I decided to recreate a hike that we did for Chico’s finish almost two years ago. Too close for comfort.

Trailhead

Parked in the neighborhood that started off as the Manana ahupua’a which was turned into pineapple fields and evolved into the residential neighborhood as it exists today. Solitary hike today as the usual suspects had other plans on the platter.

Manana Trail

Hiked the 5.5 miles of the ungraded ridge trail that was seemingly comprised of endless humps and knobs as the darkness slowly began to be erased by the increasing illumination of the sunrise.

Manana Summit

Arrived at the 2,660′ dew soaked summit to be met by a wall of whiteout. Expect nothing. Get nothing. Turned right on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains to continue my hike in the clouds.

Eleao Meadows

Passing through the wind swept grassy area that we had once foolishly camped overnight. Needless to say, we did not enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Followed the fence line until the gate breached it and allowed me passage down the hill to regain the ridge line.

KSRT

I soon caught a break as airflow, temperature and moisture intersected to provide a window into the valley views.

KSRT

Passing the large landslide as I descended towards the saddle and the reflective sign that marked the 2,160′ summit of Waimano.

Waimano Summit

Photo of myself with the background of Waihe’e Valley bordered between Kalahaku Teeth and Eleao Windward. I contemplated going down Waimano Trail as the mud soaked trail, intermittent rain showers and overgrowth from Manana was trying to tell me something. However, I had barely scratched the morning and was hard of hearing, so I decided to press forward on the trail.

KSRT

Scrambling out of the saddle, I looked back to see the seven mile graded trail beckoning to me. I was also myopic.

KSRT

Traversing over the stretch of cardio hills and false summits that was aggravated by overgrowth that gave me unwanted acupuncture treatments many times over and mud slicked trails that resulted in my hands cramping for the first time ever as I had to compensate for the loss of traction by disproportionately using more of my upper body strength climbing up the multiple hills. Just falling victim to Father Time.

Waimalu Meadows

Climbing up the spongy hill as I made my way out of the neither mythical nor magical meadows today.

KSRT

Working my way in and out of the clouds.

KSRT

Pitter patter of rain that soon turned into a wet mess that was sandwiched between a downpour and torrential rain.

KSRT

The trail that kept giving.

Aiea Summit

I reached the 2,805′ summit shortly after dark. My dreams were dashed of finishing the hike when the sun was still out. Time to make new dreams.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Going down the gem of a ridge as described by Stuart Ball, I have never felt more exhausted by a trail as today. I felt like cowboy camping on the lower parts of the trail. The only thing that stopped me was a streak of stubbornness and the fact that I was saturated and soaked head to toe.

All pau

My 14.02 mile hike that didn’t turn out as well as I expected tested me to my limits today. Many thanks to Kenny and Akira who met me at the deserted road where a neighbor couldn’t believe that I had finished hiking at this ungodly hour. Thanks to Kenny who drove me home and saved me from a potential accident on the road and Chico who drove me the next morning to collect my vehicle.

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.

Met up with Aida, Akira, Chico, Roger, and Scott who kept me company in the mountains as I continued to connect the dots ad nauseam.

Trailhead

We all showed up before the crying cats to start our early morning hike. Hey, where’s Chico?

Manana Trail

Passing multiple tents camped out by the picnic shelter.

Manana Trail

Akira going underneath the Manana Arch.

Manana Trail

Caught the breaking sunrise as we crested a false peak.

Manana Trail

Going through the gate that marked 3.5 miles covered on the trail. Only two more miles left!

Manana Trail

We soon noticed a green-yellow shirted figure in the distance steadily catching up to us under a rainbow. Turned out it was none other than Chico the man! He had forgotten his shoes on the way to the trail and had to turn around to go back home to get them. He erased a one hour deficit to catch up with us. Talk about somebody that was highly motivated.

Manana Summit

Group photo at the 2,660′ cloud screened summit.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Descending off the massive knob as we made our way down the ridge line where sweeping Windward views opened up.

KSRT

The photographer being photographed who in turn was being photographed. Say that real quick three times in a row.

Eleao Meadow

Following the fence line as we traversed across one of many grassy fields that are scattered throughout the mountains.

KSRT

Adventure awaits. Just have to open the gate.

KSRT

Why walk when you can slide down? Just missing the cardboard boxes.

KSRT

Somebody take my picture.

KSRT

Aida and Roger making their way on the narrow strip of real estate masked by heavy vegetation and false holes.

KSRT

Making our way on the undulating ridge line. Up. Down. Up. Down.

KSRT

Scrambling up the last hill. Promise?

KSRT

Pointing out the landslide that is much harder to see coming from our direction.

Waimano Sumit

Group photo at the saddle summit at 2,160′ elevation with sweeping views of Waihe’e Valley bordered by Eleao Windward and Kalahaku Teeth.

Waimano Trail

Stepping foot on the best preserved trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps back in the 1930s per Stuart Ball, noted hiking author.

Waimano Trail

Man down!

Waimano Trail

Another man down! Hope this doesn’t become a habit on this trail.

Waimano Trail

Picking our way through one of many landslides that dotted the trail.

Waimano Trail

Switch backing our way down the trail, where we soon ran across a solitary figure clearing the trail and a family training for the Kalalau Trail.

Waimano Trail

Crossing Waimano Stream where we soon ascended to the cliffs overlooking the stream. It was around this point that Nate Yuen slipped and fell to his death on August 8, 2022. He was a very accomplished and experienced hiker and photographer in the hiking community. I only hiked with him a couple times but he always struck me as friendly and informative. Gone too soon.

Waimano Trail

We were missing somebody again.

Waimano Trail

Descending through a grove of eucalyptus trees where Tessa lay in wait for us.

Waimano Trail

Climbing and contouring over one of many irrigation tunnels on the trail.

All pau

Exiting the trail which seemed to go on forever, where Tessa shuttled us back to our cars. Much mahalos!

GPS Tracks

Our blink and you’ll miss it KST traversal that was connected by my least two favorite ridges covered 12.6 miles that was made bearable by good company. Post hike meal at Little Joe’s Steakhouse. Happy Hour translated to cheaper prices offset by slow service and less food choices. Somebody needed to take a doggy bag home otherwise they might end up in the dog house.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Roger Schiffman, Scott Peterson, 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.

Aida, Aileen, Akira, Amber, Chris, Ferlino, Orion, Roger, Tessa, and myself got together to celebrate fireworks, ring in the new year and bear witness to a good friend completing his last section needed to finish the entire Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST).

Trailhead

We were two short of a baker’s dozen due to a no show and another one stopped for an OVUII. The show must go on.

Manana Trail

Passing through the eroded section of the trail under artificial illumination.

Manana Trail

Amber talking to her errant roommate.

Manana Trail

The group approaching the 2.5 mile marker.

Manana Trail

Climbing up one of several eroded hills.

Manana Trail

Passing underneath the tree arch.

Manana Trail

Going over the gated fence line as we passed the 3.5 mile marker.

Manana Trail

Scrambling up another hill in the land of rolling hills.

Manana Trail

Taking a break at the helipad as we gazed ahead to the erosional remnants of the massive shield volcano that was sharply etched against the morning sky.

Manana Trail

Somebody used their background in operatic singing to good use.

Manana Trail

A small cheehoo in return. I did not attend the University of Maryland College Park.

Manana Trail

The last sunrise of the year breaking over the mountains. It was going to be a hot day.

Manana Trail

Traversing the ridge punctuated with knobs and humps and with the strikingly clear Waianae Mountain Range in the background.

Manana Trail

Are we there yet?

Manana Summit

Approaching the 2,660′ summit.

Manana Summit

Group photo at the massive knob with photobombers in the background.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Stepping foot on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains.

KSRT

Shadows in the mountains as we left the summit behind us.

KSRT

Overlooking Kahalu’u Pond, Kaneohe Bay and the Sandbar.

Eleao Meadows

Standing in one of multiple meadows that populate the mountain range.

Eleao Summit

Looking down at the ridge that drops down into the valley. The stuff of some hiker’s dreams or nightmares.

KSRT

Following the only stretch of fence line that we would run across today. The eyesore fence line started to make their appearance in the mountains circa 2001. They are meant to control the invasive ungulates from devouring and destroying the native fauna and flora.

KSRT

Leaving the gate for greener pastures on the other side.

KSRT

Descending the grassy slope to stay on trail.

KSRT

It must have been nice to have a wide brim hat on this sunny day.

KSRT

Practicing my controlled descent down the Windward side.

KSRT

Contouring our way around the landmark landslide as we dropped down to the saddle.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit that overlooks Waihe’e Valley, where we also had our lunch.

KSRT

Climbing our way out of the saddle.

KSRT

Somebody was “shaking it off” in the mountains.

KSRT

Enjoying our office views.

KSRT

Approaching the largest meadow on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Waimalu Meadows

Getting off the ridgeline as we dropped into the spot many have described as magical and mythical.

Waimalu Meadows

Amber doing a handstand for her legions of fawning admirers on Tik Tok.

Waimalu Meadows

Ferlino jumping for joy. I think he wanted to attract the same type of followers on social media.

Waimalu Meadows

Tessa looking out towards the Windward views.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo in the verdant oasis that was surprisingly free of winds and clouds. A magical moment indeed.

Waimalu Meadows

Chris standing on one of the mounds in the meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Trudging up on the spongy ground as we climbed our way towards the summit of Waimalu.

KSRT

Back on the undulating ridgeline.

KSRT

Clouds lingering over the mountains due to increases in air pressure and temperature.

KSRT

Spike repair service in the mountains.

KSRT

Looking down at a broken spectre with glory rings which is the result of the sun shining behind a person who is looking down into a cloud of water droplets. It was around this time that a genetically gifted person shared their water with me. Danke, genetisch uberlegener mensch.

KSRT

Climbing our way towards one of the bigger peaks on the ridge.

KSRT

Rose who was recently released from captivity, joined us on the trail, as she had taken multiple naps since hiking up from Aiea.

KSRT

Chico with the last sunset of the year.

KSRT

Time to turn the headlamps on.

KSRT

Night marchers. In person.

KSRT

Are those people on the mountains? Taken by Jeremy Uota from Kahuku.

KSRT

Scrambling up to the powerlines on the ridge. Are we there yet?

KSRT

Looking down on the Windward side, the aerial fireworks had commenced earlier in the day and had picked up its pace, but not by much.

KSRT

The final push to the 2,805′ summit.

Aiea Summit

#21. I fumbled my speech due to me being dead tired, but my faulty recall was along the lines of “Congratulations to Chico for completing the Ko’olau Summit Trail in its entirety. He got here due to his commitment, dedication and perseverance.” I finished with my customary champagne dousing. Full bottle. This man is truly an inspiration. Always ready with an off-color joke, positive attitude and unbridled energy on and off the trail. Truly fun company and a good friend. I also believe at 67 years young, he is the oldest person to have finished the KST. On New Year’s Eve to boot. Major props.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Going down the gem of a ridge hike, per Stuart Ball. I’m not sure that applies to night time conditions. It was fitting that we started in the dark on a ridge and ended the next day in the dark on a ridge.

Aiea Ridge Trail

As soon as the clock struck midnight, the aerial fireworks on the West side picked up in terms of frequency and intensity. The 105,000 pounds of illegal fireworks that was seized, failed to put any noticeable dent in the unrestrained orgy of pyrotechnics of every shape, size and form. You can’t put the toothpaste back into the tube.

All pau

We ended our hike on the paved street of Aiea Heights Road on New Year’s Day 2024. Post hike meal was a stick of butter for one special person. The rest of us got cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches and pork adobo courtesy of Jasmin and Lilia. We also got a free newspaper thrown to us and we don’t even live in the area.

GPS Tracks

Our unexpected and unplanned 24-hour hike that spanned New Year’s Eve 2023 and New Year’s Day 2024 covered over 14 miles with a solid group that saw Chico connect the KST dots at the finish line. Thanks to the group for the most part that stuck together on the extremely taxing hike in more ways than one. Nobody complained. Everybody helped each other out. Outstanding teamwork. Congrats again to Chico for one of the most memorable KST finishes in recent memory. I was glad as well to complete my 17th finish of the KST at the same time.

Postscript

We all gathered to have a proper celebration of Chico’s KST accomplishment the next day at his house. Thanks to everybody that came out to party the night away. Group photo left to right: Jasmin, Orion, Ferlino, Roger, Justin, Rose, Groot, Chico, Amber, Lilia, Xena, Quan, Lilyn, Akira, Aida, Jen, Tessa, Mari, Aileen, Chris, and myself.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Amber Fonte, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Ferlino Carinio, Orion Satori, Roger Schiffman, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We spent Veteran’s Day weekend with veterans and non-veterans to help a friend finish the KST.

Jeep Road

Mahalo to Jimell and Mona for driving us up the road that was filled with cows and a solitary hiker.

Poamoho Trail

Stepping foot on what used to be known as the marsh trail until it was improved by the Civilian Conservations Corp in 1934 and renamed it to what it’s called today.

Poamoho Trail

The solitary hiker that we thought we had left in the dust on the jeep road soon caught up with us on the trail and passed us. Who is this guy?

Poamoho Trail

Crossing the small stagnant stream as we approached the windy grassy summit.

Poamoho Trail

We passed multiple Koolau Range lobelia whose tubular flowers were blooming.

Cline Memorial

No views at the summit so we started heading towards the cabin.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Traversing the boardwalk that was installed to limit the spread of invasive seeds to the mostly endemic area.

Poamoho Cabin

Pit stop at the oldest cabin on the KST for water and where we met up again with the hiker on the trail who turned out to be a cool guy named Eric. He was planning on hiking all the way to Manana but the inclement weather changed his mind.

KST

Using the trail that was blasted, chipped and dug out of the mountainside during the years of 1933-1936.

KST

Chico stepping through one of many gates on the trail that serves to allow passage to humans but not feral animals. Is there a difference?

KST

Traversing over one of many landslides on the trail that have long been weathered by footsteps and plant growth.

KST

Eric soon had his fill of the cloud soaked trail and turned back.

KST

The clouds were fighting with the views. The suspended water droplets were winning.

KST

Following the fence line that was installed to prevent feral ungulates from decimating the endemic fauna and flora.

KST

The Ko’olau Goose was receiving some unwanted or wanted attention.

KST

Looking ahead to the Waikane-Waiahole Junction.

KST

Life imitating art.

KST

The girls hugging the cliff as they made their way on the trail.

Schofield-Waikane Summit

We took lunch at the 2,360′ socked in clearing where we were denied views of the four undeveloped valleys. Rain, rain, go away. The nursery rhyme didn’t seem to work in the mountains.

KST

Chris pointing out the many false holes that pocketed the trail.

KST

Taking the high road as we split from the junction as the other trail drops down to Waikane Valley.

KST

Crossing over the well trodden landslide area.

KST

A snail on its last slimy trail? This particular unshelled gastropod was looking for a calcium fortress in all the wrong places.

KST

Contouring on the Leeward side of the mountain.

KST

Pushing through the corridor of congested uluhe ferns on the trail.

KST

Following the fence line down in the dark.

Tree of Life

Lack of daylight forced us to make camp in the wind blasted meadow that had everybody struggling to pitch their tents as the strong winds coupled with darkness pierced by our headlamps made a usual task extraordinary. On top of that, somehow my stake bag got lost and lucky I was camping with CB that had his knife and carved wooden stakes out of his hiking stick. To make matters more interesting, it started to rain on our parade as well which made us setting up our tents more urgent if we wanted to stay more dry than wet.

Tree of Life

Chico turned on his burner to stay warm and also added extra ventilation to his tent.

Tree of Life

Day 2 – Saturday November 11, 2023
Waking up the next morning to the illuminated lights from the central plain.

Tree of Life

Pictures with the vertical and horizontal Japanese Sugi Pine Trees. Yes that is a tree and not a bush behind us. We broke down camp as the winds persisted in keeping us company.

KST

It was a chore just to get out of the wind tunnel and back onto the trail. Any lighter and some of us would have been Mary Poppins.

KST

Walking on the trail that seemingly interrupted the flow of uluhe ferns that cascaded down the mountainside.

KST

Finally getting a break in the views.

KST

Approaching the small cut in the mountains.

KST

Passing the notch which I assume to be man-made much like the earlier notch after Poamoho.

KST

Dropping into the patch of Japanese Sugi Pine Trees under the shadow of Waiahole Summit.

KST

Walking amongst the moss covered red-cedar trees which are considered the national tree of Japan.

KST

We left Camp Rusty and climbed our way back to the ridge line.

Kipapa Summit

Where tomato becomes tomatoe. KST to KSRT.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The trail soon followed the ridge line instead of meandering throughout the mountains.

KSRT

Enjoying expansive views of the Windward coastline and valleys.

KSRT

Picking our way through the ankle biters, shin hitters and false holes on the trail.

KSRT

Crossing over with verdant views of the meadows, valleys and peaks.

Waiawa Gap

Taking a breather at the gated fence line.

Waiawa Gap

Descending into the gap.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing out of the gap.

KSRT

To bee or not to bee. The idea of whether is it better to live or to die. In this case for the honeybee, quite relevant.

KSRT

Mountain views for days.

KSRT

Back to our regularly scheduled program of hiking.

KSRT

I don’t know if I was giving the signal to land or to cook lunch. This was roughly the same spot where Doug Ross was plucked from the mountains and flown back to sea level.

KSRT

The hills had hills.

KSRT

Chris going through the tree tunnel and dropping off the ridge to the meadow below us.

The Corner

Much like salmon spawning, we went upstream to collect water from the creek.

The Corner

It was another deja vu moment as we all struggled to climb out of the wind swept meadow.

KSRT

Rounding the landmark ‘ohi’a tree. No plucking of the flowers, we don’t need any more rain on our parade.

KSRT

Descending down the ridge with the expansive overlook of the ancient ahupua’a, divisions of land which ranged from the mountain to the ocean, which was meant to sustain the local population and excess was for tribute.

KSRT

Passing the Windward views as we made our way to the final terminus on the trail.

Manana Summit

#20 – My customary champagne celebratory dousing of Aileen who had just finished her last section to put all the pieces together to complete all 52 miles of the Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST). Congratulations!

Manana Summit

Group photo at the 2,660′ knob. Chris made another pot of saimin which he shared with us at the top.

Manana Summit

Leaving the summit for what Stuart Ball calls “the best of the ungraded Ko’olau ridge trails.” I would have to respectfully disagree.

Manana Trail

Golden hour.

Manana Trail

Our last group photo as the sun slowly sank below the horizon, plunging the trail into darkness.

Manana Trail

Chico testing out the Uluhe bedding on the trail for potential camp spots.

Manana Trail

We interrupted a couple in their pitched tent on one of many false summits. I hope that’s all we interrupted.

All pau

We got out from the trail a little past midnight. Sorry that my banged up knee kept everybody up past their bedtime. Post hike meal was served on site from Teddy’s Burgers courtesy of Aida, Ferlino and Jasmin and a colony of feral cats. Congrats again to Aileen for finishing the KST and the group for another memorable hike that covered over 17 miles through the mountains.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, 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.

Our camping weekend was a working case of what can go wrong and right at the same time.

Trailhead

Met up with Amber, Doug and Thomas in the cat village at the top of Pacific Palisades. My original group of five had shrunk to two and Amber’s group had shrunk to two as well, and they were supposed to have started from Poamoho. Two groups passing in the night. In the end, we decided to combine our groups, which turned out to be fortuitous in the end. I also gave fair warning that I had some bad food and that might compromise my already slow pace, which would manifest itself later in the weekend.

Manana Ridge Trail

Rolling off the bike ramp. Imagination can take you a long way. And then cardio reality hits

Manana Ridge Trail

The most dangerous part of the trail.

Manana Ridge Trail

Adjusting and organizing at the picnic shelter.

Manana Ridge Trail

Welcome to the jungle. Uluhe jungle.

Manana Ridge Trail

The start of the rolling hills and false peaks.

Manana Ridge Trail

Rain showers at mile marker 3.5. Can it get any better?

Manana Ridge Trail

It can. The rain paused in watering the mountains.

Manana Ridge Trail

Steady grind in the mountains. One foot in front of the other.

Manana Ridge Trail

Watching random waterfalls flowing in the distance.

Manana Ridge Trail

Is this the last false peak?

Manana Summit

Group photo at the cloudy and rainy knob. Just another day in the mountains.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the 2,660′ summit for greener pastures.

Corner

Sliding our way down to the creek.

Corner

Thomas filtering water from the upper part of the muddy creek.

Corner

Some in the group didn’t need water or perhaps the thought of drinking mud and bug strained H20 wasn’t appealing.

KSRT

Back on the cloud soaked ridge line.

KSRT

Inching along.

KSRT

Are we having fun yet?

KSRT

We finally got a postcard worthy view.

KSRT

Passing through a small meadow in the mountains.

KSRT

Doug coming around the trail with the background views still holding.

KSRT

A bush of mountain naupaka flowers on the trail, these common endemic half flowers are found only on Oahu and Kauai.

KSRT

Going down on the trail section that has eroded over time. Hence, the webbing.

KSRT

Panoramic valley view.

KSRT

Talking shop in the mountains.

KSRT

This would be a nice place to camp. Be careful what you wish for.

KSRT

Somebody is looking for Olomana. No pointing allowed on this hike.

KSRT

Hiking on the ridge with the prominent Kualoa Ridge in the background.

KSRT

We need to have a meeting of the minds. Doug was rather extremely exhausted and options were discussed. Camp and rest. Return back to where we had started. None of them seemed feasible, so the call was made. I also got a text from CJ, our backup pickup at Poamoho, who advised me that the lock combination didn’t work. Fly in the ointment. Glad we found out sooner than later.

KSRT

Hello. This is Doc Brown. I need a ride. Back to the future.

KSRT

Where’s your DeLorean? In the shop. You guys want a ride down too? No, we are staying put. Yes, we know it gets cold and we have shelter, food and water. Thank you for the offer.

KSRT

Kudos to the skill of the chopper pilot that landed on the postage stamp sized spot to get Doug back to his warm bed tonight.

KSRT

And then they were three. Good night from Camp Ginger.

KSRT

Day 2
We had a lot of ground to make up as the unfortunate turn of events had put us back 4-5 hours from where I had originally wanted us to be today.

Waiawa Gap

Making our way down the cloud soaked mountains.

Waiawa Gap

Sunrise in the mountains.

Waiawa Gap

Hiking on the edge.

Waiawa Gap

Slippery climb up = taxing cardio.

Waiawa Gap

The clouds started to break apart, to give us some views worth hiking for.

Waiawa Gap

Taking a well-deserved break at the gated fence to enjoy the morning mountain views.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing out of the gap.

KSRT

Hiking into the clouds. Mother Nature can be so temperamental at times. Take what you can.

KSRT

Enjoying the last of the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail section.

Kipapa Summit

Where tomatoe becomes tomato.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Sliding our way down the soft and spongy ground.

KST

Walking in the clouds as the sounds of civilization punched its way through the clouds.

KST

Passing through the scented Japanese Sugi Pine Tree Grove.

Camp Rusty

Group photo at the planned camping spot which is also the site of the former Kipapa Cabin.

KST

We passed under the shadow of Waiahole Summit as we crossed through the man-made notch.

KST

Meandering our way through the mountains.

KST

Thomas going over the selfie stick fence junction.

KST

Approaching the emerald depression where a certain tree is growing parallel to gravity.

KST

Rounding the bend.

Tree of Life

Thomas and Amber in front of the horizontal growing Japanese Sugi Pine Tree. It gets bigger every time I visit this magical place.

KST

If you haven’t slept on a bed of tree moss, you haven’t lived.

KST

Pulling our way up on the fence line with Windward views at our back.

KST

Contouring for daze.

KST

Going over the second fence junction.

KST

Amber coming around the last “tricky” junction, easier from our direction to find it.

KST

The trail for the most part contours on the Leeward side with ample Windward views to keep us motivated.

KST

Thomas going around the trail with the Waianae Mountain Range in the background.

KST

Amber crossing over one of the biggest landslides on the trail.

KST

All smiles as we popped out on the Windward side which meant we were pretty done with the contouring part of the trail.

KST

Finding our way down to the bottom trail.

KST

Are we there yet?

KST

Looking back at the peak of Pu’u Ohulehule, that is privately owned. Believe it or not!

Schofield-Waikane Summit

Group photo at the 2,360′ spot that also marked Thomas’s completion of the KST. Congratulations! Champagne is waiting at the car. We also asked Doug who was presumably well-rested from his recovery, to check the gate lock for us.

KST

Hiking on the runway of a trail. Or at least that’s what somebody said.

KST

No feeding of the Ko’olau Goose. However, drone flying is permitted.

KST

Hello? Yes, I would like to order a working gate lock. If my request is granted, I promise to stop pointing at Olomana.

KST

Enjoying what daylight we had left as the sun began to set. Doug also had mentioned that he had gotten ahold of somebody at DLNR to hopefully come out and change the locks. If for some reason, the lock could not be changed or opened, I suggested Plan B, which was to stay overnight at the cabin.

KST

Hiking by headlamps. Doug also confirmed that the lock was changed and the combination worked as it should.

KST

Passing through the gated notch.

KST

Back on the fence line.

Poamoho Cabin

Just a quick stop to filter water since Plan B was no longer needed.

Poamoho Cabin

Obligatory log entries.

Cline Memorial

It was also my KST finish as well. #16 in the books.

All pau

Many thanks to Cary for picking us up despite the late hour and driving us down the dark jeep road. Also a big mahalo to Aileen who was waiting down at the gate for us with food and drinks from McDonald’s and took us to our cars in Pearl City. Glad you didn’t come on the hike after all!

GPS Tracks

Our memorable camping hike covered 17.10 miles, always get different mileages when I do the same route. Go figure. This weekend proved that everything happens for a reason. It started with certain individuals dropping out of the hike for different reasons. Then, my friend CJ told me about the lock not working. Heads up on that one. Doug got pulled off the mountain, thanks to HFD, and he turns out to be the one that called DLNR to get somebody out there at night to get the lock fixed so that our ride, Amber’s husband who drove up the road to pick us up in the middle of the night. And lastly, Aileen who waited patiently for us well after midnight at the bottom of the gate with food and drinks and took us back to our vehicle. Many thanks to everybody that was part of the group and the support that we got during the weekend.

Photos taken by Amber Fonte, Doug Ross, 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.

We spent the weekend in the mountains hiking a section that we usually do in a day. Change of pace. Literally.

Aiea Loop Trail

Day 1
Thanks to Matt for dropping me off at one of the most trafficked hikes on the island in the afternoon. Somebody was running late so I decided to push off on the straight forward trail.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Enjoying the views while I had them from the 2,441′ hill.

Aiea Ridge Trail

I soon passed descending hikers who let me know there were two other hikers ahead of me.

Aiea Summit

Talking to the pair whose original plans were to hike to Stairway to Hell, but the soupy weather dissuaded them and they went back down to the powerline towers to set up camp.

Aiea Summit

The clouds soon cleared at the 2,805′ top and revealed sweeping views of Kaneohe Bay and the Windward coastline.

Aiea Summit

Looking down at our campsite for the night.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Rose soon joined me at the summit and we began our descent down the ridge line.

KSRT

Approaching camp. Now if the rain would just cooperate and stay its hand until our tents were pitched. Thank you Mother Nature!

KSRT

We retired early in the mountains to hear the sounds of voices in the far off distance. Night marchers? Also known as huaka’i po, are spirit manifestations of Hawaiian warriors that have been recorded as marching down from the mountainsides carrying torches and blowing conch shells. Bottom line, best not to mess with them.

KSRT

Day 2
The next day we woke up and looked across the valley to find out the source of the voices, the two hikers who I had met earlier yesterday. Sometimes the physical world can be more scary than the spiritual world.

Waimano Trail

Meanwhile, down in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, Jen and Tessa started off on what has been described as one of the best preserved graded trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) back in the 1930s.

KSRT

We broke down camp and hit the trail with the goal of passing the invisible demarcation line of the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail and the Ko’olau Summit Trail. Tomato. Tomatoe.

KSRT

Hiking on the cloud soaked ridge line, where the views were measured in feet and not miles.

KSRT

What goes down …

KSRT

… must go back up.

Waimano Trail

Jen switch backing her way to the summit.

KSRT

Scrambling our way through the moisture rich vegetation that was getting a steady feed from the blanket of clouds around us.

Waimalu Summit

We gained the boggy summit to be greeted by parting clouds with Windward views.

Waimalu Meadows

Dropping in on the mythical and magical meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo at the relatively wind and cloud free grasslands, an uncommon experience in my books.

KSRT

Back on the ridge line as we left one of the largest meadows on the KST behind us.

Waimano Summit

Where are they? Did somebody rush themselves into a lather by confusing Waimano for Waimalu?

KSRT

Approaching the low point in the mountains marked by a noticeable landslide.

Manana Trail

On another ungraded trail, Chris had hopped off the delayed plane from the mainland and jumped right into the hiking frying pan. So many moving parts on different trails that would join at the summit of Manana.

KSRT

Going down the slippery slope.

KSRT

Alternating between the rut and ridge to get to the summit.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ saddle before Rose took our leave of us due to mobility concerns.

KSRT

Traversing over the landmark landslide.

KSRT

Hiking on the edge.

KSRT

Going up the cardio intensive hill(s).

KSRT

Scrambling up the last big hill towards the fenced ridge.

KSRT

A lot of elbow grease was required to open the rusted gate. Somebody couldn’t wait and climbed over the fence.

KSRT

Following the fence with sweeping views towards our right.

Eleao Meadows

Taking in the “pocket” meadows.

KSRT

Almost there!

Manana Summit

Group photo at the 2,660′ knob. Sometimes you feel like a nut and sometimes you don’t. I was definitely the Mounds candy bar today. The original plan of reaching Camp Rusty below the summit of Waiahole was swept off the table and we decided to stay put and make camp.

Manana Summit

Due to no vacancy, Chris left to make his home at Waimano Summit.

Manana Summit

Trying to decide who got the better spot for their tent.

Manana Summit

We soon got a return visitor as Chris came back to borrow a battery charger for his phone and then hiked back under dwindling daylight hours.

Manana Summit

City lights.

Waimano Summit

Day 3
Chris got a sunrise inside and outside his tent.

Manana Summit

Our sunrise viewing was kept strictly outside. We didn’t have spare tents to burn.

Manana Trail

Going down the trail that I thought I would never step foot on again. That’s what I get for thinking.

Manana Trail

The roller coaster of peaks and valleys and seemingly endless false peaks is why I beg to differ with Stuart Ball’s characterization of this trail as the best of of the ungraded Ko’olau ridge trails. To each their own.

Manana Trail

Working our way through the rutted section of the trail.

Manana Trail

Mountain shadows.

Manana Trail

Climbing up the hill to the gate that marks 3.5 miles left to hike.

Manana Trail

Taking a break at the clearing where Jen rested her back and Tessa rested her foot.

Manana Trail

Documented slip and fall.

Manana Trail

Pushing up the last false peak of the trail.

Manana Trail

When Marco doesn’t meet Polo. Unexpected surprise that Chico came to meet us at the picnic shelter and came bearing cold beverages. What a guy!

Manana Trail

Balancing ourselves across the eroded section of the trail.

Manana Trail

Group photo at the end of the trail where we jumped into Chris’s van and Chico went back home.

Pearl City

We honked the horn for an open house but visiting hours were over, so we picked up our other car and met at Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area to wait for the last member of the group to come down from the mountains.

All pau

Picked Chris up from Aiea Loop Trail, where we drove to the nearby Alley Restaurant to have our post hike meal of oxtail soup.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend camping hike while it didn’t go as originally planned, still covered 13.7 miles with a fun group.

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Jen Odence, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We spent a camping weekend in the mountain and defied the weather predictions of rain all weekend.

Poamoho Trailhead

Thanks to Renato for picking Alexis, Quan, Tessa and myself up and shuttling us to the Poamoho trail. He also managed to finally break in his 4×4 on the jeep road and get a taste of what’s it like to carry a heavy backpack.

Poamoho Trail

Passing the halfway mark, thankful that we no longer have to worry about cannibals. Just have to read about them.

Poamoho Trail

Headed into the gully where we soon passed two other kids who had spent the night at the cabin and were making their exit down the trail we had just come up from.

Poamoho Summit

Group photo at the 2,520′ grassy summit with some of the best views on the island.

Poamoho Trail

Leaving the summit for the boardwalk.

Poamoho Cabin

We filtered water to stock up our water supplies, signed the log book and poked around the cabin. Clean as a whistle.

Poamoho Cabin

I think not many hikers know you can reserve this cabin in advance. But I’m not sure how that would play out in real life. Would a group that had no reservations but were already staying in the cabin vacate for an arriving group with reservations? We had no reservations so we took a group photo and shoved off.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Making our way towards the man-made notch in the mountains.

KST

The group crossing one of many meadows in the mountains.

KST

Hiking on the trail that was blasted and dug out the side of the cliffs back in the 1930s.

Pauao Junction

Looking down at the ridge that drops down into Kahana Valley.

KST

Alexis staying hydrated on the trail. A good practice that would result in running low on H20 later in the day.

KST

Looking back at the lush and verdant valleys separated by multiple peaks.

KST

Weather forecast had shown a 40% chance of rain today. The KST weather in the mountains is always unpredictable and rewarding at the same time it seems.

KST

Tessa petting the last known specimen of the Ko’olau Goose. Looking rather long in the tooth.

KST

Background view of the valleys with the three peaks of Kualoa, Manamana and Ohulehule.

KST

Leaving the fence line and taking the lower trail.

Schofield-Waikane Summit

Quan picked up a leaf hitchhiker that stayed with her for some time. I think she is taking the green movement a bit too seriously.

Schofield-Waikane Summit

Panoramic view of the mostly undeveloped valleys from the 2,360′ summit.

KST

Heading towards the split in the trail that was visibly etched into the mountains.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

Going up the higher trail to stay in the mountains. Taking the lower trail will descend down into Waikane valley.

KST

Traversing over the well-trodden landslide.

KST

Contouring on the Leeward side as we rounded hill after hill.

KST

Taking a break in the mountains. Miles away from civilization. Many miles.

KST

Resuming our contouring below the ridges. Are we there yet?

KST

Hiking by the city lights.

KST

Following the fence line down as it dropped us into the valley for the night.

Tree of Life Campsite

We set up camp in the dark on the grassy slope and ate our dinner in compartmentalized solitude.

Tree of Life Campsite

The bee that proved science wrong, as it hung outside her tent all night after being swatted by Alexis. Science claims that insects do not possess such high order intelligence to harbor anger or vengeance. I guess this bee was literally just dying to prove that theory wrong.

Schofield-Waikane Campsite

Meanwhile, a couple clicks over, Chris had finished work and ran up the Schofield Waikane trail to camp at the summit for the night.

Tree of Life Campsite

Day 2
Catching the cloudy sunrise the next day from our campsite.

Tree of Life Campsite

Tessa standing in front of the horizontal leaning sugi pine tree that seems to be slowly creeping up the hill.

Tree of Life Campsite

Some wanted coffee for breakfast. No water. No coffee. Time to break down camp and take our leave.

Tree of Life Campsite

Climbing out of the valley to regain the trail.

KST

Looking out towards the other and older mountain range of Waianae.

KST

One of our last of multiple fence crossings on the trail.

KST

Hugging the uluhe carpeted mountain as we made our way on the trail.

KST

Picking our way through the trail riddled with false holes and shin and ankle high branches and roots.

KST

When you got to drink, you got to drink. Can you filter water from the leaves?

KST

Arriving at the notch that marked our descent down into the grove of pine trees.

KST

Looking back at Quan and Tessa at the notch.

KST

Walking through the grove of Japanese sugi pine trees under the shadow of Waiahole summit.

Camp Rusty

Taking a break at the former site of Kipapa Cabin.

KST

Climbing our way out of the grove of pine trees.

Kipapa Summit

Where the KST becomes the KSRT.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Chris the goat, soon caught up with the group on the trail.

KSRT

We left the mountain meandering behind us, as it was just straight up hiking on top of the mountains from this point on.

Waiahole Middle

Chris expressing his feelings about this windward ridge that we had climbed over five years ago.

KSRT

The walking wounded.

KSRT

Looking down at another cabin off the KST sitting on a spur ridge. Hmmm.

KSRT

The trail soon turned into a cardio rollercoaster. Big hills. Up and down. Repeat until finished.

KSRT

Chris going through the gate that leads to the saddle known as Waiawa Gap.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping down into the saddle.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing our way out of the low point. No bees reported.

KSRT

Hills. Let’s take a break. Drink water. Don’t tell me what to do.

KSRT

More hills.

KSRT

Looking down at a broken spectre, a natural phenomenon that happens when one is looking down from a misty ridge with the sun behind their back.

KSRT

Quan pointing to our water filling station in the mountains.

KSRT

Alexis passing through the tree tunnel that leads down to the creek.

The Corner

For some of us, reaching the water source couldn’t have come soon enough.

The Corner

The rest of us making our way towards the upper creek, one soggy step at a time.

The Corner

Replenishing our water stocks. With increased water comes increased weight.

The Corner

What’s for lunch? Saimin with chicken is what’s for lunch.

The Corner

Sun worshippers.

The Corner

Climbing out of the creek bed with water in our tummies and on our backs.

KSRT

Hiking up and around what can be a confusing junction when socked in. Not so much today.

KSRT

Tessa hanging a shaka towards the cloud frosted peaks and valleys we had left behind.

KSRT

Yes, I know I can take my own shadow picture. But I would like you to take it. Aye aye Captain.

KSRT

Chris catching a clear and cloudy view of the corner.

KSRT

Tree hugger.

Kaneohe Bay

Looking out towards the largest sheltered body of water in the islands.

KSRT

Hiking towards our last summit of the weekend.

KSRT

Heading to the summit. That is the summit. I don’t care what you say.

KSRT

Scrambling the last few hundred feet to the top.

Manana Summit

A rather dramatic expression of how we all felt after arriving at the 2,660′ summit that marked the end of our KST weekend traverse.

Manana Summit

Our last group photo after somebody regained their composure from overacting.

Manana Trail

Catching the golden hour as we left the massive knob.

Manana Trail

Shedding light on our way down the 5.5 mile ridge trail.

Manana Trail

Looking back at the mountains as the moon began its rise towards the heavens.

Manana Trail

The arachnid burning the midnight oil as it instinctually weaved its geometric web, that is considered a engineering marvel that serves as its home and a food trap.

Manana Trail

A big thanks to Art who had hiked up the trail to meet us with pork hash and assorted drinks. I think I want a soda. Oh, was I thinking out loud?

Manana Trail

Wakey wakey, eggs and bakey. Don’t hit your head on the way down from the bench.

Manana Trail

Looking up towards a moon ring, which is another atmospheric optical phenomenon that is formed by moonlight being refracted from suspended ice crystals. There was a planet in the orbit of the moon ring, not sure if it was Mars or Venus. I flunked astronomy.

All pau

We came down to the trailhead in the dead of night with no chance encounter with the resident homeless who supposedly likes to get too close for comfort.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend hiking covered almost 17 miles through the country country of the Northern KST with fun company.

Post hike meal was at the Pearl City Drive-Thru McDonald’s. That’s what happens when you finish late. You can’t be picky about your food choices.

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

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

It was a reunion of sorts in the mountains as I haven’t hiked with Alexis in over seven years. Her personality hasn’t changed for good or bad.

Trailhead

Who let the dogs out? The hunters. The age-old question has finally been answered, never mind the Baha Men.

Trailhead

The cats let themselves out.

Trailhead

Somebody got confused about the meeting place. Not once. But twice. We finally all got onto the trail after one of us got hello checked by the resident homeless while using the bathroom.

Manana Trail

Let’s follow the hiking sign, shall we? And let’s try not to get spooked by the cloud of screaming parrots. Somebody please find them a zoo!

Manana Trail

Standing on the bench to see the sunrise. Somebody wanted to sit down.

Manana Trail

Waiting to offer Roseann assistance if needed coming over the narrow cliff. Or maybe just to laugh at her if she fell. I think more the latter.

Manana Trail

Roseann passing under the bent arch. A precursor of things to come. Old age and all.

Manana Trail

Group photo at the gate. Two more miles to go!

Manana Trail

Passing through the tall grass and uluhe ferns. Scratch city.

Manana Trail

First aid clinic in the mountains. One of the million uses for duct tape.

Manana Trail

All fixed up and ready to go!

Manana Trail

Eating away at the last mile before the summit.

Manana Trail

Almost there!

Manana Summit

Group photo at the somewhat socked in 2,660′ knob. Luckily the winds soon blew the clouds away.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit for greener and overgrown trails.

KSRT

Windward views to the left and Leeward views to the right.

KSRT

Looking straight down Eleao Windward and neighboring Kalahaku Teeth, two of the hardest hikes I’ve done to date.

KSRT

Passing Eleao Meadows as we followed the fence line.

KSRT

The gate soon spit us out onto the grassy slope with commanding views of the mountain range and surrounding areas.

KSRT

Jason not letting the gate hit him where the sun don’t shine.

KSRT

Coming down in a controlled descent on the soft under footing, more or less.

KSRT

What a view!

KSRT

Back on the ridge line.

KSRT

Looking down into Waihe’e Valley and points beyond.

KSRT

Hills for daze.

KSRT

Roseann passing the landslide section before dropping down into the saddle summit.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit.

Waimano Summit

Somebody had to get their obligatory shoefie picture in somehow against the backdrop of Waihe’e Valley. Jason?

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle.

KSRT

Traversing the seemingly serpentine ridge line.

KSRT

Up and down. Up and down. You get the picture.

KSRT

Views for daze.

Waimalu Meadows

Approaching the large grassy field under the shadow of the flat topped peak.

Waimalu Meadows

Roseann on the ridge looking out to Waiahole, Ohulehule, Manamana and Kualoa ridges.

Waimalu Meadows

The meadow, The myth, The legend. Group photo in the oasis in the mountains that was unusually calm and clear. No complaints from the peanut gallery.

Waimalu Meadows

Trudging our way up the spongy hill to higher ground.

Waimalu Meadows

Crossing over the connecting ridge to more spongy ground.

Waimalu Meadows

Leaving the mythical spot behind us as we slowly grinded our way to the top.

Waimalu Summit

Roseann standing on the grassy summit.

Waimalu Summit

Leaving the summit for more rolling hills.

KSRT

Back on the edge. The cliff edge.

KSRT

Aileen making her way up against the Windward backdrop.

KSRT

The hills have hills. Never ending.

KSRT

Are we there yet?

KSRT

Dropping down the grassy slope. Whichever way it takes to get there.

KSRT

Alexis looking back at the mountain range we had just partially traversed.

KSRT

Approaching the power line tower on the ridge line, signaling that we were close to the summit.

KSRT

Looking out as the sun made its last call over the peaks and valleys.

Aiea Summit

Our last summit group photo at 2,805′ elevation.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Climbing our way down from the power lines tower and onto the trail.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Setting the tone for the rest of the trail. Hiking in the dark until my batteries died. My cuss words didn’t die out. Just like the Energizer Bunny.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Hiking by the city and highway lights. Somebody rolled their ankle pretty bad on the trail. Thankfully it was mere moments from the trailhead. Need a hand? How about a hiking stick?

All pau

We were all plumb tuckered out from our long day and night in the mountains. Some more so than others. Luckily for somebody, there was a nearby fire hydrant.

Drive-thru

Thanks to Richie for picking us up and feeding us shakes, sodas and chicken nuggets in the back of a speeding truck. Good eats. Good times.

GPS Tracks

Our 14.3 mile hike was blessed with good weather, spectacular scenery and great company. Fun times.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Alexis Catarina, Jason, Roseann Fai 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.