Somebody waited five years to finish this section. Good things come to those who wait.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Alex and Lilia for dropping Chico, Katie and myself off at our starting point today.

Pali Puka Trail

Inside or outside trail?

Pali Puka

Group photo in the hole in the cliff, that was witness to the Battle of Nu’uanu in 1795 that saw Kamehameha take over the island of Oahu.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Climbing up the short and slippery slope to regain the ridgeline.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the breaking sunrise over Olomana.

Incisor Rock

Time to put the spikes on to floss the slippery tooth.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the crumbly ridgeline.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way down the constantly changing character as erosion takes its toll. What’s here today, gone tomorrow.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Approaching the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pausing on the grassy hill overlooking Nu’uanu Reservoir #4 which was built in 1910 for flood control and water supply for the surrounding areas.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Katie descending down the flank of the hill to regain the ridgeline.

W

Contouring and climbing our way on the triple diked obstacle.

W

Making our way down the sliver of rock and dirt that seems a tad more slender on each visit.

Anvil

Whipping winds were blowing dirt into any exposed open orifices. Anybody got Visine?

Anvil

Chico pulling himself up the constantly crumbling hill that is still more preferable than the original contour route IMO. To each their own.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Our group making our way up to the hill after the long climb.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back as we saw the three trail runners catching up to us.

KSRT

Making our way towards the summit known as Swirling Heavens.

Lanihuli Summit

Adriana, Stacy and Susana soon caught up with us at the 2,700′ top and decided to join us to the finish line. The more the merrier.

KSRT

Descending from the summit against the expansive backdrop of the Windward coastline.

KSRT

Chico putting his ScuttleButt to good use on the grassy hill.

Kalihi Saddle

Sliding our way down into what some hikers argue is one of the hardest sections of the KST. I would argue it’s Diamond Head, but then again the iconic tuff cone is not part of the mountain range system.

Dirt Dragon

The group riding the dusty creature that is near the brink of extinction.

Kalihi Saddle

Susana and the rest of the group balancing our way down the skinny and crumbly ridgeline that is seemingly held together with grass, uki and woody climbers.

Lanihuli Wall

Katie descending down the long drop on the flank of the ridgeline.

Lanihuli Wall

Waiting for the rest of the group to descend down the wall which is notorious for falling rocks, I can bear witness to that.

Lanihuli Wall

The girls contouring their way around the Can Opener.

Can Opener

Katie and Susana under the shadow of the Can Opener and what I like to call the “Bulging Fridge.” A sizeable rock that seems to jut out inch by inch every time I pay a visit to this spot. Or maybe I just have an active imagination.

Can Opener

Group photo at the scenic saddle spot.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way down the brittle ledge.

Kalihi Saddle

Katie making her way down the near vertical drop.

Pimple

It was too windy to pop the pimple today, despite a willing volunteer.

Doorstop

Climbing queue, as Adriana and Stacy wait their turn.

Doorstop

Stacy approaching the top of the wedge shaped obstacle.

Bunny Ears

Pete Clines the legendary hiker was the one that gave these “silly names” to these obstacles on Kalihi Saddle so as to make them less intimidating.

Bunny Ears

Katie striking a pose on the mushroom rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Living life on the edge. Or as skydivers would say, “If you’re not living life on the edge, you’re taking up too much space.”

Kalihi Saddle

Searching for the triangle shaped obstacle.

Shark Fin

Thar she is!

Powerlines

Victory dance at the finish line. Congratulations Katie on completing the KST!

Powerlines Trail

Descending down into Kalihi Valley, that are home to a colony of Australian rock wallabies, that escaped from the private zoo of Richard Trent in 1916. The last survey conducted in the 1990s pegged the marsupial population to number in the 70s.

Kalihi Valley

Never let your feet touch the ground.

All pau

Walking out to the highway where we were picked up by Alex and Lilia.

GPS Tracks

Our KST completion hike covered 2.97 miles through two saddles and unexpected company. Congratulations again to Katie for a finish that was long in the making. Post hike meal at Nalu Health Bar & Cafe where I was pleasantly surprised by the menu offerings.

Photos taken by Adriana Hunter, Chico Cantu, Katie Lockerton, Stacy Paquette, Susana Escobar 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.

Somebody was not ready to finish the KST today, but Roger was ready to take the open slot. You snooze, you lose.

Pali Lookout

Some drove, some carpooled and others got dropped off to start our hike this morning.

Pali Lookout

Quick, let’s take a group photo before the wind knocks the tripod over.

Pali Notches

Tackling the first of two man-made notches that were reputedly cut out of the mountains by Ka’iana of Kauai.

Pali Notches

The notches housed British canons that Kalanikupule, ruler of Oahu, had planned to use against the invading army of Kamehameha in 1795.

Pali Notches

Those original plans were thwarted when Kamehameha sent his scouts down from Konahuanui to take out the cannons.

Pali Notches

The last known sighting of Santa’s beard.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Checking out the Windward views and the planet’s rotation toward our heat furnace.

Sunrise

We didn’t have the erupting Kilauea vent to watch, but we had the spectacle of a fiery sunrise.

Nipple

Taking the direct route instead of the contour trail.

Nipple

Stacked and staggered.

Nipple

Akira climbing up the single rope that has replaced the previous web of ropes and webbing. Bravo to whoever did the replacement.

Chimney

Dragging my sushi belly up the slabs of rocks was especially taxing on this climb. Too much ono Japanese food from my recent vacation. Chico saw us off and turned around due to his wobbly equilibrium. We need Santa to show up on Christmas Day.

Chimney

CB testing his balance and his luck with the winds.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Scrambling up and around rocks of assorted sizes and stages of erosion.

Contour

Aileen making her way up the spot where Agnes Bryant fell roughly 300′ and lived to tell the tale on September 18, 2012 in the company of Laredo Muredo and Marvin Chandra. Something best to repeat after the section and not during the climb.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pushing ahead on the steady climb up the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group contouring around the boulder, in the not so distant past, the boulder would have been directly climbed.

Mud Wall

Going up the steep wall that time and traffic have changed the climbing profile to make it more user friendly.

Konahuanui

Approaching the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range where a trail runner soon turned around after finding out the trail conditions were less than hospitable.

Konahuanui

Group photo at the 3,150′ summit. Typical conditions. No views.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Traversing between the cloud soaked Schweddy Balls.

K2

Nothing to see. Passing through.

KSRT

We dropped in elevation and left the two large testicles and the cloud canopy behind us.

KSRT

Hiking down the ridge line as the distinctive fluted flanks of the mountain popped into view.

Manoa Middle Summit

Group photo at the grassy clearing whose side trail leads down into Manoa Valley.

KSRT

Resuming our hike as we had places to go and people to meet.

KSRT

Climbing on the rocks, kicking tires and looking for that sedan model.

KSRT

Going up one of multiple hills to reach the summit of ‘Awa’awaloa or Mount Olympus.

Mount Olympus

Group photo at the stand-in summit that sits at an elevation of 2,486′.

Mount Olympus

The water droplets hanging in the clouds soon became heavy enough to fall on the mountains which forced our early departure from the sixth highest summit on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Ka’au Crater

We soon were looking over one of three tuff cones on the island, this particular one was tucked right against the mountain range and the crater was filled with a marsh that feeds the three waterfalls below it.

Ka’au Crater

Taking a breather after we climbed up the rutted trail and to the top of the ridge line.

KSRT

No rest for the weary. Another BFH was coming up. I’m pretty sure you can figure out what the acronym stands for.

KSRT

We definitely got our cardio workout for today. No question.

Pu’u Kainawa’aunui

Taking a well deserved break at the grassy summit.

Wiliwilinui Trail

Meanwhile, down in the gated community, the reception committee assembled while waiting for a certain individual that was working on her volcano reel. Luckily, there was an Uber hiker at work today.

True Lanipo

Giving up the pipe dream.

KSRT

Looking ahead to the last summit for today.

KSRT

Are we there yet?

Wiliwilinui Summit

Our arrival at the finish line where we waited for the rest of the group to make their way up to the top.

Wiliwilinui Summit

We spotted several mongoose at the top, descended from the original 72 invasive animals that were introduced to the islands in 1883 from Jamaica. They were introduced to control the rat problem that was plaguing the sugar industry. One small problem. Rats are active at night and mongoose are active during the day, and never the twain shall meet.

Wiliwilinui Summit

#25 – My traditional champagne dousing on the finisher. Congratulations to Roger on completing the last segment needed to finish the entire 52 miles of the Ko’olau Summit Trail that extends from Pupukea to Makapu’u.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Now they both have another thing in common, KST finishers.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Group photo at the 2,480′ summit along with the latest bag charm fad, Labubu.

Wiliwilinui Trail

Leaving the summit as we made our way down the 2.3 mile trail.

Wiliwilinui Trail

Something miraculous happened on the descent, as somebody seemed to have lost their fear of heights. Will wonders never cease. What’s next? The saddles?

All pau

We arrived at the parking lot, some changed, wiped and freshened up and then piled into the cars to take our leave.

GPS Tracks

Our memorable KST finish hike covered 7.58 miles with an awesome group and thanks to everybody that came out to help celebrate Roger’s finish. Post hike meal at Gyotaku, where the early bird specials only apply on weekdays. Congratulations again Roger on your KST finish!

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Allison Banks, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Jeremy Cannone, Kenny Lui, Mari Saito, Marilyn Bermudez, Roger Schiffman, Susan Katz, 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.

The rain had gone away and so with it the excuses. That is how Jeremy, Roger and myself found ourselves in the mountains today.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks to Aida for dropping us off at the trailhead.

Powerlines

We walked up the service road and made the short climb to the saddle where the usually stiff winds were absent, only gentle trade winds to tickle us on our hike today.

Shark Fin

Climbing up the dorsal shaped rock whose edible counterpart is banned from restaurants that never advertise.

Kalihi Saddle

Jeremy and Roger walking on the edge of the pali (cliff). Or is this what living life on the edge looks like?

Kalihi Saddle

Working our way on the narrow ridge line as we briefly alternated between contouring into the bushes and back onto the “trail.”

Kalihi Saddle

Jeremy looking at each step with wide-eyed anticipation.

Bunny Ears

Climbing up the first of the not so soft long and triangular rocks.

Bunny Ears

Making our way down the “thinner” side of the obstacle.

Bunny Ears

Climbing our way to the only soft spots on the “ears,” the tops that were feathered by pine trees.

Doorstop

To trust or not to trust the webbing that has been exposed to the elements for 24/7 for God knows how long. Always bring your own stash.

Doorstop

Jeremy spotting Roger on his way down.

Pimple

Roger contouring the small bump of rocks while Jeremy climbing his way down.

Can Opener

One struggled while the other two easily walked their way up the shifting under footing. It’s all in the approach.

Can Opener

Group photo under the shadow of the bulging “fridge” rock that hopefully never opens its doors while hikers are around.

Kalihi Saddle

Is this a trail?

Lanihuli Wall

Jeremy scrambling up the lower tier.

Lanihuli Wall

Contouring our way around the crumbly ridge line.

Lanihuli Wall

The struggle is real. The face says it all.

Lanihuli Wall

Roger climbing his way back to the ridge line. The grounds that had been saturated by the heavy rains the week prior had made the climb especially taxing for all of us.

Dirt Dragon

There was nothing left to train.

Kalihi Saddle

Crumbly much?

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

All the hard parts were behind us. For this section.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the 2,700′ peak that lived up to its name, “swirling heavens.” Technically, the summit was a peak over. Old habits die hard.

KSRT

Working our way towards the other half of the saddle. The fun never stops.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Descending down the hill that was somewhat steep in parts.

W

Somebody was watching us. Specifically three kids who turned out to be Mason, Blake and Caden. Turns out they were deciding if they should push further. I guess if we fell, then they would’ve turned around.

Anvil

Roger carefully making his way down the more direct of two routes. The contour still exists, but we took the more direct approach. Got to beat the forecasted afternoon rain showers. What’s a couple more minutes?

W

Forced smile.

W

The boys perspective of us making our way on the saddle. Thanks!

W

Climbing and contouring our way on the triple diked obstacle.

W

We talked to the young boys a bit about the trail and they decided to push off for the summit of Lanihuli and return back to the Pali.

Anvil

Seems like they preferred the direct approach as well.

W

Leaving the 23rd letter of the alphabet behind us.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The forecasted rain showers showed up 15 minutes early. Even a broken clock is right twice a day.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Luckily the rain showers were more sprinkles and passing.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Backward and forward motion.

Incisor

Checking for cavities.

Incisor

Clean bill of health.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Roger still had the direct approach baked into his brain.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going up what I like to call the “runway.” And that ladies and gentlemen, ends our saddle tour for the day.

KSRT

Scrambling down the slick, rooted and rocky hill.

Pali Puka Trail

We soon left the Puka where the three boys soon caught up to us to head back down to the Lookout. They must have hustled to get back down that quick. To be young again.

All pau

Did we all have fun today?

GPS Tracks

Our blood, sweat and tears hike covered just a little over three miles with Roger who was now one step closer to finishing the KST and Jeremy who finally got a taste of the saddles. All in all, a good day with good company. Post hike meal at the original Lilihia Bakery that opened its doors in 1950. But, if you want prime rib at this location, you’re out of luck. Should’ve got the loco moco. Oxtail soup is not in their wheelhouse.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, 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.

Something old. Something new. That was the theme for today. Something survivable as well.

Pali Puka Trail

Mahalo to Ferlino for dropping us off at the Pali Lookout. Catching the breaking sunrise as we broke free of the valley floor and onto the exposed ridge line.

Pali Puka Trail

Are we climbing that? No, we have enough excitement scheduled on today’s hike.

Pali Puka

Group photo at the hole in the mountains where we also bumped into Kassaundra and her friend that we met on an earlier West side hike.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Scrambling up the steep flank to regain the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Time to change formation.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Psst! This way.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing our way up the path of least resistance or less crumbly. Whichever is more convenient.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going up and around the leaning tree of Nu’uanu.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Scrambling up the ridge line that subtly changes her character with each visit.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing and contouring the Incisor Rock Formation.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Akira making his way up to the narrow rock dike.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group looking for their next handhold and foothold.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Roger scrambling his way that much closer to his KST finish.

Nu’uanu Saddle

What goes up must come back down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Walking on the edge of the cliff with the sun on your back. Just another day in the mountains.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way towards the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Dropping down the Leeward side of the cliff to regain the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Threading our way through the triple diked formation.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The rest of the group making their way up.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Sitting room only.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Straddling our way down the narrow rock dike.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Crumbly much?

Nu’uanu Saddle

Roger climbing his way up the “new” anvil route. Tell the next person to not shake the tree please.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pulling ourselves up the steep section made bearable by a weathered rope.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Akira coming up with the expansive Windward views behind him.

KSRT

The “hard” parts of the saddle were behind us. Taking time to soak in the views.

KSRT

Time to switch formation.

Lanihuli Summit

We eat pretty well in the mountains thanks to Chef Suzuki.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the 2,700′ summit where the swirling heavens were thankfully absent.

Nukohe Ridge

Stepping foot on “new” territory for our group as we switched formation again. Thanks to Nandor for the beta.

Nukohe Ridge

Descending down the noticeably overgrown ridge.

Nukohe Ridge

Trying to stay on track was made somewhat difficult due to the heavy vegetation.

Nukohe Ridge

We need to be over there, right?

Nukohe Ridge

Looking across the valley to Kalihi Saddle.

Nukohe Ridge

Scooting our way down the steep grassy section.

Nukohe Ridge

Are we having fun yet?

Nukohe Ridge

Crossing a gully as we struggled through the overgrowth to stay on track.

Nukohe Ridge

The ridge started to take on a more defined approach as we descended in elevation.

Nukohe Ridge

Kicking down rocks.

Nukohe Ridge

Where’s the sketchy section? Must be ahead of us.

Nukohe Ridge

The last photo taken with Roger’s iphone before he involuntary offered it to the mountains as an offering. It didn’t work.

Nukohe Ridge

Erosion had taken a toll on the ridge, so we contoured around it to get back on the crumbly ridge line.

Nukohe Ridge

We also found remnants of snapped wire and webbing that earlier hikers had installed.

Nukohe Ridge

Going down this particularly steep rock cliff, I somehow lost my foothold and took a header roughly following the red line. After I had come to a crashing stop, I checked my phone first to see if it was still there. Misplaced priorities. My friends yelling at me through my fog took me back to reality as I realized how lucky I was. Besides a bunch of bruises, cuts and scratches, I was relatively intact. I had lost my cap, sunglasses and a bottle of water on the fall down. Instead of waiting for them to throw me some webbing, I took it upon myself to climb back up the stretch of hill that was roughly 60′. During my climb back up, I recovered my cap and bottle of water. The mountains kept my sunglasses. I scrambled back to the ridge line as I waited for the rest of them that took an alternate route through the tree line.

Nukohe Ridge

Time to switch formation again as we resumed our hike down to the valley floor.

Nukohe Ridge

Make sure you catch the buss side!

All pau

We soon dropped to the valley floor and made it to the service road that connects to the HECO substation. Thanks to Ferlino for picking us up and also administering “ER” first aid at his house.

GPS Tracks

Our memorable and survivable hike covered a little over three miles over old and new trails. A story that I can tell my grandkids one day. Oh wait, I don’t have kids. Guess I have to keep it rolling around my head. Mahalo to everybody for their company and support and the powers that be that kept watch over me today. Post hike meal at Kenko-ya where Aida joined us for dinner.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Roger Schiffman, Scott Peterson, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We had woken up earlier in an attempt to traverse all three saddles of the KST but were stymied by blue lights that were blockading the entrance to the valley formerly owned by the Damon family. The three of us decided to go back home and sleep on it. Met up later in the morning at the Pali Lookout to do an abbreviated version of the planned hike.

Pali Puka Trail

It was a short huff and puff up the mountain that made sure we were wide awake and not slumbering along the trail.

Pali Puka

Akira at the rock window that was witness to the brutal battle of 1795 that secured the island of Oahu for King Kamehameha.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Scrambling up the steep rocky flank that had been slightly moistened by the passing morning rain showers.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hiking on the exposed ridge line. A breath of fresh air. Literally.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Trying to stay grounded while soon to get our head in the clouds.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We know which way the wind blows on this side.

Incisor Rock

Time to pay a visit to the dentist in the mountains.

Incisor Rock

Flossing the cracks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

This webbing was getting long in the tooth.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Narrow as narrow gets.

W

Approaching the obstacle some call Donkey Kong or the true Pali Notches.

W

Akira coming down the grassy slippery slope.

W

Threading our way through the 23rd letter of the English alphabet.

W

Our group photo at the top with barely room to spare.

W

What does an upside W mean for somebody in particular?

Anvil

Going up the fractured path as we watched out steps.

Anvil

Moss only grows on trees and not crumbly rocks.

Lanihuli Summit

Taking a break in the swirling heavens.

Kalihi Saddle

Going down the other side of the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa climbing her way down the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Standing room only.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa climbing over the constantly eroding ridge line. Here today. Gone tomorrow.

Dirt Dragon

Straddling what is left of the receding physical manifestation of untamed nature.

Kalihi Saddle

Where’s my next foothold?

Lanihuli Wall

Perched on the side of the mountain.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira contouring his way back to the ridge line.

Can Opener

Group photo at the scenic spot with the saddle stretched out behind us.

Rotten Steps

Making my way down to the most visually striking of all the obstacles on this side of the saddle.

Rotten Steps

Tessa scrambling her way up to the next obstacle.

Pimple

The rest of the group contouring their way around the sliver of a rockface.

Doorstop

Going up the front whose character is always evolving over time.

Doorstop

Akira pulling himself up the eroded rockface.

Bunny Ears

It only feels fluffy at the top.

Bunny Ears

Akira climbing down and over the hump.

Kalihi Saddle

Sitting on the edge.

Bunny Ears

Tessa standing on the magic mushroom rock. Akira was looking for the magic marijuana plant.

Kalihi Saddle

We could soon see the powerlines for the trail and the lifeguard that was droning our hike.

Shark Fin

Climbing down the last major obstacle on the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

A drone view of Tessa and Akira traversing the narrow ridge line. I hope it was worth the $35 ticket.

Camp Centipede

Met up with Matt at his launching spot and also our lunch spot as well.

Camp Centipede

Chef Suzuki preparing his udon with beef garnished with green onion that was simmered in dashi broth. Nothing like hot food in the mountains.

Powerlines

Group photo at the col before heading down into the valley.

All pau

One was checking her spikes, the other one was posing for the camera and the last one was watering the plants. Hoped he washed his hands. Thanks to Matt for driving us back to our cars. Post hike meal at Kam Bowl Restaurant where the chicken papaya was sorely lacking in taste. Hard pass. The hike was not all that was planned, but everybody came down safely and had a good time. Not a bad way to spend the day.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Matt Vidaurri, 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.

Took a couple interested people to see the saddles firsthand, as seeing is believing as they say.

Likelike Highway

Mahalo to Ferlino for dropping Aida, Aileen, Akira, Chris, Haig, Tessa, and myself off the highway named after the last heir to the Hawaiian throne prior to its overthrow in 1893.

HECO substation

Stretching prior to the hike to avoid leg cramps or just carry mustard.

Powerlines Trail

Pushing our way through the overgrown trail to the lowest point between the peaks of Bowman and Lanihuli.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Bathroom views.

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle.

MIA

Aida had to donate her gold earring to the mountains in return for safe passage.

Shark Fin

Making our way to the first obstacle banned in Chinese restaurants.

Shark Fin

Climbing and contouring our way around the top through a thicket of trees.

Kalihi Saddle

The Kona winds blowing today were not strong enough to push us off towards the Windward side versus the usual trade winds which blows towards the Leeward side.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way down on the thin strip of trail in the mountains.

Mushroom Rock

Everybody getting their photo opportunity.

Kalihi Saddle

The washer bringing up the rear with panoramic views of the Windward side. I never heard of the term washer before, must be an Armenian thing.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira thinking “high,high” was either referring to elevation change or mood change at this moment.

Bunny Ear

Traversing between the “silly names” of the pinnacles that Pete Clines gave to reference them on the saddle.

Doorstop

Chris standing on the top of the obstacle named after something that prevents a door from banging against the wall. Let’s not bang our heads going down, shall we.

Doorstop

Aida climbing her way down.

Doorstop

Akira keeping his head away from the rocks.

Pimple

The group contouring their way around the spit of a rock.

Pimple

Haig keeping high on the contour, referring to elevation and not mood change.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris guiding Aida on her climb down.

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of the group making their way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling to higher ground.

Pimple

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.

Pimple

Popped.

Pimple

Chris clearing the loose rocks at the top.

Pimple

360 degree view at the top.

Pimple

Photobombing Chris as he pops the pimple.

Can Opener

Making our way up to the lunch spot.

Can Opener

Group photo in the shadow of the “Fridge.”

Can Opener

Contouring our way around the “little hook” that would be quite nasty, if not downright suicidal to climb it.

Lanihuli Wall

Tessa and Haig climbing the lower tier.

Lanihuli Wall

The rest of the group moved out of harms way as an earlier dislodged rock narrowly missed Akira and would have given him a different type of high high.

Lanihuli Wall

Aida coming up the upper tier.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira watching the rest of the group making their climb up from his crumbly perch.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up the “rotten” ridge loosely held together by native woody vines, perspiration and faith.

Dirt Dragon

This is after all, the Year of the Dragon. Take a seat Aida.

Kalihi Saddle

If there’s one constant on the saddles, it’s the crumbly character accentuated by constant erosion.

KSRT

Leaving the saddle behind us as we hiked into the clouds.

KSRT

Chris passing along nature’s Rorschach test. What do you see?

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the 2,700′ peak named “Swirling Heavens” in Hawaiian.

KSRT

Traversing the ridgeline as passing rain showers moisturized our epidermis.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going down the ridgeline as it seemingly keeps the clouds at bay on the Windward side.

Anvil

We decided to go down the more crumbly route instead of the standard contour route. WTF?

Anvil

Stay in your lane!

W

Standing on the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

W

Akira climbing down the fifteenth most used letter in the English language.

W

Haig contouring around the letter that was banned in Turkey from 1928 to 2013 due to the Kurdish population.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Moss don’t hit back.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Akira contouring around the steep flank of the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The rest of the group making their way down with what looks like more of a dentist’s nightmare than a letter in the background.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Losing elevation and gaining the muted views back.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Scooting on the narrow rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Standing on the narrow rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The rope guiding us down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Yawning is contagious in the mountains.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Aida climbing down to the toothy rock.

Incisor Rock

When climbing down is infinitely preferably to contouring down.

Incisor Rock

Spotting the rest of the group down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Tessa going down the narrow stretch of rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Haig bridging the gap.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hiking our way to the exit point off the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Descending down the flank of the ridge dotted with roots and loose rocks.

Pali Puka

Our last group photo before dropping down to the lookout.

Pali Puka Trail

Hiking down with the illuminated Pali Tunnels and cloud sheathed mountains in the background.

Pali Puka Trail

Night hikers marching down the trail. However, if you run across us, you don’t have to strip naked and lie prostrate before us. Unless that floats your boat.

All pau

Where did all the tourists go? Perhaps it was the haunted spirits of over 700 Hawaiian warriors that were either pushed or fell to their death in the Battle of Nu’uanu in 1795 that scared them away. Thanks to Haig for parking his unmolested car outside the gates.

GPS Tracks

Our introductory saddle hike covered roughly 3.27 miles with a fun group. Congratulations to Tessa for completing her fifth KST completion with this hike. Good job done by Akira and Haig on their first of many saddle hikes. Post hike meal at Tasty Korean BBQ where the soda carbonation was flat and the wait long. Should’ve waited for the other restaurant. Post hike ice cream dessert at Ferlino’s house courtesy of Haig.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chris Bautista, Haig Van Roubian, 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.

A former marine joined our saddle hike today who improvised, adapted and overcame with aplomb. Semper Fi.

Pali Lookout

Oh the weather outside looked frightful, but the hikers were so delightful, and since we’ve no place to go, Ferlino took us to the pali’s sheer cliffs which was so dreadful back in 1795 that claimed hundreds if not thousands of lives in the battle that lead to the eventual unification of the Hawaiian islands. We hopped over the rock wall that was thoughtfully repaired so that we wouldn’t trip over it under the cover of twilight.

Pali Lookout

Coming up the short and steep trail with the Pali Highway and tunnels behind me that was opened to the public back in 1962. Before that, there were no tunnels, just 22 hairpin turns that allowed people to traverse the narrow road from the Windward side to the town side. And before that, the Pali was just a cliff trail that had to be traversed with ropes and ladders. Times have changed.

Pali Puka

Chris trying to take the perfect sunrise shot through the puka in the rocks.

Pali Trail

Climbing our way up the steeply rooted and rocked hill laced with ropes for the assist.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Breaking out onto the narrow ridgeline that afforded a sweeping view of the rising sun as she lit up the landscape below us.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We saw a faint rainbow left over from the rain showers that had washed over the mountains earlier in the morning.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the chossy rocks through a combination of hand and footholds, uki grass and questionable ropes. Preferably in that order.

Incisor Rock

Paul straddling the narrow rocks. The ax that was once wedged in these rocks had taken their leave of the mountains. Perhaps by man or nature.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Time waits for no man. That man is Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the expansive views of the Windward side.

W

Approaching the 23rd letter in the alphabet to discover that the rope had snapped in several places.

W

Cresting the top of the first hill.

W

Descending down the steep flank.

W

Contouring and climbing through the double v shaped rocks using hand and footholds, uki grass, questionable wire and ratchet straps. Preferably in that order.

W

We both came down our own ways on that skinny finger of a mountain.

Anvil

Chris wanted to climb the hot mess of rocks, since the shaky anvil rock had finally bit the dust. A decidedly crumbly route. That’s a hard no.

Anvil

We had to trust the ropes coming down as it was now secured to another shaky tree or rock. It was a long roll down if things had gone the wrong way.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The hard parts were behind us as we traversed the cloud soaked ridge line. During the hike to the summit, I had clumsily hyperextended my left leg, tenderizing my knee and ankle. The hard parts were now ahead of me.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the summit of the massive mountain that is aptly named swirling heavens, more like socked in clouds today.

KSRT

Descending from the 2,700′ summit as we slipped under the cloud cover.

Kalihi Saddle

The wide terrain soon funneled into the classic narrow saddle ridgeline.

Dirt Dragon

Chris and Paul standing and sitting on the shell of its former self.

Dirt Dragon

What exactly is holding this pile of rocks and dirt together? I don’t think we want to know.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody almost took an unexpected one way ride down to 911 territory.

Lanihuli Wall

Dropping down the steep flank of the ridgeline.

Lanihuli Wall

Contouring our way around the Can Opener and back to the ridgeline.

Kalihi Saddle

Taking our group photo under the shadow of the bulging refrigerator rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Coming down the “rock terrace.”

Pimple

Paul climbing down as Chris couldn’t wait to pop the pimple.

Doorstop

Going up the rockface that always seems to shed rocks every time I see it.

Doorstop

Climbing up the hardest obstacle on this section, everything left was “relatively” tamer.

Bunny Ears

Traversing between the two definitely not fluffy rock faces.

Bunny Ears

Paul hopping over the mushroom rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking down at one of the most expensive interstate highways ever constructed that was primarily built to connect Pearl Harbor to the Kaneohe Marine base.

Shark Fin

We dropped off the ridgeline to contour around and popped back out where we couldn’t see the fin for the mountain.

Shark Fin

Looking back at the dorsal shaped rockface.

Powerlines

Approaching the powerlines that marked the end of the Lanihuli side of Kalihi Saddle.

Powerlines

My knee and ankle were throbbing at this point, so I threw in the towel while Chris and Paul continued up the Bowman side of Kalihi Saddle and exited out through Tripler ridge.

All pau

Thanks to Ferlino for picking me up on the side of Likelike Highway and taking me back to Kaneohe.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered 3.09 miles for myself and slightly longer for Chris and Paul who had pushed a little further out to Moanalua Valley. Blessed with great weather and good company. Post hike meal for myself was leftover sinigang soup at Casa Carinio. Mahalo to Ferlino who also picked up Chris and Paul in Moanalua Valley.

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Paul Smith, 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 Aileen and Tesssa to do a quick hop and pop over the mountains.

Maunawili

Where’s the goat whisperer when you need him?

Maunawili

Somebody was running fashionably late aka Hawaiian time, so we enjoyed the breaking sunrise over Olomana.

Maunawili

We soon left the future lots of affordable homes and began our hike. But first, let’s stay hydrated as demonstrated by Tessa.

Piliwale Ridge

Stepping foot on the ridge pioneered by Silver Piliwale, a legendary hiker who hiked from Pupukea to Moanalua in five days to celebrate his 72nd birthday.

Piliwale Ridge

Climbing up towards the notch.

Notch

360 degree group photo at the natural cut in the ridge. We saw rain showers headed our way and after some deliberation, decided to press on.

Piliwale Ridge

Dropping down into the notch.

Piliwale Ridge

Hello from the other side.

Piliwale Ridge

Scrambling up some rocks.

Piliwale Ridge

Aileen climbing up the crack between a tree and a rock.

Piliwale Ridge

Scrambling up more rocks.

Piliwale Ridge

Aileen pulling herself up.

Piliwale Ridge

Somebody left a rope behind which made this climb easier. How nice of them.

Piliwale Ridge

Tessa climbing up and over the rock.

Piliwale Ridge

Going up the honest cardio climb, no switch backs on this ridge.

Piliwale Ridge

Tessa pushing to the junction.

Piliwale Junction

Group photo at the 3,050′ elevation mark.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

What goes up, must come down.

Mud Wall

Going down the slippery slope.

KSRT

Tessa silhouetted on a prominent bump on the ridge line with panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

KSRT

Dropping off the boulder and back on the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The ridge became steeper, narrower and a tad more “technical.”

Contour

Aileen coming around the rockface that always gives me pause, as this is where a fallen angel fell 300′ and lived to hike another day.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Talk to the hand or use the hand. Whichever you prefer.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way down to the last major climb on this ridge line.

Chimney

It was like going down a spiderweb of ropes. Best to be mindful of how you go down, otherwise one might get hung up like some hapless prey.

Chimney

The “friendly” slanted angle of the climb.

Chimney

Swinging Tessa to a safe spot. Ouch.

Chimney

The “less friendly” vertical angle of the climb.

Nipple

360 degree group photo on the bump of a rock.

Nipple

Aileen coming down from the rocky perch.

Pali Notches

Ropes? We don’t need no stinking ropes. Paraphrasing the classic line from the 1948 movie “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre.”

Pali Notches

Tessa climbing up from the man-made notch that once housed cannons that were installed by King Kalanikupule to defend Oahu against the armies of King Kamehameha. However, Kamehameha found out about these cannons and sent his scouts to descend from the top, perhaps the same route we had just come down from, to disable the cannons.

Pali Notches

What is Amber doing up here at Pali Notches? I think she wanted to add more death threats on Tik Tok to her files. She’s an addict.

Pali Notches Trail

Headed down to mingle with the tourists.

Pali Notches Trail

Tessa biting her gloved fingers in mock horror. Or is that for real?

Pali Notches Trail

Making our way down to the site of the historic 1795 battle that saw the defeat of Oahu’s army, where the remaining warriors were either pushed off the cliff or jumped to their deaths.

Pali Lookout

Playing tourists.

All pau

Thanks to Amber for picking us up and trying to take us to hike Olomana. Sorry, that’s your favorite mountain and not ours. Back to our cars please.

GPS Tracks

Our short day in the mountains covered a little over two miles with a fun crew. Post hike meal at Big City Diner, not to be confused with TGIF.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, 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.

The winds were forecasted to be blowing hard this weekend. What shall we do? Let’s go climb the chimney and finish off somebody’s saddle boot camp, as they put it.

Aloha ‘Aina

Somebody woke up late, so others took the extra time on their hands to pursue recreational activities.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Lilia and Quan for dropping Aileen, Art, Chico, Chris, Jen, Mona, Tessa, and myself off at the windy scenic lookout.

Nu’uanu Pali

Are we here to pick or to hike?

Nu’uanu Pali

Making our way up the rooted hill in the tree line.

Pali Notches

Jen climbing down the first of two man-made notches. Believe it or not.

Pali Notches

The winds were blowing stiff and hard through the mountain pass. Strong enough to snatch a cap off your head and twist you on the rope.

Pali Notches

Tessa climbing down to the notch where British canons were emplaced by the warriors of King Kalanikupule who were defending Oahu from the invading army of King Kamehameha that had sailed from the Big Island.

Pali Notches

The group making their way to descend the second and biggest notch.

Pali Notches

I resisted the urge to lean back for the gram.

Pali Notches

In 1795, King Kamehameha’s warriors climbed down from the peak of Konahuanui and surprised and disabled the canons set in these notches.

Pali Notches

We soon noticed two young kids had joined us at the top of the second notch waiting their turn.

Nipple

The group climbing up the needle of basaltic rock.

Nipple

Mona making her way up.

Chimney

The two kids contoured around the nipple to avoid our logjam, one shed his shoes and then they both scampered up the chimney.

Chimney

Viewpoint from the Nipple.

Chimney

Try, try again.

Chimney

With a little help from my friends.

Chimney

Aileen enjoying the moment. Then again, I’m not good at reading people’s body language.

Chimney

Getting my upper body workout today. Going to cancel my 24 hour membership when I get home.

Chimney

Chris providing pointers on climbing up the rockface.

Chimney

No assistance required at this time.

Chimney

Did you push the elevator button to the top?

Chimney

Changing up my vantage point. My butt was getting sore.

Chimney

Deja vu.

Chimney

Do you feel Chris breathing down your neck?

Chimney

The last haul.

Chimney

Art was his own elevator service.

Contour

Chico recording the action as it unfolds on his GoPro for posterity’s sake.

Contour

Chris going up the near vertical climb.

Contour

Climbing queue.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group contouring and climbing over some boulders.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chico stretching his thigh muscles coming down. Maybe even his back muscles as well.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Walking the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

To climb or contour the boulder?

Nu’uanu Saddle

Somebody climbed the boulder to finish their “saddle boot camp.” Certificate is in the mail. Postage due.

Mud Wall

Waiting our turn to go up the mud wall or as of late, the mud steps.

Pali Lookout

Looking down at the yellow bird of HFD rescue a tourist from themselves.

Piliwale Junction

Tessa arriving at the junction for the Windward ridge that was named after a legendary hiker named Silver Piliwale.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Hiking to what I was sure would be a cloud soaked summit.

Konahuanui

I was gladly proven wrong as we took our group photo at the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

KSRT

Traversing between the two large testicles.

K2

No pillow. No problem.

K2

A mixture of shake and peace signs at the second highest summit.

KSRT

Somebody left a spanking brand new webbing to use. What a thoughtful individual.

KSRT

Chris against the dramatic backdrop of the fluted ridges of the mountains.

KSRT

The group going through one of the multiple meadows that dot the ridge line.

KSRT

Mona going down an old and tired rope.

KSRT

Chico going off trail in a patch of uluhe ferns.

KSRT

Making our way to our last summit of the day. A far cry and throw from the original planned one.

Manoa Middle

Arthritic gang signs at the summit?

Manoa Middle

We had our last lunch break before heading down to the valley. Fresh salad pickings were had for the plucking and the five second rule doesn’t apply in the mountains, well for certain individuals at least.

Manoa Middle Trail

The lush valley being swept with passing showers on our way down.

Manoa Middle Trail

Passing through a stretch of invasive strawberry guava trees. Tasty trail snacks.

Manoa Middle Trail

Descending through a forest of some of the fastest growing plants on Earth.

Manoa Middle Trail

Climbing down the steepest section of the trail.

Manoa Valley

Scrambling up the short and steep hill.

Manoa Valley

Walking our way out on the trail studded with roots, rocks and mud. I was so over it.

All pau

The license plate has been blurred to protect the guilty. Thanks to Chris and Quan for giving us rides back to Kaneohe.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered 4.35 miles with windy conditions tempered by scenic views with a fun group. Congratulations to Aileen for finishing all three saddles on the KST. Post hike meal at Chico’s house where Lilia made us chili mac and the fixings and dessert.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Art Young, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Jen Odence, Mona Guillermo, 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.

Cranking winds threatened to blow out the candle on Aida’s birthday hike today. Thanks to Quan and Lilyn for dropping Merrill and myself off in the land of Wallabies and Aida, Aileen and Chico off at Alewa Heights respectively.

Kalihi Valley

Running across multiple downed trees on the service road. Heard some pigs rustling in the bushes, too bad it wasn’t members of the kangaroo family.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We popped up on the ridge line to be met with winds that were blowing hard. Didn’t have to worry about sweating today.

Shark Fin

Merrill pulling himself up the dorsal shaped rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Catching the sunrise breaking over the Olomana peaks.

Kalihi Saddle

Keeping our center of gravity low as the winds pushed us around.

Bunny Ears

Standing on the mushroom rock as we approached the first of two bunny ear rockfaces.

Bunny Ears

Scooting our way down the knife edge of a ridge.

Bunny Ears

I wasn’t getting any better reception in between the ears.

Bunny Ears

The winds blowing in our face literally took our breath away.

Doorstop

Dropping down the rockface whose handholds and footholds have eroded over the years.

Doorstop

Merrill making short work of the down climb.

Pimple

That’s our way up.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up the crumbly hill to climb up another crumbly hill.

Can Opener

Group photo with Kalihi Saddle as the backdrop.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way around the grassy contour below the crumbly ridge line.

Lanihuli Wall

The money shot. Perhaps a few dollars short.

Lanihuli Wall

Merrill coming up what many consider the hardest section of the trail due to a lot of upper body strength that is expended on the climb up.

Dirt Dragon

Trying to tame what is left of the dirt creature. Dust to dust. Ashes to ashes.

KSRT

Pushing our way to a free dinner. Wishful thinking.

Lanihuli Summit

A scare that didn’t go as planned. The rest of the group in the form of Aida, Aileen and Chico soon joined us at the summit from Kapalama Trail.

Lanihuli Summit

Happy Birthday Aida. Somebody forgot the cupcake. It’s the thought that counts.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the unusually clear 2,700′ summit.

KSRT

Leaving the swirling heavens behind us. More like the windy heavens for today.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Dropping into the saddle.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chico coming down the steep hill.

Anvil

Contouring our way on a sliver of a trail.

Anvil

Aileen pulling herself up the unstable anchor.

Anvil

Timing is everything. Aida was trying to figure out her footing as a small rockslide fell between her and the ropes. Somebody was watching over her to make sure her birthday wasn’t ruined.

Anvil

Just call me Otis. Mister Otis.

W

Trying to learn my alphabet.

W

Aileen climbing and contouring her way down the triple diked rockface.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hanging off the side of a sheer cliff overlooking Nu’uanu Reservoir.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing down another steep hill with the “W” behind us.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Following the serpentine ridge with scenic Windward and Leeward views all around us.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Descending through a corridor of trees on the Leeward side which afforded temporary respite from the stiff winds that were sweeping the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Scooting our way along the narrow shelf of a ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Aileen making her way down.

Incisor

Who brings an ax to a hike? Paul Bunyan?

Incisor

Swinging over the toothy rock.

Incisor

Aida spotting Aileen.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Coming down one careful step at a time.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The Prince making sure the spike fits perfectly on Cinderella aka Princess. Move over Matt.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Merrill climbing down the cracked rocks. It’s only a matter of time.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Which way does the wind blow? Take a wild guess.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going up the last hill. Promise?

Nu’uanu Valley

Climbing our way down the rooted flank of the ridge.

Nu’uanu Valley

We crossed paths with a couple of guys who were looking for the “lookout” and had overshot the puka until they bumped into us.

Pali Puka

Group photo with the lost boys photobombing us in the background.

Nu’uanu Valley

Traffic jam on the way down.

All pau

Thanks to Quan for bringing us frozen cokes and Lilia for picking us up. Our windy saddle hike covered less than three miles for Merrill and myself. Mileage was slightly higher for Aida, Aileen and Chico. Crumbly and challenging hike with a fun group. Post hike meal at the Kaneohe Yacht Club by invitation of the Commodore. Mustard packets for the taking.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Chico Cantu, Merrill Kalopodes 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.