I decided to do a solo outing today and see how far my legs would take me in the mountains.

Kulana’ahane Junction

The darkness in the valley gave my legs added fleetness as I made it to the sign in under 30 minutes.

Red Hill Summit

Making my way to the 2,237′ top after being rained on for the most part of the ridge climb. Luckily, the rain paused as I summited. Thank heavens for small favors.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Looking back at the Western half of the ridge line that I had just came down.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Quick selfie in the middle of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring around the most famous obstacle on the saddle, the Dirt Triangle. I had startled two feral pigs in the bushes earlier on the ridgeline. First time I have ever seen pigs on the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking down at the original Naval Radio Station that was built in 1942 from one of the antenna anchor sites, the bomb proof building is now known as the Omega Station after the US Coast Guard took it over in 1975 until it was decommissioned in 1997.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the ladder that connects to the lesser known Stairway to Heaven.

CCL Building

I had the top all to myself. I saw a couple hikers descending down the 3,922 metal steps that are now slated to be dismantled as the city could not find a common ground between the various parties involved to save the stairs.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

The rain followed me down the scarred ridge, where slats installed by Ted Calvero and friends have helped to retard the erosion.

MMR

Checking out the Manono tree which has survived largely due to the efforts of Ted Calvero and friends. Before their timely intervention, the tree was being used to pull and lower hikers down and it was slowly being strangled and eroded to death.

MMR

Slippery slope.

MMR

This is the picture of over trafficking by hikers on the ridge line. Believe it or not, most of the ridge was actually flat with vegetation on top at one time. Now it’s a wasteland of deeply rutted trenches that scar the topography. And it’s only going to get worse as the stampede to see the Stairway to Heaven intensifies as news of its impending removal circulates among the international community.

MMR

Looking into Moanalua Valley, the original site of the planned H-3 highway until a court ruled in 1977 that the area was a National Historic Landmark and exempt from any construction.

Kulana’ahane Junction

Dropping off the ridge and crossing the parched stream bed as I made my way back out on the Kamananui Valley Trail.

All pau

I met up with Tessa in the park who was my ride if I had continued my mountain traverse, but she was nice enough to drop off a cold carbonated beverage and freshly baked goods for my consumption. Mahalo!

GPS Tracks

My solitary day in the mountains covered 10.7 miles that was covered with a mixed bag of inclement and sunny weather. Not a bad way to spend the day.

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 went knockin’ on heaven’s door to finish off the saddles for some friends. However, surfing and congestion canceled the call of opportunity for them. Met up with Lilyn and Marilyn at Moanalua Valley Park where we saw shadowy figures underneath the pavilion. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Crossing the first of seven storied bridges that was built for the family of the Damon Estate that used to live in this valley.

Pohaku ka Luahine

Standing nearby the rock of the old woman that stopped the construction of the H3 highway through this valley. We also met the shadowy figures in the light of day that turned out to be Al, Chris, Jimmy and Joy. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Is this the way to Diamond Head? For a nickel, somebody shouted out. I think I have competition.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Stairway to Heaven was locked up. Should we turn around? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Crossing the first of 28 stream crossings. Yes, we counted.

Kulana’ahane Trail

The water levels were remarkably low and somewhat stagnant. Good for stream crossings.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Chris at the #13 crossing after coming through the thicket of hau trees.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Our final stream crossing before beginning our ascent up the spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Al looking at the impressive waterfall chute, even more impressive if it was flowing.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going up the short and steep climb towards the top. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Please read before proceeding. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo left to right: Al, Joy, Jimmy, Chris, myself, Marilyn and Lilyn at the terminus where Lilyn and I parted ways with the rest of the group that went back down the same way. Do we smell?

Moanalua Saddle

Hiking our way to Stairway to Heaven. The less traveled way. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

The start of our crumbly climb up the ridge line.

Dirt Triangle

Frayed rope + chossy rocks = aborted climb. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Dirt Triangle

Lilyn coming up the contour where the anchor tree has since toppled over.

Moanalua Saddle

Clambering over the rocks. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Lilyn climbing up the last crumbly and steep section.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking out towards another dry waterfall chute and possible future hike. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

The poor man’s dirt dragon.

Moanalua Saddle

Checking out the other lesser known stairs across the valley from the first landing.

Moanalua Saddle

Mother Nature is slowly reclaiming the stairs. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Coming up the back stairs with the Waianae Mountain Range in the background.

Moanalua Saddle

Making my way to the top that were teeming with hikers, mostly foreign by their tongues. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Stairway to Heaven

Lilyn on top of the swaying and deteriorating structure that still supports the twin microwave antennas now used as photographic props.

Stairway to Heaven

Group photo away from the crowds.

Stairway to Heaven

Looking down at the soon to be demolished 3,922 steps? There is a good chance that the troubled Honolulu Rail Transit will be completed before these stairs are taken down.

Stairway to Heaven

Talking to the tour guide. I think he charges more than a nickel. Price of living in paradise. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Back and forth discussion as to our three possible exit routes eventually led us down the trail that we both hadn’t set foot on in years. Chicken sounds not included.

KSRT

The splendid saddle views. Unfortunately we were just viewing them and not experiencing them today. Cue in the chicken sounds. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Hiking in the remarkably dry trenches. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Middle Ridge (MMR)

Traffic jam that has been routed away from the Manono Tree that is clinging to life thanks to the efforts of Ted Calvero and friends.

MMR

Looking back at hikers on a rope and rolling rocks.

MMR

Leaving the crowds behind us as we descended down towards the valley. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kulana’ahane Junction

Is this the trail to Stairway to Heaven?

All pau

Hiking back on the valley trail where we met up with some old timers from HTMC and talked story for a spell. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

GPS Tracks

Our incomplete saddle hike covered a tad over 10 miles with mixed fun company. Post hike meal at Big Kahuna’s where the milkshakes are no longer made, but the garlic cheese balls are still on the menu but not ordered.

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.

Bereft of hiking buddies for today, I decided to visit one of my favorite haunts on my own. Rules were meant to be broken. Sometimes, not all the time. I managed to snag an empty stall in the Moanalua Valley parking lot where a constant stream of hikers could be observed heading into the valley.

Kamananui Valley Trail

A harbinger of things to come. A trickle of water down the road …

Kamananui Valley Trail

… that was fed by miniature land locked reservoirs that reflected the forest canopy as I skirted around them.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Getting our feet wet in the shallow end of the road. Never play in the deep end.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Sharing the road with others.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Overflow from Moanalua Stream coursed and eroded its way down the trail as I met up and tagged along with the three iron ladies of the trail otherwise known as “entertainment.”

Kamananui Valley Trail

Joy making her way through the bowed branches of a hau tree.

Kulana’ahane Junction

Crossing the ankle deep stream to the other side of the bank.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Leaving the valley floor as we began our steady climb up the ridge.

Heart Rock

I left my heart in Moanalua Valley, at the very bottom. Shattered and broken into a million pieces.

Moanalua Valley

Looking back into the valley that barely escaped being turned into a corridor for the H-3 Freeway back in the 1970s.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Passing the wild orchids that populate the lower section of the ridge.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

The grass is greener on the other side of the rope. Photo by Gunner SB.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Sugar getting ready to out-run the rain showers that were heading our way as the ridge took on a more eroded character.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Walking in the rain clouds and mud as we made our way to heaven.

Pu’u Keahiakahoe

Group photo left to right: Sharon, Joy, Sugar and myself. We parted ways after they sang a rousing rendition of sugar sugar.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Closed to climbing but apparently not the clouds.

Tripler Summit

Rain, rain go away. I still haven’t learned that nursery rhymes don’t work up in the mountains.

Bowman Summit

I was debating going down the Bowman trail if the rain didn’t let up. It will stop. The power of positive thinking.

KSRT

The rain soon left, but the clouds stayed to keep me company for a little while as I headed down into the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

The ridge line and stiff winds kept the clouds at bay on the Leeward side.

Dirty Slide

Sliding my way down the flank of the ridge, I discovered that a series of mini-landslides had broken the continuity of the trail going back to the ridge line.

Rock Triangle #1

The grass had really overtaken certain sections of the ridge and even buried some sections of the ropes. Pays to pack your own webbing, never leave home without it. Where are those trail clearing crews when you need them?

Lanihuli Waterfalls

Looking across the valley towards the waterfalls cascading down the side of the mountain known as swirling heavens.

Rock Triangle #2

I couldn’t find purchase for my feet climbing down the slick rocks, so I scrambled back up and slapped on my spikes. Didn’t want to be on the six o’clock news.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at the rugged character of the saddle. Never fails to disappoint.

Witch’s Hat

The most storied section of the ridge in terms of “take my picture spot.”

Witch’s Hat

Scrambling down the backside of the last obstacle on this side of the saddle.

Camp Centipede

Taking care not to kick over any rocks and send an errant hundred footed arthropod scurrying my direction as I made my way down towards the power lines and into Kalihi Valley.

All pau

Thanks to Shirley for picking me up and dropping me back to my car, where I was re-united with my hiking “entertainment” group. Post hike meal at Ruby Tuesday, where the dinner theme seemed to be vegetarian.

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.

Janell and I had a slice of Heaven today with a topping of purgatory on the side. Photo by Janell Tuttle.

Trailhead

Stepping foot into the valley that has five distinct forest types and over nine miles of streams. We were just concerned with one particular trail today.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Making our muddy way underneath the thicket of tangled hau tree branches.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Passing the valley trail as we made our way up to the ridge.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

I suppose some folks are like dogs, they have to mark their territory.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Going up one of several sections that have been particularly denuded of vegetation which in turn leads to more erosion on the ridge line.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Passing one of several pockets of people on the ridge.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

You have to get down and dirty if you want to make it to Heaven.

Champagne Breakfast

We just missed the French Toast breakfast with egg and cheese souffle. Photo by Janell Tuttle

CCL Building

Well, since we missed breakfast, let’s go outside to grab some heavenly views. Oh snap.

Stairway to Heaven

Looking down from Heaven. Overcast with passing showers. Photo by Janell Tuttle

Moanalua Saddle

Time to put on the spikes …

Moanalua Saddle

… and the gloves. Not sure if my tetanus shots are up to date. Photo by Janell Tuttle

Moanalua Saddle

Taking the stairs down as the elevator was out of order.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving the clouds behind us as we dropped further down the eroded ridge line. Photo by Janell Tuttle

Moanalua Saddle

Janell sitting underneath the cloud ceiling.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the upper falls that feeds the main falls down in the valley.

Moanalua Saddle

Losing a lot of elevation and gaining back the views.

Moanalua Saddle

Slow and steady. The winds were really rocking the mountains today.

Moanalua Saddle

Leeward side providing Janell with temporary shelter from the gusting winds.

Moanalua Saddle

Checking out the views. Photo by Janell Tuttle

Moanalua Saddle

Janell coming down the pile of rocks that passes for a ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking into Moanalua Valley. Photo by Janell Tuttle

Moanalua Saddle

Janell dropping off the ridge as she contours the Dirt Triangle on the Leeward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking over towards the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving the Dirt Triangle behind us.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking down into one of the crumbly side ridges as we traversed the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Janell contouring on the Windward side, mindful of the drops below her.

Moanalua Saddle

Passing a flowering ohia lehua tree overlooking the H-3 Freeway.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Safe and sound at the summit, overlooking Haiku Valley.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Leaving the summit as made our way down the short and steep ridge.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Looking at the waterfall trickling its way down to the valley floor.

Kulana’ahane Trail

It takes great skill to rope oneself down while holding your selfie stick.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Winnie the Pooh keeps the mosquitoes away.

Kamananui Stream

Janell rock hopping to get back to the trail that always seems longer the second time around.

Kamananui Valley Trail

The truck was not accepting any hitchhikers, just hitchdogs. Woof.

All pau

Congratulations to Janell for completing her first saddle. Here’s to many more saddles to come! She had to rush home to cook for the family so it was an individual post hike meal at Popeyes Chicken. Love that chicken. Really.

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.

Met up with Chris, Chun, and Ferlino in Moanalua Valley to be shuttled by Jasmin to the trailhead. Photo by Chris Bautista

Trailhead

We waited for Anne as the weekend traffic whizzed passed us; expecting oxtail soup, but instead was just graced by her presence. I guess that will have to do.

Kalihi Valley

Panoramic view of the jagged saddle overlooking the valley that was once known for its fishponds, but now home to a colony of rock wallabies.

Powerlines trail

Hammering our way up the powerlines trail.

Powerlines

The hammer had more balance than somebody on this sawed off pole. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up to Camp Centipede, thankfully the tenants were not home.

Kalihi Saddle

Rounding the knob through knee high shrubbery.

Witch’s Hat

Making our way up the crumbly backside. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Witch’s Hat

Coming down the conical shaped rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking ahead to the crumbly ridge line ahead of us.

Kalihi Saddle

Chun had the best seat in the house.

Kalihi Saddle

Humping it over the rock, hiking like it was a Wednesday. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Kalihi Saddle

Chris all smiles after crossing a saddle on a saddle. Photo by Chris Chun.

Kalihi Saddle

Making my way to tabletop rock. Photo by Chris Chun.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling up by branch, rock or root; whatever would safely get us up.

Kalihi Saddle

Approaching the first rock triangle. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalihi Saddle

Thankfully we had favorable weather on our saddle hike today.

Kalihi Saddle

I forgot if I was yawning or yelling. Photo by Chris Chun

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of the group making their way on what I call the Hot Wheels Track, a chunk of earth seemingly suspended above the earth.

Kalihi Saddle

Is this thing safe? Photo by Chris Chun

Kalihi Saddle

Hanging out at the broken wave.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring on the Leeward side of the ridge. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalihi Saddle

Pulling ourselves up the dirty slide. Photo by Chris Bautista

Kalihi Saddle

No views at all up here, let’s check Facebook to keep us occupied until the others make it up.

Kalihi Saddle

Dirt surfing on the saddle. Photo by Chris Chun

Kalihi Saddle

Chun pondering the age old question; over or around?

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Looking towards Heaven as the clouds slowly collected and gathered near the mountains.

KSRT

Pushing up the final steep climb to …

Kahuauli Summit

… where we had our lunch at the socked in summit of Bowman.

KSRT

Shaking off the kanak attack, we resumed hiking on the cloud soaked ridge.

Tripler Summit

What? Nobody wants to do the sun dance? Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KSRT

Chris nearing the second set of power lines on the ridge.

KSRT

Climbing up the hill towards the defunct relay station or is it now active?

KSRT

I guess hanging upside down is not the same as climbing. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Lady avoids being on the six o’clock news. Chris bumped into this visitor who thought this was the way to Stairway to Heaven.

KSRT

This is the way to Heaven, filled with mud and a deeply rutted trail.

Stairway to Heaven

Group photo at the CCL building. Heaven was closed for business. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Stairway to Heaven

Weather conditions did not look too sunny, so the group decided to take the safer route back down. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Moanalua Middle Ridge (MMR)

Leaving Heaven behind us as we dropped in elevation.

MMR

Escaping the clouds but not the erosion and crowds on the trail. At least we got the views back.

MMR

Chillin’ in my own cave. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kulana’ahane Trail

To knock or not knock down? Such is the age old question.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Chun looking forward to hiking four more miles in the valley.

All pau

When you have too much time with your feet, you end up playing hopscotch in the dirt.

GPS Tracks

Short and sweet saddle hike with good friends. When you confuse Salt Lake with Moanalua, you end up eating at Ramen-Ya for your post meal hike.

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.

Ferlino, Robin and myself decided to pay a visit to Heaven today.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Pounding the pavement. What happened to the jeep road?

Kulana’ahane Junction

We ran into Janell’s group who was going one way … Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kulana’ahane Trail

… and we were going the other way.

Moanalua Saddle

Real time weather forecast of clouds on the saddle. Photo by Robin Farr.

Godek-Jaskulski Trail

Ferlino and Robin going up the skinny section of the ridge.

Red Hill Ridge

Pushing towards the top of the rollercoaster ridge.

Red Hill Summit

We all brought our favorite chilled carbonated beverages to the summit.

Moanalua Saddle

Dropping down onto the eroded ridge and leaving the clouds behind us. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Moanalua Saddle

Have hiking stick, will hike.

Moanalua Saddle

The much improved views ahead of us.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the Western half of the Saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

A group of Korean hikers joined us at the top from the valley floor to soak in the expansive views.

Moanalua Saddle

The weather forecast for Heaven looked favorable.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way up on the Eastern half of the Saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

When the Windward climb doesn’t work for you, there is always the Leeward contour. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring on the Windward side with the H-3 below us.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way towards the Dirt Triangle. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Dirt Triangle

Climbing up on the Leeward side. Photo by Robin Farr.

Dirt Triangle

When one hiking stick is not enough. Photo by Robin Farr.

Moanalua Saddle

The weather forecast seemed to be holding.

Moanalua Saddle

There seemed to be less rocks holding this ridge together, as compared from the last visit. Photo by Robin Farr.

Moanalua Saddle

Ferlino climbing up the last “technical” climb up the ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Oh wait, let’s not forget the optional face plant section.

Moanalua Saddle

The view towards Hell.

Ka Hae Hawai’i

When you hike with Ferlino, it’s always Flag Day.

Moanalua Saddle

Panoramic view of the stairs coming and going.

Moanalua Saddle

And she’s buying the stairway to heaven. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking down at the Halawa Amphitheater.

CCL Building

The graffiti angel has fallen from heaven. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Fly by

For those that don’t want to run the risk of being ticketed or put the time in on the trail.

Stairway to Heaven

The couple that was hanging out at the top told us we arrived at the right time, as it was completely socked in before we got there. Lucky us.

CCL Building

Sporting the latest in eyewear fashion, the eyepatch sunglass. May lead to lopsided squinting.

Fly boy

We noticed a paraglider skimming the saddle.

KSRT

Leaving Heaven behind us.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Mingling with other hikers on our downhill commute to the valley floor.

MMR

Ohia trees picture framing the view. Photo by Robin Farr.

MMR

Traffic jam. Passing on the left.

MMR

Ferlino and Robin coming down the eroded trail against the backdrop of the fluted ridges that composes the flanks of the Ko’olau Mountains.

MMR

A possible distant cousin to the now extinct tree-osaur in Kahana Valley.

Bark Park

Who wants a belly rub? Me!

All pau

Nine hours later and we were right back where we started from this morning.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike to heaven covered 10.35 miles through constantly changing and eroding terrain. Great hike with good friends. BOGO coupon dictated the venue of our post hike meal to be at the Cattle Company. We just had to wait over 30 minutes which helped to build our appetite up.

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 decided to visit Hell and Heaven today; I met up with Alexis, Analyn, Chris and Ferlino at Moanalua Valley.

Trailhead

Too early for the chickens. Only the dogs were barking as we started our early morning hike. Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us off.

Aiea Loop Trail

Bench with city light views.

Aiea Ridge Trail

New sign. Summit Trail. No Exit. Advanced. All good to know.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Ferlino crossing the landslide area under spotlight.

Tripler Ridge

Climbing up the steady and steep ridge. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Taking a break at the large, grassy hill top. The dolphin had “swum” over to another branch.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Approaching the power lines which sits at the base of the summit, where the clouds blocked the views but not the cacophony of civilization that floated to the mountains.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail ( KSRT)

Making our way along the muddy ridge, Chris slipped and a branch poked him below his eye. Mountain first aid rendered – Bactine sprayed on and medical tape slapped on. Good to go.

KSRT

Looking back at the rest of the group making their way on the cloud shrouded ridge.

KSRT

The sun was fighting through the clouds.

KSRT

The rest of the group getting off the ridge and contouring around the protected plant enclosure.

KSRT

Peeking around the corner.

KSRT

Group photo on our descent down to Hell where we ran into a friend who was ascending, left to right: Chris, Alexis, Analyn, Noah, myself, Ferlino and Shirley. Can I shake your hand?

KSRT

Chris’s face says it all. We got a view!

Stairway to Hell

The dress was on. The flag was out. Time to take our group photo.

Bunker

Chris checking to see if the tent collection had grown since our last visit. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KSRT

Leaving the chilly haunt of Hell. Which begs the question. Why is Hell not so hot?

KSRT

Making our way to the summit of Red Hill, where we soon …

Moanalua Saddle

… dropped into the crumbly saddle. Rope? I don’t need no stinking rope.

Moanalua Saddle

Comin’ down the mountain. But first take my picture.

Moanalua Saddle

Humping over the saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

The running man. Going the wrong way. Medical tape is not only good for facial cuts but torn pants as well. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up through the tangled and twisted roots that carpeted the ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

The group contouring their way up the Windward side of the ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way to the main obstacle on the ridge. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Dirt Triangle

Alexis climbing up from the Leeward side. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Moanalua Saddle

Crawling our way up the eroded ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Don’t touch that crumbly rock?

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the H-3 Highway snaking its way through Halawa Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

The group climbing out of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the back stairs.

Stairway to Heaven

Not going down the front stairs.

CCL Building

Throwing shakas out at the 2,720′ summit. Somebody needs to get with the program.

KSRT

Leaving Heaven behind us with views of Kalihi and Nu’uanu Saddles to our front.

KSRT

Dropping down from the MMR junction, we saw a helicopter perched on Tripler Summit ahead of us and decided to see if we could reach it before it took off.

KSRT

No climbing today. Read the sign.

KSRT

We briefly interrupted the workers on the power lines as we quickly passed underneath them. Safety first. Mahalo.

Tripler Summit

A minute late and a helicopter short. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Tripler Summit

The helicopter pilot skillfully flew the workers up and down the spur ridges, dropping and picking them up.

Tripler Summit

No, we are not being rescued.

Tripler Ridge

Leaving the summit and the helicopter ride (wishful thinking) behind us.

Powerlines Ridge

We abbreviated the long Tripler ridge by taking the spur ridge down to the power lines, passing an abundance of smashed guavas on our way down.

Moanalua Valley

Making our way out from the back of the valley.

Moanalua Valley

I think we had our fill of California grass on this hike and then some.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Does somebody need medical tape on their butt again? Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

All pau

End of the long road. End of a long day. Somebody needs to get with the program. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

GPS Tracks

Our two for the price of one hike covered a little over 13 miles. Fun day with a great group. Post hike meal at Lilihia Bakery. Oxtail soup tastes better when a dead fly falls out of your eye.

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.

Some folks wanted to be broken into the saddle; so I met up with Ani, Annalyn, Chris and Stuart in Moanalua Valley.

Trailhead

I think it would be nice to ride this road in a 4×4 once in my lifetime. Just saying.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Looking for the Korean hikers that seem to dominate and populate this trail.

Kulana’ahane Trailhead

Is this the way to Haiku Stairs? Group photo left to right: Stuart, myself, Chris, Ani and Annalyn.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Walking underneath the tangled thicket of hau branches.

Awapuhi Ginger

One needs it and the other one doesn’t.

It’s a small world after all

You’re from the same village?

Kulana’ahane Trail

Climbing up the short and steep spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Clear views of the mountains, Leeward and Windward coastlines greeted us at the top.

Moanalua Saddle

Heading towards Heaven. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris giving pointers to Annalyn on climbing up the chossy rocks. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring up the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way towards the Dirt Triangle. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Moanalua Saddle

Some people ( read: girls ) were having another photo shoot in the back.

Moanalua Saddle

The sweet but sometimes tart gift that keeps on poking. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Dirt Triangle

Chris hanging out and waiting for his turn to climb. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Dirt Triangle

Annalyn climbing her way up. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Moanalua Saddle

Say cheese! Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Moanalua Saddle

Stuart making his way up the dirt and rock encrusted ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the mountain tops shadowed by the clouds. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Moanalua Saddle

Ani climbing up the cracked and crumbly ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Striking distance of Heaven.

Moanalua Saddle

Annalyn coming up to the first landing. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Smile! Smile! Smile! Smile! Smile!

Who are you talking too? I hope it’s not that inanimate object in your hand. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the ladder. Short people problems.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving the saddle behind us.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the mountain where the sky and the Earth touch.

Stairway to Heaven

The view from Heaven. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Haiku Ladder

We have arrived at Heaven.

CCL Building

Memoirs of alcohol induced stimulation and perceived warmth lined the top shelfs.

CCL Building

Rocking radar dishes.

CCL Building

Just hanging out.

CCL Building

We are easily amused.

CCL Building

Somebody still has to grow into their wings and halo.

Haiku Stairs

Getting ready to leave the summit as all the photo shoots have been completed. I think.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Making our way along the ridge with Kalihi Saddle on the left. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pu’u Keahi A Kahoe

Panoramic sweep of the Heavenly and Windward views. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Moanalua Middle Ridge (MMR)

Descending down the noticeably empty ridge.

MMR

Making our way down the eroded and rutted trail. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

MMR

Heading down into Moanalua Valley.

MMR

What came first? The tree or the rock?

MMR

We heart the rock. Or is that we miss the heart rock? Photo by Stuart Krempin.

MMR

Hanging off the ridge to get her hands on an invasive fruit. I don’t get it either.

MMR

Passing one of many broken and fallen trees on the path down.

Kamanaiki Stream

Getting off the ridge and back onto the valley trail.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Crossing one of seven storied bridges in the valley.

Kamananui Valley Trail

We just missed the origami class.

All pau

Stuart and Chris doing a CrossFit workout on the trail. When the cardio and climbing just isn’t enough.

GPS Tracks

Our valley and ridge hike covered 9.73 miles. It was a beautiful day to be outside with a great group. Post hike meal at The Alley Restaurant. Everybody ordered Oxtail Soup. Except one.

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.

Today we went to hell and heaven and back. Met up with Chris, Gen, Justin, Khym, and Thessa at the top of Aiea Heights.

Trailhead

Nobody but the barking dogs to keep us company in the wee morning hours.

Aiea Loop Trail

Hiking under the moon light.

Aiea Ridge

The trail was clear for the most part, thanks to the hard work of the HTMC trail clearing team.

Aiea Ridge

Chris taking an exaggerated break at the first landing.

Aiea Ridge

Gen heading up the ridge where the clouds were slowly descending onto the summits.

Aiea Ridge

Hiking in the clouds. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Aiea Ridge

The Flying Filipino. Not to be confused with the Flying Hawaiian. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Aiea Ridge

Passing and posing with the power lines.

Aiea Summit

It’s just a game. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

No view at the socked in summit, so we turned right onto the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail.

KSRT

Brief stop at the protected enclosure for a rare endemic bellflower plant. No budding botanists in our group.

KSRT

We lost a little elevation and gained some views.

KSRT

The bunker to hell.

KSRT

Chris looking out towards the Leeward side.

North Haiku Stairs

Group photo by Justin Hirako at Stairway to Hell, left to right: Chris, myself, Thessa, Justin, Gen and Khym.

North Haiku Stairs

Panoramic view by Justin Hirako. The best stairway view. Feet down.

North Haiku Stairs

Lunch time. The smell of sardines. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Time to exit hell.

KSRT

The stairs have seen better days.

KSRT

We ran into another group that had come from Red Hill. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

KSRT

Cable replaced some sections of the stairs, if you can call them that.

North Haiku Stairs

Leaving the rusted stairs behind. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

KSRT

Looking out towards Moanalua Saddle and the CCL building that sits on top of Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe.

KSRT

Brief stop at the deteriorating geo marker. Photo by Justin Hirako.

KSRT

The crew coming down to the Halawa junction, the overgrown trail from hell.

KSRT

Making our way towards Red Hill. Photo by Justin Hirako.

KSRT

The H-3 snaking through Halawa Valley. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

This section reminded me of the upper Bowman side of Kalihi Saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Dropping down into the saddle. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Moanalua Saddle

Gen and Khym had no problems with this tree.

Moanalua Saddle

Odd foot out.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the undulating saddle. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Moanalua Saddle

The rest of the crew making their way down.

Moanalua Saddle

The relatively “easy” half of Moanalua Saddle. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Almost there. Well, halfway.

Moanalua Saddle

Hiking on the edge. Optical illusion. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Moanalua Saddle

Group photo at the terminus for the Kulana’ahane Trail by Justin Hirako. Too many distractions.

Moanalua Saddle

Time to leave the crowds behind us. We had plenty of time. Gen and Khym decided to continue with us on the trail.

Moanalua Saddle

Headed up the relatively “hard” half of Moanalua Saddle. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Khym testing out the rocks. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Taking a visual break from all the gray, crumbly rocks around us and looking into the lush valley. Colors reset. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing queue. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris climbing up the direct crumbly side.

Moanalua Saddle

Justin decided to climb up the Windward side. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Moanalua Saddle

How’s my hair look?

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the dirt triangle. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back.

Moanalua Saddle

We contoured to the Leeward side of the dirt triangle. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Gen scrambling her way up.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris climbing his way up. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Moanalua Saddle

Thessa making her way up. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Khym testing out more rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Justin climbing out of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Scrambling my way up. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Justin and Thessa waiting patiently for their turn to make their way up.

Moanalua Saddle

Khym coming up the last major “obstacle.” Photo by Chris Bautista.

Moanalua Saddle

Most hikers use two, three or four points of contact when climbing. Khym demonstrates how to use five points of contact. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving all the “hard” parts behind us. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Moanalua Saddle

Just an uphill climb from here.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking across the valley towards North Haiku Stairs. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Moanalua Saddle

What does that spell? Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

It was time to leave our spelling bee class behind us.

Moanalua Saddle

Hiking up the backside of the stairs.

Moanalua Saddle

Group photo by Justin Hirako with Moanalua Saddle behind us.

Moanalua Saddle

Splits and stretching on the stairs. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way up the backside of the CCL building.

South Haiku Stairs

99 bottles of beer on the wall…

South Haiku Stairs

Group photo by Justin Hirako at Stairway to Heaven.

South Haiku Stairs

We left the socked in summit to traverse to the Moanalua Middle Ridge Junction, only to find out that somebody had apparently scavenged the green wooden sign. Sad state of affairs.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Chris going down the socked in ridge.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

The long rope down. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Coming down from the clouds. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Ridge wave. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Catch me if you can.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

The trail, in some sections, are now severely eroded. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Sun in your face. Group photo by Justin Hirako.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

We came down off the ridge, crossed the dry streambed and onto the often missed junction with the road.

Kamananui Valley Road

The long road back to our cars. Photo by Justin Hirako.

All pau

We made it to Moanalua Valley Park under the cover of twilight.

GPS Tracks

Our double stairway hike covered 12.69 miles. Epic hike with a fun crew. Post hike meal was supposed to be at Max’s of Manila. Not Filipino enough. Oxtail soup at Lilihia Bakery. Extra broth to go.

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.

Today’s hike was to wrap up an unfinished trail. Met up with Bob, Gary, Gen and Glenn deep in Moanalua Valley.

Trailhead

We were here two weeks ago but had to abort the hike due to an alleged fallen hiker. Long story short. He didn’t fall. He was lost. Recovered.

Seven bridges

Crossing the storied arched bridges that harked back to a time when missionary families ruled the land.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Walking into the blinding sun.

Pop-Tart?

Crazy good. Not that crazy. Not that good. Not biting. Leave me alone.

Deep in the valley

We passed the valley and ridge junctions and plunged deeper into the valley to continue our hike.

Marker 17

The flat part was over. Now it was all uphill.

Steady climb

The trail cut a swath through the uluhe ferns. No bushwhacking needed.

Steeper

Bob scrambling up the mountain. Some trail sections required four points of contact.

Looking ahead

Clouds spilling over the Ko’olaus. A harbinger of rain or just cotton candy for the eyes?

Humming

The trail was once used by Hawaiian Electric to service the power lines back in the day.

Waianae Mountains

Looking into Moanalua Valley with the Waianae Mountains in the backdrop.

Bottle capped stakes

The trail soon intersected with the Tripler ridge.

Excuse me

A small group of hikers passed us going the other way. We also saw and yelled at some caveman hikers on the middle ridge going down. Running late.

Ohia lehua

Red lehua flowers populated the ridge going up. Don’t pick them. Too late.

Cloudy

Topped out at the 2,760′ socked in summit. No view. Move along.

HECO trail

Making our way down the somewhat steep and narrow ridge. Look! A view.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

More power lines

The ridge leveled and expanded as we made our way underneath another power line tower.

Area 51

Bob climbing up towards the defunct radar station.

Jungle gym

Posing with the undertaker. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Top of the world

Look at the camera. Everybody.

Last scramble

Climbing up the last hill.

Which way?

Group photo at the Moanalua Middle Ridge junction, left to right: myself, Glenn, Bob, Gen and Gary. Photo by Chris Bautista who we ran into at the junction.

Need a hand?

Gen making her way down past the 2,820′ summit of Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe. Look ma, only one hand!

Calling Tokyo Bay

We arrived at the CCL building just in time. Rain.

Don’t forget Old Glory

The original route was to go down Moanalua Middle Ridge. However, Gen’s injured thumb and rain dictated that we seek the shortest way down. All 3,922 steps.

Slippery when wet

Bob and Glenn descending into the clouds.

Hitchhikers

Several hikers, Chuan and the two Eric’s, took our invitation to follow us down the stairs as the rain changed their mind about returning back down the middle ridge. And they had both thumbs.

Hoist house

Stuck in a building with no roof and rain pouring in. Might as well wait outside.

Windward view

The rain soon stopped and we broke below the cloud deck.

Smile, you’re on Candid Camera

Getting used to my picture being taken. At the bottom. Photo by Bob Tyson.

Platform

One of five landings that breaks the continuity of the stairs.

Tagging

Not OK.

H3

The H3 highway generated just as much, if not more controversy than today’s HART when it was being built in the late 1980s.

Valentine’s Day Massacre

The landslide sent trees, dirt and rocks cascading into a small section of the stairs resulting in twisted steps and handrails.

Landslide

The death of the stairs was greatly exaggerated.

Honk if you’re hiking

We could see the cars on the highway and they could see us.

Coming down

The group making their way down to the bottom section of the stairs, only to be greeted by…

Mr. Anderson I presume?

…the guard who was giving us an earful until we let him know that we had an injured person in our party that necessitated coming down the stairs. Note: Stairways to Heaven or Haiku Stairs is considered private property and the no trespassing rule is strictly enforced with round the clock guards and punitive measures being dished out.

School is in session

The gate was wide open. We simply walked out. The gate is normally closed and laced with barbed wire, sharp stakes and holes meant to deter hikers from accessing the trail.

One day

The other stairway. From hell.

1942 – ?

When will the obituary be published?

GPS Tracks

The valley to the mountain to the stair hike covered 7.57 miles. Post hike meal at Ruby Tuesday. What’s in the dip? Bet you can’t eat just one.