We spent the last Sunday in June doing our perimeter walk#6 around the island.

Waimea

Thanks to Matt for dropping Agnes, Aida, Enrique, Jasmin, Mari, Tessa, and myself off near Waimea Bay where we had last ended our walk.

Samurai House

Passing by the oceanside home that has a Japanese theme and built around five bedrooms and nine bathrooms. Rumours that actor Jonah Hill bought the property was squashed by the VRBO owner.

Kamehameha Highway

Finders keepers, losers weepers.

Kamehameha Highway

Walking on the shaded part of the road as the sun started heating up the ambient temperature.

Laniakea Beach

Too early for the turtle traffic, whose peak hours range from 1100 to 1500. Sad we missed the hard shelled herbivores but not the hard headed traffic that ties up the area.

Kawailoa Ranch

Passing the grazing horses.

Kamehameha Highway

Waiting for the bus or to get our picture taken?

Kamehameha Highway

Jasmin filling up her plastic bag with kamachile, a tart but sweet fruit. Are we on public property?

Haleiwa

Group photo in front of one of the restored signs that was first erected in 1996 by California artist Carole Beller. Years of neglect and vandalism saw the sign being covered in graffiti and even the surfer was chopped off. In 2005, Japanese Tatsuro Ota repaired the sign on his own dime and time. In 2006, Carole Beller took down the repaired surfer and replaced it with the current wahine surfer to protect her copyrighted creation.

Haleiwa

Why does my name get paired with an expletive? I just happened to be in the area and made a suggestion.

Haleiwa

Take a selfie and get a sticker.

Haleiwa

Take a selfie and get a photo.

Haleiwa

No pictures. Camera shy.

Haleiwa Beach Park War Memorial

Standing in front of the white obelisk that honors the sixteen locals who gave their lives in WW2 and was built and dedicated in 1947 by the Waialua Lions Club.

Haleiwa

Straining in front of the Bob Marley tribute that was done in 2014 by cryptik.

Haleiwa

Which way is Waialua?

Haleiwa

Pre-preening peacock.

Haleiwa

Fallen angel. These pair of wings are part of Colette Miller’s Global Angel Wings Project that started back in 2012 and has spread over the world.

Rainbow Bridge

I need a bicycle to get up this double arched bridge built in 1921 that carries traffic over Anahulu Stream.

Haleiwa

Popped into the nearby convenience store to get some ice cream refreshments.

Haleiwa Road

No get sassy otherwise I’ll get slappy. Are we on public property?

Haleiwa Harbor

Hello? I would like to order a mango picker.

Haleiwa Road

Pushing her luck. Where’s that neighbor when you need him.

Haleiwa Road

We spotted a colorful saffron finch that was introduced to Hawaii in 1965.

Kealiiokamalu Church

Some used their hands to pray at the Hawaiian church built in 1939.

Haleiwa Road

Others used them to pick calamansi.

Kaika Bay Beach Park

Group photo in front of the mushroom shaped balancing rock called Pohaku Lana’i, legend has it that the rock floated ashore from a distant land called Kahiki.

Kaika Bay Beach Park

We decided to have lunch at the shadowy sea park that covers 53 acres.

Haleiwa Road

Is this a good idea?

Haleiwa Road

Maybe not.

Waialua Beach Road

Why did the hiker cross the road? To see a misleading roadside advertisement up close.

Waialua Elementary School

Is that a verb or noun?

Waialua Beach Road

Some of us came more prepared for the rain than the others.

Waialua Beach Road

Share the road!

Crozier Drive

Air conditioned papayas.

Crozier Drive

Yard sale on the right.

Crozier Drive

Is this sign lost?

Crozier Drive

Checking out a secluded beach.

Crozier Drive

Too rich for my blood.

Mahinaai Street

Walking out towards the highway.

Mahinaai Street

Why let a perfectly manicured lawn go to waste?

Mahinaai Street

The girls checking out one of the honor fruit and vegetable stands in the area.

Farrington Highway

Milk it for all it’s worth. Or just take a picture.

Dillingham Ranch

Group photo in front of the property that was formerly Kawailoa Ranch until the railroad tycoon Benjamin Dillingham purchased it in 1897. His son, Walter would later be responsible for dredging Pearl Harbor, developing Honolulu Airport and Waikiki Beach.

Farrington Highway

Richard Cleveland introduced the first horse to Hawaii in 1803 to King Kamehameha. Today, they are used primarily for trail rides, rodeos and polo matches.

Dillingham Airfield

Who wants to skydive? Don’t everybody jump at once.

Dillingham Airfield

What’s the hardest part of skydiving? The ground.

Dillingham Airfield

The closest I’m getting to skydiving today.

Dillingham Airfield

Walking back to our cars.

All pau

Last chance?

Jerry’s Pizza Mill

Post-walk meal at the nearby pizzeria. Anybody order pineapple toppings?

GPS Tracks

Our longer than expected walk from Waimea to Waialua covered 12.5 miles that was made bearable with good company.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Aida Gordon, Jasmin Nepomuceno, Mari Saito, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

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

Waialua

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

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Hiking up to the first bunker on the ridge.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

The sun aka the heat rising above the third bunker.

Kaena Point

Scrambling our way through the dry grass and basaltic rocks.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Tessa making the final push to the top.

Kaena Point

Skirting the fenced base that tracks satellites in orbit.

Kaena Point

Enjoying our brisk walk in the morning.

Kaena Point

Leaving the radomes behind us.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Open the gate. Close the gate.

Kaena Point

Have permit, will hike. We shall see.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Thomas waiting for his ride.

Kaena Point

No H & H for us this weekend.

Kuaokala Trail

The group reunited and ready to hike.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Breakfast break at the picnic shelter.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Thomas coming down the tree lined corridor.

Kuaokala Trail

Trading in the soft ground for some hard rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Standing tall.

Kuaokala Trail

An ubiquitous sight in the mountains. Fences.

Kuaokala Trail

Brief break at the trail sign.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Back on the road again.

WST

When 2WD is better than 4WD.

WST

Detouring off the jeep road.

WST

Makua Valley views along with a splash of rain.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

One of many fence crossings on the trail.

WST

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

WST

Contouring our way around the endemic enclosure.

WST

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

WST

Following the fence line as it bordered the valley.

WST

Windmills in the background, shelter in the foreground.

WST

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

Back to our regularly scheduled program of hiking.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Back on the undulating trail.

Three Corners

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

WST

A solitary scarlet lehua flower.

WST

Plunging into the overgrowth.

WST

So close, yet so far.

WST

The fence line is the hikers lifeline in the uluhell.

WST

Making our way off the hill.

Ka’ala Road

Trail meets the road.

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

Using the traffic mirror for our group photo.

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

Taking in the views.

Ka’ala Road

Halfway there! Numerically speaking that is.

Ka’ala Road

Straight from the pipe. Unfiltered. Undrunk.

Ka’ala Road

End of the road for us.

Mount Ka’ala

Brief stop at the recently built three walled shelter.

Mount Ka’ala

Group photo at the highest peak on the island.

Mount Ka’ala

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

Mount Ka’ala

Trematolobelia flowers were in bloom throughout the bog.

Waianae Kaala Trail

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

Waianae Kaala Trail

Climbing down one at a time.

Waianae Kaala Trail

On rope.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Going down the steep mountainside.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Scrambling down the second set of boulders on the trail.

Waianae Kaala Trail

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

Waianae Kaala Trail

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

All pau

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

Popeyes Chicken

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

Photos taken by Tessa Bugay, Thomas Barrett, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Met up with Aida, Art, Colt, Jen, Lilyn, Mauricio, Quan, Sofiya, and Tessa at Schofield Barracks to do an inclusive birthday hike. Scratch that due to ID problems. To keep the inclusivity, we collectively drove towards Plan B which was actually Plan A originally. Full circle.

Kaena Point Trail

We secured all our worldly possessions after a friendly cop told us to keep everything out of sight in our cars.

Kaena Point Trail

Walking on the isle of abundance side of the island. Surface waves pounded the shore as the energy in them dissipated into the foamy surf.

Manini Pali

Leaving the rutted jeep road for the trail that would take us up into the mountains.

Manini Pali

Mauricio in a field of plants that looked oddly familiar. Just can’t place my finger on it.

Manini Pali

Going up on a river of rocks.

Manini Pali

We cut out some of the switchbacks and just climbed straight up the steep cliffs.

Manini Pali

Watching the rest of the group make their way up.

Manini Pali

Not all those that wander are lost. Not all those that hike need ropes as well.

Manini Pali

Aida and Quan working their way up through the koa haole trees and dry grass. Just glad there were no kiawe trees around here.

Manini Pali

The couple that sweats together, stays together.

Manini Pali

Somebody needed immediate medical attention as a rock had landed on her head. Just wipe the blood off and good as new.

Manini Pali

Somebody else was eyeing for attention as well.

Manini Pali

Group photo on the pile of rocks.

Manini Pali

Sofiya reaching out for her next handhold on the less traveled route.

Manini Pali

The rest of the group stuck to the more familiar safe ground, so to speak.

Manini Pali

Art resisting the temptation to spread his wings.

Manini Pali

Teamwork in the mountains.

Manini Pali

Sofiya checking her facebook status.

Manini Pali

Checking out the mountain and coastline views from our rocky perch at roughly 850′.

Manini Pali

Tessa looking towards the town of Haleiwa and points North.

Manini Pali

Running across one of many cow patties that we saw on the “trail.” No magic mike or mushrooms spotted.

Waianae Mountain Range

Traversing the top of the mountain that serves as home to grazing cows and the US Space Force.

Waianae Mountain Range

How many clowns, I mean hikers can fit into this small cave? Nine with a lot of contorting and pushing and squeezing.

Waianae Mountain Range

Now, somebody just needs to play the music composed by Julius Fucik – Entry of the Gladiators.

Waianae Mountain Range

Brownie and Macaroons for the birthday girl. Overindulgence at its finest.

Waianae Mountain Range

Group photo at the last known sighting of the puka.

Waianae Mountain Range

Hey look, we can go down this way! Has anybody been down this way before? Crickets.

I’ve been here before gulch

The group checking which “path” to follow down.

I’ve been here before gulch

This is the direction that we need to be hiking to get down. This way!

I’ve been here before gulch

So much for that theory of lemmings following each other to certain doom as the group went their own separate way. Urban legend.

I’ve been here before gulch

Climbed up this crumbly pile of rocks to watch the group make their way down.

I’ve been here before gulch

Joined back up with the group as we hiked our way down the grassy and rocky gulch.

I’ve been here before gulch

Taking a break on the rock ledge as we waited for the rest of the group to catch up.

I’ve been here before gulch

Somebody was flexing in the mountains.

I’ve been here before gulch

Hugging the cliffs to avoid the drop in the middle.

I’ve been here before gulch

Scrambling our way down with the loose rocks underfoot.

I’ve been here before gulch

Looking back at the “slot canyon.”

I’ve been here before gulch

Colt trying out for American Ninja Warrior as we followed the dry streambed back to the jeep road.

All pau

Making our way back to the parking lot as we tried to beat the afternoon sun. In closing, a certain IG botanist recalled that the gulch did look familiar on our way out. I guess we didn’t refer to his IG page to get the skinny.

GPS Tracks

Our short birthday scramble up and down the mountain covered roughly 4.5 miles that was cut short due to us taking an unplanned exit route instead of the original way out that appealed to certain authority averse individuals. Fun hike with new and old faces.

Jerry’s Pizza

We finished by lunchtime, so we ate at the nearest food establishment that served us up pizzas, pasta, wings and a burger. Hold the bun and all the fixings. Drizzled with butter.

Paalaa Kai Bakery

Somebody was badly feeding their white powder fix in the parking lot. I don’t know this person.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Art Young, Colt Correa, Jen Odence, Lilyn Avendano, Mauricio, Quan Haberstroh, Sofiya Spencer, Tessa Bugay and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Gloomy weather conditions scratched another return to the saddle for Christine, Yoly and myself. Luckily Christine knew of a trail that was on my to do list. Yoly dropped out due to gas problems, not talking about the intestinal sort.

Jeep road

We drove to the end of the island as we started our hike in the Mokuleia section of the rugged park that hugs the coastline.

Trailhead

Turning off the main road as we headed towards the dry grass and shrubs that fringed the base of the mountains.

Manini Pali Trail

Headed up what All Trails calls the “rough cousin of Kealia Trail.” I can partially see the resemblance.

Manini Pali Trail

Making our way up the switch backs.

Manini Pali Trail

We lost the trail for a bit and decided to go up the most direct route instead.

Manini Pali Trail

Back on the trail again.

Manini Pali Trail

It was hot and humid going up the dry grassy trail. Wishing I was on the saddle instead. Photo by Christine Galiza.

Manini Pali Trail

The picture spot. Photo by Christine Galiza.

Manini Pali Trail

A little bit of rock scrambling lay in store for us.

Manini Pali Trail

Ocean to ocean view, one of the benefits of living on a small island in the Pacific.

Manini Pali Trail

All the uphill climbing was now behind us, just like the inviting blue ocean. Photo by Christine Galiza.

Cow Trail

Stepping foot on a trail made by cows?

Cow Trail

We spotted pink ribbons scattered throughout the dry brush.

Cow Trail

No signs of any four legged domesticated ungulates.

Golf Ball

Tracking space junk since Statehood.

Road

The ten minutes that was most filled with anxiety.

Lookout

Life imitating art.

Kaena Point Ridge

Christine leaving the solar observatory station.

Kaena Point Ridge

The start of our rocky climb down. Photo by Christine Galiza.

Kaena Point Ridge

Group photo at one of the bunkers that populate the ridge line.

Kaena Point Ridge

Making our way to the last bunker before dropping off the ridge.

Kaena Point State Park

Following the fenced trail on our way out.

Kaena Point State Park

Christine climbing through the vehicle barrier.

Kaena Point State Park

Shall we go back up again? Perhaps not. Photo by Christine Galiza.

All pau

Our cars were still intact and baking in the hot sun upon our return. Thanks to Christine for taking me on a new trail. Post hike meal at Jerry’s Pizza where you go big or go home. We went big as we were hungry.

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

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

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Somebody left the lights on. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kaena Point

Back on the road again. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Sunlight breaking over the trail. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Stuart standing on picture rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Following the fence line down.

Kuaokala Trail

Stuart passing through the sun beams on the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Veering off the beaten trail to gain higher ground.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

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

WST

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

Moku

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

Pahole Reserve

Entering the protected habitat of rare endemic fauna and flora.

WST

Treading carefully with exaggerated facial expressions.

WST

Soaking in the raw character of the Waianae Mountains.

Slippah Tree

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

WST

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

WST

Passing the Mokuleia trail junction.

WST

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

Rat Country

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Have machete in hand, will bushwhack.

WST

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

WST

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

Three Corners

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

WST

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

WST

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

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

Hairy balls road.

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

End of the cloud soaked road.

Mount Ka’ala

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

Mount Ka’ala

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

Mount Ka’ala

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

Mount Ka’ala

Stuart on the boardwalk.

Mount Ka’ala

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Isometric exercises in the mountains. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Stuart crossing over the notched ridge.

WST

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

Pu’u Kalena

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Let’s not dawdle through these parts.

Kolekole Pass Road

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

Kolekole Pass Road

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

Kolekole Pass Road

This is my rifle, this is for fighting…

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

Met up with Ben, Mitsy and Stuart at the end of Dillingham Airfield.

Trailhead

Time to start counting the 19 switchbacks to the top.

Kealia Trail

Chasing the rainbow. Hope you can swim.

Kealia Trail

Looking out towards the country towns of Waialua and Haleiwa. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kuaokala Trail

We soon crested the top of the cliff, passed the picnic bench and picked up the uphill trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Stuart checking out the artwork from topside.

Kuaokala Trail

Ben charging the tree lined trail.

Kuaokala Trail

We go this way? Follow the signs.

Kuaokala Trail

Which sign do we follow?

Kuaokala Trail

Who’s holding the gate open for me? Ding dong, chivalry is dead.

Kuaokala Trail

Climbing up and over a rocky section of the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Mitsy about to sample the colorful forest fungi. Registered nurse standing by. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kuaokala Trail

Taking the easy way down. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kuaokala Trail

The group coming down the cloud wrapped trail.

Kuaokala Trail

King of the Hill. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kuaokala Trail

The clouds blurred the scenery, while the whipping wind rustled through the trees on our trail hike. Atmosphere.

Kuaokala Trail

We chose to not take the higher road.

Kuaokala Trail

Leaving the picnic shelter behind us.

Junction

Another trail for another day.

Kuaokala Trail

Looking down into Keawaula Beach, as the earlier views of Makua Valley were blotted out by the rolling clouds.

Kuaokala Trail

Why did the snail cross the road? To join the chicken on the other side of the road.

Kaena Point

Hiking on the less traveled road.

Kaena Point

Nothing to see here. Mooove along.

Kaena Point

Where the trail meets the road.

Kaena Point

End of the road.

Kaena Point

Group photo left to right: Stuart, Ben, myself and Mitsy.

Kaena Point

Life imitating art. Which one is the real golf ball? Which one is the real goofball?

Paragliders

These two pilots were getting some serious air thanks to the blustery winds spilling off the ridge.

High Five

Hang time and time to press the flesh. Just don’t kick me. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Kaena Point

We took our leave of the summit as we passed numerous remnants of manmade structures dating back decades.

Kaena Point

Ben making his way down the ridge.

Kaena Point

Mitsy and Stuart picking their way amongst the assorted boulders that decorated the trail.

Carrion Flowers

Nothing like the smell of rotting flesh to perfume the air. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kaena Point

Making our way down to the first bunker. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kaena Point

Bunker life.

Laysan Albatross

The original paraglider. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kaena Point

Stuart and Mitsy approaching the vent for the second bunker.

Kaena Point

More bunker life. Hot as heck.

Kaena Point

Standing on the last bunker. No whales sighted. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kaena Point

Dropping off the ridge as we ran across other hikers near the base. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kaena Point

Cave life. Steaming sauna.

HFD

Walking the fenced trail out, we saw the yellow fire department helicopter landing on the ridge. We found out later that one of the paragliders crashed into the cliff. Wishes for a speedy recovery to the pilot.

Kaena Point

Mitsy leaving behind the Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve.

All pau

Thanks to James for picking us up and shuttling us back to our cars. The 9.43 miles of trail melted away due to the mostly flat terrain and fun company. No post hike meal as everybody had places 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.

A heavy soaking the day before forced us off the ridges into a valley deep in Waianae. Met up with Chris, Ethan, Huckett, Khym, Ryan, Shirley, Tina and Yoly at the crowded trailhead. Let’s make sure everybody goes with the right group now. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Waianae Valley

Chris and Khym coming up the road that has few fans.

Waianae Valley

We dropped down from the trail and followed Ka’ala Stream like so much spawning tilapia.

Waianae Valley

Hiking through the lush and verdant valley.

Waterfalls #1

Yoly and Shirley at the first multi-waterfall. Photo by Chris.

Waianae Valley

Tina with her trademark smile, at one of many stream crossings.

Waianae Valley

Climbing and contouring our way up. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Waianae Valley

Sometimes it’s just easier to walk in the water.

Waianae Valley

The water fanning out before it hits rock bottom. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Waianae Valley

To eat or not to eat.

Waianae Valley

Ryan making his way around one of the fallen trees. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Waianae Valley

Color coded bottle caps marked the trail. Pink was the color of this trail.

Waterfalls #2

That fallen tree looks solid and sturdy. Only one way to find out. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Waterfalls #2

Time to get wet. Just add soap and shampoo. Photo by Tina Corpuz.

Waterfalls #2

Need spikes? You have to fish them out from the the stream first.

Waianae Valley

The rest of the group waiting at the top of the waterfalls.

Waianae Valley

Going against the flow.

Waterfalls #3

Pass me that webbing since you’re not going to wait for me.

Waterfalls #4

These spikes sure do come in handy.

Waianae Valley

Want your spikes back?

Waterfalls #5

Tina about to climb up.

Waterfalls #5

Ethan making his way up.

Waianae Valley

Ryan ducking under the fallen tree branches.

Waianae Valley

Does this count as a waterfall? Maybe not.

Waterfalls #6

Ryan catching up with his friend.

Waterfalls #7

Shirley sharing her shaka with the rest of us at the bottom.

Waterfalls #7

Chris scrambling up. The pool at the base of the waterfall was quite deep. Just ask Ethan.

Waianae Valley

Almost there.

Ka’ala Falls

Huckett approaching the roughly 200′ waterfall.

Ka’ala Falls

Group photo left to right: Ethan, Ryan, Yoly, myself, Chris, Tina, Shirley, Huckett and Khym.

Ka’ala Falls

Yoly standing on a ledge in the waterfall. Hiker see, hiker do. Tina, Huckett and Chris soon followed. Don’t mind the raining rocks. Best to bring a helmet.

Ka’ala Falls

The correct way to pose on a rock underneath a waterfall. Photo by David Huckett.

Ka’ala Falls

The wrong way. Photo by Shirley.

Waianae Valley

We took the fast way down the ridge instead of returning the way of the waterfalls. Looks like this is part of the Ramble Trail.

Waianae Valley

Shirley back at the sign, looking for her friend.

Waianae Valley

Some used the murky water to wash off their spikes and others drank it.

All pau

Our group count dwindled by three as shoes were wet and chores had to be done, so the rest of us drove to the other side of the island.

Mokuleia

It was hot as heck as we made our way over the concrete pilings. Which begs the question. Why is Yoly wearing her jacket?

Mokuleia

Transitioning from concrete piles to boulders. All we were missing was the water.

Mokuleia

Rustling through shoulder high grass. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Mokuleia

Hello from the top.

Mokuleia

I think we go that way. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Mokuleia

The rocks up here were surprisingly wet from the water seeping from the top. Why is Yoly still wearing her jacket in the blazing sun?

Mokuleia

Shirley and the sun.

Mokuleia

We’ll be back to get all up in that crack.

Mokuleia

Khym making his way along the edge of the cliff.

Mokuleia

Half a cave is better than no cave.

Mokuleia

Shirley passed her chili cheese fritos around as we had a cave side seat to a whale that was breaching offshore.

Mokuleia

Look down in the water! It’s a … boat. Photo by Chris.

Mokuleia

Chris and Shirley making their way between the contrasting sheared smooth and cracked crumbly rocks. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Mokuleia

Hey there’s a rope around the corner. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Mokuleia

Climbing and crawling up and through the crack.

Mokuleia

Shirley perched on the rocks, looking out all the way to Pupukea. Photo by Chris.

Mokuleia

Time to make our way back down.

Mokuleia

Yoly and the sun.

Mokuleia

Chris and Khym making their way down.

Mokuleia

Enjoying the shade while it lasted on our way back down.

Mokuleia

Some of us sought shelter from the sweltering sun and the stalking paparazzi. Others looked for their phone. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Mokuleia

Yoly sought shade under a parked car.

Mokuleia

You guys go that way and we’ll go our way. The bushwhacking way.

Mokuleia

Wrong gulch. It wasn’t a total bust. We got to see a coconut tree. No coconuts. Well, maybe it was a bust. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Mokuleia

Passing by one of several camouflaged bunkers that dot the foot of the cliffs.

Mokuleia

Maybe the gulch is that way?

Mokuleia

Group photo at the bunker.

Mokuleia

The way back to the road was a whole lot easier than going in.

Mokuleia

Half of the group went scouting. Thanks for the invite.

Mokuleia

Making our way back on the muddy road.

All pau

Fun day exploring both sides of the island with great and special friends. We made our way to the bustling and commercialized town of Haleiwa where we spotted Bu La’ia out of retirement and a jumper on the bridge. Both did not look successful. Post hike meal at Haleiwa Joe’s. Chris finally got his prime rib.

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.

Rain, rain – didn’t go away. The torrential rains that had soaked the Windward side earlier in the week forced us to cancel our planned hike of Ohulehule in Kahana Valley and replace it with a hike on the WST (Waianae Summit Trail). We decided to take a page from DGC and start segment hiking the WST, beginning with Kaena Point.

Christmas came early

Rain showers passed over as we parked at the far end of Dillingham Airfield, putting the hike into question. It cleared quickly, so we piled into Matt’s van to drive to the end of Mokuleia to start our hike. Group photo left to right: Will, Matt “Bah Humbug”, myself and Marvin.

Slip’n’Slide

The long jeep road to the trailhead was mud central, as we some trucks drifting and sliding through the liquid dirt as we slogged our way through.

Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve

It was a windy day on the North Shore. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Spirit Rock

Passing through the fence that protects the bird populations, we saw a rock known as Leina ka ‘Uhane. Ancient Hawaiians believed departed souls would plunge into the ocean for eternity from this rock.

Up the mountain

The hardest part of the hike was climbing up this hill, made easier by the overcast clouds and cool winds. Photo by Will Lee.

Eye of the hikers

Sitting on top of a graffitied bunker. The striking eye was painted by the Irish artist known as Eoin.

Bunker view

Kaena Point in the background. Didn’t see any monk seals sunbathing.

Last bunker

As we climbed our way up, we could see the Mokuleia and the Waianae coastlines from our vantage point.

Almost there

It was a perfect day to hike as it was heavily overcast and windy as heck, otherwise it would have been a scorcher of a day. Sometimes it pays to hike after a heavy rainstorm.

Looking back

Our last glimpse of Kaena Point as we made our way to the top.

Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station

After having seen the KPSTS (Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station) or golf balls from Keawaula or Yokohama Beach so many times, we were going to finally see it in person.

Life imitating art

This sign gave me flashbacks from my last hike. Photo by Marvin Chandra.

Follow the paved road

For a change, I didn’t mind walking on a paved road while hiking. It was a nice paved road. I wish our city streets were like this road. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Tee time?

Matt wanted to play with a really big golf ball. His club wasn’t big enough.

Golf Ball

Excuse me, what time do the tours start?

Practicing how to levitate

Will and Matt trying to float above the concrete coated hill.

Everybody come here

Walking past the guard shack, a MP (Military Police) stopped us and questioned us as to where we came from. After hearing our story, he said that we were supposed to be escorted down the Satellite Tracking Station Road to Keawaula or Yokohama Beach on the Waianae side. He let us off with a one time warning. Happy Veteran’s Day!

Approved trail

The MP said to go down this trail and cross the ravine to the last tracking station or golf ball. We happily complied. Otherwise our hike would have been abruptly terminated.

Look both ways before crossing

After bushwhacking in the woods for about half an hour, we found ourselves right back from where we started! So we plunged back into the woods and paralleled the road until we were out of sight from the guard shack.

Back on the road again

The paved road eventually turned into a jeep road.

Goodbye golf balls

Looking back at the last cluster of tracking stations or golf balls.

Scenic point

Group photo with the Waianae coastline in the background.

Kuaokala Access Road

We were now on the Kuaokala Access Road that traverses a public hunting area. Hmm, did we have on bright clothing? Oh yeah, we had Hawaiian Santa with us. We were covered.

How wide?

This section of the trail was wide enough to drive a semi through it and then some!

Picnic table break

We took a short break at this picnic table. Photo by Will Lee.

Hmm, who has the right of way?

This mountain biker was the first person we saw today, besides the MP.

Matt of the hill

The views of the valley were starting to open up, especially if you were standing on top of a rock.

Makua Valley

Group photo looking into Makua Valley. It is believed that this valley was once inhabited by the Olohe, hairless, red-skinned people separate from the Hawaiians. They were skilled in lua or the ancient martial art of bone breaking. A good reason to keep out of their valley.

WST junction

The trail continues until you reach the WST junction to the right. We kept on going straight. Another hike for another day.

Right, right, left

There were three clearly marked junctions indicating which direction to head to Kealia trail.

Falling rocks

I thought it would be a good idea if we photographically illustrated the falling rocks sign at the Kealia trail. A plan not well thought out. Luckily we only picked up small pebbles. As the rocks were thrown up in the air, one hit me on my nose. Lesson learned.

Dillingham airfield

Coming down the 19 switchbacks. I lost count after two.

Beware of falling rocks

The switchback trail was littered and strewn with rocks of various sizes.

Fish farm?

There seemed to be a trail cut into the mountains above this fish pond?

Kealia trail

All pau!

GPS Tracks

The hike was 11.52 miles long. Surprisingly it did not feel like a grinder, as the trail was pretty much flat for the whole distance and the nice cool weather helped as well. After the hike, we drove to Dong Yang in Wahiawa for some good Korean food.

We made the hour drive to the North Shore to meet up with the HTMC ( Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club ) to do their annual hike to Three Corners. We parked right outside the Mokuleia Forest Reserve Access Road, which is very popular with walkers, runners and bicyclists. After the obligatory briefing and checking in with the hike leader, we shoved off a little past 9am.

Gulch

We walked about two miles on the paved road until we came to a bend in the road and then hopped over the guardrail into the gulch. Parts of the gulch floor were covered with kukui nut shells which felt like ball bearings under our feet as we walked over them. We soon climbed over a fence meant to keep out pigs and other animals that can harm the native plants and birds. Then we followed the fenceline all the way to the top.

Mokuleia Trail

We eventually connected to the Mokuleia Trail where we ran into a couple Boy Scouts who were shoveling and compacting the trail. Be prepared. A little later, we walked into the HTMC camping site. After a brief water stop, we took the path going up Makua rim to continue the hike to Three Corners.

Ohikilolo ridge

We got to the top of Makua rim and took a left towards the trail to Three Corners. If you take a right you will hit the Kuaokala Trail that will take you to the northern end of the Waianae mountain range.

Follow the fenceline

We continued to follow the sign and fenceline as the ridge rollercoastered going up and down, mainly down. While the fence is a blight on the landscape, it sure does come in handy as a handhold.

Makaha valley

We got to to the top of Three Corners around 12:30pm. Just in time to eat lunch. Some of our hiking group had got separated and took a longer route to get to the top, but they didn’t seem the worse for wear.

Makua valley

Three Corners is aptly named because at this point you can see the valleys of Makua, Makaha and Mokuleia.

Mokuleia

We spent about half an hour up at the top eating lunch and taking pictures. Weather conditions cooperated in giving us a great hike and the the views that go along with it.

Peacock Flats

After our group came back down from the ridge and assembled at the HTMC camping site, two exit options were offered. Most of the hiking group decided to return the way we had come from. Our smaller group elected to continue down Mokuleia Trail, pass Peacock Flats and descend down the nearly four mile paved road back to the trailhead. While our route did prove faster coming down, it was harder on the feet as my blisters soon proved. And I had the Great Aloha Run the next day.

Glider

We got back to our cars after six hours of hiking and covering over ten miles. I wish I knew somebody who had the keys to these DLNR gates. That would sure save a lot of time pounding the pavement.

Kaena Point can be approached from the Waianae side or the Mokuleia side. We met up with the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club in the Kaena Point State Reserve Park parking lot at the end of Mokuleia.

Jeep road

Our large group of about 20 hikers started walking on this two mile stretch of uneven road, which is shared with fishermen driving their off road trucks and mountain bikers. We also saw a couple of planes and gliders fly overhead from nearby Dillingham Airfield. Kaena means “the heat” in Hawaiian, a very fitting name. There is no shade from the hot sun, none at all. Be prepared with sunscreen and hats.

Trailhead

We soon came to the entrance of the Kaena Point Nature Reserve. From this point, due to obvious reasons, off road trucks are not permitted, only hikers and mountain bikers can pass through. The club said they had obtained a special permit to access the reserve, but I saw a number of mountain bikers pass through this gate with no “special permits.”

Spirit Leap Rock

Along the trail, we saw the Spirt Leap Rock or leina a ka ‘uhane, where in Hawaiian mythology, the recently passed would use this place as a jumping point into the afterlife.

Lighthouse – new and old

The lighthouse marks the tip of Kaena Point. The original concrete lighthouse can be seen to the right where it fell over.

Waianae Mountain Range

Looking back at the Waianae Mountain Range.

Look!

Mari pointing to a Hawaiian Monk Seal.

Hawaiian Monk Seal

We saw this Hawaiian Monk Seal sunbathing in one of the coves. They are federally protected, so do not approach them to closely or bother them.

Tidepools

The reserve is ringed with tidepools teeming with all sorts of marine life. During winter time, the surf rivals and exceeds the monster waves at Waimea Bay. Due to it’s remoteness, few surfers come out here to ride them.

Sea Cucumber

Checking out a sea cucumber, a fellow Chinese hiker was telling me that in China, this is considered an expensive delicacy. What are you waiting for?

Sea Urchin

Looking at another marine delicacy, sea urchin. The Japanese call it uni, which they slather on top of sushi. Hold the wasabi.

Albatross chick

We left the waters to trek inland to see an albatross chick out of his nest which was right on the edge of the trail. They are building a pest fence that would contain most of the ocean facing areas from the mountain areas in an effort to prevent feral pigs, dogs and rodents from entering the preserve and eating the eggs and chicks.

Black footed Albatross

Along with the Black footed albatross, the preserve is also home to the Wedge Tailed Shearwater birds and other seabirds as well as endangered plants, some only found at Kaena Point.

Going back

Eventually we made our way back on the trail, hiking a total of around five miles. It was a nice exploratory hike on the West side.