We hiked an abbreviated version of the original plan but still put in decent mileage on today’s hike.

Kaena Point Space Force Station

100% ID check in progress.

Kuaokala Trail

Thanks to Aida and Marilyn for dropping us off at the trailhead.

Kuaokala Trail

Making our way on the secluded trail where we only encountered one other soul on the hike who trailed us for a time before turning back.

Kuaokala Trail

Is this the way? The arrow points the other way.

Kuaokala Trail

In memory of somebody’s favorite feathered friend, Mana.

Kuaokala Trail

Pushing off on the wide jeep road bordered with pine trees.

Kuaokala Trail

Hiking up one of many steep hills on the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Jeremy wanted to show us a lesser known spot, some of us went and the others waited at the junction.

Kuaokala Trail

Chico marking the shelter at the top of the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Back to our regularly scheduled program of hiking.

Kuaokala Trail

Chico making a deposit on the Doodoo Rock. Also known as Fin Rock or Amber Turd Rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Group photo on the distinct brown colored rock formation as Jeremy finally came down from his favorite scenic spot.

Kuaokala Trail

Our first contact with the fence line in the mountains. Not to be our last.

Kuaokala Trail

We soon crossed paths with CB who had come up from Kealia Trail to join the group.

Kuaokala Trail

Break spot at the junction where three trail runners were canvassing the area for the upcoming Peacock Flats 50k or 50 mile trail run. No thanks, I’ll stick to hiking.

Kuaokala Trail

The original fenced way to the road was heavily infested with overgrowth, so we took the connecting road instead.

WST

Passing the junction where Kealia Trail intersects with the road.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Are we being tracked?

WST

Hiking up the steep road that was sprinkled with multiple blowdowns to connect to the fenced ridge line.

WST

Trail snacks to keep one nourished. A typical guava has roughly 38 calories packed into each fruit.

WST

Scenic spot of Makua Valley, that was seized by the US Army in 1941 for training and assured the native families that after WW2 ended, that the land would be returned to them. Broken promises.

WST

Hiking up the steep, rutted road while ignoring somebody’s pleas that there was a longer but easier contour trail to the right. Sounds like a Coastie.

WST

All shoes on the geodetic marker “Moku.”

WST

Chico going over one of multiple fence posts as we followed the trail.

WST

Hiking into part of the 685 acres of the Pahole Natural Area Reserve that was established in 1981 to help protect and preserve rare Hawaiian plants, animals and ecosystems.

WST

Making sure everybody stays on the same track.

WST

Switch backing our way up through the hill covered with fluttering ribbons and tinkling tags.

WST

Chris rolling out the kinks in his back.

WST

No worries. We have a Coastie with us in case of contact with any UXO. Oh wait, he’s a Marine. We’re screwed.

WST

Passing one of the largest native snail habitats seen in the mountains.

WST

Another group shot of the valley that are home to over 44 endangered and threatened species of plants, birds and snails. The military lease expires in 2029 and there are talks that the military wants to terminate the lease early. Only time will tell.

WST

Following the fenced trail as it bordered the valley.

WST

Somebody was trying to lead us astray. Somebody failed land navigation, despite doing this trail over 50 times. Wait, it keeps fluctuating like a body count.

Mokuleia Trail

Leaving the Waianae Summit Trail for greener pastures.

Mokuleia Trail

Eating under the shelter, no avocados or oranges for the picking.

Mokuleia Trail

Leaving the Pahole Natural Area Reserve behind us as we closed the gate.

Mokuleia Trail

Walking underneath the swaying pine trees, that were planted in the area circa 1926.

Mokuleia Trail

The girls decided to use the bathroom at the deserted Peacock Flats Campground.

Mokuleia Trail

Is that our Uber? Can it fit seven? Looks like we are pounding the pavement.

Mokuleia Road

Group photo at the mileage marker, only 3.5 miles of asphalt between us and our cars.

Mokuleia Road

Why is everybody running? Where’s the fire?

Mokuleia Road

If you can’t walk, then might as well jog down the road.

Mokuleia Road

Chris in the Barrel. Are you scared? Are you not entertained?

Mokuleia Road

The road soon leveled out, enough of this running nonsense.

Mokuleia Road

Trying to line everybody up for a fly through. Are you drunk? Hit my leg. Not spread wide enough. Scratch the idea.

All pau

Hopping over the drone on our way out.

GPS Tracks

Our walk across the West side covered 11.4 miles with a fun group. Hiking is always an adventure to be had. Thanks to Jeremy for driving CB back to his car at Kealia Trail and Aida for picking the rest of us up. Post hike meal at Jerry’s Pizza where they really do have one of the best cheeseburgers in the island. Forget about Shima’s.

Photos/Crew taken by Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Cristy CM, Jeremy Cannone, Roger Schiffman, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Our camping weekend on the Big Island got postponed, so we did the next best thing. Hiked the highest mountain on Oahu.

Waianae Valley

Thanks to Jasmin and Lilia for dropping us off deep in the valley of barking dogs and broken glass. Somebody didn’t like the rain falling out of the sky and decided to take double secret probationary status instead. Why is it still dark at 0630? 31 more days until winter officially ends and spring rolls around.

Ka’ala Trail

Lights are on but nobody’s home.

Ka’ala Trail

Crossing the surprisingly dry streambed as we made our way on the trail.

Ka’ala Trail

Passing a perfectly good shelter against the rain. The hike must go on.

Three Poles

Sticker envy.

Ka’ala Trail

Chico and Akira scrambling up the first of two rock fragment sections that interrupts the trail.

Ka’ala Trail

Going up the second boulder section was made short work thanks to the bolted ladder.

Ka’ala Trail

Steady climb to the highest peak on the island.

Ka’ala Bog

Standing on the boardwalk that prevents us from sinking deep in the mud that is home to native fauna and flora.

Ka’ala Bog

Exiting the bog as we couldn’t see the radome for the rain clouds.

Ka’ala Summit

Group photo at the highest peak at 4,025′ elevation.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

One would think that your cell phone would have better connectivity near a cell tower. One would think.

WST

Does the pushup match the grade?

WST

No views on both sides.

WST

Mother Nature showing who’s boss in these mountains. The rock fall protection fence is a futile attempt to resist the mountain reclaiming the road that was blasted out of the mountains in the 1940s, similar to the coastal seawalls built in an attempt to retard beach erosion. It’s only a matter of time.

WST

Transitioning from asphalt to densely packed uluhe ferns.

WST

Not out of the woods yet. Still got a stretch of bushwhacking in the third degree.

WST

Hopping over the fence line more times than illegal migrants to avoid the dense overgrowth.

Three Corners

Group photo at the spot with the non-existent views of the valleys of Makua, Makaha and Mokuleia.

WST

The Gloved One looking out over Makua Valley, and still losing pigmentation as well.

WST

We’re too stoned to know what time it is
I’m not swinging through the trail
My hike’s not getting harder
But you’re still my Mary Jane
And you smoke my Marijuana
*poetic license corruption of Spider Man 2 (Toby’s version)

WST

Proof that rats do live outside of Diamond Head.

WST

Following the fenced trail as we bordered Makua Valley.

WST

Group photo with the “parent” valley, whose lease to the US Army expires in 2029. How much did the military pay for the lease that was “signed” in 1964? One sawbuck. One dollar.

Mokuleia Shelter

We dropped off the ridge line and ran into a HTMC group who were having their annual President’s Day Camping Weekend. Picked out a couple of familiar faces that included Nalo Bob and Casper Rorie.

Mokuleia Trail

Leaving the Pahole Nature Reserve Area.

Peacock Flats

Walking underneath the towering pine trees that were introduced to the islands in the 1870s.

Mokuleia Access Road

Pounding the unyielding pavement as we went down the 3.5 mile road to the highway.

Mokuleia Access Road

Chico showing our fruit pickings from the shelter site. Thanks to Ferlino for climbing and plucking the oranges and avocadoes for us. Refreshing snacks.

Mokuleia Access Road

Distant relative of the “hairy balls” milkweed plant. More like “thorny balls.”

Mokuleia Access Road

The boys having their bromancing moment on the heart shaped tree.

All pau

Mahalo to Jasmin and Lilia for picking us up on the other side of the island.

GPS Tracks

Our Waianae to Waialua, rainy to sunny hike traversed 12.6 miles through the Waianae Mountain Range. Great hike with good friends. Post hike meal at Jerry’s Pizza.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Ferlino Carinio 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.

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Yellow guavas are much sweeter than their red cousins.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Going down the exposed and eroded area of the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

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

WST

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

WST

Detouring off the road for higher ground.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Shoefie at the geodic marker “Moku.”

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Passing the enclosed native snail habitat enclosure.

WST

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

WST

Group shot on the ridge that borders Makua Valley.

WST

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

WST

Can you see the shelter for the forest?

WST

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

Mokuleia Shelter

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

Mokuleia Shelter

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

Mokuleia Trail

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

Peacock Flats

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

Peacock Flats

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

Peacock Flats

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

Service Road

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

Service Road

Halfway there! These roads get old pretty fast.

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our West side hike.

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

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Allison Banks, Edgar Gamiao, Mari Saito, Marilyn Bermudez, Tessa Bugay, Val Wang and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We returned back to the West side to tie up some loose ends and with a 4×4 ride to boot.

Kaena Point

Star Trek meets Spaceballs. Thanks to Barry for driving Art, CJ and myself up to Peacock Flats.

Kaena Point

Tracking space debris since Statehood.

Kuaokala Trail

Enjoying our ride on four wheels and not two feet.

Cyanea Superba

When not one but two of the rare Hawaiian lobelioid are closer than you think.

Mokuleia Trail

When a good natured scare that walked up from the Mokuleia side is mistaken for a botanical berry.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Can you see the spiderweb for the pine tree? Photo by CJ Mendiola.

WST

Look! Up in the mountains! It’s a peak! It’s a cabin!

WST

When it’s easier to climb up a tree than get down from one.

WST

Climbing over the fence line to get a better look at the valley below us.

Makua Valley

10 seconds to spare for the group photo, left to right: myself, Art, CJ, Chris and Quan.

WST

Passing the enclosed habitat for endemic shelled gastropods. Photo by Art Young.

Pahole NAR

One of many fence crossings as we passed through part of the vast 685 acres of protected ecosystems. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Checking out the conservation work. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

WST

Art climbing up to refill his water supply. Filtration notwithstanding.

WST

Chris going down the heavily rutted jeep road.

WST

Backdrop of Makua Valley for our group photo.

WST

Following in the tracks of our earlier ride.

WST

Picking the abundant passion fruit that lined the trail slowed the forward progress. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

There were more 4×4 vehicles on the road today than hikers.

Kuaokala Trail

Back on a familiar trail for some.

Kuaokala Trail

Trying to not let the gate hit me on my way out or in? Photo by Art Young.

Kuaokala Trail

The group coming down the fenced trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Doing my best alcoholic impression. Photo by Art Young.

Kuaokala Trail

Behind the scenes photography.

Kuaokala Trail

Traversing along Makua rim populated by eucalyptus trees. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Kuaokala Trail

We’re not finished yet. I don’t know why you guys are jumping for joy.

Kuaokala Trail

Walking down on what could arguably be the widest trail on the island. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Kuaokala Trail

We got to the shelter but had no picnic. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

WST

The ocean looked cool and inviting on this scorcher of a day. Photo by Art Young.

WST

The wildlife was very docile in these neck of the woods.

WST

Straying off or on the reservation? Photo by Art Young.

WST

Contorting and crawling was the name of the game today. Fun. Fun. Fun. Say it enough times and one might actually believe that gibberish. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

WST

Glad they are looking up at the heavenly bodies. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Leaving the claustrophobic trail for a much more roomier one. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Farmer Bautista. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Tee time in the mountains. Photo by Art Young.

WST

Staying off the reservation. Photo by Art Young.

Kaena Point

Washing your hands is even more important in these COVID times that we live in.

Kaena Point

Leaving behind some irritated hornets that peppered me with stinging souvenirs when I disturbed their hive. Lucky it wasn’t those Asian giant hornets. Photo by Art Young.

Kaena Point

Hiking our way down the rocky ridge that was littered with military leftovers. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Kaena Point

Looking back at both sides of the island.

Kaena Point

#7. A perfectly good waste of sparkling wine. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Kaena Point

Coming down the mountain. Photo by Art Young.

Kaena Point

Treading over train track remnants from a different era when locomotives used to circle the island. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kaena Point

Art on the arch.

All pau

No green flash sighted. Thanks to Lilyn and Aida for shuttling the group to our parked cars. What happens if a hiker finishes the mountain range but no one is around, does it count? Benefit of the doubt and dubious congratulations to the lady from the sandbar for completing the WST today as well. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

GPS Tracks

Our finishing end to the Waianae Summit Trail covered roughly 15.6 miles through rugged terrain and raw beauty. Fun hike with good friends. Post hike meal at The Beach House by 604, where the clam chowder wasn’t world famous and the live unfiltered music made up for the mediocre food.

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.

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Peacock Flats

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

Peacock Flats

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

Mokuleia Trail

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

Mokuleia Trail

The trees were fruiting but not quite ready for picking.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Climbing up the short stretch to gain the ridge line.

WST

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

WST

Only one hour to the next summit?

WST

Post with a view. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Pushing our way through the endemic overgrowth.

Three Corners

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

Halfway there. Photo by Art Young.

Mount Ka’ala

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

Mount Ka’ala

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

Ka’ala Bog

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

Ka’ala Bog

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Art descending down the steeper section of the trail.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Taking the easy way down. Photo by Art Young.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Three Poles

Leaving the ridge line for the verdant valley.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Skipping and sliding down the leaf covered trail.

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

It was time to spend another anniversary on this particular mountain. Aida dropped off Katie and Lilyn at the trailhead, who had her knife at the ready in case any trouble appeared. Thanks to Janell for driving Aida, Quan, Tessa and myself to the trail head.

Our Lady of Kea’au

Luckily the gate was open early in the morning, so we didn’t have to separate the group.

The Shack

How many people can you fit in a cacti covered shack? Apparently just one.

Ohikilolo Valley

Going up the jeep road with our 2×2 legs.

Ohikilolo Valley

Plunging into the forest and following the fence line for the most part, where we attracted the unwanted sticky burrs to our clothes.

Tree Stand

The only game seen today were two legged hikers.

Ohikilolo Valley

Climbing over the fence to connect to the spur ridge that would lead us out of the valley floor.

Ohikilolo Valley

Leaving the relatively flat ground for steeper and rockier pastures. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Valley

Are we having fun yet? Perhaps, I should ask that question later. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Ohikilolo Valley

Climbing up the ridge. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Valley

Lilyn and Tessa cresting over one of the humps on the ridge. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Ohikilolo Valley

Strike a pose. Yoga pose. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Ohikilolo Valley

The girls checking out each other’s gluteus maximus muscles.

Ohikilolo Valley

I think I need to work on mines. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Valley

Janell scrambling her way up the dry grassy ridge. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Valley

Enjoying their personal space this time around. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Ohikilolo Valley

The group climbing up one of the exposed dikes on the ridge. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Valley

Katie climbing her way up.

Ohikilolo Valley

To climb or not to climb? Rhetorical question. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Valley

Contouring and climbing our way up.

Ohikilolo Valley

The group climbing their way up the ridge that was populated with exposed rocks. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Valley

Bird’s eye view. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Valley

Tessa didn’t want to wait in the climbing queue and went up her own way. The hard way.

Ohikilolo Valley

Quan still having fun. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Katie gaining the fenced ridge line. No stuck goats to be seen or heard.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Aida looking ahead to the fenced ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Tessa climbing the fence for a better view or a better shot? Photo by Aida Gordon.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The sun came out to play that was accompanied by brisk winds. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Fence Hammock

Surprisingly comfortable. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Lilyn leaning over into Makua Valley. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Approaching the helipad. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Helipad

Group photo left to right: Tessa, Janell, Quan, Lilyn, Katie, myself and Aida.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Traversing the exposed and eroded ridge line.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Not everybody wanted to use the webbing. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Our arms were getting quite the workout today.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Approaching the forested area that was interrupted by a washed out and weathered section of the ridge before the cabin. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Cabin

Katie stumping for views.

Ohikilolo Cabin

Snack break. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Cabin

You can knock, but you can’t come in.

Ohikilolo Outhouse

Call the Governor, the TP shortage is over. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Outhouse

When you got to go, you got to go.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Tessa on the edge looking towards the distinctive triangle peak of Ohikilolo. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Leaving the cabin and outhouse behind us. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Ohikilolo Summit

Climbing to the top of the pyramid peak. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Summit

Group photo at the 3,052′ top with sweeping views of the Waianae Mountains, Ridges and Valleys. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Ohikilolo Summit

Scooting our way down the backside of the peak. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Summit

The rest of the girls headed back down to the valley floor, where they enjoyed some extra time exploring the forest and covered with more sticky burrs.

Ohikilolo Summit

Most of us came down with our backpacks while somebody just rolled hers down the hill, including her hair pin.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Fences for daze. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hello from the other side. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Following the fence line. The theme for the day.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Straddling a very crumbly dragon. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Martians

I don’t think potatoes can be planted here. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

We could still see the cabin in the distance. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The girls getting some air time.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Trying my best not to get a groin injury. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Lilyn stepping on the dragon. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Climbing my way down. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The colorful girls descending the steep stretch of the ridge equidistantly.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Scenic views all around. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Katie contouring her way down the ridge.

Ohikilolo Ridge

When the fence becomes a ladder. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hanging onto the fence line as we followed the ridge line that gained and dropped elevation on the way.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Making our way down to the section where a giant boulder interrupts the fence line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Katie sliding her way around the protruding boulder.

Ropes and Ladder

Climbing up the last steep section. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Lilyn overlooking the valley views. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

The woodland rodent meant that we were within sweating distance of the summit, which was heavily overgrown on the way up.

Three Corners

When your tendons are simply exhausted from grabbing the fence all day.

Three Corners

1, 2, 3. Makaha, Makua, and Mokuleia. All corners accounted for.

Three Corners

Hot lunch in the making. Complete with Vienna sausage. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the clear summit as we followed the fence down.

WST

Taking in the somewhat obstructed view of Makua Valley.

Mokuleia Overlook

Our last group photo of the day before we came down from the mountains.

Tangelo Tree

The citrus tree was loaded with ripe fruits that were just begging to be picked. Tasty and refreshing trail snacks. The nearby avocado trees were flowering but not fruiting yet.

Mokuleia Trail

Leaving the short and sweet trail.

Peacock Flats

Feminine charm and positive thinking failed to secure us a ride down the road.

Mokuleia Access Road

My last climb of the day. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Mokuleia Access Road

Pounding the pavement on our way down.

Mokuleia Access Road

The end of the road and a long day for us.

All pau

We used our phone lights to flag Quan down, who was nice enough to pick us up and drive us back to our cars. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

GPS Tracks

Our 11.1 mile coast to coast hike covered stunning and sweeping scenic views that were filled with fun times and good friends. Post hike meal at Restaurant Kunio where I just missed the last ribeye steak served for the night. Such is my luck.

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.

Rainy weather in Wahiawa diverted Chris, Ferlino and myself to the end of the island. Plan B.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us off in front of the guard shack, where we waited for our 4×4 rides to show up while we watched a couple of cannibal chickens peck at a roadkill.

Deja vu

I had a strange feeling that I’ve been down this road before.

Road

Entering the facility that has been tracking satellites since statehood.

Road

Leaving our escort behind us as we left the 153 acres of military controlled land.

Kuaokala Trail

Catching some fresh air before I was shaken, rattled and rolled to the truck bed and splattered with mud. The joys of off-roading. Somebody’s kid was amused at my misfortune.

Kuaokala Trail

What happens when you under-inflate your tire, you lose your bead. Luckily, somebody had a lot of toys on their jeep.

Trail runners

Are you guys with AAA?

Kuaokala Trail

I decided to sit out the rest of the ride safely ensconced in the truck cab.

Peacock Flats

We soon passed the Earl Pawn Campground and barreled our way up the road. Mahalo to Brian and Zack for driving us all the way to the trailhead. Saved our feet from pounding out many miles.

Mokuleia Trail

Stepping foot in the Pahole Natural Area Reserve.

Mokuleia Trail

Taking a well deserved break from the punishing 15 minute trail. It was brutal, stay hydrated my friends. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Mokuleia Trail

I guess somebody told these two about the birds and the bees.

Mokuleia Trail

Passing the shed with no signs of hanging avocados or ripe tangelos.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Climbing out of the ravine to the WST.

Mokuleia Lookout

Group photo left to right: myself, Chris and Ferlino.

WST

Hiking underneath the ominous blanket of udderly striking clouds.

WST

Experiencing three different types of cloud formations in the mountains. It was quite the visual treat.

WST

Picking our way through the assorted rocks strewn on the trail.

WST

When the right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing, let alone where it’s at.

WST

Making the push up the final hill. Almost there.

Three Corners

Panoramic view of Makaha and Makua Valleys.

WST

Bushwhacking our way through the dense and tangled thicket of uluhe ferns and thorny thimbleberry plants.

WST

A hop, skip, and a jump and we were back into the bushes.

King Kong Ridge (KKR)

Making our way down. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KKR

Dropping down the initial steep descent that was marked by weathered webbing. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KKR

Looking down at the stone sentinel that gives the ridge its name.

Pueo Falls

Watching the thousand-foot waterfall cascade down into the valley. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KKR

Scrambling our way to the top of the rock that resembles the iconic gorilla. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Halloween

An escapee from the local sanitarium, who after being locked up for 15 years wanted nothing but an ice cold soda. Lukewarm will do.

KKR

Contouring our way down another steep descent down the ridge.

Kahuna Cave

Going around the massive boulder that got deposited here ages ago. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KKR

Chris gathering some wild mushrooms. Magic, poisonous or edible?

KKR

If it’s true that we swallow four spiders a year while sleeping, I might as well do it awake. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Halloween II

Too soon for the sequel? Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Mango Tree

No avocados or mangos on the trail for us to pick today. Farmer’s market was closed.

BWS

Passing through the head high and itchy California grass.

Makaha Icy Ponds

Some of us took a dip into the local watering hole. Splish for one and splash for the other.

Chain link fence

Chris and Ferlino coming up to the end of the road.

Temple of Lono

One of the best preserved Hawaiian temple in the islands.

got poi?

Passing by a taro patch on our way out. Just need to find a pua’a now.

All pau

We ended our 18.8 mile hike amongst the pecking peahens and the strangely deafening silence of the strutting peacocks. Another hike where the mileage was mostly done through sitting on our okoles as we bumped our way through the Waianae Mountains.

Post hike meal

Mahalo to Jasmin for picking us up and bringing us back to the Windward side of the island. Shout out to Analyn for bringing her home made oxtail soup and Shirley for her store bought dessert that made it one of the best post hike meals to date. We should do this more often.

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

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

Mr. and Mrs. Ed

Getting friendly with the locals. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno.

Trail

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

Trail

Leaving the sea behind us.

Hunter’s Stand

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

Hunter’s Stand

Ferlino planking on the tree. Who needs the stand?

Spur Ridge

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

Spur Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Spur Ridge

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

Spur Ridge

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

PETA

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

Spur Ridge

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

Morning Mushroom

Recreational fungus for recreational hiking?

Makua Valley

Looking back into the valley where landscapers fear to tread.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Tube man on the ridge.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Helipad

Cleared to land.

Helipad

Pick me up too!

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Balloon Flowers

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

PETA

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

Ohikilolo

Lopaka test tenting my camping shelter. Sold!

Ohikilolo

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

Ohikilolo

One was closed and the other open for business.

Ohikilolo

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Summit

Matt and Lopaka coming down the crumbly backside.

Ohikilolo Summit

Name tagging on the ridge. Photo by Janell Tuttle.

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Geology 101

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Lopaka climbing the fence or the ridge down?

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hindrance … Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Contouring around the boulder. Photo by Lopaka Hipperson.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Can you see the ape for the rocks?

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Looking back. Fences for daze.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Heading to greener ridges. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Rodent country.

Three Corners

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

Spur Ridge

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

H20

Filling up our water bottles for the last leg home.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

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

WST

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

Mokuleia Lookout

I guess somebody wanted their own selfie.

Mokuleia Trail

Getting off the WST.

Whole Foods

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

Mokuleia Trail

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

Pahole Natural Area Reserve

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

Peacock Flats

Nobody around to give us a ride down.

Farrington Hwy

The long walk down the 3.5 mile road.

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

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

Trailhead

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

Access Road

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

Peacock Flats

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

Trailhead

Starting our farewell hike.

Mokuleia Trail

Mexi-Kaida and Fili-Kaida. Unmasked.

Mokuleia Trail

Somebody was not fast enough to catch the nene.

WST

We turn left, right? Or right, left?

WST

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

WST

Rat country ahead. Rain country too.

WST

Jumping the fence.

WST

Going down the fence line.

WST

Picking our way amongst the scattered rocks and trees.

WST

Pulling ourselves up. One fence at a time.

WST

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

Mokuleia

There’s a view. Where?

WST

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

Lubricant optional

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

WST

We are here …

Three Corners

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Going down the rabbit hole.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hiking in the clouds. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hanging into Makaha Valley. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Somebody was kung-fu hiking.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

The “Buttercup” look. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Open for camping.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Climbing up from the boulder.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Now you see the clouds …

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

… and now you don’t see the clouds.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Climbing up from the notch.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Shirley climbing around and up the interrupted fence line.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Fences for days.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

The Great Fence of Ohikilolo.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hiking into the wind. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Almost there. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Mars slip and slide recreational area.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Pausing and posing. Photo by Frank Martinez.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

… let’s have another IG photo shoot.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Backside

Let’s take the easy way up.

Ohikilolo Summit

Random group photos at the 3,052′ peak.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Outhouse

Throne with a view. BYOTP.

Cabin life

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

Let’s pretend

And … ?

Ohikilolo Cabin

Saying goodbye to the cabin and the mountains.

Ohikilolo Ridge

All downhill. Rocky. Fenced.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hanging ten on the fence hammocks.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Looking out towards Kaena Point.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

How many IG photo shoots does this one make?

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

Gen, Jose and myself spent the Kamehameha Day Weekend hiking and camping on the Waianae Mountain Range.

Trailhead

Thanks to Ryan for dropping us off at Kaena Point, the jumping off point for departed Hawaiian souls and the starting point for our hike.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

We walked past the slumbering fishermen and scrambled our way to the top of the blinking ridge.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

Hiking on the road. Enjoying the level and compacted ground while it lasted.

Waianae Summit Trail

We left the road for greener pastures. Only one cow sighted. He obligingly left the road for greener pastures as well.

Waianae Summit Trail

Checking for traffic. JPO flashbacks. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Kuaokala Trail

Have permit, will hike.

Kuaokala Trail

If we had a 4×4, it would have shaved a couple miles off the hike.

Kuaokala Trail

The sunlight being filtered by the tree lined trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Enjoying the revenant experience at the picnic shelter. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Kuaokala Trail

Gen and Jose rounding the trail that borders Makua Valley.

Kuaokala Trail

Rock yoga. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Waianae Summit Trail

Our first contact and certainly not our last with the fence line on the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail

The hike began to slightly rollercoaster. Small ups and downs.

Waianae Summit Trail

We left the fence and dropped down onto the jeep road.

Waianae Summit Trail

Here comes the rain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Rainbow in Makua Valley.

Waianae Summit Trail

The rain left us as the hills took on a more pronounced grade.

Waianae Summit Trail

No feet picture at the Moku geodetic marker?

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose hopping over the fence that is meant to keep out feral ungulates.

Waianae Summit Trail

The trail soon opened up to reveal the wide expanse of the Waianae Mountain Range. Quite the sight.

Pahole Natural Area Reserve

Passing through the 658 acres of Hawaiian endemic fauna and flora.

Waianae Summit Trail

We had no plans to do any landscaping down in the valley.

Waianae Summit Trail

Densely packed red stamens of the ohi’a lehua blossom.

Waianae Summit Trail

Panoramic view.

Waianae Summit Trail

We had planned on taking lunch at the Mokuleia lookout but the weather was not cooperating. So we dropped down into the valley to seek refuge from the looming rain clouds.

Mokuleia Shelter

It felt good to have a rickety roof over our head as we ate our lunch in relative dryness.

Waianae Summit Trail

Back on the trail. Nice and clear.

Waianae Summit Trail

Group photo left to right: myself, Jose and Gen overlooking Makua Valley.

Waianae Summit Trail

Almost there.

Waianae Summit Trail

But first, we had to make our way up and down the overgrown trail that leads to the highest mountain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking ahead to the summit of Three Corners.

Waianae Summit Trail

We’re here!

Three Corners

Group photo at the summit.

Waianae Summit Trail

Now we had to just follow the fence on the ridge …

Waianae Summit Trail

… that will take us all the way down … Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Mount Ka’ala Road

… to Mount Ka’ala Road. If you thought the road in Waianae Valley was bad, you haven’t walked up this road. Especially at the end of a long day and shouldering heavy packs. Talk about a slow cardio burn.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Sometimes you just have to get off the road. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Mount Ka’ala Road

The monotonous road was tempered by magnificent views.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Every curve and bend on the road played with my mind as to how false summits does on a ridgeline. You think you are almost to the top. Think again.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Look! An endemic tree snail up there. Don’t walk away. Just walk away mad.

Mount Ka’ala Road

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

Mount Ka’ala

Our cloudy view of the North Shore.

Mount Ka’ala

We spent the rest of our daylight hours making camp and dinner.

Mount Ka’ala

Good morning from Ka’ala.

Mount Ka’ala

Somebody used the public outhouse this morning. One guess and one guess only. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Mount Ka’ala

Gen and Jose about to enter the Ka’ala bog.

Mount Ka’ala

Gen checking in on her “plant.”

Mount Ka’ala

Life off the boardwalk.

Waianae Summit Trail

We soon left the bog and began our descent off the mountain.

Waianae Summit Trail

To climb down with or without our backpacks. Such was the question for the day.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen making her way down the rain slicked boulder section.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose crossing the boulder gap.

Waianae Summit Trail

Don’t lean too far back.

Waianae Summit Trail

Who wants to go first? Heavy overgrowth from this point.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking out towards the central plain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Heavy overgrowth of uluhell mixed in with blackberry thorns.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking back at cloud capped Mount Ka’ala.

Waianae Summit Trail

The trail started to get narrow in some sections as we forged ahead.

Waianae Summit Trail

Lillikoi flower. Too early for trail snacks.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose crossing the gap in the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen making her way across.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose about to drop down and swing over a narrow section.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen climbing up.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose looking at the second highest mountain on the island from the last false peak.

Pu’u Kalena

Group photo at the 3,504′ summit. Time to dry out our tents and feet.

Waianae Summit Trail

Break over. Back to hiking.

Waianae Summit Trail

The overgrowth thinned out from this point, still there but not as pervasive.

Waianae Summit Trail

However, the rollercoaster hike stayed with us.

Waianae Summit Trail

This hike will develop your bushwhack arm and fence arm.

Waianae Summit Trail

No sexxxy time today.

Waianae Summit Trail

Approaching the narrow and rocky dike.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking out towards Pu’u Kalena and Ka’ala.

Waianae Summit Trail

Nothing to see here. Facebook status checking.

Waianae Summit Trail

All downhill from here.

Pu’u Ka’ilio

The forbidden mountain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking for Martians.

Kolekole Pass Road

Where’s the crosswalk? Safety first. Lowest point on the Waianae Range.

Waianae Summit Trail

Watch your step.

Waianae Summit Trail

Meadow view.

Waianae Summit Trail

Set up for the night. Pigs are not welcome.

Waianae Summit Trail

Tobacco – breakfast of hikers.

Waianae Summit Trail

Headed towards Pu’u Hapapa.

Waianae Summit Trail

Forget the switchbacks.

Waianae Summit Trail

Approaching the notches.

Waianae Summit Trail

Panoramic photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Waianae Summit Trail

Scrambling up from the notches. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Waianae Summit Trail

After we cleared the notches, it was a short ridge hike to the summit.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose warming up.

Pu’u Hapapa

Boxing and yoga on the mountains.

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo at the 2,883′ summit.

Waianae Summit Trail

The long stretch home. We still had to hit the summits of Kanehoa, Kaua, Palikea and Palehua along with some climbing sprinkled in for good measure.

Waianae Summit Trail

Heavy overgrowth returned on this trail section.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen and Jose approaching the summit of Pu’u Kanehoa.

Pu’u Kanehoa

The ridge keeping the clouds at bay.

Kanehoa Trail

We had been talking of doing the Kanehoa trail one day. Be careful of what you ask for. Fatigue and carelessness resulted in me bumping myself off a rock for an unexpected drop that resulted in double sprained ankles. Time for a detour.

Kanehoa Trail

Light rain drizzled over us as we came down the ridge.

Kanehoa Trail

Hiking through the corridor of strawberry guava trees.

Kanehoa Trail

Jose checking out the view to make sure we were on the right ridge.

Kanehoa Trail

Stay to the right.

Kanehoa Trail

Headed down into the forest.

Kanehoa Trail

Coming off the ridge.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

Finding our way out of the storied 3,592 acre area that encompasses lowland forests up to the mountains and are home to a diverse array of endemic fauna and flora.

Kanehoa Trail

The trailhead was blocked by trailer homes. What the heck? As we rounded the trailer, I noticed a large black dog that made no sound but followed us with his head. Lucky he was fenced. Lucky us.

Kanehoa Trail

Walking out of the farmlands. Thanks to Ryan for picking us up. Again. Need to get more friends.

GPS Tracks

We covered almost 26 miles during our three day hike across the raw and rugged beauty of the Waianae Mountain Range. While bummed that we didn’t complete the hike as originally planned, thankful that I spent it in the company of good friends. Post hike meal at Maui Mike’s Fire-Roasted Chicken. Should’ve got the half chicken instead.

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.