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.

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.

We spent a blustery weekend in the mountains to help each other cross the KST finish line. Photo by Art Young.

Poamoho Trail

Thanks to Darryl and Edgar for shuttling and driving Art, Barry and myself from Manana to Poamoho. Much appreciated guys.

Poamoho Trail

Somebody has been hard at work on fixing the trail.

Poamoho Trail

Rope? We don’t need no stinking rope! Photo by Art Young.

Poamoho Trail

Contouring our way around one of the more massive landslides that changed the character of the trail.

Poamoho Trail

Barry surveying the mass wasting around him. Photo by Art Young.

Poamoho Trail

Lending scale to the gravity induced river of debris that cleared a path straight down to the stream. Photo by Art Young.

Poamoho Trail

Passing through a spot where the trail was cleared of fallen trees.

Poamoho Trail

Crossing the stream which meant we were less than ten minutes from the summit. Photo by Art Young.

Poamoho Summit

The summit views were fleeting so we struck out for the cabin.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Drifting over the boardwalk. Photo by Art Young.

Poamoho Cabin

Brief stop at the oldest cabin on the KST where we filled our water bottles and signed the logbook for posterity’s sake.

KST

Approaching the man-made notch in the mountains that was made to allow beasts of burden to pass through. Photo by Barry Lau.

Pauao Junction

Looking down into the lush valleys and verdant landscape.

KST

Following the fence line. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Barry making friends on the trail. Just don’t feed the wildlife. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Are we there yet? Photo by Art Young.

Schofield-Waikane Junction

Group photo left to right: Art, myself and Barry.

KST

Approaching the split in the trail.

KST

Crossing over the well-trodden landslide.

KST

Pushing our way through the endemic and ubiquitous uluhe ferns.

KST

Appreciating the wide open trail while it lasted. Photo by Barry Lau.

KST

Descending down the fence line with nothing but the wind and clouds for company.

Tree of Life

The horizontal leaning sugi pine tree was doing quite well. In fact, I think it sprouted a couple feet since our last visit. It could have been the clouds playing with my imagination. Photo by Barry Lau.

KST

Making our way over one of the numerous landslides that constantly change the character of the trail.

KST

Art passing through the notch which meant we were home for the night.

Camp Rusty

Making camp amidst the grove of Japanese Sugi Pine Trees and swapping fuel and not stories for the night.

Camp Rusty

Waking up to a typical cloud soaked day on the KST.

KST

Climbing out of our campsite.

Kipapa Junction

Where the trail becomes a ridge. Photo by Art Young.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The cardio climbing commences. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Enjoying the relatively flat sections while we can.

KSRT

Descending down into the gap.

Waiawa Gap

It was just a matter of time before the fence line made its way into the gap. Photo by Art Young.

Waiawa Gap

Taking the scenic way. Translation: The harder way.

Waiawa Gap

Making our way to the middle of the gap.

Waiawa Gap

Preparing for the onslaught of the killer bees. Thankfully they never materialized.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing out of the gap. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Cardio continuation.

KSRT

Sometimes it’s the little hills that give you pause and not the big ones.

KSRT

Crossing another trickling stream. Anybody need water? Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Pushing up one of the last big hills. Photo by Barry Lau.

KSRT

The wind, clouds and rain combined to make it a very surreal moment in the mountains.

KSRT

Barry tunneling through the trees. Photo by Art Young.

Corner

Brief stop at the cold and windy filling station. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

All smiles as the major rolling hills were behind us.

KSRT

Art heading towards our last summit of the weekend. Photo by Barry Lau.

Manana Summit

#16. Champagne congratulations to Barry for completing his last section needed to connect the dots on the Ko’olau Summit Trail. Photo by Art Young.

Manana Summit

Art also celebrated his second completion along with my 13th time traversing the Ko’olau Mountains. No champagne for us. Not even a pat on the back. Just three fingers behind my head.

Manana Trail

Barry hightailed it down the trail while we took our time going down.

Manana Trail

Are we there yet? Are we done yet? Another trail I am scratching off my list. Photo by Art Young.

All pau

Exiting the 16.8 mile trail and putting another camping weekend behind us. Photo by Art Young.

Post hike meal

Many thanks to Aida, Chris, Lilyn, Quan and Tessa for joining us at the nearby park and bringing chicken papaya, Popeye’s chicken and other sides for our post hike meal along with ice cold cokes to wash it down. Barry was there in spirit as well. Phone spirit. Congratulations again to Barry and Art for their KST completions.

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.

It was another deja vu camping hike for me this weekend. Thanks to Bill for taking Art, Katie, Tessa and myself up the Poamoho Jeep Road and for wishing us a dry day on the trail.

Trailhead

Starting off on the wet foot. Have rain jacket, will hike.

Poamoho Trail

Stepping foot on the mostly graded trail that was peppered with small landslides and blowdowns. Photo by Art Young.

Poamoho Trail

Sloshing through the muddy trail. Setting the tone for the weekend. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Cline Memorial

Art trying to figure out the mileage to our destination. Hint: It’s not listed. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Poamoho Summit

The views were noticeably absent on the wind blasted summit. Let’s take our photo anyway for posterity’s sake.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Making our way on the boardwalk, somebody probably wished the whole KST was laid out in this manner. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Poamoho Cabin

The reports of overcrowding were greatly exaggerated. Reservation place cards were on the four bunks. Honoring them was another question entirely.

KST

Our bladders and bottles topped off, we pushed off from the cabin to resume our hike on the Leeward side. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Art on the exposed trail and exposed views. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Preparing to hike on a trail that was blasted and dug out of the mountains back in the 1930s. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Tessa passing through one of many meadows on this side of the mountains. Photo by Art Young.

Schizaea robusta

Art finally found his toothbrush fern in the wild after looking for many years. Now he just needed to find extremi longiores foris dentifricium to complete his search. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Hiking with views. Not a bad way to spend the weekend. Photo by Art Young.

Pauao Junction

Looking down into Kahana and her surrounding valleys.

KSRT

Traversing on the trail pitted with false holes and landslides. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Wrap around views of the spectacular scenery. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ko’olau Goose

No feeding or petting of wild animals allowed. Some people are just born rebels. Photo by Art Young.

Schofield-Waikane Junction

At least we got views at this summit stop.

KST

Heading towards the fork in the trail. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

Tessa mistaking the marker for a resting pole. A common occurrence in the mountains. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Going uphill. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Katie traversing the well trodden landslide.

KST

The trail interrupting a line of native loulu palm trees running down the mountain. Photo by Art Young.

KST

If you look closely, you will find a couple gold earrings that was surrendered to the uluhell overgrowth. Finders keepers.

KST

Meandering our way through the contour trails. Photo by Art Young.

KST

One of many fence crossings that we went over on the trail. Photo by Art Young.

KST

Somebody was asking why can’t the entire trail be like this section. You can ask. Just don’t expect an answer.

KST

Dropping down towards the wind blasted meadows. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Tree of Life

To camp or not to camp? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Tree of Life

Group photo with the horizontal leaning sugi pine tree. If we stayed any longer, we would be horizontal leaning as well.

Tree of Life

We had no wish to camp here, so we picked up and pressed on.

KST

Are we there yet?

KST

We are home! Photo by Katie Bingham.

KST

Is that somebody waving at us? Somebody that is 5’11” and orange?

Camp Rusty

Art demonstrating to Tessa that butane cans are our friends and not to be feared. What’s for dinner?

Camp Rusty

Our camp site for the night, nestled in the grove of sugi pine trees at the base of Waiahole. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Rusty

The audio has been deleted to protect the innocent. Claims of partially obstructed breathing from the male side of the camp were dubiously made.

Camp Rusty

Cinja’s group came down from the mountains to crash our camp site. Group photo left to right: Art, Tessa, Katie, Tess, Somphet, myself, Cinja and Leslie.

Camp Rusty

The group heading towards Poamoho and an unfortunate date with rolling. And not rolling with laughter either.

KST

Back on the ridge line to see … well nothing.

Kipapa Summit

Art trying to be one with the sign. Lean more to the left. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The cloudy start to our constant climbing for the day. Photo by Art Young.

Raindrops keep falling into my mouth

Why wait for the water, when the water comes to you? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

The group making their way down to another meadow and one of my old camp sites.

KSRT

Passing through a landslide area that seems to be slowly being taken over by clumps of white lichen?

KSRT

The spiderwebs on the trail were catching nothing but dewdrops and our faces.

Waiawa Gap

Low clearance trees.

Waiawa Gap

Smile for the camera. Photo by Art Young.

Waiawa Gap

We quickly passed through the once bee infested ridge line to start our soggy hike up the hill. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

High clearance trees. Somebody lost their Garmin GPS in the general vicinity. Need another Garmin to locate the missing Garmin.

Lunch break

Time for some hot food and a hot belly. Both inside and outside. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Hitchhiker

Sorry, no free rides here. Photo by Katie Bingham

KSRT

The ridge line keeping the clouds at bay on the Windward side.

Allstate

Need a helping hand or just a good hand? Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Katie crossing another meadow to stay on the ridge line.

KSRT

It appeared the ridge line was slowly breaking up and dissipating the clouds back into the atmosphere. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Broken Spectre

Only seen by the three of us, the person in the front just got to hear stories about it. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Looking back at the mountainous terrain we had covered this past weekend. Photo by Katie Bingham.

KSRT

Going through the tree tunnel. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Leaving the ridge line for the meadow with the running creek. Running did you say? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Corner

Seeking water in stagnant pools.

Corner

Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s our picture being taken!

Corner

Leaving the creek with our bags slightly heavier but content knowing we would not be dehydrated anytime soon.

KSRT

Art on his throne of mossy ohia trees.

KSRT

The group making their way around the tricky turn.

KSRT

Going down the ridge line. And back up. We should be used to it by now. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Reaching the summit of Manana. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

The group ascending the ridge to join me at the 2,660′ knob.

Manana Summit

Katie tried to capture the steam coming off of Art’s overheated body, but only ended up photographing Tessa taking a selfie.

Manana Summit

Our last group photo of the day.

Manana Trail

Going up and down the 5.5 miles of roller coaster ridge line that can’t come to an end soon enough.

Manana Trail

Enjoying the views from the helipad. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Manana Trail

A big shout out to Chris who met us at the picnic shelter with a bag of fried chicken and a cooler of cold carbonated Coke. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

All pau

Exiting the trail into the Pacific Palisades neighborhood and our ride home. Photo by Katie Bingham.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend camping hike covered 16.8 miles through rugged terrain and jaw dropping scenery when Mother Nature permitted them. Fun times with good friends. Thanks to Chris for taking us back to our cars. Post hike meal at Zippy’s. The nearby Popeyes was sorely tempting, but we just had chicken as our appetizer. Next stop was Zippy’s after all.

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.

Team BASK had its rare meet up in the mountains this weekend. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trailhead

Mahalo to Edgar for driving Analyn, Bill, Shirley and myself up the bumpy jeep road. No cows sighted this time around.

Poamoho Trail

Passing through the barriers that filtered only two legged hikers onto the trail.

Poamoho Trail

Heading into the gulch with a trickle that was barely passable as a stream.

Poamoho Trail

Isolated pockets of still flowering lobelia punctuated the trail on our approach to the windswept grassy hump.

Poamoho Summit

Group photo at the 2,520′ summit, where I also discovered one of my slippers had popped out of my backpack. Not again.

Poamoho Summit

The views did not disappoint as did the winds. It was blowing hard at the summit.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Sheltered from the winds as we made our way on the Leeward side of the trail.

Poamoho Cabin

We ran into a group of bullfrog hunters that were staying at the cabin, where we topped out our bladders and bottles, left a cupcake surprise for the birthday girl and alerted Tessa and company of the situation. Photos and facetiming slowly convinced her of the impending cabin conflict.

KST

Back on the fenced trail.

KST

Analyn hiking out on what I like to call the “runway.” The runway to spectacular scenic views second to none.

KST

Looking back at the trail cut into the side of the mountain. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Pauao Junction

The overgrown trail that goes down into Kahana Valley.

KST

Our pic … Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

KST

… for your pic. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

KST

Hugging the side of the cliff as the winds were really gusting hard in the mountains today.

KST

The winds were so loud that it drowned out YawYaw#2, no small feat I can tell you.

KST

Even the endangered Ko’olau Goose was being battered and stripped of its feathers. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

KST

Analyn approaching the junction.

Schofield-Waikane Junction

Group photo at what is arguably the superior viewpoint of the valleys below us.

KST

Brushing past one of many loulu palm trees that dotted the trail.

KST

Making our way over the uneven terrain towards the split in the trail.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

Blink and you’ll miss it.

KST

Traversing the now well-trodden landslide.

KST

Looking out into the rugged landscape.

KST

Wait, why are we doing this section again? After some of us said one and done?

KST

Bill was doing some kind of obscene dance over Shirley as she was tying her shoes. It’s okay, they’re engaged.

KST

Analyn rounding the bend in the trail.

KST

Following the fenced line down towards the first clumping of sugi pine trees.

Tree of Life

Group photo with the horizontal pine tree. I should work on my camera angles.

Tree of Life

Climbing our way out of the meadows as the winds tried to push us back.

Selfie Stick Junction

Might as well make myself comfortable as we’ll be stuck here for quite awhile.

KST

Passing through the notch as we dropped into the grove of Japanese Sugi pine trees.

Camp Rusty

Three tents made the campsite more comfortable.

Camp Tessa

Meanwhile back at the cabin, Tessa and her group had somehow convinced the other group to camp outside. They partied the night away with my missing slipper that was recovered by Jenn. Happy Birthday YawYaw #3.

Camp Rusty

We woke up after a night of intermittent rain showers to stunning morning views. Chris had already left the cabin with the snoozing and snoring group in the dark to catch up with us.

KST

Climbing out of our campsite as we approached our first of many hills for the day.

KST

Looking back at the Windward valleys populated with ridges and peaks. Photo by Bill Yogi.

KST

Climbing up the steep hill was our morning wake up call.

Kipapa Summit

Where tomato becomes tomatoe.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The trail soon followed the summit crest rather than contouring and meandering in the mountains.

KSRT

Bill traversing the summit trail with Windward and Leeward views on both sides.

KSRT

Getting your head out of somebody’s else arse is a lot easier than your own. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

KSRT

Approaching the gap, which has seemingly lost its cardio bite over the repeated visits.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping down the thickly vegetated saddle.

Waiawa Gap

Approaching the middle of the gap, where we all buttoned up in anticipation of the onslaught of female honey bees with their barbed stingers.

Waiawa Gap

We all survived the non-existent bee attack.

KSRT

Shaka to the sky.

KSRT

The random window openings were always a treat for our eyes. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

KSRT

The goat soon caught up with us. Somewhere around this spot, I found a free drone that I had to give back to its rightful owner at the end of the hike. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Everybody had their own opinion on this trail section, some more obscenely than others. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Never say Never

Team BASK on their last group photo on this section, as three vowed never to set foot on this route again. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Corner

Dropping off the ridge to look for much needed water. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Corner

The lower creek was running dry, so we followed the creek to its source where we found enough standing water to filter and fill our bottles and bladders.

Corner

Life in the creek, some were more active than others.

Corner

We left the cloud soaked meadow with our packs a little heavier from the mountain water.

KSRT

There is always time for another photo. And another. And another. To be continued. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

KSRT

Chris making his way to the last summit of the day.

KSRT

Are we there yet? Are we here?

Manana Summit

The champagne got turned on myself as this hike marked my 11th completion of the KST.

Manana Summit

Drone photo by Bill Yogi of our group at the 2,660′ knob.

Manana Trail

Leaving the summit for the 5.5 mile ungraded trail or as Shirley calls it, the b*tch trail.

Manana Trail

Analyn making her way down from the top.

Manana Trail

Somewhere in the mountains, it was hump day. We were smack dab in the middle of it.

Manana Trail

Approaching the helipad where Aida had hiked up to meet us. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Manana Trail

Thanks to Aida for bringing me a frozen bottle of carbonated goodness. But first, Analyn didn’t let any of the overflow go to waste. Good until the last drop.

Manana Trail

Group photo, left to right: Aida, Chris, myself, Shirley, Bill and Analyn. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Manana Trail

Contact with the fence line. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Manana Trail

Looking back as we closed the gate on hump day ad nauseam. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Manana Trail

Analyn going down one of the steeper sections with the help of a rope.

Manana Trail

Walking through the grassy fields as we approached the picnic shelter. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Nature Walk

Taking pictures as it will last longer. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Manana Trail

Analyn crossing over the eroded section of the trail. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Scared Stoopid

Only one was scared, the others were either too tired or saw the terrifying group of Lilyn, Quan, and Tessa before they could spring their surprise scare.

Champagne Celebration

Another bottle of perfectly good alcohol going to waste. Photo by Aida Gordon.

All pau

Walking out the road to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our camping hike covered 18 miles through the Northern Ko’olau Mountains with good friends and fun company. Looking forward to the next Team BASK reunion, which will probably be in six months to a year. LOL. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse. Clam chowder was finally back on the menu. It’s the small things that counts. Thanks to Quan for dropping Analyn and myself off in Mililani where we had parked our cars.

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.

I was in the mood for another grinder in the mountains. Met up with Art, Chris, and CJ in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in the wee hours of the morning. Photo by Art Young.

Trailhead

Look! Up in the tree! It’s a owl! It’s a rat! It’s just a cat. Call HFD.

Manana Trail

I think Chris wants a bike for Christmas.

Manana Trail

We took a quick break at the picnic shelter. No signs of campers today.

Manana Trail

CJ in the twisted tree. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manana Trail

Passing through the gate. Halfway to the summit. We also saw what looked like workers on an adjacent ridge. Fellow early risers.

Helipad

The KST looked strikingly clear from our flat vantage point. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Manana Trail

Chris striking a pose on one of the many humps we had to traverse. My friend calls this the b*tch trail for obvious cardio reasons.

Manana Summit

CJ at the 2,660′ knob. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manana Summit

Group photo left to right: CJ, Chris, Art and myself. The views were amazingly available today.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The end and beginning of the trails for our group.

KSRT

A flowering lobelia on the side of the scenic cliff.

KSRT

Sighted another lobelia with different colorings.

Eleao Meadows

Passing the small grassy fields made smaller by the fencing. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Leaving the fence line behind us as we went down the slippery slope to stay on trail.

KSRT

CJ soaking in the views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

CJ crossing over the landslide section of the ridge line which soon marked our descent into the saddle.

Waimano Summit

Our last group photo together as Art decided to go down the seven mile graded trail after overworking his leg muscles coming up the muddy Manana Trail. Chris also collected his rubbish from his previous KST one shot hike and had to shed on of his pant legs.

KSRT

Climbing out of the 2,160′ summit with sweeping views of Waihe’e Valley.

KSRT

Back to our regularly scheduled program of up and down hills.

KSRT

Approaching the largest meadows on the KST.

KSRT

Dropping off the ridge line and into the meadows. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waimalu Meadows

“Mythical” and “Magical” are the two most common adjectives used to describe this area.

Waimalu Meadows

We were struck by the fact that the meadows was eerily devoid of wind and clouds. No complaints here.

Waimalu Meadows

When you have no fork to eat your pancit, you fall back on what you got.

Waimalu Meadows

The slow and steady climb to the summit. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waimalu Meadows

Always a lung buster going up the spongy ground. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waimalu Summit

Chris pointing to our destination. Or he could have been stretching out his arm.

KSRT

What Mother Nature gave, she took away. Clouds rolled in and out of the mountains as we resumed our ups and downs on the ridge line.

KSRT

CJ climbing up towards the base of the power lines. Less than half an hour to the summit now. It can’t come any sooner.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the rainy 2,805′ summit. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Heading down the muddy trail.

All pau

We reached the Keaiwa Heiau Park 5-10 minutes before closing. But the gates were already locked. Thanks to Quan for picking us up outside the park.

GPS Tracks

Our 14.2 mile hike covered rollercoaster ridges, scenic and sunny mountain and meadow views, cloudy and rainy ridges. The complete hiking package. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where Art met up with us. Oxtail soup was sold out. Need to hike faster so we can get here earlier before they sell out. Thanks to CJ for picking up the tab. Great hike 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.

We spent Father’s Day in the mountains from sunrise to sunset and then some. Anything for a good time, right?

Trailhead

Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us off in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood to begin our early morning hike. Group photo left to right: Ferlino, Aida, Lilyn, myself, Art and Somphet. Photo by Jasmin Carinio.

Manana Trail

Pounding the pavement for a short time. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Manana Trail

Breaking out into the open flat section with the twinkling city lights behind us.

Manana Trail

No benchwarmers on this hike. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Do Not Disturb

Passing through the second set of camping tents that started by the picnic shelter.

Gentlemen first?

Aida opening the recently installed gate which roughly marks the halfway point on the trail. Photo by Art Young.

Manana Trail

Looking ahead as the ridge line undulated and narrowed to the top.

Manana Trail

Rear views. Currently better than the front views.

Manana Summit

Fleeting views at the 2,660′ knob. Time to move on.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Descending from the summit as we struck out towards the Northern parts of the island. The winds and clouds forced our attention on the ridge as we had no views to distract us.

KSRT

Navigating the tricky turn in the mountains.

The Corner

No stop at the creek for H20. We had enough liquid nourishment to last us for the day. Photo by Aida Gordon.

What would Art say?

What is going on here? Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Keeping our hands and feet on the hilly ridge line as we approached Waiawa Gap. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Aida overlooking the Windward ridges, valleys and coastline. Photo by Somphet Chanhpheng.

Casper

Putting on my best white face in the mountains. There is no political correctness in the mountains. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping down to the gloved one that still lives in the mountains. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Waiawa Gap

Enjoying the “country” views. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiawa Gap

Sliding down the soggy hill.

Waiawa Gap

Hamming it up. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing out of the gap. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiawa Gap

One shouldn’t play with sharp objects in the mountains. A lesson that would soon be unfortunately learned.

Waiawa Gap

Enjoying the views of the ridges holding the clouds at bay.

KSRT

What happens when you shop for your poncho at the dollar store. You need nature’s fan for an additional windbreak. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Ferlino pushing up another hill. Hills after hills.

KSRT

Somphet savoring the rugged views. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Aida and Somphet coming up the ridge line with sweeping Windward views behind them. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Ferlino and Lilyn pushing up one of the last hills. Photo by Art Young.

Kipapa Summit

The point where the hike transitioned from the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail to the Ko’olau Summit Trail. Tomato. Tomatoe. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Contouring to connect back to the ridge line. Photo by Somphet Chanhpheng.

Waiahole

Aida in the thick of the stand of Japanese Sugi Pine Trees. Photo by Art Young.

Waiahole

The group climbing up to the windswept and soggy summit after a brief stop at Camp Rusty.

Waiahole Summit

Somebody was eager to start bushwhacking. Go to town young man. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Waiahole Uka

Taking a hike down memory lane. It wasn’t that long ago and it wasn’t particular happy ones. Some of us are gluttons for punishment I guess. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Uka

Enjoying the cloud soaked ridge before we hit the overgrowth.

Waiahole Uka

Back in the jungle. Time to start swinging. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Man down

When you swing inside instead of outside, you will need the medical attention of a retired nurse.

Waiahole Uka

All patched up and ready to resume hiking. Happy out patient.

Waiahole Uka

The views to the left of the ridge as the clouds cleared up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Waiahole Uka

Working our way through the overgrowth clogged ridge line also made it painfully clear why I don’t use a hiking stick, they are more of a hindrance than a help. Sorry about losing your GoPro Ferlino! Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Uka

The views to the right of the ridge. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Waiahole Uka

Aida coming down the tangled thicket of vines and uluhe ferns. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Uka

Art climbing down the first rope. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Uka

Lilyn coming down the second rope section. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Waiahole Uka

Aida’s turn at climbing down the severely eroded section. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Uka

Pushing our way through the thick carpet of uluhe ferns. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Uka

Ferlino in over his head. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Valley

We slid off the uluhe clogged ridge and set foot in the valley of the lost or soon to be.

Waiahole Valley

Following the trail as we made good use of the dwindling daylight.

Waiahole Valley

We crossed the dam and then it was dam time to turn on our head lamps.

Waiahole Valley

Climbing over, under and through patches of large blow downs. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waiahole Valley

Finding our way out after wandering through the valley on an extended tour. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

All pau

Walking out the road after we were subjected to an earful and then some by a certain valley inhabitant. Thanks to Jasmin for picking us up on the darkened road. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

GPS Tracks

Our “never learn from the first time” hike covered 11.6 miles through hostile terrain in more ways than one with a great crew. Post hike meal at Casa Carinio where we were treated to the neighbor’s laulau. Yum. Not enough to induce a kanak attack, but good enough to whet the whistle.

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.

The mountains were calling and we answered with a weekend camping hike.

Trailhead

Met up with Chris, Ethan and Shirley at the top of Pacific Palisades to start our hike. I guess when you have to park, you have to park.

Manana Trail

Chris grabbing the tree by its branches.

Manana Trail

Synchronized sunrise picture taking. Soon to be an Olympic sport.

Manana Trail

Ethan going down the eroded section of the trail.

Manana Trail

Passing the picnic shelter as mans best friend and the smell of campfire cooking greeted us.

Manana Trail

Shirley at the 2.5 mile marker. The day has just started.

Manana Trail

Your pack is heavy. Your pack is not heavy.

Manana Trail

Apple break. The fruit and phone kind. Photo by Shirley.

Manana Trail

We could soon see the hole for the summit.

Manana Trail

Chris and Shirley passing a dry waterfall chute. Glad the waterworks were turned off today.

Manana Summit

The group at the top of the b*tch trail.

Manana Summit

Group photo by Out of My League, left to right: myself, Shirley, Ethan and Chris.

Manana Summit

Panaromic view from the 2,660′ summit by Ethan Clavecillas.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

Leaving the summit behind as Shirley almost forgot her sweater and somebody’s number.

KSRT

Ethan up close and personal with a Ko’olau Range lobelia. Photo by Chris.

Eleao Meadows

The group dropping down into the wide open grassy field.

Eleao Meadows

Ethan providing assistance in the form of sweater securement. Photo by Chris.

Eleao Meadows

Chris leaving the lush and rolling field. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KSRT

The group traversing the hilly up and downs of the Ko’olau spine.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ lookout.

Waimano Summit

What is that smell? When you got to go, you got go.

Waimano Summit

Leaving the summit and the panoramic views of Waihe’e Valley behind.

Waiau Summit

Who’s on the summit?

KSRT

One of the few times that I have witnessed the meadows so clear. Lucky us.

KSRT

Chris dropping into the meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Shirley striking a pose. Yoga pose.

Waimalu Meadows

Water hole. Scoop. Strain. Sterilize. Is the light supposed to be on? Try again. Repeat.

Waimalu Meadows

The lush and spongy meadows that have often been described as magical and mystical. Something to be experienced in person. Photo by Chris.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photos in the meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Leaving the meadows and hiking up towards our home for the night. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Waimalu Summit

What’s for dinner?

Waimalu Summit

Dining in the clouds. Reservations required. Photo by Chris.

Waimalu Summit

Panoramic view from our campsite.

Waimalu Summit

The sun setting in the cloudy mountains. Magical. Photo by Shirley.

Waimalu Summit

Standing on a spur ridge with the sunrise behind me. Mystical. Photo by Chris.

Waimalu Summit

Turning the lights on in the mountains. Who brought the honey whiskey? Photo by Shirley.

Waimalu Summit

Spinning the glow light fantastic. Without ecstasy.

Waimalu Summit

If you can’t catch the moon at night … Photo by Shirley.

Waimalu Summit

… you can catch the sun at daybreak. Photo by Chris.

Waimalu Summit

Breakfast in a bag. Who needs Starbucks?

Waimalu Summit

Group photo ushering in another beautiful day in the mountains.

KSRT

Time to hit the mountains.

KSRT

The clouds started to roll in from the Windward side …

KSRT

… but were kept at bay by the ridge line.

KSRT

Break time.

KSRT

Back to the hill climbing.

KSRT

The group passing through another meadow. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

The clawing vegetation had claimed my left pants leg. Now I didn’t have a hiking pants leg to stand in. The view was blinding. Time to finally retire my hiking pants. Patches and all.

KSRT

We can see the power lines!

KSRT

Ridge life. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

What are we pointing at?

KSRT

We spotted the yellow bird flying around.

KSRT

Do the electric slide.

KSRT

Making the final push up the last hill.

KSRT

Almost there. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ summit with clear views all around.

Aiea Ridge

We left the summit as Shirley left a silent present behind for some other unfortunate hikers.

Aiea Ridge

The heat and the hills.

Aiea Ridge

Shirley giving the H3 traffic and trail report.

Aiea Loop Trail

A bench with a valley view.

All pau

The heat had really gotten the best of me as I was burning up. As luck would have it, a group was eating at the picnic area. Not only was I thirsty, but I was also a HTMC member. Membership has its rewards. Thanks to Chris’s friend, Joey, who picked us up and dropped us back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our fun camping hike covered 15.7 miles through hilly terrain, grassy meadows, verdant vistas with great company. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant. Their oxtail soup gives Kam Bowl a run for their money.

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.

It was time for another camping weekend. I’m glad we didn’t listen to the weather forecast of rain and gloom. Met up with Chris, Ethan and Shirley in the wee hours of the morning. Somebody needed more packing time. That’s why it pays to start early. Have to adjust for Hawaiian time.

Poamoho Road

Thanks to Ethan’s friend, Kevin, for giving us a ride. Shirley trying to shed some light on the lock. Not very successful I might add. Photo by Chris.

Poamoho Road

We ran across this fool who thought he could outrun a Tacoma. Photo by Shirley.

Trailhead

Group photo left to right: Shirley, Ethan, myself and Chris.

Poamoho Trail

We shouldered our packs, some heavier than others, and began making our way on the mostly graded trail.

Poamoho Trail

Synchronized photo taking of the Waianae Mountain Range.

Helemano Stream

Looking down at the longest stream on the island and clear summits in the distance.

Poamoho Trail

Enjoying the maintained trail before it ends. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Poamoho Trail

Pausing before we start hiking on the un-maintained trail. Fraught with overgrowth, uneven terrain and …

Poamoho Trail

… fence lines.

Poamoho Trail

Chris and Shirley crossing over the landslide section of the trail.

Clines Memorial

Shirley getting the contrast, exposure, framing, and lighting just right. Otherwise Chris may come out darky.

Poamoho Summit

Group photo by Chris at the 2,520′ summit, that overlooks Punalu’u and Kahana Valleys.

Koolau Summit Trail (KST)

We took our leave of the summit and made our way to the cabin.

Koolau Summit Trail (KST)

Passing the Private (PVT) junction. No cover. No salute.

Koolau Summit Trail (KST)

Shirley weeping with joy after seeing her first cabin on the KST or maybe she was just wiping her snot. I don’t recall.

Koolau Summit Trail (KST)

The trail briefly popped back onto the Windward side, affording more Jurassic views of the valley.

Koolau Summit Trail (KST)

Morning dew drops on the ubiquitous uki grass. Photo by Shirley.

Poamoho Cabin

The fence workers had gone home for the weekend. We had the cabin all to ourselves and the other 25 hikers coming up the trail.

Poamoho Cabin

What happens at the cabin, stays at the cabin. Choosy hikers choose JIF.

KST

Following the fence on the Leeward side until we …

KST

… temporarily lost the fence and crossed over to the stunning Windward side of the trail.

KST

Looking back at the contoured trail carved into the side of the mountain. Photo by Chris.

KST

Making our way towards the man-made notch.

KST

Shirley passing through the last fenced gate on the trail. For now. Photo by Chris.

Pauao Junction

Chris looking into the valley. So many ridges and saddles to explore. Photo by Shirley.

KST

The fence workers have been busy.

KST

Panoramic view.

KST

Enjoying the cleared and relatively wide open fenced trail for now. Photo by Chris.

KST

The fence soon left the KST again and continued to follow the ridgeline above us.

IG Photo bombers

We just want our 15 minutes of social media fame too!

Schofield-Waikane Junction

Somebody needs to get with the program.

KST

We left the junction to resume our hike on the windswept ridgeline.

KST

Shirley plowing through the thick brush on the Leeward side.

KST

We contoured back to the ridgeline and saw the Waikane-Waiahole junction ahead of us.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

One leads to the valley. One leads to the mountains.

KST

Chris taking the higher road.

KST

Making our way through the convoluted topography of the Northern Ko’olaus. Photo by Chris.

KST

We were blessed with an overcast day tempered with gentle winds on our hike.

KST

Passing “HMK’s” rock. Which begs the question. Who is HMK?

Waianae Mountain Range

Looking out towards the West side. Both ranges had clear views.

KST

Panoramic view of the rotating view of the valley as we continued to traverse the KST.

KST

A serendipitous encounter with two fellow hikers on the trail, Cisco and Justin. Congratulations to Cisco for completing the Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST) today. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Back on the ridgeline, not for long, as we contoured to the Leeward side.

KST

Build the fences and they will climb over them.

KST

The “rolling hills” of the Northern Ko’olaus have a different and distinct flavor than the trails found on the Southern end of the mountain range.

KST

The fence continued to follow the ridgeline, while we followed the trail that contoured below it.

KST

We regained the fenced ridgeline and followed it down …

Meadow

… and dropped into the inviting meadow that usually funnels the air currents, inducing a wind tunnel effect on past visits. No such conditions today.

Meadow

Meadow life. Failed headstands. Photobombers. If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Chilling with Kikaida.

Meadow

Tree huggers.

Meadow

Leaving the meadow to gain the contour trail. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Shirley crossing over the Selfie Stick Junction. I guess we are going to be here for awhile.

KST

Passing through a cascading carpet of uluhe ferns.

KST

Shirley making her way to the notch. IG photo shoot time.

KST

Mountain yoga. One was more successful than the other.

Campsite

We decided to camp for the night between the summits of Kipapa and Waiahole, nestled and sheltered amongst the Sugi pine tree grove.

Campsite

Camp life. Pitching our tents on the rusted remains of the army cabin. Watching sunbeams shooting through the Waianae Mountains. Eating reconstituted meals and drinking hot coffee. Glow sticking without the ecstasy. Not a bad way to end the day.

Campsite

Honey whiskey and Tylenol makes the tent go round and round and facilitates drunk ranting and texting. Farting and snoring cut through the rustling wind and pelting rain showers throughout the night. Somebody had earplugs. Somebody wished they had earplugs.

Campsite

Good morning from the Ko’olaus. Hot coffee, steaming pho and pop tarts for breakfast. Flooded tent. Somebody needed a demonstration on how to tie her shoelaces. Early morning bowel movement. Pushing and pulling Chris’s tent. Does this look wrong in any way?

KST

Making our way out of the Sugi pine tree grove.

KST

Crossing a narrow ravine to get up the ridge.

KST

Our sunrise for the morning. We couldn’t catch it from the campsite due to the early morning rain. I’m glad the rain went away for our hike.

KST

Climbing out of the campsite.

Kipapa Summit

Group photo at the windswept 2,786′ summit.

KSRT

We transitioned from the Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST) to the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT) after passing the Kipapa Summit.

KSRT

Ethan checking out the views.

KSRT

Checking out a ridge for a future hike.

KSRT

Making our way to the Waiawa Gap.

Waiawa Gap

Descending into the heavily overgrown gap.

Waiawa Gap

Group photo in the notch. Somebody had to mark their territory.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing out of the gap.

KSRT

Grams equals Ounces. Ounces equal Pounds. Pounds equals Pain. A lesson that Shirley would take to heart and her lower back as well. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KSRT

The glove junction with the summit of Waiahole behind us. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

The weather forecast got something right. The winds were blowing hard on the ridgeline.

KSRT

Enjoying a relatively flat lull between the hilly ridge.

KSRT

Crossing over from the ridgeline. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KSRT

Stopping at the scenic spot for a pic … Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

… and assisted bowel movement.

KSRT

Are we there yet?

KSRT

We dropped down into this meadow and found a surprising flowing stream. Somewhat of a trickle, but enough to refill our water supply.

KSRT

Hot coffee and pho in the meadow. Life was good. Photo by Chris.

KST

Leaving our last meadow on the hike.

KSRT

Tree hugger. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Looking at the twin “sisters” of Eleao Windward and Kalahaku Teeth that borders Waihee Valley.

KSRT

Almost there.

Manana Summit

Triple views ranging from Kahana Valley to Makapu’u at the 2,660′ summit.

Manana Summit

The “face” of Manana. Photo by Shirley.

Manana Trail

We still had to hike down close to six miles of the ungraded roller coasting ridge.

Manana Trail

Looking back at the Ko’olau Mountain Range and the points we had traversed. Ethan was speeding down the trail to take a shower. Chris was flapping around like Superman. Shirley was making her story. I was just plum tired.

Manana Trail

Lady in the tree.

Manana Trail

Racing the sun down to the bottom. The sun would win.

Manana Trail

Too tired to rest on the bench.

All pau

Sunset silhouettes. We made it back to our cars under the cover of twilight.

GPS Tracks

Our two day fun filled hike covered almost 20 miles with awesome adventure buddies. It was one of my best camping hikes. Blessed with good weather and company. Post hike meal at Buzz’s Original Steakhouse. Unlimited soda and soup. Not a bad deal.

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.