I picked up where I left off from last week to finish connecting the dots along with Chico, Scott and Susan who joined me today.

Makapu’u

Chico was running fashionably late or in local parlance, Hawaiian time.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Susan soaking in the Southeastern views of the island.

KSRT

Chico basking in the natural and artificial illumination sources that have been around over 4.603 billion and 116 years respectively.

KSRT

Shadows and hikers in the mountains.

KSRT

Chico and Susan climbing their way up the hill with background views of Manana (Rabbit) and Kaohikaipu (Black Rock) islands.

KSRT

Making our way along the edge of the cliffs.

KSRT

Standing on what I like to call Hawaii’s Stonehenge rocks.

KSRT

Got room for one more and one more only.

KSRT

Susan looking back at the hill we had just come down from.

Makapu’u Puka

Stopping at the natural puka (hole) in the mountains that frames the coastline for picturesque views.

Makapu’u Puka

Looking out.

Makapu’u Puka

Looking back.

Makapu’u Puka

Chico topside.

KSRT

Scrambling over the rocks as we climbed out of the saddle.

KSRT

Making our way over the uneven rocks stacked on the mountain.

KSRT

Sitting in a cave. K-I-S-S-I-N-G. Oh wait, wrong rhyme and missing Dave to make it work.

KSRT

Scott climbing up the stiff part. Somebody called it hazing. I believe she was referring to the atmospheric conditions which reduces sky clarity or apparently mental clarity in this case.

KSRT

Approaching the first hang gliding platform. It has seen better days.

KSRT

I believe I can fly. Get a hang glider first.

KSRT

Scrambling down to find a better vantage point.

KSRT

Not all hikers wear capes. It would probably help in this case.

KSRT

Group photo on the hang gliding platform that some folks have erroneously attached the name “Dead Man’s Catwalk” to it. The original slab of concrete that somebody had spray painted “Dead Man’s Catwalk” was jackhammered out of existence in 2016 to the tune of $48,000.

Kamehame Trail

Shouldn’t the arrow point the other way? We were going to go further to Kaimiloiki Summit but prior commitments dictated an earlier descent.

All pau

We ended our short stroll in the mountains to find out security has been installed at the bottom of the trail to keep out people for the time being. It was a knee jerk reaction by the area’s association after a trampoline video went viral last month. I know this impacts a lot of local residents in the area that walk this road for their morning or evening constitutionals. I drove to Waimanalo after our hike to pick up imo one of the tastiest laulaus from Ma LauLau, only open from 10-2 on Saturdays.

Photos taken by Chico Cantu, Scott Peterson, Susan Katz, 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 spent Girl’s Day wrapping up our perimeter walk around the island.

Hawaii Kai

Met up with the gang and parked near the only golf course on the eastern side of the island. We then walked to the starting point, some lawbreakers didn’t want to walk on the sidewalk. The crowd that I hang out with, hope it doesn’t rub off on me.

Sandy Beach

We caught the breaking sunrise at the birthplace of modern bodyboarding in the islands.

Kalaniana’ole Highway

Leaving the extinct tuff cone behind us, also commonly confused with Koko Head. Tomato. Tomatoe.

Ka’iwi Shoreline Trail

We decided to avoid being potential roadkill and elected to make our way on the trail that is part of 340 acres of State park that is supposed to be kept in its wild and natural state for perpetuity. No beach side luxury homes for the affordable market.

Ka’iwi Shoreline Trail

The group walking on the roughly one mile sandy trail that leads to Makapu’u.

Wawamalu Bridge

Akira figuring out anyway to stay high, whether its elevated or medicinal. The bridge is named after the area that means shady valley in Hawaiian.

Ka’iwi Shoreline Trail

Approaching the lava rock formation known as Kapaliokamoa or Cliff of the Chicken. However, most people know it as Pele’s Chair.

Ka’iwi Shoreline Trail

The group nearing Ka’ili’ili Bay also commonly known as Alan Davis Beach after the man that founded Wawamalu Ranch in 1922. We could also see a solitary hiker perched on top of Pele’s Chair. Monkey see, monkey do.

Pele’s Chair

Climbing up to the vantage point where the other islands of Molokai, Maui and Lanai can be seen on a clear day.

Pele’s Chair

A man’s got to know his limitations.

Pele’s Chair

Does it look more like a chicken than a chair?

Pele’s Chair

It was getting crowded at the top as Agnes was the last to join us.

Pele’s Chair

Group photo at the top.

Pele’s Chair

What goes up, must come back down, with a little help from her friends.

Ka’iwi Shoreline Trail

Leaving the last seating of the volcanic goddess as we climbed our way up.

Ka’iwi Shoreline Trail

Some in the group straggling behind to catch the splendid views from the rugged coastline.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Joining the roughly one mile paved road filled with two legged and four legged hikers.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Somebody needs to get with the program.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Standing tall before falling down. Luckily, a dog was there to save Chico from himself.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Group photo at the lookout before some of us decided to touch the lighthouse up close and personal.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Some stayed and some dribbled down the cliff.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Going down the express way.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Agnes hopping off the rock.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Approaching the lighthouse that was built in 1909.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

What happened to the railings?

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie!

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

Can you see the hiker for the tree?

Makapu’u Lighthouse

Group photo at the southeasternmost point of Oahu.

Makapu’u Cliffs

When you got to go, you got to go.

Makapu’u Cliffs

Passing the WW2 pillboxes on our way down to the lookout.

Makapu’u Cliffs

We went looking for whales but caught rainbows instead.

Makapu’u Cliffs

Karen showing us her climbing chops.

Makapu’u Cliffs

While some of us practiced our climbing down below, the rest took panoramic pictures topside.

Makapu’u Cliffs

Rainbow breath, better than bad breath.

Makapu’u Cliffs

Karen peering out from one of the well camouflaged pillboxes.

Makapu’u Lookout

Contributing to the collection of ahu (pile of stones) scattered throughout the area that was put up by passing parties as evidence that they had been here at the spot named after a Tahitian god that had eight bright eyes.

Kalaniana’ole Highway

Walking on the narrow shoulder as we shared the common artery with bicyclists and motorists.

Sea Life Park

Dale standing near the entrance to the aquatic park that first opened in 1964.

Makapu’u Beach Park

We took a bathroom break and took in the nearby views of Manana (Rabbit) and Kaohikaipu Islands, both seabird sanctuaries.

Kalaniana’ole Highway

Back on the road again.

Kalaniana’ole Highway

Edgar pointed out the volcanic rock (pohaku) protruding out of the water is one of many heiaus (temples) around the island.

Makai Pier

Drone view of the pier built in the 1960s.

Makai Pier

I left the close quarter flying to the chopper pilot.

Kalaniana’ole Highway

Back on the highway with views of the divided hill that are an erosional remnant from the Ko’olau Volcano.

Kalaniana’ole Highway

Hello? We are political canvassing for the Republican Party. Can we come in and have a word? Hello?

Kalaniana’ole Highway

Akira smoking the cigarette from the pack of Crowns that Tessa had found on the side of the road. Can’t beat the real thing. High high.

Waimanalo Beach Park

Congratulations to Mari for completing the final segment of the perimeter walk around the entire island of Oahu.

All pau

Group photo at the end point. Much appreciation and thanks to all the friends that kept us company on the 14 walks and providing the logistical support for the drop offs and pick ups.

GPS Tracks

Our last perimeter walk covered roughly 6.35 miles that completed the 140 miles around the island. Post hike meal at Kalapawai Market where indoor seating was secured and a mix and match of deli food, 7-11 food and sidewalk food was enjoyed by the group.

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our final walk.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQzc6g0aRGw

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Akira Suzuki, Allison Banks, Chico Cantu, Dale Yoshizu, Edgar Gamaio, Ferlino Carinio, Jasmin Nepomuceno, Karen Bischoff, Mari Saito, Marilyn Bermudez, Monaliza Guillermo, 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.

The (wo)men who hike with goats is a 2022 aburdly funny hike starring Camper, Enrique, Jason, Katricia, Marilyn, Tessa, Winner and myself with cameo appearances by Anna and Casey. Photo by Jason.

Makapuu Lookout

Mahalo to Chris for shuttling Enrique, Jason, Marilyn and myself from Kuli’ou’ou to Makapu’u to begin our early morning hike.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Once we reached the top of the ridge line, Enrique began the process of transferring alcoholic liquids from the exterior into the interior.

KSRT

The three of us standing on what I like to call Hawaii’s Stonehenge rocks. Sometimes it’s not worth it for the photo opportunity. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Makapuu Puka

Outside Looking In Group Photo.

KSRT

Enrique passing by the ladybug tree.

Makai Pier

Marilyn pushing herself up the rocky hill. Photo by Jason.

KSRT

Tessa keeping a couple of goats named Camper and Winner company until we joined her at the hang gliding platform.

KSRT

Establishing dominance or playing around? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Our group numbers increased by three as we resumed our hike on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains. Photo by Jason.

KSRT

Passing through the communications tower site and the nearby former Dead Man’s Catwalk. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Hanging out with the guys. Horns not included. Photo by Marilyn Bermudez.

KSRT

Dropping down into the saddle. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kamiloiki Summit

Summit views with the blue-green waters of Waimanalo Bay behind us.

KSRT

We left the shaded corridor of ironwood pine trees for the exposed stretch of rocky terrain.

KSRT

The goats testing their sure-footedness on the exposed rocky trail.

KSRT

Picked up a software engineer from a little known company that over a billion people use as she joined our expanding group.

Tom-Tom Summit

We met Casey and his apprentice, Anna who had originally been seeking to ascend Kaupo #2 but somehow wound up coming up Tom-Tom instead. Somebody’s blog was of no use.

KSRT

Contouring our way around the dorsal shaped rock. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

We don’t need no stinking printer cable where we are going. Besides, our cloven hooves are not equipped with opposable thumbs.

KSRT

Nobody gets between us and daddy.

KSRT

Let’s try and keep up with us goats shall we?

Kaluanui Summit

Feeding time at the petting zoo. Photo by Marilyn Bermudez.

Mariners Ridge Summit

Group photo at the summit that KSBE would like you to forget that it exists as the trail to it is no longer open to the public.

Kaluanui Summit

We do this for a hobby, they do it for a living.

KSRT

Resuming our hike after our lunch break at the top.

KSRT

The point of return? Not if a boy from Chicago had any say in it.

Hahaione Pyramid

Enrique pointing out the geological structure that predates the more famous Middle Eastern ones by several million years.

KSRT

Waiting for a couple hikers that apparently liked to repeat their navigational mistakes.

KSRT

The scenic spot that can lead one astray. For some, its all the time.

KSRT

Going up the hill populated with HECO powerline poles and a resting hiker. Props to Katricia for sticking with us and finishing the hike.

KSRT

I have no more nuts! My hands are empty! We know you have more up your sleeve. Having a one sided anthropomorphic conversation. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

The goats following Enrique like dogs. I was amazed that they followed us on our entire journey from Makapu’u to Kuli’ou’ou.

Kuliouou Summit

Camper trying to get one last bite before heading down the trail with two strangers. So fickle. I’ll stick with dogs. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kuliouou Summit

Group photo at the 2,028′ eroded hill left to right: Enrique, Jason, Tessa, Marilyn, myself and Katricia.

Kuliouou Summit

Hello? Your goats are available to be picked up at Kuli’ou’ou. Yes, I said Kuli’ou’ou and not Makapu’u. Photo by Marilyn Bermudez.

Kuliouou Trail

Going down the ungraded ridge where the goats put a lot of smiles on every two legged and four legged hikers they met on their way down.

Kuliouou Trail

The goats decided that the mountains was more their domain than the suburbs of East Honolulu and turned around and left us. Crocodile tears.

All pau

Anybody seen my kids?

GPS Tracks

Our wildlife hike covered roughly a little shy of eight miles with great company, human and non-human. Post hike meal criteria was that alcohol must be flowing freely. A nearby supermarket and a pizza place fit the bill.

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 did an abbreviated tour of the Ko’olau Mountains this weekend. Thank you Mother Nature.

Trail

Mahalo to Ferlino for dropping us off at the bulging eye to start our hike.

Sunrise

Looking back at the sun breaking over the horizon.

Christmas

The holiday spirit has worn out its welcome in the mountains.

Hang Ten

No hang gliding today. Photo by Chris Bautista.

LTE

Brushing past the fenced communications tower, failed to notice if we had five bars.

Saddle

Dropping down into the saddle, we noticed that the rope grinches absconded with the webbing that used to drape down the hill.

Rainbow

Looking out at the optical illusion arcing over Olomana.

Kamiloiki Summit

Stopping briefly in the shade and shadows of the pine trees.

Tom-Tom

Leaving the forested ridge line as we broke out into the open trail that was thankfully still being chilled by the trade winds.

Trail

Making our way over the crumbly and rocky section of the ridge line.

Trail

Back in the forest. Little too chilly now.

Mariner’s Summit

Lunch spot at the summit that KS/BE would like the public to forget.

Misty Mountains

Watching the clouds slowly swirl and drift over the Ko’olau Mountains.

Hahaione Pyramid

Pushing onto the triangular rock that becomes more defined depending on your point of view.

Picture Frame

Worth a thousand words?

Trail

Making our way to the strangely silent eroded hill.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Patience has its virtue. We were rewarded with a couple hikers that eventually joined us at the top and were kind enough to take our picture.

Pu’u O Kona

Leaving the 2,200′ flat topped summit empty handed. No stellar Windward views today.

Trail

Making our way to the wet and windy 2,520′ knob of Hawaii Loa. Continuing the pattern of no views.

Wiliwilinui Summit

We spotted a solitary figure bearing gifts.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Four is company. Thanks to Ani and Cisco for bringing us food and water to our windy spot for the night.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Catching the breaking sunrise the next morning. Was this going to be a positive omen for our hike? Fat chance.

Trail

Making our way down the roped trail towards the power lines that straddle the valleys.

Big Hill

Dropping down the steep hill from the summit of Pu’u Kainawa’aunui.

Trail

Rutting our way on the trail. Eat your heart out MMR!

Ka’au Crater

Approaching the twin power lines that mark one of three tuff cones on the island.

Ka’au Crater

Enjoying the tasty pork jerky on the trail at one of the few views we got on the hike.

Mount Olympus

Climbing up to the denuded summit of Awaawaloa. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Thirsty?

The only question we had was it to slake the thirst of a hungry human or a machine?

Trail

Cloudy views from the contour trail before we rejoined the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manoa Middle Summit

We both prayed for the sun to come out and play. Nobody was listening.

Trail

Hitting the hills.

Trail

The last push up to K2, where we were greeted with more rain. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Konahuanui Summit

Decisions. Decisions. Decisions. Weather patterns and bad feelings overrode the original plan to descend down to the Pali Lookout.

Piliwale

Making our way down the relatively easier Windward ridge.

Piliwale

Hiking into the void.

Piliwale

Webbing in all the wrong places. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Notch

Dropping down to the incision in the ridge line that marked the end of the steep descent.

Notch

Chris looking back at our slippery slide down.

Maunawili Trail

We made it down the whole ridge without seeing any of those infamous bees, guess it was too wet and windy for them. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trail

Popping out of the trail before passing the power lines on our way out.

All pau

The end of the road for us as Chris changed into his dry clothes and I remained in my wet clothes, for lack of dry clothes. Mahalo to Lopaka for picking us up and giving me a ride in the bed of his truck, while Chris got to ride in the cab due to his slightly less offensive odors.

GPS Tracks

Our 13.5 mile hike in wintry (for Hawaii) conditions ended prematurely, but grateful for the good company. Post hike meal at Ferlino’s house where we enjoyed multiple servings of Anne’s ono oxtail soup. Thanks to Jasmin and Mia for rounding out the eating crew. Pile on that extra cilantro and green onions!

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

Back to the mountains for another camping weekend. Met up with Ethan, Shirley and Yoly in Upper Manoa.

Trailhead

Ethan providing curbside assistance in the form of packing. No shoelace tying offered.

Trailhead

Let’s keep the noise down for the neighbors. Stay on the trail and watch out for blood thirsty mosquitoes. Let’s hike.

Kolowalu Trail

Shirley straddling one of many fallen trees on the trail.

Kolowalu Trail

Looking back at the view of Manoa Valley.

Kolowalu Trail

Going up the short, steep and heavily rooted trail.

Waahila Trail

Just asking. Are they ever going to maintain the trail beyond the sign?

Waahila Trail

Shirley going through the knee high uluhe ferns. Hiking wouldn’t be the same without them. Strange as that may sound.

Waahila Trail

Pushing up the last section of the steep and rutted trail. Glad it wasn’t raining today. Otherwise, it would have been mud city.

Awaawaloa Summit

Group photo at the 2,486′ summit with Ka’au Crater behind us, left to right: myself, Yoly, Ethan and Shirley.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

We briefly chatted with some other hikers and left the summit to drop down onto the trail.

KSRT

Looking back at the summit more commonly known as Mount Olympus.

KSRT

Making our way towards the power lines that tower over one of three tuff cones on the island.

Ka’au Crater

We ran across some European hikers and failed to take a single picture of the crater. I think this spot is the last we saw of Yoly’s Hana Pa’a hat.

Kainawa’au Summit

Yoly making her way up to the summit where the Mau’umae ridge trail terminates.

KSRT

Shirley headed towards the peak of True Lanipo.

KSRT

Coming down to a stunning valley view of town. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

True Lanipo Summit

I have a dream. A pipe dream? Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Headed down to the HECO poles that bridge the power divide between Leeward and Windward.

KSRT

Shirley and Yoly vying to be the next HECO pole replacements.

KSRT

Enjoying the relatively wide open roped trail while it lasts, courtesy of HECO.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Group photo at the 2,480′ congested summit, left to right: Yoly, Shirley, myself and Ethan.

KSRT

We left the teeming summit to resume our hike.

KSRT

Two way traffic on the trail. Who yields first?

Hawaii Loa Summit

The minimalist hiker, who eschews fancy hiking shoes and gear, has come home to roost. I don’t need your offers of water or food, but thank you. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Panoramic view from the 2,520′ summit.

KSRT

Back on the trail.

Kulepeamoa Summit

Can you see the palm tree from 2,480’? Photo by Shirley.

Pu’u o Kona Summit

Ethan took his leave of us, as he had a house to watch and left us in a cloud of uluhe ferns and dust.

KSRT

Shirley dropping down from the summit.

KSRT

Yoly passing over an eroded section of the trail.

KSRT

Headed towards our camp site. Or so we thought.

KSRT

This is not going to work after all. So much for the IG photo shoot. Plan B. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Leaving behind compacted dirt and crushed dreams.

KSRT

Shirley on the exposed and eroded section of the trail.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Yoly decided that her dwindling water supply necessitated a return down the trail with promises of returning the next day with breakfast service or something close to it. We set up our tents and got ready for cooking when a loud scream cut through the air and a bare footed Shirley ran after her rolling water bottle down the cliff. Something to have experienced in person.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Tucked away in our tents for the windy night. Chris had summited with Ted earlier in the evening to join us at the camp site. Ted shot a couple sunset photos and trotted down the Kuli’ou’ou Trail to go back home. Photo by Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Our first visitor at the summit to greet the sunrise with us.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Squatters in the tent. Oh, it’s Yoly! Photo by Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Sunrise group photo at the windy 2,028′ summit, left to right: Chris, myself, Yoly and Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Chris jumping for joy. Photo by Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Guess who brought us carbonated beverages for breakfast?

KSRT

The summit began to slowly fill with hikers as we left the summit.

KSRT

Looking back as we saw more hikers joining the swelling crowd at the top.

Hahaione Junction

Group photo of a semi-dressed, over dressed and dressed hikers.

KSRT

Shirley trudging up through a carpet of pine needles.

KSRT

Yoly at a scenic point.

KSRT

Winding our way through the heavily forested section of the trail.

KSRT

We broke out of the forest to the exposed section of the trail affording scenic views of the East Valleys.

KSRT

Making our way to Mariner’s Ridge Summit.

Kaluanui Summit

Looking up towards the sunny top.

Kaluanui Summit

The group making their way up the rocky cliff to the abandoned summit.

Kaluanui Summit

Can you see us? Chris and Yoly hiked up to the knob.

Kaluanui Summit

Can you see us? We stayed back at the summit. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Kaluanui Summit

Shirley showing how to climb and pose at the same time.

Kaluanui Summit

Group photo at the top of Mariner’s Windward Ridge.

KSRT

Looking out towards Waimanalo with her white sand beaches and inviting blue green water.

KSRT

Hike like a snake.

KSRT

Breaking free of the overgrowth to the open rocky ridge line.

KSRT

Looking out towards Koko Crater.

KSRT

We are hiking through another dimension, a dimension not only of pose offs…

KSRT

…but one captured through composition and lighting.

KSRT

We are hiking into a land where time stands still. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

You unlock this door with the key of the perfect photo. Fail and you are stuck in photographic purgatory. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

You’re moving into a land of colors, shapes and lines. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

A journey into a wondrous land whose boundaries are that of angle and perspective. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

You’ve just crossed over into the Photo Shoot Zone.

Bells Tower

Climbing up the rock formation also known as Rito’s Tower.

KSRT

Looking out at Keahupuamaunalua Pond that once sprawled over 500 acres but has since been shrunk by urban constriction and development.

Tom Tom Ridge

The Windward ridge that will take you to the bottom of Waimanalo.

KSRT

Whack-a-hiker. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Shirley looking down into the deep gorge.

KSRT

Cliff notes on rock climbing.

KSRT

Time to leave all this fun behind us as we had places to go. Other photo shoots were waiting on the trail.

KSRT

Shirley sitting on a tree … Wait, we are missing someone ….

KSRT

… Let’s go back to hiking.

Kamiloiki Summit

Group photo minus one at the 1,245′ summit. Dropping elevation as we made our way down the ridge line.

KSRT

Panoramic view of the Ko’olau Range and the Waimanalo basin.

KSRT

Approaching the communications tower.

KSRT

Humping the middle of the saddle.

KSRT

Coming up from the saddle. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Yoly sitting on a rock.

KSRT

Shirley sitting on a different rock.

KSRT

Yoly scrambling her way to the top.

KSRT

Just missing the bars, I mean doors. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Dead Man’s Catwalk

I guess it worked. Tear it down and they will stop coming. Haiku stairs – watch out.

KSRT

A plastic lawn chair with a million dollar view.

KSRT

Enjoying the sweeping views of Manana and Kaohikaipu Islands, Makai Pier, Sea Life Park and Makapu’u Lighthouse as we continued our way down.

KSRT

Making our way down to the puka.

KSRT

Looking straight down the backside of Kohelepelepe.

Makapu’u Puka

Warming up for another photo shoot … Photo by Shirley.

Makapu’u Puka

… because you can’t just take one photo at the puka.

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Hiker see … Photo by Shirley.

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… hiker do.

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Shaka in the puka. Photo by Shirley.

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We were blessed with trade winds and overcast conditions which helped immensely as there was no shade on this section of the trail.

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Sun beams splashing across the landscape and washing over the group. Magical and mystical. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

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Making our way down to the lookout.

Kalanianaole Highway

Why did the hiker cross the road? To join the other hikers. Photo by Shirley.

All pau

Going to the lighthouse? Not today. Mahalo to Jasmin for picking us up at the lookout. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend hike covered 14.3 miles that was blessed with beautiful weather, fun times and great company. Post hike meal at Kona Brewery Company, because somebody wanted to quaff a beer labeled in the islands but brewed in California.

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.

Chris, Jose, Justin and myself picked up from where we left off from last week. We all met up in the back of Wailupe Valley. Somebody was running late and somebody was never in the running.

Trailhead

Our group took the valley shortcut as we didn’t want to wait until 8am when the Wiliwilinui Trail opens to the public.

Cardio hill

We soon left the valley floor to head up the spur ridge.

Cardiac hill

Huffing and puffing all the way to the top.

Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

It was nice to be on the relatively flat jeep road. A mountain bike would have been even nicer.

Sunrise

The sun being filtered by the ridges and trees.

Wiliwilinui Stairs and Swing

We left the jeep road behind to start the actual trail.

Relay station

Chris about to pass the tower on his way to the summit. The socked in summit.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Group photo by Justin Hirako, left to right: myself, Justin, King Kamehameha, Chris and Jose.

Sweat

Anybody thirsty? Steripen?

Leaving the summit

Do we follow the arrow or the words?

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Hiking in the clouds. Always a surreal experience.

Wailupe Summit

The green wooden sign marking the summit was gone. Hopefully not scavenged by some souvenir seeking hiker. Group photo by Justin Hirako with the replacement fluttering prayer flags. Ring the bell.

Ohia Lehua

An uncommon sighting of a dew dropped salmon lehua flower.

Flora

Toxic red flower buds of the hydrangea on the trail.

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Hiking on the edge.

Hawaii Loa Summit

The clouds finally cleared when we reached the 2,520′ summit, affording us clear views of Waimanalo and beyond. Photo by Justin Hirako.

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Justin setting foot on the now clear Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail.

Kulepeamoa Summit

Chris at the top of the “flapping chicken.”

Kulepeamoa Windward

Can you spot the palm tree?

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Justin pushing through as the trail became a tad more overgrown on our way to Puu O Kona.

Puu O Kona Summit

Group photos at the 2,200′ summit by Justin Hirako.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

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Justin leaving the summit behind as we made our way to Kuli’ou’ou.

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Approaching the eroded section of the trail. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Camping spot

The winds were not blowing hard in the mountains today, otherwise this picture would have been lost with the GoPro. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Bear Claw Junction

Right or left?

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We passed several hikers on their way to Puu O Kona.

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Jose and Chris sliding their way down to the summit of Kuli’ou’ou.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

A spot less crowded. Photo by Justin Hirako

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Halfway there. Photo by Justin Hirako.

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Justin looking back at the crowded summit.

Hahaione Junction

We passed the junction that would take one down the ridge of discarded furniture and paintballers valley.

Detour

Looking out at Koko Crater and Koko Head.

Pyramid

We decided not to visit the top and contoured the trail around the pyramid.

Mariner’s Ridge

The trail to the summit was closed by Kamehameha Schools back in 2013. The only way to visit the summit now is through HTMC, Sierra Club or do cross over hikes from other summits on the KSRT.

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Justin making his way to the top.

Mariner’s Summit

The once bustling summit was eerily empty except for two hikers passing by on their way to Kuli’ouo’ou. Photo by Justin Hirako.

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Justin plunging into the pine trees as we left the summit.

Kamilo Iki Valley

Looking into the last valley on East Oahu not touched by development. That may soon change as increased rents may push the existing farmers out, paving the way for developers to get their shovels into the ground. Photo by Justin Hirako.

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The trail became less green and more rocky as we made our way to the Tom-Tom trail.

Bells Tower

We passed the rock structure also known as Dorito’s Tower, named after the hiker that was first documented to have climbed it. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Tom Tom Trail

Looking at the spur ridge that descends deep down into Waimanalo country.

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We left the Tom-Tom trail to continue on the roller coasting ridge.

Caveman Proving Grounds

When do we get our certificates? Photo by Justin Hirako.

Kamiloiki Summit

Just passing by. No time for breaks.

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Going down into the saddle. Photo by Justin Hirako

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Looking back into Waimanalo. Photo by Justin Hirako.

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Approaching the old Nike-Hercules missile site and communication towers. Photo by Justin Hirako.

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We were about to crash the IG party.

The Dead Mans Cat Walk

Soon to be destroyed by its own fame. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Hang Gliders Platform #1

Have wind, will fly.

Hang Gliders Platform #2

Looking down at the bird sanctuary islands and the UH Makai Pier.

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Making our way down the rocky ridge to the puka.

Makapuu Puka

Hey, we’re missing somebody! Photo by Justin Hirako.

Mini Makapuu Puka

Justin found another smaller puka on our way up the ridge. Photo by Justin Hirako

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Almost there.

Makapuu Lookout

Why did the hikers cross the road? To visit the lighthouse. Not today.

All pau

We still had to walk a good stretch of the road to get back to Justin’s truck that we had staged earlier in the day. Photo by Justin Hirako.

GPS Tracks

Our trek to the end of the Southern Ko’olaus covered 11.08 miles. Post hike meal at Outback. Being mistaken for homeless resulted in appetizers on the house.

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. Mahalo.

I had met John on the Poamoho trail and he had asked me to take him and some friends on an intermediate hike one day. Today was the day. 

Leaving our truck behind

Joining me on this repeat hike, was John, Lyle, Maiko and Naoko. Lyle was the designated driver today and he picked me up from the top of Kaluanui Road and shuttled all of us to the Makapu’u Lookout.

Sunrise

We scrambled up the mountain in time to catch a twin sunrise – the sun and the Makapu’u Lighthouse.

Coming up to the powerlines

The group making their way up to the powerlines.

Ready for some rock climbing?

We have to climb on those rocks?

Isn’t this fun?

It’s amazing what some people with a fear of heights will do. Photo by Naoko Takaso.

There’s room up here!

Actually there wasn’t that much room. Photo by John Garrity.

Makapu’u Puka

We met three other hikers at the puka, they had hiked up from the lookout earlier than us. This was their return point. This was just our photo opportunity stop. Photo by Naoko Takaso.

Puka Junior

Passing another puka in the making.

Hiking to the moon

Small kine grinder. Only 238,900 miles.

All I need is a paraglider

Hanging out at the paraglider platform. Photo by John Garrity.

Looking out towards the ocean

A nice view of Manana (Rabbit) and Kaohikaipu Islands. Both are designated seabird sanctuaries. Jutting out from the coastline is the University of Hawaii’s Makai Research Pier.

Paragliding platform

Group photo left to right: myself, Maiko, Naoko, John and Lyle.

Hang gliding platform

Another group photo.

Kamiloiki Valley

Looking into Kamiloiki Valley, with Koko Crater and Koko Head in the background. The gate to access the “Hidden Stairway” is now padlocked.

Signal should be strong up here

Don’t be standing in front of those microwave dishes, unless you like it medium rare.

The Dead Mans Cat Walk

This spot has seen heavy traffic recently, as evidenced by the large amounts of graffiti that hikers have left behind. Heck, there were even two lawn chairs there! Leave it as you find it. Otherwise, access may be denied or severely restricted in the future. Look at Haiku Stairs.

Leaving Kamehame ridge

The group leaving the communications facility behind as they make their way down.

The rope is your friend

“Isn’t there another way down?”

Coming down the ridge

When you are hiking these ridges, most people never realize actually how close to the edge they are. This photo puts it in perspective.

Stopping and smelling the roses?

Checking out these tiny colorful flowers as I waited for the group.

Lunch spot

Taking our lunch under the shade of the pine trees and cooled by the trade winds.

Picture taking time

Everybody taking pictures at the same time. Who can blame them? It was a beautiful day on the Koolau’s.

Kamiloiki Summit

We ran into two hikers at Kamiloiki Summit who snapped our group picture. Mahalo!

Going to the Tom-Tom trail

Making our way to the Tom-Tom trail and a little something extra for me – Bell Tower, which is the rock formation in the middle of the photo.

Red Baron?

I noticed this vintage plane buzzing around the Koolau’s. The plane resembles a Bellanca CH-300 Pacemaker, Hawaiian Airlines first aircraft to fly in the islands.

Watch out for the canyon

The group making their way up to the Tom-Tom trail.

Tom-Tom trail

The Tom-Tom trail. We were not descending back down into Waimanalo today.

Bell tower

The last time we were on this trail, some in the group talked about tackling Bell Tower. Marcus said a hiker named doRito made the first documented climb. So it’s also known as doRito Tower.

Face to rock

John had agreed to accompany me down the crumbly spur ridge to the tower to act as my spotter. I found a brand spanking new piton and stake lying at the base of the tower. Perhaps somebody was planning on top roping the tower to make it easier for others to climb?

Climbing up the tower

The tower looked somewhat intimidating seeing it up close and personal. It didn’t help that John advised me not to make the climb. After checking it out from ground level and it seemed within my meager climbing ability, I started my way up. It was just a matter of finding the right handholds and footholds. I had a small “diaper change” moment when one of the rocks I was holding onto with my right hand came off the tower and plunged into the valley. John prudently stepped back after that. Photos by John Garrity and Maiko Nakagawara.

Top of the tower

Working from left to right up the tower, I was soon at the top. What a feeling! Now the hard part, making my back down. Photos by John Garrity and Maiko Nakagawara.

Carpet of ferns

After the fun was over, we got back on the trail to Mariner’s Ridge.

Almost to the top

Looking back at the Koolau Mountains. Another beautiful day in paradise.

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

Taking a last group photo at the 1,640′ summit of Mariner’s Ridge. We didn’t spend much time at the top, as the girls had a happy hour event waiting for them, so we took the trail back down to my car.

GPS Tracks

The 6.4 mile hike was a fun filled day with new hiking buddies and with a twist (Bell Tower) thrown in for good measure.

Rain canceled our Saturday Pali Notches to Piliwale Ridge hike, so I tagged along with Chris and Kaimi for a Sunday hike from Makapu’u to Kamiloiki Ridge. Chris picked me up from Waioli Street and we met Kaimi at the Makapu’u lookout. Even security was there in the wee hours of the morning, in the form of Honolulu’s finest. Assured that our cars were safe as long as the donuts and coffee didn’t run out, we crossed Kalanianaole Highway around 6:14am to start our hike. 

Early Goats

We made our way up the rocky ridge following the chain link fence with danger signs plastered over them. As soon as we crested the top of the ridge, we noticed a herd of goats below us. After noticing our presence, they scampered away on their sure-footed hooves towards Sea Life Park. Now that’s what you call extreme hikers. 

Koko Crater

As we made our way along the ridgeline, views of Koko Crater and Kalama Valley opened up. 

Makapu'u Puka

The ridge soon robbed us of the elevation we had just gained, as we climbed down and took a brief break at the Puka. 

Makai Pier, Manana and Kaohikaipu Islands

We started climbing again as we made our way to Kamehame Ridge where a bird’s eye view of the Makai Pier, Rabbit and Turtle Islands greeted us. The sun also started coming out from the clouds, turning my face a bright beet red, despite the sunscreen that I had sprayed on earlier. In my opinion, this stretch of the Koolau’s is one of the hottest, rivaling those on the Waianae side.

Hang Glider Platform

No actual libation was involved in the making of this photograph at the second hang glider platform. 

Kamiloiki Stairs

We came down the steps from the second hang glider platform and made a right on the paved road which would lead us to the abandoned Nike Missile Station. Right before the locked gates, is a unlocked side gate that we went through to check out the Kamiloiki “Hidden” Stairs which like the Haiku Hidden Stairs only goes down partially towards Kamiloiki Valley.

Communication Tower

In an apparent oversight, some of the communication towers at the old Nike Missile Site are gated while others aren’t. Even the ones that are gated, can be easily circumvented as Chris ably demonstrates. 

Dead Man's Cat Walk

I have the runway, now all I need is a parachute.

Hang Glider

After waiting almost an hour at the Dead Man’s Cat Walk, one of the hang gliders took off from the second platform and put on quite an aerial show with his spins and turns. 

Waimanalo

Going down the saddle and climbing out of it, we made our way up to the grove of ironwood trees on the other side that would serve as our lunch spot.

Paragliders

As we munched on our bananas, granola bars and M&Ms; as that’s all the lunch wagon had left, a trio of paragliders circled lazily overhead. 

Panoramic view of Hawaii Kai and Waimanalo

 Click here to see the larger image.

Kamiloiki Ridge

We soon came to the summit of Kamiloiki Ridge and made our way down the ridge and came across a still smoldering campfire on the trail. Smokey says, “Only you can prevent forest fires.”

Pahua Heiau

The heat was bouncing off the clouds and rocks as we finally made our way down to the end of the trail which is marked by the Pahua Heiau. After we got into my car, we made a run for the border – Soft Taco’s and XL drinks with no ice.

This was our first hike towards completing the entire Koolau Summit from Makapu’u to Pupukea. Of course we plan on breaking it up into manageable chunks, not everybody can be Chase Norton. Mad props to that guy for hiking the entire Koolau Summit in eight days. I parked my car at the top of Kaluanui Road where the hike would end and my friend picked me up and we all met at the Makapu’u Lookout to start our hike. This was our first hike as a group that one of us called the Four Horsemen which included Glenn, Chance, Jason and myself.

Makapu'u

We made our way up the ridge following the chain link fence that had danger signs plastered over them. Looking back, we saw Makapu’u Point which means “Bulging Eye” in Hawaiian, sandwhiched in between the Makapu’u Lighthouse on the left and Pele’s Chair on the right, a natural rock formation that in Hawaiian legend, was the last place Madam Pele left on Oahu before settling on the Big Island. Speaking of fire, this part of the trail has zero shade, so it’s best to lather on the sunscreen or be prepared to be seared lobster red.

Sea Life Park

Further up the ridge, we were treated to views of Sea Life Park and the islands of Manana (Rabbit Island) and Kaohikaipu (Turtle Island). The sounds of barking seals from Sea Life Park punctuated the morning silence as we made our way up the ridge.

Early Goats

We followed the rocky ridgeline as we passed numerous interesting rock formations, some of which looked like jagged teeth protruding from the ground. We also noticed a herd of goats that were keeping an eye on us from the next hill over.

Rock climbing the Makapu'u Puka - Not

We also started dropping altitude as the ridgeline gradually dipped towards the Makapu’u Puka. Hawaiian legend has it that a warrior named Kaulanaakaiole threw either a spear or shot an arrow at a rat that created this hole or puka.

Three monkeys on a platform

After passing the puka, the ridgeline started to climb again as we gained elevation and reached the top. We passed some old Army barracks atop Kamehame Ridge that is now home to a teen program called Winner’s Camp. We then passed a rickety looking platform used by hang gliders and then came across another one where we clowned for the camera. 

Robin's Nest

The trail turned left from the second hang glider platform and we followed the stairs down and hung a right onto a paved road that led to the old Nike Missile Site, which was last used in the mid-60’s. Eventually a locked gate blocked us from continuing further up the road, but a hole in the fence on the left side allowed us to continue. From one of the abandoned towers that we climbed, we peered directly down into the Anderson Estate, which became famous for being used as “Robin’s Nest” in the popular 80’s TV show, Magnum PI.

Down in the saddle

After poking around the old Nike Missile Site, we picked up the somewhat indistinct trail masked in heavy bushes behind the last building and eventually went down a saddle that dropped several hundred feet in elevation. We then climbed out of the saddle up towards a clump of ironwood trees that provided much needed shade to have our lunch and enjoyed the views of Waimanalo.

Kamiloiki Ridge

We stopped briefly at Kamiloiki Ridge to see Mount Olomana and tried to locate Bumpy Kanahele’s 45 acre sanctuary, otherwise known as Pu’uhonua o Waimanalo.

Headed down the ridge towards the Tom-Tom trail

It is very easy to miss the right turn, ribboned branches and all, that will keep you on the Koolau Summit Trail and headed towards Mariner’s Ridge. We found this out as we continued to walk straight on the trail from Kamiloiki Ridge, luckily we figured it out pretty early and backtracked to the right turn. The trail rollercoasters until you reach the top of a hill where there are three poles, this marks the spot where the Tom-Tom trail descends down into Waimanalo.

Mariner's Ridge

As we pushed on past the Tom-Tom trail, the ridge went down and up a couple more times until we reached the top of Mariner’s Ridge. After that, it was a short and sweet stroll back down the trail towards our car on Kaluanui Road and next stop – Zippys.

This was my third time hiking Koko Crater. The first time I walked up and down the tram tracks. The second time we had hiked up the side of Koko Crater and walked down the tram tracks. This time, the plan was to climb up the side of Koko Crater and go down the rim and end up in Koko Crater Botanical Gardens.

Fishing Shrine

We staged one car at the Koko Crater Botanical Gardens which is right off Kealahou Street by the Queen’s Gate neighborhood in Hawaii Kai and drove to the parking lot for the Halona Blowhole to start our hike. The trailhead is roughly across the Japanese fishing shrine that is now maintained by Vietnamese Buddhists. There are no colored ribbons to mark the way, but the trail itself is well traveled and hard to miss.

Going up the crater side

We started off on the relatively flat and rocky ridge that connects to the crater walls and then we started the gradual climb up Koko Crater.

The arch

The rock arch spans a gulch that is roughly in the middle of the climb up the crater. The easiest way to get over the arch is on the left hand side where there are some steps that look like they were carved into the tuff lava.

Hanauma Bay

The climb and our breathing got a little harder after the arch, as we neared the top, Hanauma Bay and Koko Head came into view. We also passed three hikers coming down from the top, other than that we had the trail all to ourselves. Besides Mount Olympus, going up the stairs at Koko Crater was the only other hike I’ve done that has so much foot traffic.

Makapu'u Point

Headed towards the summit, we could see the botanical garden inside the crater and Makapu’u Point in the distance.

View from the top

We made the summit at 1,208 feet in under an hour. As usual, the top was packed with people, attesting to it’s popularity with the local crowd. 

Going down the rim

Going down the crater rim was marked with a gradual descent punctuated by rocky formations that we either climbed or contoured around.

Crater rim wall

We came across part of the crater wall that looked like it was fractured or split apart. That’s what I love about ridge hikes, you get fantastic views and interesting scenery to boot. You also have to stay focused and keep that mental edge, otherwise you may fall off that edge.

Koko Crater Botanical Garden

We ended the two and a half hour hike amongst the sweet smell of plumeria trees in Koko Crater Botanical Garden.