Trail

Nothing like early morning cardio to wake one up.

Hapapa Trail

Nobody wanted to be beheaded vicariously.

Hapapa Trail

Our first group photo of the day at the bench.

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

Deborah scrambling up the first notch.

Hapapa Trail

I guess break time is over.

Hapapa Trail

The group scrambling up to the second notch.

Hapapa Trail

Aida and Akira pushing their way up the hill.

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

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

Pu’u Hapapa

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

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

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

WST

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

WST

Akira coming down from his natural high.

WST

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

WST

Contouring along the eroded section of the ridge line.

WST

Mount Ka’ala was strikingly clear in the background.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Lying down photo at the 2,778′ knob.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Aida climbing her way up back to the ridge line.

WST

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

WST

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

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

The rest of the group climbing up.

Gorilla Heads

Approaching the largest rock formation.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up the roughly 80′ plus hill.

Gorilla Heads

Jeremy making his way up to the top.

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

Robin lowering herself down over the boulder.

Gorilla Heads

I think it’s spelled Aloha.

WST

Climbing up and through the wobbly fence line.

WST

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

WST

Back on the fence line.

WST

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

WST

The bus is over there. Recycled joke.

WST

Jeremy scrambling over the top of the rocks.

WST

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

Pu’u Kaua

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

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Trail

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

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Deborah Tom, Jeremy Cannone, Robin Farr, Tessa Bugay and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We set out to explore an obviously underused trail that contours a good chunk of the Waianae Mountain Range. The trail seems to have for the most part been lost to the passage of time and reclaimed by Mother Nature as we were to find out.

Kolekole Pass

Many thanks to Jasmin and Lilia for dropping us off on the base that was open to the hiking public this weekend.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Going up the short slope of the stepped hill.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Chico adjusting for just the right angle.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Akira on the exposed dirt with panoramic views of the central plains and the Waianae Mountains.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Group photo at the bench with a view.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Leaving the meadows and plunging into the head high grass.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Going up the rutted trail under the tree canopy.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Breaking out onto the exposed trail with surrounding views.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Hiking on the exposed and eroded trail where a slip would not be pretty.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Ferlino and Tessa re-enacting the incident where

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Akira underneath the twisted and gnarled tree.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Stepping foot on the “dark bay” trail as we crawled, contoured and climbed through the many tree blowdowns littered on the trail.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Traversing on the trail that would soon disappear into overgrowth and twists and turns.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The waning gibbous moon behind the Waianae Mountain Range.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

We soon ran across a hiker and his dog Piper who had turned around due to losing the trail to overgrowth. Overconfidence got the better of us so we pressed on despite the no trail warning. Somebody said think of us in six hours. Famous last words.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Chico balancing on the tree loop that was okay according to the botanist in the group.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The group contouring in and out of multiple gullies in the mountains.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Who said this was a flat trail?

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Climbing and sliding down the crumbly hill which claimed a red shoe and some people’s dignities. Still good for a few laughs.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Climbing back up with the help from her friends and some webbing.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The girls taking a break while we tried to figure out where the trail was located in the mountains. Just like trying to find hidden Easter eggs. Bread crumbs would have been preferred.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Some of us went low …

Honouliuli Contour Trail

… the rest of us went high.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Passing a bucket marker as we all joined back up and continued on the trail.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The point of return. We decided to throw in the towel and turn around. I read on some old posts that this trail was so bad that a trail clearing crew got trapped around 1982 and had to spend the night? Then on top of that, Hurricane Iwa of that same year wrecked the trail with landslides and vegetation wiping out the trail in most places. Some parts of the trail were cleared but I don’t think this trail is maintained anymore and there are several groups such as The Nature Conservancy that would like for the trail to remain blocked so as to protect the endemic plants.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

But first we decided to eat our lunch in the mountains. Along with the clouds of mosquitoes that also call this place home.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Thanks to Chef Suzuki who grilled us steak and shrimp and the rest of the gang for bringing chicken adobo, pancit, sausage, rice and soda. We eat good when we hike.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Famous last words from the botanist. This tree is strong, the roots go all the way back, this tree is not going anywhere. Timber!

Honouliuli Contour Trail

First aid in the mountains.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Mari poking around the base of the toppled tree for the golden egg.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Leaving our lunch spot.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Going downhill.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Dropping into the gully where we got slightly disoriented.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Back on the trail.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Agnes threading her way through the tree blowdown that was being slowly recycled by the fungi growth.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Chico with the background of Wheeler Army Airfield where he used to fly choppers at the army post that was built in 1922.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Leaving the overgrowth behind us as we made our way to the stand of paperbark trees.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Breaking out of the tree line as we made our way down back to the meadows.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Yielding to one of many dogs on the trail.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Happy Easter from the scenic spot.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

These guys are no stranger to danger.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

The group lined up going down the trail.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Hanging out while waiting for our rides.

All pau

Thanks to Jasmin and Lilia who picked us up and brought us cold drinks. Much appreciated.

GPS Tracks

Our first crack at this trail barely put a dent in it at 4.62 miles roundtrip, 2.23 miles out of an estimated 15.8 miles. Nevertheless, it was a fun exploratory hike with a good group of friends. Post hike meal at Five Guys where you build your own burger and milkshakes.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Ferlino Carinio, Mari Saito, 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.

Easy hike Plan A got cancelled due to Poamoho Trail being closed. I settled on what I thought would be Easy Hike Plan B for the group. Relatively speaking.

Kolekole Pass

It was a chilly 53 degrees as Aida, Aileen, Akira, Chico, Ferlino, Jasmin, Mari, Tessa, and myself met up on the largest military base in Hawaii. The meeting spot was also the lowest elevation on the Waianae Mountain Range.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Akira playing the part of the sacrificial lamb at the “beheading rock.” Legend has it that Wahiawa people and the Waianae people would meet at this pass and battle each other for the right to cross over to the other side. The losing side would have to submit their chief to be beheaded on this rock and his skin would be stripped raw (kolekole). Others say this is a modern fabrication.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Passing through an open area as we skirted the fenced enclosure and followed the hiking trail signs.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Standing on the eroded bluff as the sun started to illuminate the mountains and central plain.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

We soon got to the grassy meadow with the crooked bench as I pointed our where we were headed next.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

That ridge? That steep and high ridge?

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Group photo in front of Lualualei Valley, the largest coastal valley on the island.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Can Ferlino tell the difference between Jasmin’s pat and Chico’s pat? Perhaps he enjoys both or is just a good sport.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The group going up the rutted trail.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Single filing our way on the Honouliuli Contour Trail which contours the Windward side of the Waianae Mountain Range from Kolekole Pass to Makakilo.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Going up the hill dominated by paperbark trees which is also the start of the Waianae Summit Trail (WST).

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Jasmin probably thinking this doesn’t resemble Aiea Loop Trail.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Climbing our way down to the first notch or gap in the ridge line.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Group photo. Somebody was thinking they should turn around. Luckily it was just a passing thought.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Picture of the group standing on the gap with the dog hill pile of crumbly rocks aka Ka’ilio framed in the middle.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Watching the group make their way down from their lofty perch.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Scrambling in and out of the notch.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Contouring and climbing our way on the side of the mountain.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Jasmin pulling herself up on the OSHA approved strap.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Are we there yet?

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The sun began to rise higher than the mountains, shining on our sweaty faces.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Climbing up the ridge as we continued to gain elevation and the destination got closer, not soon enough for some folks.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Standing and sitting on the rock that bears a passing resemblance to a chair.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Cactus Mickey Mouse Ears in the wild. Disney wants their royalties.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Climbing out of the second gap or notch.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Mari getting a helping hand.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Jasmin getting a helping stick.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Aileen found a female Jackson Chameleon in the bushes, these invasive critters were introduced to Hawaii in 1972 from Tanzania and Kenya.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Ferlino and Jasmin coming up on the ridge as it began to ease up on the steep angle.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The introduction of the fence line. A common sight in the mountains as of late, meant to keep the feral ungulates from destroying what’s left of the endemic fauna and flora.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

A boisterous group soon caught up to us on the ridge.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Partial group photo with the Jumanji Explorers on the wooden walkway.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The group passing the true summit of Hapapa at 2,883′ elevation as we skirted a massive erosion that seemingly leads straight down the mountain.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Getting the hang of it while on the helipad.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Fly by with the naval magazine in the background. Most of the munitions were supposed to have been transferred to West Loch, supposedly leaving the valley barren of explosives.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Keep your eyes on the GoPro, and your feet next to the poke. Today was a good day to be on the mountains as both ranges were exceptionally clear.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Akira smacking his lips as he was salivating in anticipation for his first camping hike. Or maybe it was just the ramen.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Watching a paraglider circle the area on thermals.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The photoshoots must go on.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

We passed the tent on our way back down.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Following the fenced line as we lost elevation on the ridge line.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The chameleon whisperer found another one, this time it was a male specimen with its distinctive three horns. Scientists have noted that the chameleons in Hawaii have evolved into brighter colors than their African cousins due to an absence of predators in the islands, this also helps them to find and attract the opposite sex.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Every heart shaped cactus has its spines.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

At least the hiking sticks got out of my backpack and into the hands of their rightful owner.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

We soon branched off to the loop trail instead of descending back down the WST.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Enjoying the sun and scenery on our hike down.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

We let the Jumanji group pass us as they had another scheduled photoshoot.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Sweeping views of the central plain and the windmills in the distance.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Descending down the last rooted hill on the trail.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Passing time as we waited for the rest of the group to catch up.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Ducking to make the low overhead clearance.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

The power couple crossing the creek after their little spill on the trail due to wet rocks and a loose hiking stick.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Intersecting the trail from where we had climbed up earlier.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Descending back down to the meadow.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The French Bulldog smells something. Something pungent and earthy. Can’t quite put his nose on it.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Photo of Akira, Jasmin and Mari who hiked this ridge for the first time. Congratulations especially to Jasmin and Mari who hiked outside of their comfort zone and pushed it to the top.

All pau

Going down the steps and back to our cars.

Post hike meal

We had our dinner at Chicken in a Barrel, whose cooking style was brought from California and had its roots in Kauai.

Post hike smoke

Secondhand smoke. I don’t think it’s the kind of smoke these guys were looking for.

GPS Tracks

Our loop trail covered a little over three miles in the foothills and ridges of Kolekole Pass with a determined and supportive group.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Ferlino Carinio, Jasmin Carinio, Mari Saito, 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.

Back to the West side to tie up some loose ends. We even got to see a Achatinella mustelina, an air-breathing land snail that is endemic to the Waianae Range.

Waianae Valley

Mahalo to Daryl for coming out of hiking hibernation and dropping Aida, Aileen, Chris, CJ, Thomas and myself off in the remote valley.

Waianae Valley

Chasing the rainbow on our walk up the oft-maligned concrete and asphalt road. Somebody had a bag of skittles in their pack.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Shaking off the hunting dogs before we traded the road for the trail.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Cardio climb up the leaf covered hill.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Cardio collapse.

Three Poles

Taking a quick breather.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Soaking in the West side views.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Going up the first set of boulders.

Waianae Kaala Trail

The views were not half bad coming up.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Bolted steps made quick work of the second boulder set.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Scrambling up the steep rock studded section.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Gaining roughly 3,500′ in elevation as we approached the highest peak on the island.

Ka’ala Bog

360 degree view of the boardwalk that straddles the native cloud forest.

Ka’ala Bog

Lucky that we didn’t bring any dogs with us today.

Ka’ala Bog

Finding our way through the wet forest.

Ka’ala Bog

Made it to the fence line.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Going down the ridge line.

WST

Standing underneath the hanging moss grotto.

WST

First one down the slippery boulders.

WST

Last one down.

WST

Sometimes the leap of faith requires a helping hand.

WST

Aida looking where to land her foot.

WST

Some of us bypassed the contour and took the direct way up.

WST

All that gym time finally paid off.

WST

Carrying the weight of the world consumes a lot of calories. Time to replenish them.

WST

Following the fence line down as we could see the summit of the second highest peak on the island in the distance, so close yet so far.

WST

Somebody didn’t get today’s memo to not to put their full weight on the fence.

Hobbs Junction

Group photo at the terminus of the steeply graded ridge that takes one down back into Waianae Valley.

WST

Resuming our hike on the fenced trail that cut through the thorny blackberry bushes and itchy grass.

WST

Looking back at the flat topped summit of Mount Ka’ala.

WST

Traversing the crack.

WST

Aida and Aileen climbing down and back up.

WST

Dropping down to contour around the ridge line.

WST

Climbing up the last rockface.

WST

Fist bump followed by lunch.

Pu’u Kalena

360 degree view of the 3,504′ peak with clear and commanding views of Lualualei and Waianae Valleys, Wahiawa Plain, cloud capped Ko’olau Mountains, and the prominent peaks of Ka’ala, Hapapa, Kanehoa and Kaua.

WST

Leaving the fern saturated summit.

WST

Descending down the steep fenced line.

WST

Climbing up the eroded hill section.

Star Trek Junction

Giving the Vulcan salute that was created by Leonard Nimoy who drew upon his Jewish roots to create the iconic gesture.

WST

Chris enjoying the views and brief respite from the overgrowth.

WST

Taking the invasive critter from the wilds of Waianae …

WST

… to the tangerine tree in Ewa.

WST

Thomas carefully crossing over the slipper fence, as he didn’t want to hit a high note.

SeXXXy Ridge

Looking out towards the skinny ridge that drops down into the valley and the crumbly hot mess known as Pu’u Ka’ilio in the background.

WST

Aida approaching the beginning of the dike section.

WST

Chris watching the girls climb their way down.

WST

Somebody asked what is a dike? Not to be confused with a dyke. Same sound. Different meanings.

Pu’u Kumakalii

Group photo at the 2,881′ peak. We have a name.

WST

Chris and Thomas descending down the narrow dike with steep drop offs on one side and vegetation on the other side.

WST

Aida keeping her balance on the narrow sheet of rock.

WST

The girls coming off the dike to more stable ground.

WST

Looking into the heart of the largest coastal valley on the island which used to be the center of volcanic activity of the Waianae Volcano.

WST

Getting off the exposed ridge line.

WST

Making our way down to the lowest point in the Waianae Mountains.

WST

Aileen coming down the sliding sands section.

WST

Leaving the Martian like dune landscape for the emerald forest.

Kolekole Pass

The group emerging from the valley of head high grass and UXOs.

Kolekole Pass

#19. Congratulations to Thomas for completing the entire Waianae Summit Trail that totals roughly 26 miles.

Kolekole Pass

I declined the champagne dousing as best as I could for my #10. I don’t drink alcohol. Only in the worst of times.

All pau

A big thanks to Amber, Cary and Doug who picked up our collective group and dropped us off to our parked cars in Kapolei. Somebody drove back to Schofield Barracks to search for her missing phone, despite being in the car that she was picked up in. I guess she needed extra driving time, much unlike extra cardio time.

GPS Tracks

Our double finish of the WST covered 7.45 miles that covered the two highest peaks on the island with a great group. Post hike meal was supposed to have been at Outback Steakhouse. Father’s Day reservations made the wait intolerable. Ono Steak & Shrimp closed early. El Mariachi didn’t want to seat us due to the time. Hot Spot was confused with Hot Pot. We finally settled on nearby L & L, which stands for Lee & Lee, the original owners. We should’ve waited for Outback Steakhouse.

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

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

It was that time to connect the shortcut and hope it doesn’t turn out to be another long day.

Kolekole Pass

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

Kolekole Pass

Going up the wooden steps.

Kolekole Pass

Who wants to be on the chopping block?

Kolekole Pass

We have our first victim, I mean volunteer.

Kolekole Pass

This must be the way.

Kolekole Pass

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

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

Hello from the other side.

Hapapa Trail

Scrambling out of the notch.

Hapapa Trail

Looking back at the group on the second notch.

Hapapa Trail

Slowly gaining elevation as we hiked up the ridge.

Hapapa Trail

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

Hapapa Trail

Following the fence line to the top.

Hapapa Trail

Passing through the tent shelter.

Pu’u Hapapa

In the clouds at the 2,883′ summit.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

Pu’u Kanehoa

Breakfast club at the 2,778′ knob.

WST

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

WST

CJ approaching the Christmas tree.

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

Thomas would agree.

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

Swinging over the backside.

Gorilla Heads

It helps to have long legs.

Gorilla Heads

Scooting our way down.

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

CJ scrambling out of the simian shaped rocks.

WST

Thomas caught between a hard rock and a wobbly fence.

WST

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

WST

We don’t need no stinking webbing.

WST

Group photo on the slanted rocks.

WST

Pushing our way through the insufferable overgrowth.

Pu’u Kaua

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

All smiles as we left the fence behind us.

WST

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

WST

Passing through the split rocks.

WST

Checking out my built-in ventilation.

WST

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

WST

Aileen climbing her way down the rock.

WST

Some went high …

WST

… others went low.

Pohakea Pass

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

WST

Contouring off the ridge line.

WST

Just here for the views and the photos.

WST

Sliding our way down through the narrow crack.

WST

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

Pohakea Pass Trail

Leaving the ridge line to head down into the valley.

Pohakea Pass Trail

Missed me by that much.

Pohakea Pass Trail

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

Pohakea Pass Trail

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

Pohakea Pass Trail

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

Pohakea Pass Trail

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

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

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

Organized another hike for another no-show. Well, the hike must go on. Mahalo to Mrs. Gill for allowing us to go up Palehua Road which shaved off a couple hours of our hiking time.

Palehua Road

Many thanks to Thomas for driving Art, Chris, Lilyn, Matt and myself up the road that is only 2.5 miles long but seemed twice as long.

Trailhead

Heading towards the towering communication towers that marks that start of the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Matt walking through the bamboo forest.

WST

The trail below the hill has been severely eroded, but luckily has been shored up by the workers.

WST

Matt going through the stacked boulders that I like to call the “Indiana Jones Tunnel.”

WST

Lilyn finally got to see the tree that is plastered all over social media.

WST

Art going down the trail to Kunia that has been lost to the overgrowth.

WST

Contouring our way below the hill towards the cloud soaked grove of pine trees.

WST

Trying to identify endemics in this native rich section of the mountains. No Happy Face Spiders. No help from IG.

WST

Matt going up the iconic set of stairs in Palehua amidst the native rain forest.

WST

The group looking at the junction that takes one down to Heleakala ridge.

Palikea

There’s photobombing and then there’s photobombing on a different level. Thanks Matt!

WST

Making our way through the heavily wooded and overgrown trail.

WST

The group swimming their way down through the sea of uluhe ferns.

WST

Looking out over Pearl Harbor and the surrounding central plains.

WST

The group crossing through an exposed area before plunging back into the tree line.

WST

Going down the steep fence lined hill.

WST

The group controlling their descent down the pine needle covered hill.

WST

Looking down at the roughly 80′ climb. Made easier with the Christmas tree of webbings strung from the top.

Pohakea Pass

Checking out the holds and the webbing integrity as I climbed my way down.

Pohakea Pass

When orders get contradicted on the cliff during the climb down, compounded by the blowing wind.

Pohakea Pass

Art making his way down.

Pohakea Pass

Climbing down the crack. The one between your butt.

Pohakea Pass

Ate you go last. When that didn’t work, Chris came down last.

Pohakea Pass

Group photo at the bottom of the cliff.

WST

Trying to locate the trail that descends down towards Kunia. Our efforts were successful which warrants another trip back to this area.

WST

Matt stemming and climbing his way up the crack in the cliff.

WST

Sitting on the scenic rock while getting photobombed again.

WST

We didn’t see any Happy Face Spiders in the wild, but we did run across a Happy Face Joker, just in time for Halloween.

WST

Climbing down one of many rock obstacles on the ridge.

WST

Matt contouring and climbing his way around the tricky rock.

WST

The group climbing their way up one of the last rock obstacles on the trail.

WST

Chris looking back at the pass.

WST

The group having a deep discussion on where the terminus of our hike is located.

WST

Matt climbing over the fence line. Easy peasy. Just like the border crossings.

WST

Art sampling the local water supply.

WST

Following the fence line to the summit.

Pu’u Kaua

The group reaching the ti leaf marked grassy area.

Pu’u Kaua

The wind had died down enough for Matt to fly his drone to catch our group photo at the third highest peak in the island.

Pu’u Kaua

A 360 view of the 3,127′ summit.

Kaua Trail

Art going down the steep section leading down from the top.

Kaua Trail

Sliding down the leaf carpeted hill with the trees acting as our brakes.

Kaua Trail

Cat’s meow. Or does somebody smell a rat? Is it Christmas yet?

Kaua Trail

Sitting like a bump on a log while somebody wanted to pass.

Kaua Trail

Class reunion. Everybody looked pretty good for their age.

All pau

We climbed out of the hill to jump into Matt’s truck and picked up our cars at the top of Makakilo Drive. Fun hike through the Waianae Mountain Range that also connected the dots for Chris’s #4 and my #9 finish for the WST.

Post hike meal at Julie’z in Kapolei. Family style eating that ended with with a bunch of public school graduates deciding how to split the check at the end.

Photos taken by Art Young, Chris Bautista, Lilyn Avendano, Matt Vidaurri, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

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

Kunia

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

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Trail

Lonely hearts rock.

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Trail

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

Kaua Summit

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

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Going down the front way. Where is everybody?

WST

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

WST

Lilyn following the fence line back to the ridge.

WST

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

WST

In the end, everybody used the fence.

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

Push and pull gets the job done.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn pulling herself up and over the boulder.

Gorilla Heads

Chris going down face first.

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

No acting was involved in the taking of this photo.

Gorilla Heads

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

Gorilla Heads

The group coming down the last Gorilla Head.

WST

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

WST

All that’s missing is the mistletoe.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Making our way through the pine needle carpeted forest.

WST

Somewhere in the mountains, it’s lunchtime.

WST

Somebody wanted to join us for lunch or be lunch.

WST

Quan lowering herself down the rocks before going back up.

WST

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

Pu’u Kanehoa

Come back so we can take a group photo!

Pu’u Kanehoa

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

WST

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

WST

Take my photo!

WST

Me too!

WST

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

WST

Sighting of the bearded moss hiker.

WST

Looking for the trail in all the wrong places.

WST

Dropping below the ridge line to contour around the boulders.

WST

Trying to climb to impossible heights.

WST

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

Pu’u Hapapa

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

Pu’u Hapapa

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

Pu’u Hapapa

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

Pu’u Hapapa

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

WST

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

WST

Chris standing on the slippery rock.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Approaching the first of two notches on the trail.

WST

Chris standing on top of the second notch.

WST

Tessa climbing her way down the wet and slippery rocks.

WST

Fighting against gravity. Pushing against gravity.

WST

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

WST

Hiking our way down the side of the cliff.

WST

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

WST

Double shaka, near sighted and far sighted.

WST

The girls peering into the cloudy abyss.

WST

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

WST

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

Kolekole Pass Rock

Quan wanted a bigger stick.

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Lilyn Avendano, Quan Haberstroh, Tessa Bugay and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

I spent Easter Sunday on the “forbidden mountain” with Andy, Enrique and Lilyn today.

KoleKole Pass

Walking down the shuttered road passing signs that warned of high winds and falling rocks. The signs did not lie at all.

KoleKole Pass

Leaving the twisting hairpins behind us as we traded the asphalt for basalt.

Ka’ilio

We were not going up the side ridge as somebody had relished in anticipation, but rather straight up.

Ka’ilio

The winds were so strong that it literally took our breath away, not to mention flapping hats in somebody’s face.

Ka’ilio

Pulling ourselves up one crumbly rock at a time.

Ka’ilio

Going through a small patch of stunted trees that provided temporary cover from the raging gusts.

Ka’ilio

Enrique going straight up the rock face.

Ka’ilio

Lilyn trying to give Alex Honnold a run for his money.

Ka’ilio

Andy taking the safer and saner route.

Ka’ilio

Pushing against the wind. Pushing against the crumbly rocks. Pushing to the summit.

Ka’ilio

Somebody was glad to be at the top.

Ka’ilio

Group photo at the 1,865′ summit with the largest coastal valley on the island in the background.

Ka’ilio

Catching a rainbow after rain showers drizzled the area. Luckily, they didn’t stick around long.

Ka’ilio

Happy Easter from the Dog Hill.

Ka’ilio

You take that way and I’ll take this way. Let’s see who gets down faster.

Ka’ilio

Controlling our descent as we climbed down, lest we roll and tumble like the rocks we dislodged.

Ka’ilio

Andy approaching the relatively flat spot on the mountain.

Ka’ilio

Why didn’t we take this way going up? Life needs challenges.

Ka’ilio

Dropping in elevation as the twisted road got closer.

Ka’ilio

The high winds and falling rocks continued unabated.

Ka’ilio

Somebody was really happy to be going back down.

Ka’ilio

Andy in the notch.

Ka’ilio

Scrambling back down to the road that was built back in 1937 by the Army Corps of Engineers.

KoleKole Pass

We all survived largely intact, minus my red cap which I involuntarily donated to the mountains.

All pau

100% ID Check in progress.

Our wind blasted introductory hike covered a scant 2.07 miles, with new and old faces. Post hike meal at Taps and Apps, a pub in Mililani that serves tasty food and alcohol of many kinds. The food and drinks were so good that it was passed around and luckily nobody got COVID.

Photos taken by Andy Pender, Enrique Chavez, Lilyn Avendano 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.