A bunch of us took a walk on the West side today.

Kuaokala Trail

Thanks to Edgar for driving Akira, Allison, Mari, Marilyn, Tessa, Val and myself up the winding road to the Kaena Point Space Force Tracking Station. Not to be confused with Spaceballs.

Kuaokala Trail

Foraging for trail snacks when we haven’t even been 10 minutes on the path. Priorities.

Kuaokala Trail

Yellow guavas are much sweeter than their red cousins.

Kuaokala Trail

Stepping foot on the Waianae Summit Trail (WST). It was a refreshing change to do this in broad daylight rather than under the cover of darkness.

Kuaokala Trail

Passing the Boy Scout Picnic Shelter. We are hiking today and not having a picnic. Besides, nobody brought steak today.

Kuaokala Trail

Rolling pine logs gather no moss. They just leave sap on your hands.

Kuaokala Trail

Following the well signed and marked trail. Hard to get lost.

Kuaokala Trail

Going down the exposed and eroded area of the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Somebody had already staked out his position on the dodo or fin rock. You can call it whatever is most palatable for you.

Kuaokala Trail

How many people can fit on this spit of a rock? Apparently seven.

Kuaokala Trail

Going through the gate as we met up with the ubiquitous fence line that seems to dominate the mountains as of late.

Kuaokala Trail

Allison training for either one of her multiple half-marathons or the Inca Trail.

Kuaokala Trail

The end of the trail where we took a quick break.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Just a tad overgrown. Luckily, it was just for a short stretch.

WST

Sharing the road with others. Especially when they weigh several thousand pounds more than you do.

WST

Detouring off the road for higher ground.

WST

Scenic view of Makua Valley, the valley that has gone to hell and back. But not back to its rightful owners. The current 65 year lease that the US Army paid for with one dollar, expires in 2029. The local families that were forcibly evicted from their homes and were told they would get it back after WW2 ended. The clock is ticking.

WST

Trail snacks from your favorite convenience store. No need for any foraging for this one.

WST

Trudging up the rutted trail that is also a tad overgrown.

WST

Shoefie at the geodic marker “Moku.”

WST

Passing the water shelter with the hanging first aid kit that needs first aid itself.

WST

The group going over one of many fence crossings meant to keep out the invasive species that snack on the endemic fauna and flora.

WST

Welcome to Pahole, the 658 acres of natural area reserve established in 1981 to help protect the native fauna and flora from going extinct and to help build up their numbers in the wild.

WST

The group going down on another exposed and eroded section of the trail.

WST

Switch backing our way up through the plot of blue flagged native plantings.

WST

Passing the enclosed native snail habitat enclosure.

WST

The backdrop of the highest peak on the island that was strikingly clear, greeted us as we made our way out of the forest.

WST

Group shot on the ridge that borders Makua Valley.

WST

We followed the fenced ridge line as we started our descent down into the valley.

WST

Can you see the shelter for the forest?

WST

Turning off the WST as we dropped down the side trail towards the shelter.

Mokuleia Shelter

We had curry and noodles for lunch. Avocados for snacks. Future snacks. No fruiting oranges today.

Mokuleia Shelter

Everybody was looking forward to the long walk down as we collected ourselves from the shelter and made ready to leave.

Mokuleia Trail

It was a hop, skip and jump before we found ourselves at the end of the trail. Well, more closer to 15 minutes.

Peacock Flats

Walking down the jeep road that was dominated by the towering pine trees.

Peacock Flats

Passing through the camp grounds that was host to several families enjoying the weekend.

Peacock Flats

Leaving the 4×4 road for the 2×2 road.

Service Road

Walking down the paved road that is only open to two foot traffic.

Service Road

Halfway there! These roads get old pretty fast.

All pau

Shout out to Edgar who not only dropped us off but also picked us up on the other side of the island.

GPS Tracks

Our hike across the Waianae Mountains and valleys covered roughly 11 miles and change. Fun hike with a good group of friends. Post hike meal at Mililani BBQ due to Jerry’s Pizza not having enough room and more importantly no AC. Hot hikers want a cool environment to eat in. Spoiled, but that’s the truth.

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our West side hike.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzasyCnorA4

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Allison Banks, Edgar Gamiao, Mari Saito, Marilyn Bermudez, Tessa Bugay, Val Wang 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.

Tessa, Thomas and myself spent part of the Memorial Day Weekend camping on the West side.

Waialua

Mahalo to Edgar for driving us past the DLNR checkpoint and dropping us off at the entrance to the Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve.

Kaena Point

Passing by the fenced enclosure that protects one of the last intact dune ecosystems in the islands.

Kaena Point

Hiking up to the first bunker on the ridge.

Kaena Point

Standing on the second bunker looking out towards the jumping off point for departing souls according to Hawaiian legends.

Kaena Point

Tessa looking out towards Yokohama Bay or Keawa’ula Beach.

Kaena Point

The sun aka the heat rising above the third bunker.

Kaena Point

Scrambling our way through the dry grass and basaltic rocks.

Kaena Point

Approaching the military base that first appropriated 153 acres of this area back in 1959.

Kaena Point

Tessa making the final push to the top.

Kaena Point

Skirting the fenced base that tracks satellites in orbit.

Kaena Point

Enjoying our brisk walk in the morning.

Kaena Point

Leaving the radomes behind us.

Kaena Point

Oh give me a home where the cows roam, Where the pigs and the pheasants play, Where seldom is heard a discouraging warning, And the skies are not cloudy all day.

Kaena Point

Open the gate. Close the gate.

Kaena Point

Have permit, will hike. We shall see.

Kaena Point

Looking for somebody to check our permit out. He found us.

Kaena Point

Thomas waiting for his ride.

Kaena Point

No H & H for us this weekend.

Kuaokala Trail

The group reunited and ready to hike.

Kuaokala Trail

Somebody’s illusion of the trail being relatively flat was soon to be rudely shattered.

Kuaokala Trail

Breakfast break at the picnic shelter.

Kuaokala Trail

Following the hiking stick figure. He must know the way.

Kuaokala Trail

Thomas coming down the tree lined corridor.

Kuaokala Trail

Trading in the soft ground for some hard rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Standing tall.

Kuaokala Trail

An ubiquitous sight in the mountains. Fences.

Kuaokala Trail

Brief break at the trail sign.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Back on the road again.

WST

When 2WD is better than 4WD.

WST

Detouring off the jeep road.

WST

Makua Valley views along with a splash of rain.

WST

Going up the hill multiplied by a heavy pack. Fun all day.

WST

All feet on the side of the geodetic marker, not the top.

WST

One of many fence crossings on the trail.

WST

Switch backing our way up through the hill of reforested endemic plants.

WST

Contouring our way around the endemic enclosure.

WST

One of the best scenic spots to soak in Makua Valley.

WST

Following the fence line as it bordered the valley.

WST

Windmills in the background, shelter in the foreground.

WST

We decided to change plans and make camp down in the valley.

Camp Mokuleia

Staking out our respective tent spots for the night as the mosquitoes sought to distract us.

Camp Mokuleia

We filtered water from the leaky hose and ate our dinner. Most of us retired early to our tents since the night life around these parts was lacking, while some wandered the trails.

Camp Mokuleia

Day 2
We woke up the next day and broke down camp.

Camp Mokuleia

Our breakfast to start the day was Spanish roll dipped in coffee, reconstituted food and spam musubi fried rice.

Camp Mokuleia

Back to our regularly scheduled program of hiking.

WST

Nothing to wake you up in the morning like a good cardio workout.

WST

Looking down into the valley where ancient Hawaiians believe man was first created.

WST

Enjoying a relatively flat spell of the trail strewn with assorted boulders.

WST

Back on the undulating trail.

Three Corners

360 degree view of the valleys of Makaha, Makua and Mokuleia.

WST

A solitary scarlet lehua flower.

WST

Plunging into the overgrowth.

WST

So close, yet so far.

WST

The fence line is the hikers lifeline in the uluhell.

WST

Making our way off the hill.

Ka’ala Road

Trail meets the road.

Ka’ala Road

Somebody was stretching out for the 2.5 mile walk up the paved road littered with rockfalls.

Ka’ala Road

Using the traffic mirror for our group photo.

Ka’ala Road

Pushing off the gradual ascent up to the highest peak on the island.

Ka’ala Road

Taking in the views.

Ka’ala Road

Halfway there! Numerically speaking that is.

Ka’ala Road

Straight from the pipe. Unfiltered. Undrunk.

Ka’ala Road

End of the road for us.

Mount Ka’ala

Brief stop at the recently built three walled shelter.

Mount Ka’ala

Group photo at the highest peak on the island.

Mount Ka’ala

Walking on the roughly 3/4 mile boardwalk that traveled through the endemic cloud forest.

Mount Ka’ala

Trematolobelia flowers were in bloom throughout the bog.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Dropping off the summit on our way down to the valley.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Climbing down one at a time.

Waianae Kaala Trail

On rope.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Going down the steep mountainside.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Scrambling down the second set of boulders on the trail.

Waianae Kaala Trail

On our way down, we ran into a pack of boy scouts who were planning to camp at the shelter. That was going to be a tight fit, squashed like sardines.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Things that go bump in the night. Things that rustle in the grass. They both will scare you when you least expect it.

All pau

Many thanks to Chico who had arrived earlier and hiked up to the summit, got cold and went back down and struck up a long running conversation with a honest person who would never take stuff that didn’t belong to him, for picking us up in the remote valley and driving us back to our cars in Mililani.

Popeyes Chicken

Post hike meal at Louisiana Chicken where we chowed down chicken and ice cold soda to replenish all the calories we spent on our 16.7 mile weekend hike. Good fun with great people.

Photos taken by Tessa Bugay, 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.

Lack of a 4×4 ride resulted in additional cardio for our hike today. Thanks to Robert for dropping Art, Lilyn and myself off on the side of the highway where a directionally challenged, sunrise seeking person stopped by to give us greetings instead of a ride.

Mokuleia Road

Group photo by Aida Gordon, left to right: Art, myself and Lilyn.

Mokuleia Road

I didn’t know Biki had a station way out here.

Mokuleia Road

Sometimes I don’t know if I’m coming or going. Photo by Art Young.

Mokuleia Road

When you got to go, you got to go. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Mokuleia Road

We could soon finally see the pine trees for the camping grounds. Photo by Art Young.

Peacock Flats

The end of our 3.5 mile hike up the road. Photo by Art Young.

Peacock Flats

Don’t we know that red-headed stepchild? Photo by Art Young.

Mokuleia Trail

Stepping foot on a trail that is part of the sprawling 658 acres of the Pahole Natural Area Reserve.

Mokuleia Trail

The trees were fruiting but not quite ready for picking.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Climbing up the short stretch to gain the ridge line.

WST

Bench with a view of Makua Valley. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Only one hour to the next summit?

WST

Post with a view. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Pushing our way through the endemic overgrowth.

Three Corners

You can’t be in two places at the same time. But you can be in three places at the same time. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Swimming in overgrowth. At least it was native. Photo by Art Young.

WST

We soon could see the road for the overgrowth. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Trying to take a video and climbing down a steep fence is harder than it looks. Photo by Art Young.

Ka’ala Road

Hiking koan. Two reflections and one hiker. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ka’ala Road

Walking up the paved road. At least it wasn’t cluttered with native overgrowth.

Ka’ala Road

Art admiring the views of the nearby valleys and ridges. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ka’ala Road

Halfway there. Photo by Art Young.

Mount Ka’ala

Somebody finally lucked out with a view from the top but struck out on the bathroom. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Mount Ka’ala

Anybody in there that can give us a ride back down? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ka’ala Bog

The sign took the words out of somebody’s mouth. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ka’ala Bog

Looking for endemic fauna. Not very successful I might add.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Our view as we descended from the highest peak on the island. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

The tree was just waiting for somebody to belt out the rendition made famous by a certain yawyaw.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Art descending down the steeper section of the trail.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Taking the easy way down. Photo by Art Young.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

I don’t think this is what bouldering is all about.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Following the fence line to its lowest point on the saddle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Three Poles

Leaving the ridge line for the verdant valley.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Skipping and sliding down the leaf covered trail.

All pau

We met some hunters coming up the road. One was more heavily armed and less camouflaged than the others. We also found out that three cars had been victims of “smash and grab.” Not to be confused with DoorDash.

GPS Tracks

Our 12 plus mile hike started with a long road and ended with a long road that was filled in between with great scenery and good company. Thanks to Quan for picking us up and saving us a visit from Safelite AutoGlass. Post hike meal at Ono Steak & Shrimp as the Puerto Rican eateries were closed on Sunday.

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.

Looking for a short easy hike to do this weekend, I found it in the form of Kuaokala Trail. Thanks to Quan for letting me tag along with her group. Photo by Lahela.

Trailhead

We found the road to Kaena Point closed due to high surf, but the road going up to the Kaena Point Tracking Station was still open for business. Our military escort took us to the trailhead where we parked and started our hike.

Trail

It was my first time setting foot on this trail …

Trail

… from this way.

Junction

I always wondered what trail this was. Wonder no more.

Picnic Shelter

The tree was not doing a very good job of hiding Quan. Or was it the other way around?

Trail

I still say this has got to be one of the widest trails on the island.

Helping hand

Lahela pulling Quan up the hill. What about the rest of us?

Junction

No mountain bikers seen today.

Trail

Somebody was standing on Quan’s “rock.”

Trail

The group coming down the denuded section of the trail.

Shark Fin Rock

Waiting for some company on my lofty perch. Photo by Quan Haberstroh

Shark Fin Rock

Group photo left to right: Quan, Ehjay, myself, Lahela and Lani.

Trail

Going over the fence to get to another fence.

Makua Valley

Backdrop photo of the “parent” valley, where man was first created according to Hawaiian mythology, but now is home to unexploded military munitions. Photo by Ehjay.

Kawailoa Wind Farm

Looking over into the pinwheels that populate Hawaii’s largest wind farm.

Lookout

We met another family at the fence line who had come up from Kealia Trail and attempted to take something that resembled a group photo before heading back.

Wild Mushroom

Running across a flat topped shroom on our way back.

Trail

Watching the group make their way down the fence line back to the shark fin rock.

Trail

Group photo by Lani Ricasa. Nobody was left out.

Trail

Hello from the other side.

Pine cones

We collected some of the woody cones on the trail. Arts and Crafts.

Junction

Nobody wanted to take a walk on the wild side, so we went back down the signed junction.

All pau

Our 4.8 mile hike ended in the blink of an eye. Slight exaggeration. Nice hike on the West side. Post hike meal at Coquito’s. BYOB and BYOD (dessert).

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.

My original plan was to fly to Kauai and set foot on the Kalalau Trail this weekend; instead Jasmin drove Cisco, Ferlino and myself to the end of the island to kick off our weekend in the West.

Trailhead

We crossed paths with an amphibian only a princess and Lopaka could love.

Kaena Point

Passing one of multiple WW2 bunkers going up the ridge. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Sunrise

We caught the breaking sunrise, only thing that was caught. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Kaena Point

Good thing these things are just tracking satellites.

Kuaokala Trail

Glimpsing some views of the rugged coast line …

Picnic Shelter

… nibbled on some breakfast bites and returned back on the trail …

Kuaokala Trail

… glimpsing no views at all now.

Kuaokala Trail

Ferlino following the hiking arrow to stay on track.

Kuaokala Trail

Walking through the cloud soaked tree lined trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Making our way down the rocky and rutted trail. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Kuaokala Trail

Guess who’s playing King of the Hill?

Dew Drops

Brushing past the water droplets hanging from the pine needles.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

We ignored one gate to follow the fence line to …

WST

… go through another gate.

WST

Missing that 4×4 bus service on this trail.

Junction

To paraphrase Alexander Graham Bell, “Leaving the beaten trail to dive into the mountains to experience the rugged character of the Waianae Mountains.”

Makua Valley

Looking into the wounded valley that has yet to be allowed to heal itself.

WST

The clouds soon snatched our valley views away, so we continued to follow the fence line. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Moku

Our feet are located at N213239.22131 W1581140.52996, according to the National Geodetic Survey.

Pahole

Stopping at the scenic view point of …

North Shore

… the north shore towns of Waialua and Haleiwa. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

WST

And now back to our regularly scheduled hiking.

WST

Switch backing amongst the tinkling sounds that marked native plants?

UXO

Passing one of many signs that warns people to stay on the other side of the fence. Well heeded.

WST

We jumped the fence to soak in some views. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

WST

Back on the fence line.

Junction

No time to harvest the sweet and juicy tangelos down below us, as tempting and appetizing as that may sound.

Mokuleia Lookout

We took a break on the only benches on the entire trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Cisco going down the undulating ridge line.

WST

Pushing up the last climb to the summit.

Three Corners

Group photo where we had three views of clouds. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Where the fence line meets the road.

Ka’ala Road

It was a punishing 2.5 mile walk up the solid, paved and incline road that were scattered with rocks of assorted sizes. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Ka’ala Road

Convex mirrors are not only good for blind spots but selfies as well. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Weeping Wall

Bottling water straight from the mountain tap. No false advertising here.

#74 Waterfall

Only when it rains, does she flow.

Mount Ka’ala

End of the road for us.

Mount Ka’ala

Time to settle in at the highest point on the island, which translates to quite a chilly night.

Mount Ka’ala

We woke up to a typical socked in morning.

Mount Ka’ala

Entering over 1,000 acres of endemic Hawaiian fauna and flora.

Mount Ka’ala

Walking through the boardwalk. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Mount Ka’ala

Picking our way through the marked and sometimes confusing trail.

WST

Leaving the bog as we followed the ridge line to drop off the 4,025′ summit.

WST

Cisco peering over the moss and rain slicked boulders.

WST

Ferlino standing over the “Leap of Faith” boulder section. I was trying to take Cisco’s picture when he was crossing this section, as I backed up to get a better angle, I slipped on the mossy rock and my phone took a fall. Luckily, Ferlino saw where it had landed and retrieved it for me.

WST

At least Cisco was not condemned for eternity to hold back the boulder, just long enough for this photo.

WST

Back to bushwhacking with no views. The joys of hiking.

Hobbs

Group photo at the ridge that will lead you back down into Waianae Valley.

WST

Crossing the gap that the fence can’t cover.

Pu’u Kalena

Sun dances and shaka’s don’t work at the summit. Well, at least not this particular one.

WST

Leaving the clouds and rain behind us as we left the 3,504′ summit.

WST

All smiles now as the sun came out to play with us. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

WST

Ferlino making his way down the drier part of the trail.

WST

Leaving the cloud capped summit of Kalena behind us. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Looking out at sexxxy ridge. No sexy time for us today.

WST

Cisco and Ferlino crossing the narrow dike section.

WST

Leaving the ridge line behind us as we dropped down another narrow dike section.

WST

Cisco making his way down. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Looking down at Lualualei Valley pocked with navy bunkers filled with who knows what.

WST

Turned off the ridge to wind our way down to the gap in the mountains.

WST

Heading down to the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range.

WST

Different layers of removal until it meets the definition of erosion – Pu’u Ka’ilio. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

WST

Going down the sliding sands of Kolekole Pass. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

All pau

Out of the danger zone, but not the weather zone. With heavy rain predicted to fall tomorrow, we decided to call it a weekend. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

GPS Tracks

Our two day trek in the Waianae Mountains covered roughly 19.7 miles. In the end, I avoided being stranded on Kauai if I had stuck to my original plans, but instead we got booted off the Waianae Mountains a day early. Still a good deal. Thanks to Matt for picking us up and having our post hike meal at Popeye’s on base. Followed by a chaser of Taco Bell. All in all, it was still a great experience with a fun crew.

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.

Decided to take a break from the last stormy hike and visit the nice and dry West side. Mahalo to Jasmin for dropping Chris, Ferlino, Jasmin, Lopaka, Matt and myself off at the trailhead where Janell was already waiting for us. Photo by Janell Tuttle.

Mr. and Mrs. Ed

Getting friendly with the locals. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno.

Trail

Walking the road to the uplands. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trail

Leaving the sea behind us.

Hunter’s Stand

Chris and Matt enjoying the elevated vantage point. See any goats? Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Hunter’s Stand

Ferlino planking on the tree. Who needs the stand?

Spur Ridge

Heading up the dry grassy rocky ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Spur Ridge

Leaving the shaded valley as we made our way up the sun bleached ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ohikilolo Valley

Coming up the ridge, we were surrounded by goat bleatings bouncing off the valley.

Spur Ridge

Lopaka playing King of the Hill. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Spur Ridge

Our final push to the top of the ridge. Photo by Janell Tuttle.

PETA

Chris’s bathroom break startled a goat who ran head first into the fence and promptly got stuck much to his dismay. His buddies scampered off when they saw us approaching, thinking it was nice knowing you. Chris and Lopaka freed the goat who immediately took off down the ridge.

Spur Ridge

Ferlino decided to keep Jasmin company on the journey to the cabin, so we split into two groups. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Morning Mushroom

Recreational fungus for recreational hiking?

Makua Valley

Looking back into the valley where landscapers fear to tread.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Tube man on the ridge.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Chris and Lopaka detouring around a wrecked fence section due to a rock slide. It was around this section that a bunch of bees were pollinating flowers on the other side of the fence, when some of them decided to bombard me with their suicidal stinging. My flailing around was unfortunately not caught on camera.

Helipad

Cleared to land.

Helipad

Pick me up too!

Ohikilolo Ridge

The ridge started to turn from red brown to dark green, a sign that we were getting near the summit.

Balloon Flowers

I remember these from small kid time, at least that’s what we used to call them.

PETA

Not another one? This one actually pissed itself before being freed by Lopaka.

Ohikilolo

Lopaka test tenting my camping shelter. Sold!

Ohikilolo

Group photo above the cabin left to right: Chris, Janell, Lopaka, myself and Matt.

Ohikilolo

One was closed and the other open for business.

Ohikilolo

Janell decided to wait at the cabin for Ferlino and Jasmin.

Ohikilolo Summit

I guess somebody changed their mind. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Ohikilolo Summit

Panoramic view of Makaha, Ohikilolo and Makua Valleys from the top.

Ohikilolo Summit

We took our leave of the 3,052′ summit and Janell. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ohikilolo Summit

Matt and Lopaka coming down the crumbly backside.

Ohikilolo Summit

Name tagging on the ridge. Photo by Janell Tuttle.

Ohikilolo Valley

Looking into the depression that separates Makua and Makaha Valleys. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Leaving the peak with our brains intact. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Geology 101

How big rocks are made into little rocks. Photos by Matt Vidaurri.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Peering over the crumbly wall of Ohikilolo. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Riding the rock dragon with the sweeping vista of Ka’ala in the background.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Lopaka climbing the fence or the ridge down?

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hindrance … Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ohikilolo Ridge

… or help? Jury is still out in my book. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Standing on a sliver of a ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ohikilolo

Meanwhile, Ferlino and Jasmin caught up to Janell at the hill above the cabin.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Contouring around the boulder. Photo by Lopaka Hipperson.

Ohikilolo Ridge

What does that look like? Two ears? Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Can you see the ape for the rocks?

Ohikilolo Ridge

Climbing up the steepest rock section. Photo by Lopaka Hipperson.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Looking back. Fences for daze.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Heading to greener ridges. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Rodent country.

Three Corners

Matt climbing over the fence to the spot that provides triple valley views.

Spur Ridge

Meanwhile, Janell and Jasmin were making their way down the ridge into the valley. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

H20

Filling up our water bottles for the last leg home.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

The fence turned from a necessary handhold to more of a navigational and invasive barrier on this trail section.

WST

Lopaka making his way around the many assorted boulders that littered the fenced side of the ridge.

Mokuleia Lookout

I guess somebody wanted their own selfie.

Mokuleia Trail

Getting off the WST.

Whole Foods

Oranges. Tangerines. Tangelos. Whatever it was, this tree was brimming with the coldest, juiciest and sweetest citrus fruits I’ve tasted in awhile. Hiking all day may have had something to do with my taste buds interpretation.

Mokuleia Trail

Our packs, some more than others, weighed down with our fruit bounty as we made our way down the trail.

Pahole Natural Area Reserve

Leaving the sprawling 658 acres that are home to endemic fauna and flora.

Peacock Flats

Nobody around to give us a ride down.

Farrington Hwy

The long walk down the 3.5 mile road.

All pau

Banana, Coconut and Papaya trees lined the road as we exited to Chris’s staged van. Free range chickens also roamed the road. We had all the fixings of a hearty meal.

GPS Tracks

Our coast to coast hike covered a little over 11 miles complete with undomesticated ungulates, organic fruits and the company of good friends. Post hike meal at Restaurant Kunio. The wait was too long, but too tired to go elsewhere.

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

We spent Veteran’s Day Weekend camping and hiking in the Waianae Mountains. Big shout out to Alexis for driving Stuart and myself to the end of the island to start our hike.

Kaena Point

Trying to tie my shoe laces in the wee hours of the morning with makapiapia still in my eyes. Thanks to Alexis for taking my trash back with her. Pack in, pack out. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kaena Point

We followed the railroad track remnants along the coastline to the base of the ridge.

Kaena Point

Passing the second WW2 bunker on our way up the darkened ridge.

Kaena Point

Somebody left the lights on. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station

This place has been around since statehood. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kuaokala Trail

We crossed paths with gun toting hunters and their pig sniffing dogs on the trail.

Kaena Point

Back on the road again. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kuaokala Trail

We had a quick breakfast at the picnic shelter before setting foot back on the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Sunlight breaking over the trail. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kuaokala Trail

Following the signed junction as we made our way up the slight, rocky incline.

Kuaokala Trail

Drinking in our early morning views. Better than a cup of coffee to get you jump started.

Kuaokala Trail

Stuart standing on picture rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Following the fence line down.

Kuaokala Trail

Stuart passing through the sun beams on the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Veering off the beaten trail to gain higher ground.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Contact with the ubiquitous fence line that increasingly dominates both mountain ranges.

WST

Taking temporary leave of the fence line as we followed a thick half buried communications cable.

Moku

Passing the geodic marker as we turned right on the trail.

Pahole Reserve

Entering the protected habitat of rare endemic fauna and flora.

WST

Treading carefully with exaggerated facial expressions.

WST

Soaking in the raw character of the Waianae Mountains.

Slippah Tree

The Waianae Mountain’s answer to the KST Boot Junction.

WST

Stuart following the fence line down amidst the backdrop of fluted ridges cascading down into Makua Valley.

WST

Passing the Mokuleia trail junction.

WST

Panoramic view from the Mokuleia lookout. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Rat Country

Stuart doing his part to keep the rodent population in check. Pesticide free.

WST

Pulling ourselves up the steep incline one fence hold at a time.

WST

The overcast cloud conditions kept the notorious Waianae heat dialed down.

WST

Dropping down to the lowland forest with an abundance of sprawling spider webs.

WST

Looking ahead to Three Corners. Almost there. Just a couple more ups and downs.

WST

Looking into the bomb blistered valley. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

Have machete in hand, will bushwhack.

WST

Looking out towards the Mokuleia coastline and the windmills pinwheeling in the distance.

WST

Stuart pushing up the last hill towards the summit of three valleys.

Three Corners

Valley views of Makua, Makaha and Mokuleia were actually in evidence today.

WST

Short and suffocating trek on the ridge that connects to Ka’ala.

WST

Stuart dropping off the uluhell infested ridge and onto the road.

Ka’ala Road

Somebody was talking about a 20 minute walk up to the top. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Ka’ala Road

Hairy balls road.

Ka’ala Road

Approaching the defunct radar station that is now home to an active cellular communications tower.

Ka’ala Road

End of the cloud soaked road.

Mount Ka’ala

We made it to the shelter at 1430, just before the raindrops started to fall. Perfect timing.

Mount Ka’ala

Stuart strung up his tarp to keep most of the wind blown rain from our sleeping accommodations. Sleeping on concrete buffered by an air mattress never felt so good.

Mount Ka’ala

Rain tucked us to sleep and woke us up. It was going to be a wonderful day. Reverse psychology doesn’t seem to work in the mountains.

Mount Ka’ala

Stuart on the boardwalk.

Mount Ka’ala

Looking for the ridge in the cloud and rain soaked bog. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

Making my way down the slippery boulder section. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

Stuart preparing to take his “leap of faith” between the moss slicked boulders.

WST

Looking back at the rocky edifice made even more surreal by the grey rain clouds.

WST

Isometric exercises in the mountains. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

When nature gives you water, just open your mouth and drink up.

WST

Stuart being swallowed up by the unchecked overgrowth on the trail. Where is that machete? Shortly after this section, I was torn between a difficult decision on whether to render immediate aid or take a picture of what was actually transpiring. I picked the first option, which was to remove a branch of thimbleberry thorns that had somehow gotten lodged in Stuart’s eyelid! Believe it or not.

WST

Pushing our way up the rain soaked ridge. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

Stuart crossing over the notched ridge.

WST

Dropping off the ridge and contouring to regain the ridge. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Pu’u Kalena

Missing the views at the 3,504′ summit, but not the rain. Rain, rain, go away. Nursery rhymes don’t seem to work up here. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

When you’re looking for your bite valve and it’s sitting on your shoulder strap. Luckily glasses weren’t involved as well.

WST

The ridge widened at some sections with pockets of pine trees.

WST

Wind milling my way up the ridge in a futile effort to keep warm. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

Looking out at sexxxy ridge to our right as it dropped off into the murky clouds.

WST

Walking in the clouds on the narrow rock dike. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

Descending down from Pu’u Ku Makali’i on the rain slicked rock dike as we heard intermittent booming guns from the ranges below us.

WST

Entering the forested section which helped to keep some of the rain at bay.

WST

Watching the clouds drift over bunker pocked Lualualei Valley and the forbidden miniature mountain.

WST

Spotted a me not so horny invasive critter that has made themselves home in the mountains. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

Stuart dropping down to the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range.

WST

We followed a set of overgrown steps into the valley floor that was littered with bright yellow colored bags, and decided not to let curiosity get the better of us.

WST

Let’s not dawdle through these parts.

Kolekole Pass Road

Hiking in the rain the entire day and with no let up in sight and another rainy day forecasted for the next day, we decided to throw in the towel for safety and comfort reasons and made our way down the road, passing the now silent ranges.

Kolekole Pass Road

You never know what one will find in these abandoned WW2 bunkers.

Kolekole Pass Road

This is my rifle, this is for fighting…

All pau

… this is my gun, this is for fun. Thanks to Mitsy for picking us up on base.

GPS Tracks

Our abbreviated two day camping hike covered 21.83 miles through the wild flavor of the Waianae Mountains. It was still an amazing adventure with a good buddy. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse. Thanks to Mitsy for putting up with our carnivorous appetites.

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.

Bills were due and rules were made to be broken, and that’s how we ended up with today’s hike. Right muthafucka?

Trailhead

Thanks to Dale for dropping Frank, Shirley and myself off in the middle of nowhere. Winter is for the Waianaes. It’s also the time to bring headlamps. I guess some lists just aren’t meant to be read.

Access Road

We did a short cardio puff up the road. Reminds me of the road to Ka’ala. Not my favorite.

Peacock Flats

Let’s not wake up the campers. Who you calling white?

Trailhead

Starting our farewell hike.

Mokuleia Trail

Mexi-Kaida and Fili-Kaida. Unmasked.

Mokuleia Trail

Somebody was not fast enough to catch the nene.

WST

We turn left, right? Or right, left?

WST

Makua Valley. You’ll have to take my word for it.

WST

Rat country ahead. Rain country too.

WST

Jumping the fence.

WST

Going down the fence line.

WST

Picking our way amongst the scattered rocks and trees.

WST

Pulling ourselves up. One fence at a time.

WST

Three Corners is out there. You’ll have to take my word for it.

Mokuleia

There’s a view. Where?

WST

Frank making his way up, while sandwiched between a rock and a fence.

Lubricant optional

Shirley high fiving the self-pleasuring glove. Please wash your hands.

WST

We are here …

Three Corners

… to witness more stunning views of Makua, Makaha and Mokuleia. You’ll have to take my word for it.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Going down the rabbit hole.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hiking in the clouds. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

I didn’t know I would be hiking with The Flying Wallendas. Or at least one of them.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The clouds and rain showers started to clear as we made our way on the ridge.

Ohikilolo Ridge

We could see the ridge for the fences or was that the fences for the ridge?

Ohikilolo Ridge

Please keep your hands and feet on the fenced ridge at all times. Someone wasn’t paying attention. A theme that was to be repeated at the cabin.

Ohikilolo Ridge

A rollercoaster of a ridge. Multiple short ups and downs.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hanging into Makaha Valley. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Ohikilolo Ridge

One hand for the fence and one for the shaka. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Somebody was kung-fu hiking.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Frank and I scrambling up the ridge. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The “Buttercup” look. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Frank getting out of the way, before a darky fell on him.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Shirley looking back as the clouds seemed to be chasing us down from the mountains. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

How do you sit on this? Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Rainbow in Makua Valley. I heard it leads to pots of UMX ( unexploded ordnance ).

Ohikilolo Ridge

Open for camping.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Climbing up from the boulder.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Now you see the clouds …

Ohikilolo Ridge

The fence took up valuable real estate on the ridge while affording us handholds and keeping out the unwanted ungulates. Give and take.

Ohikilolo Ridge

… and now you don’t see the clouds.

Ohikilolo Ridge

This grasshopper had the right idea on how to hike this ridge.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Climbing up from the notch.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Shirley climbing around and up the interrupted fence line.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Fences for days.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Fill in the blank and use your vivid imagination. Shirley wishes she had a ____ right now.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The Great Fence of Ohikilolo.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hiking into the wind. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Ohikilolo Ridge

How to train your rock dragon. No caption credit given this time.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Almost there. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Always amazed to find these hardy plants living in such a parched and seemingly inhospitable terrain.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Mars slip and slide recreational area.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Pausing and posing. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Time to climb up to the triangular peak of Ohikilolo, but first … Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

… let’s have another IG photo shoot.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Overlooking Makua Valley. You don’t have to take my word for it. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Ohikilolo Backside

Let’s take the easy way up.

Ohikilolo Summit

Random group photos at the 3,052′ peak.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Looking out towards Pu’u Keaau on our way to the cabin.

Ohikilolo Outhouse

Throne with a view. BYOTP.

Cabin life

What’s for lunch? Cold burritos with rice and potatoes, courtesy of Frank. Homemade? Mexican.

Let’s pretend

And … ?

Ohikilolo Cabin

Saying goodbye to the cabin and the mountains.

Ohikilolo Ridge

All downhill. Rocky. Fenced.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The sun started to turn the ridge and valley into a sauna. Time to shed the sweater. Dry cleaned and pressed please.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hanging ten on the fence hammocks.

Ohikilolo Ridge

What’s going on? Another IG photo shoot. I guess every dog has to have his day as well.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Looking out towards Kaena Point.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Shirley and I traversing the skinnier section of the fenced ridge. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

I was pleasantly surprised that we did not run across any goats that thought the grass was greener on the other side.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Looking back at the ridge as the afternoon shade slowly creeped across the valley floor.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Frank and Shirley stepping over the fence to get to the other side.

Ohikilolo Ridge

How many IG photo shoots does this one make?

Ohikilolo Ridge

It was just a short, steep scramble down the rocky trail and out to the highway. Please leave the little ones at home.

All pau

My fingers are tired. Thanks to Frank’s buddy, Kyle, who picked us up and shuttled us back to our cars. Photo by Frank Martinez.

GPS Tracks

Our last hike of the year started off with clouds and rain showers, that soon turned into a cloudy and sunny beast of a ridge hike with fences and views for miles. 10.43 miles to be exact. Fun times with great company. Good memories. Happy New Year’s to all.

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.

Promising weather turned into perfect conditions for our hike this weekend. Dale, Gen, Jose, Rob, Ryan, Tom and myself met up on the West side. Thanks to Ryan’s sister and Dale for shuttling us to the trailhead. Chris B would join us after work.

Trailhead

We picked up the trail through the dry shrubs and grass off Farrington Highway to make our way up towards Upper Makua Cave.

Trail

A group of hikers resting on their way to the cave. No rest for the weary.

Trail

We branched off to the left to gain the spur ridge.

Makua Valley

Looking into Hawaii’s own death valley. Literally. Roaming cattle and military bombs slowly leached the life out of this once thriving Hawaiian community. You wouldn’t know it by looking at it from afar, as it’s off limits to the public, but the lush landscaped valley still hides unexploded ordnances from decades of military training. Click here for the larger image.

Trail

We soon got to the fence and started making our way up the spur ridge.

Trail

Dale waiting for his turn to climb up.

Trail

Making our way up to gain Ohikilolo ridge.

Trail

Rob holding down the fence for Tom to cross over. A hiker and a gentleman.

Looking back

Enjoying the view towards Kaena Point. Photo by Tom Engle.

Trail

The sun breaking over the mountains. It was going to be a hot day.

Looking back

Enjoying the shade while it lasted.

Trail

Walking on the narrow rock dike broke the monotony of the fence line.

Dead Goat Ridge

We started to run across many a goat that found out the hard way that the grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence.

Trail

Switched to the left side of the fence.

Trail

Not for long. Switched back to the right side of the fence.

Looking back

Ryan scrambling up the ridge with a sun bleached souvenir on his back.

Fence bed

Mountain accommodations for two.

Trail

Rob and Tom contouring around the fence line with Makaha Valley in the background.

Helipad

Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a helicopter.

Looking back

Click here for the panoramic view.

Trail

Hiking on the eroded section of the ridge.

Looking back

Ryan, Dale and Gen making their way up.

Trail

We could see the forest for the trees. Koa trees.

Trail

Entering the introduced and native forest. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Ohikilolo

The triangular peak of Ohikilolo which roughly means scooped out brains.

Ohikilolo cabin

We had the cabin all to ourselves. Pays to have reservations.

Cabin life

I can see why a lot of people have taken a shine to this cabin. Wrap around lanai with mountain views. Bunks that can sleep up to 12 people. Rain catchment system provides drinking water and showers. Unfortunately, Dale could only enjoy the cabin with us for a few short hours before hiking back down. Photos by Dale Yoshizu.

Biodegradable

Deep thoughts. Outhouse with a view.

Mountain life

Group photo left to right: Tom, Rob, Jose, Gen, myself and Ryan.

Where there’s smoke there’s fire

When you do bad things in the mountains, you get held hostage at finger point. Rob was later released on his own recognizance. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Sunset

No green flash spotted.

Cooking by head lamps

Chris pushed up the ridge and arrived under cover of darkness to deliver our frozen steaks. Chefs Engle and Balladares prepping our food. Heavy on the oil and garlic please.

What’s for dinner?

The pit boss, Gen, presided over the grill to cook our steak, baby potatoes, corn on the cob, and garlic bread. We ate pretty well that night.

Night sky

The skies were clear. The winds were noticeably absent. Stunning mountain views. Grilled food. Great company. Glamping. Not quite. But pretty close.

Cheers

Cinammon fireball whisky to keep our tummies warm.

Lights out

No rodents paid us a visit as we bunked down for the night. Photo by Ryan Leano

Moon rise

Somebody got up in the middle of the night to catch the moon rising over Mount Ka’ala. Photo by Tom Engle

Good morning

Chilly Sunday morning. Ryan dragged the grill back into the cabin and applied liberal amounts of lighter fluid to kick start the heater.

Makua valley

Looking into the back of the valley.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Trail

We cleaned up after ourselves and checked out of the cabin to resume our second day of hiking.

Trail

Approaching the summit of Ohikilolo.

Pu’u Ohikilolo

Group photo at the 3,052′ sun-in-your-face summit.

Pu’u Ohikilolo

The crew scrambling down the crumbly backside.

Trail

A rocky rollercoaster ridge hike was ahead of us.

Looking back

Leaving the summit of Ohikilolo behind us.

Ohikilolo cabin

Looking back at the cabin. It was a sweet cabin. Photo by Tom Engle.

Trail

Hikers imitating goats on the ridge. Just don’t get your head stuck.

Looking back

Chris and Tom on the skinny ridge with the slowly receding view of Ohikilolo behind them.

Trail

All fences lead to Mount Ka’ala. Well, at least this one does.

Looking back

Chris coming down mini-Ohikilolo.

Makaha Valley

Back in 1855, this valley was sold for the princely sum of $5,000. In todays dollars that would roughly come out to $140,000. Trinkets and beads?

Trail

The fenced ridge line serpentined towards three corners.

Mountain yoga

Gen kicking it in the mountains.

Trail

Jose making his way down to a narrow section of the ridge.

Trail

Rob making his way down the steep rocky ridge.

Trail

Jose kicking it in the mountains.

Trail

Gen making her way down a steep climb. I guess the fence does come in handy. Photo by Ryan Leano.

Trail

The rest of the crew making their way down.

Trail

Ryan climbing up a short and steep rock.

Trail

Fence for miles. Or at least as far as the eye can see.

Trail

Ryan and Tom climbing their way down to the small rock obstacle.

Trail

Gen and Rob climbing up the last steep rock climb. Pretty vertical fence climb.

Trail

Chris and Jose enjoying the views from the ridge line.

Ohikilolo puka

Another hole in the Waianae mountains.

Trail

I don’t know about the rest of the crew, but my left arm was getting tired from hanging onto the fence as we made our way along the ridge.

Trail

In the thick of things. Things being shrubs and trees.

Trail

The final push to the summit. Almost there. Really.

Ohikilolo ridge

Looking back at the convoluted fence lined ridge that we had just traversed.

Three Corners

Afternoon siesta. Forget the group photo.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Trail

Back in the jungle. The uluhell jungle.

Off trail

Is this the way? So many ribbons. So many choices.

Trail meets road

Chris and Ryan sliding down the uluhe covered cliff.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Roughly two miles. Uphill. Head down.

Uber

Where’s the driver?

Looking back

Even those of us with less than 20/5 vision could make out Ohikilolo cabin in the distance.

Double tuck

Somebody was smiling. Must like their pants pulled up high.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Tom walking up to the cell communications towers.

Weeping wall

Multiple choice: Are Ryan, Jose and Tom a) heeding the call of nature in a communal setting b) filling their bottles with the spring water flowing down from the top or c) being forced to face the wall for walking on Mount Ka’ala Road.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Arriving at the socked in summit. We met a bunch of hikers and asked for directions to Diamond Head. They weren’t buying it.

Ka’ala Nature Area Reserve

No views. Everybody was in a rush to get down to the valley floor. No breaks. Just straight down. Other hikers yielded to our stampede.

Trail meets road

One mile of paved goodness left to finish off the hike. Let it end.

All pau

Group photo with the legendary rainbow man himself, Laredo. Photo by Krista Robertson.

GPS Tracks

Our two day cabin hike covered 10.91 miles over rocky roller coasting ridges and stellar scenery with good friends. It was so much fun. Thanks to Chris’s friend, Emerito, for picking us up in Waianae Valley. Post hike meal at Outback. Hiking staple.

Back in the Waianae Mountains. Joining me on today’s trek were Gen and Jose. Others were doing the Spartan race this weekend. We had our own Spartan race in the mountains today.

Trailhead

We arrived early to beat the rush hour hiker traffic.

Junk Beach

Where old trucks go off the railroad tracks to die.

Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve

We skirted the fence, that protects the fauna and flora populating one of the last sand dune ecosystems in the islands, to the base of the mountain.

Memorial

I hopped into a somewhat obscure cave at the base, that is home to a memorial for Les Merrell, a well known hiker who unfortunately perished on Bear Claw several years ago. The heat and humidity dictated a short stay as we still had a long day ahead of us. A very long day.

Scrambling

Jose and Gen climbing up the rocky ascent sparsely covered with dry shrubs.

First bunker

Don’t fall in the hole.

Hiking to the top

Enjoying the shade while it lasted.

Second bunker

Group photo left to right: Gen, myself and Jose. Somebody forgot their sunglasses.

Waianae sun

Hiking on the sunny exposed ridge.

Kaena Notch

No shaka and double shaka.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Area 51

Approaching the Kaena Point Tracking Station.

Carrion flowers

Nothing like the smell of rotting flesh to start off your hike. Inhale deeply.

Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station

Sorry, no tours today.

Life imitating art

I’ve fallen and I can’t get up. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki

Life failing art

Let’s try again, shall we? Photo by Jose Luis Delaki

Satellite Tracking Station Road

Just out for a Saturday walk. No jumping in the bushes today.

Radome

Tracking space objects since 1959. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki

Walk the line

I am not drunk. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki

Detour

We had no desire to catch the Yokohama Express, so we rang the bell and got off the beaten path.

Bushwhacking

Enjoying the back country of the North Shore.

Scouting

The coast is clear. Pays to wear a camouflage boonie hat. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Back on the road again

We popped back on the road and checked for traffic before continuing our hike.

Kuaokala trail

Waiting for somebody to open the gate. Got permit?

Wide trails

Jose going up the expansive tree lined road.

Wakey wakey eggs and bakey

Just have to find a pig now. A very, very small one.

Trail

The wide road eventually narrowed to a footpath that contoured along the Makua Valley.

Gated view

Gen enjoying the views. Time to move along now. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki

The fence line

The fence are becoming the invasive species, invading the mountains to control the invasive species. Irony.

Looking back

Leaving Kaena Point and her golf balls behind us.

Share the trail

Yield to hikers or was that the other way around?

Back at the fence

We soon left the main trail and headed back up to regain the fence line.

Follow the cable

We briefly left the fence line to make our way up the hill.

Moku

All shoes on the geodisc marker. Hey, no mud today. We must be on the West side.

Supply shed

Gen looking through the supply of condoms and KY jelly. What goes on up here in these mountains? Get a cabin.

Rolling ridges

No signs of civilization as far as the eye can see.

Pahole Natural Area Reserve

Entering the fenced area that protects 658 acres of native fauna and flora from feral pigs, rats and other invasive species.

Almost there

Somebody started saying that. Wasn’t going to be the last time.

See the sign?

Not all of us have 20/5 vision.

Mokuleia lookout

Group photo with Makua Valley in the background.

Almost there

The broken record kept on playing.

Up and down

The fence was an unsightly blight on the terrain, but it provided useful handholds and as an obvious navigational aid.

The Glove

Michael Jackson has left the mountains. The WST answer to the KST boot.

Three Corners

Group shot with Makaha Valley in the background.

Three Corners

Looking towards Mokuleia Valley.

Three Corners

Another view of Makua Valley.

Back to the fence

We resumed our hike after a short break and lunch by following the fence towards Mount Ka’ala. Almost there.

Goodbye fence

The fence was soon replaced with a wide swath of thick uluhe and overgrowth. Bring back the fence.

Kaala Road

We eventually dropped down from the ridge onto Mount Ka’ala Road. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Uphill

The long boring road. Hard on our feet. The only saving grace was the mountain views. While it lasted.

Double tuck

We ran into a fellow hiker on the road. He looked somewhat familiar.

Got water?

Running out of liquid nourishment. Time to share. Thanks Gen.

Last scenic point

Looking out at the Kawailoa Wind Farm before the cloud deck dropped.

Hiker in the mist

Gen walking up the road towards one of the smaller relay stations. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Mount Ka’ala

We are here!

Bog walker

Walking through the bog under twilight cloudy conditions. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Bouldering

Racing to beat the sun.

City lights

Twinkling lights of Waianae Valley.

Sunset

Enjoying the sunset as we made our way down to Three Poles junction.

Night hiking

Coming down from the highest mountain on the island.

Star gazing

When we arrived at the paved road, we sprawled down to enjoy the night skies and …

Creepy crawlers

…then we realized we were sharing the road with all these critters.

Light show

Twerking the glow light fantastic.

All pau

Now all we needed was a spooky story and roasted marshmallows to end our hike. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

GPS Tracks

The scenic and very long hike covered 18.76 miles, made bearable by good company. Post hike meal at Jack in the Box. It was the closest. 24/7 breakfast. We found out that a chronic had helped himself to some of Gen’s gas. Hope he got a severe case of indigestion.