May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. What better way to spend St. Patrick’s Day than in the verdant mountains of the Ko’olau’s? Now if we only had a Patrick with us. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Poamoho Road

Met up with the group at Allison’s house where we then shuttled to the trailhead, where Chris inspected a Volvo parked on the side. Safe but no 4×4 capability. Let’s just wait for Olivier.

Truck selfie

Somebody wanted a group photo on the bumpy road, so I fished my GoPro out of my backpack and obliged with this very clear and detailed picture.

Stranger danger

You can’t sweet talk us lady, you’re still not riding in the cab with us.

Trailhead

Hunters were unloading their dogs near the trail sign, so we stayed back just in case any of us reeked of swine stench. Group photo by Olivier Rojas, left to right: Chris, Allison, Laredo, Ani, Janell and myself. Mahalo to Olivier for the ride up the jeep road.

Poamoho Trail

Laredo peeled off his jacket, so my brain finally registered that rainbow man was hiking with us.

Poamoho Trail

Heading into the gulch.

Poamoho Summit

We were greeted at the 2,520′ hump with piercing sun beams and suspended pollution particles that muted the mountains and valleys below us.

Poamoho Summit

Hanging a right at the Cline memorial to begin our trek on the KST.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Opening the gate to where the country is still country. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

KST

Contouring below the fence line as the views continued to stay with us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Some of us took the fence line while others took the original KST, but we all ended up in the same place.

KST

Laredo opening the gate for the ladies.

KST

Following the trail as it bended its way through the mountains.

KST

Making our way through the rolling terrain dotted by ohia trees in varying states of decay and growth.

Boot Junction

I always wondered who left the boot here?

KST

No fence sitters here. We all know where we are going.

KST

Panoramic view of the mountains and valleys below us. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

KST

Leaving the fenced meadows behind us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Hiking on the fenced periphery of the native plants. Photo by Chris Bautista

KST

Chris spotted a native lobelia jutting out from the side of the cliff below us, its isolated existence shelters it from close contact.

KST

One of many short ups and downs, helped or hindered by the fence line? Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

The girls crossing over another gate in the fence line. Keep to the left to our destination. Keep to the right to explore.

Opae’ula Cabin

Looking at the four star hotel in the distance.

KST

Janell’s baptism by mud. She took it like a champ.

Junction

Somebody doesn’t look too happy.

KST

Hopping over the gate to continue our hike on the muddy trail. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

KST

The group meandering their way through the mountains.

Papali Junction

Time to leave the KST.

Mud pits

Some of us chose to cling to the fence, while others gave the gift that keeps on giving a wide berth.

Castle Falls

We hopped the fence to catch a glimpse of the waterfalls that always seems to be flowing.

Papali Trail

Checking out the coastline views.

Castle Junction

Going off the reservation or was it the other way around? Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Allison and Laredo coming down the trail who were easily identified by the bright white shirt and bare skin.

Castle Trail

Janell snacking on the leaf base of the ubiquitous uki grass.

Castle Trail

Heading down into the hanging valley. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Passing through a clump of moss-ified trees.

Castle Trail

The trail down was peppered with miniature landslides and blowdowns that textured the terrain.

Castle Trail

Random trail meetings. Photos by Chris Bautista.

Kaluanui Stream

Standing in the stream that collects and cascades down multiple waterfalls before terminating at Kaliuwa’a Falls.

Kaluanui Stream

Stream life.

Kaluanui Shelter

I wonder if this shelter is built near the original redwood framed tin roofed cabin that was established in the 1930s?

Kaluanui Shelter

Sheltered life.

Castle Trail

Leaving the stream as we climbed up the trail.

Castle Trail

Making our way out of the hanging valley.

Castle Trail

Walking underneath a stand of moss-ified trees.

Castle Trail

The fence line has continued its migratory spread and shows no sign of slowing down.

Castle Trail

Passing through the notch on our way down.

Castle Trail

Bushwhacking our way down the Pig God trail.

Castle Trail

“The finest view on the island if it doesn’t rain, only it always rains.” 1946 HTMC schedule. Today it didn’t rain. Photo by Allison Banks.

Castle Trail

We cut out a lot of the vegetation choked switchbacks by going straight down a spur ridge. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Looking back at the notch in the mountains.

Castle Trail

Somebody’s skin seemed impervious to all that clawing and intrusive overgrowth.

Castle Trail

Looking for a four leaf clover in all the wrong colors and genus.

Castle Trail

The ridge eventually petered out and returned us to the overgrown switchbacks.

Castle Trail

Crossing over one of multiple boulder strewn runoffs from the mountain.

Castle Trail

Tree huggers are proliferating on these trails like so many strawberry guava trees. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Heading down into the valley that once was golden colored from all the rice paddies that were once tilled by Chinese immigrants.

Punalu’u Valley

Speak softly and carry a big stick, especially when there are loose dogs running around and you go down the wrong road. Photo by Chris Bautista.

All pau

Janell doing her best impersonation of a speed bump. Many thanks to Jasmin and Quan for picking us up.

GPS Tracks

Somebody’s dream hike covered 14.2 miles through verdant mountains, muddy trails and lush valleys. Fun hike with a great group. Post hike meal at El Chile Relleno where they still give unlimited chips and salsa.

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 Ferlino, Mia and Shirley to salvage what we could from the originally planned camping weekend.

Poamoho Road

Ferlino opening the gate to where the cows sometimes stray from their barbed wire pastures and hunters roam the land looking for smaller sized ungulates.

Shake, Rattle and Roll

Thanks to Brian for the tailgate ride to the top and the impromptu social mixer with the hunters. Always awkward to meet irate individuals with guns and dogs. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Trailhead

Starting at the trail that prohibits two wheeled modes of transportation, but permits two legged means of transportation.

Poamoho Trail

Heading up the graded trail that cut a swath through the vegetation cascading down the mountain. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Poamoho Trail

The summit beckoned us with clear and inviting skies as we picked up the pace to make it there in under 90 minutes.

Poamoho Trail

Hiking in unmaintained territory, with nothing but the fence line to keep us on track.

Short people problems

Wait, don’t push me yet! Photo by Shirley.

Poamoho Trail

Heading into the gully. Almost there.

Poamoho Trail

Looking at this photo, would one think: a) Mia was asking Shirley for a hand to cross the dry streambed or b) passing her iPhone to get that perfect shot? Choose wisely, grasshopper. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Poamoho Trail

Heading to the summit where it’s usually a hit or miss in regards to the views. Today was going to be a home run.

Poamoho Summit

Stunningly clear day at the 2,520′ summit with panoramic views of Punalu’u and Kahana Valleys. Words can’t describe it and pictures just scratch the surface.

Poamoho Summit

Ferlino got arm blocked in our group photo.

Poamoho Summit

Some of us tried to look heroic …

Poamoho Summit

… while others could stand to lose seven pounds. Wait, did I get my captions mixed up? Photo and pose credit by Shirley.

Cline Memorial

We ended the photoshoot as we had squandered our early lead at the scenic swept summit and headed out to fenced pastures.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Leaving the fenced trail as we set foot on the historic trail carved out of the mountains back in the 1930’s. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KST

Contouring our way around the ridge line and the small pockets of land slides.

KST

Ferlino climbing over the locked gate. We are not illegals.

KST

Working our way back to the fence line, an ubiquitous sight in the mountains.

KST

Hiking our way across the rugged Northern Ko’olau Mountains.

KST

Shirley attempting to prove that her head is not that big. The fence failed to validate her claim.

KST

Looking out towards the strikingly clear Waianae Mountain Range.

Shoefie

We are not turning simple, well most of us that is. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Boot Junction

Leaving one side of the fence for another side of the fence.

Fence meadows

Crossing the spongy ground. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Fence meadows

Synchronized fence climbing against the valley backdrop.

KST

We can see the cabin for the mountains.

KST

Following the fence line as it wrapped around the valley.

Ko’olau Clinic

When you have to let your 7,126 followers know of your sprained ankle that was compressed with medical tape and webbing. Photo by Mia Garrison.

KST

Somebody was blocking the stunning views. Photo by Mia Garrison.

Kaluanui

Paying too much attention to the sign and not the fence. The other fence.

Kaluanui

Hiking across the 376 acres of mountains and valleys that are home to 29 endemic fauna and flora found nowhere else.

LifeCall

Shirley doing her best impersonation of “Mrs. Fletcher.” I’ve fallen and I can’t get up. All that was missing was the pendant.

Waterfall

Something new on the trail. Wait, this isn’t the trail. Well, at least we got to see a waterfall on the hike, which you usually don’t see on the KST.

KST

Back on the right trail after we spent an hour exploring, which is hiking jargon for getting lost.

Sock Junction

Just wondering if the sock fits the boot?

KST Junction

We took a slight detour off the KST to experience …

Mud Trail

… knee deep mud …Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ko’olau Mountains

… and stunning views of the Waianae Mountains. Photo by Mia Garrison.

Opae’ula Cabin

Group photo of the cabin with the Waianae Mountains in the backdrop, left to right: Ferlino, Shirley, Mia and myself.

Army Cabin

What happened in the cabin got etched very deeply into our photographic memories. Indelible.

Opae’ula Cabin

Time to leave as we had squandered our few remaining daylight hours for the cabin experience. I think the group thought it was worth it.

Mud Trail

Ferlino stepping to the side to avoid taking a mud bath.

KST Junction

Going down the rabbit hole.

KST

It was a hop, skip and a jump across the short muddy section before exiting the gate. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KST

Some of us embraced the mud more readily than the others as we passed the sun bleached pig jawbone.

Papali Junction

Our last group photo of the day as rain would keep us company the rest of the way down.

Papali Ridge

Descending down from the Ko’olau Summit Trail.

Papali Ridge

The rain blended in and drowned out the sound from nearby Castle Falls as we made our way down the fence. Besides, we already saw a waterfall today.

Papali Ridge

What goes down, must come back up. Something you learn very quickly in the mountains.

Castle Junction

Paying too much attention to the gate that drops one down into Kaluanui Stream and Punalu’u Valley. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ko’olau Mountains

Exploring the rain soaked fenced ridge line for a few hours before the curtain of darkness fell upon us.

Papali Ridge

Illuminating our way down the blackened ridge with a motley assortment of iPhone flashlights and headlamps. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Papali Ridge

The city lights looked so close and yet was so far away. Photo by Shirley.

All pau

Our 12.4 mile hike covered spectacular valley and rugged mountain views through sunny, cloudy and rainy weather. Our ordeal finally came to an end that was filled with graffiti and barking dogs. Great company made the all day adventure bearable and fun. A hearty shout out to Analyn and Clayton for picking us up in the dead of night bearing pizza, wings, banana lumpia and cold drinks. Post hike meal in the SUV. Much Mahaloz! Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

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.

Chris and I spent the Labor Day weekend backpacking in the mountains. Thanks to Daryl for dropping us off.

Hau’ula Valley

Passing the revolving wall of graffiti.

Ma’akua Ridge Trail

Leaving the road behind us.

Bench

Views of the Hau’ula coastline and Laie Point to our left.

Papali Ridge

We left the loop trail to continue the climb up the ridge.

Papali Ridge

Gaining elevation through the uluhe ferns, which were surprisingly trimmed back. We found out later that some fellow hiking friends had cleared it earlier for their upcoming backpacking hike. Lucky us.

Papali Ridge

Humping up the rollercoaster ridge.

Papali Ridge

We followed the ridge line as it curved to the left towards the mountains.

Papali Ridge

Looking ahead to the saddle crossing.

Papali Ridge

Even our boonie hats took a break in the field of flowers.

Papali Ridge

Looking back at the sweeping views of the Windward coastline.

Papali Ridge

Our first contact with the sprawling fence line.

Castle Junction

The trail down to Kaluanui Stream. Not today.

Papali Ridge

Hiking through the wide open swath made possible by the recently installed fence line.

Castle Falls

We hopped over the fence to take in a brief look at this waterfall nestled back in the valley.

Papali Ridge

Passing a moss-ified ohia tree on the trail.

Papali Ridge

Strolling to the summit.

Papali Junction

Standing on the Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST).

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

We meet again. Last time we saw this particular pua’a (pig), it had recently passed and was lying next to a tree on the other side of the fence. Somebody staked its skull to the fence post.

Trail

Going off the reservation. The KST reservation.

Mud pits

Trying my (un)successful best to avoid sinking into the mud. At least I didn’t sink waist deep, like on one of our last visits. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trail

Chris pausing to soak in the views of the Waianae Mountains.

Opae’ula Cabin

We arrived at the recently painted cabin shortly before 3pm. What time is check in?

Opae’ula Cabin

It was one of the best feelings to exchange our mud soaked shoes for slippers, that I just had to jump for joy. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Opae’ula Cabin

Watching the sun rays poking through the clouds and dancing across the land.

Opae’ula Cabin

Fiery sunset on the North Shore.

Opae’ula Cabin

Cabin life lit by a flickering candle that needs to be replaced soon.

Opae’ula Cabin

Morning bowel movement view.

Opae’ula Cabin

We checked out at 8am. Mahalo for the hospitality!

Trail

Extreme hula hooping. Forget plastic hoops, hikers do it with metal hoops.

Trail

Following the fence back to the gate.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Back on the KST. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

The rugged peaks of Manamana, Kanehoalani and Ohulehule poking out above the ridge line.

KST

Chris passing through another gate.

KST

It was a beautiful day to be in the mountains.

KST

Chris dropped down the fence line to follow the barely moist stream bed.

Trail

Standing on top of a trickling waterfall. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Jaw dropping views of the valleys kept us company.

Fence Meadows

Crossing the fence to get to the other fence.

Peahinaia Trail

Talks of exploring the overgrown and presumably lost trail soon fizzled out.

Boot Junction

Seated and waiting to try on a pair of boots. Make that singular. Shoelaces not included.

KST

Heading back into the jungle of uluhell ferns and assorted shrubs and trees.

KST

The fence line soon split into two forks. Which one to take?

KST

Outside the fence line.

KST

Inside the fence line.

KST

The contour below the ridge line is now fenced off. The gate is there if you look hard enough, otherwise climb over the fence.

KST

Hikers version of the fidget spinner.

KST

Chris getting off the ridge and fence line.

Poamoho Summit

Pitching tent at the summit for strictly photographic purposes.

Poamoho Summit

Chris climbed the hill to catch a better perspective.

Poamoho Summit

Clear day at the 2,520′ summit.

Poamoho Summit

Chris standing on one of the spur ridges looking down into the stunning valley views.

Cline Memorial

Leaving the breathtaking summit. I think over two hours was enough.

Poamoho Trail

Passing the gulch on our right.

Poamoho Trail

Transitioning from the unmaintained to the maintained trail.

Poamoho Trail

The trail going down was surprisingly bone dry. No complaints here.

Trailhead

Is that our ride? Wishful thinking.

Plantation Road

I switched to auto pilot going down the mentally and physically numbing road. One foot in front of the other. Repeat until needed.

Plantation Road

Our forward progress was momentarily halted by a rather large black cow that had planted herself squarely in the middle of the road and wasn’t budging. I waited for Chris to catch up as he had shed his red shirt as some cows were following him. We soon edged around the cow to resume walking down the road and thought we had saw the last of that heifer. We were sadly mistaken. Taking a break at the second gate, we heard loud bellowing and saw the same black cow had followed us! We climbed through the barbed wire to the other road and the cow soon lost interest.

All pau

No sign of the black cow. The red ninja hiker kept us safe. Mahalo to Dale and Kamalani for picking us up on short notice.

GPS Tracks

Our two day hike through some of the most scenic trails on the island covered 16.72 miles. Not a bad way to spend the weekend with good company. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse. Prime rib is what’s for dinner. Moooo!

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.

Met up with Chris, Derek, Ethan, Glenn, Huckett, Kristina, Stuart and Tina to take a walk where the country is still country. The rugged Northern Ko’olaus.

Trailhead

Have permits, will hike.

Laie Trail

The group making their way over the eroded trail section. A dirt biker’s paradise.

Laie Trail

The sun washing over the group coming up the dirt road. Photo by Derek Potter.

Laie Trail

Root level with the grove of Norfolk Pine Trees. The technical start of the trail. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Laie Trail

Glenn popping out of the corridor of strawberry guava trees and into the sunlight.

Laie Trail

We followed the graded ridge trail as the invasive forest slowly switched to mostly endemic forest.

Laie Trail

Crossing the Ko’olau Summit Trail to get to the top. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Laie Summit

Summit view at 2,240′ overlooking the town of Laie. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Laie Summit

Group photo at the foxhole, left to right: Ethan, Kristina, Stuart, Glenn, myself, Derek, Tina, Huckett and Chris.

KST

The summit air was chilly, so it was time to walk it off.

KST

A study in contrasts. Native loulu palm trees dotted the mountains, while invasive wind turbines populated the hills of Kahuku. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

KST

Crossing the bowl shaped depression to eventually meet up …

KST

… with the familiar fence.

KST

Looking back.

KST

Coming around the bend. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

KST

Mud up to your ankles was promised. And delivered. And then some. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Open country. Fenced country.

KST

Why did the hikers cross the fence? To get to the cabin.

Koloa Cabin

Cabin life. Boarded. Dental hygiene is the key to a happy mouth.

Koloa Cabin

Group photo at the cabin. Taking a photographic memory as the cabin log is gone, so we couldn’t leave any written memories behind.

KST

Picking up the trail from where we left off.

KST

Climbing into and out of a small notch. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Passing the rope that lead to somewhere. We were not going somewhere.

KST

The group crossing through a small meadow.

KST

The trail meandered to the Windward side …

KST

… and back to the Leeward side.

KST

Almost to the home stretch. But first, another stretch of mud. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

End to end views of the rugged Waianae Mountain Range.

KST

Almost there. See the fence?

Papali Junction

Group photo at the rubber slippah junction. Rumor has it that a certain king lost a pair in this same area.

Papali Ridge

Only two hours to the valley floor. Right Chris?

Papali Ridge

Just when Tina thought she left the mud all behind her. Think again. Knee deep mud.

Papali Ridge

Looking down the ridge. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Papali Ridge

The unabated fencing of the mountains continues.

Castle Falls

Just follow your ears.

Papali Ridge

When the fence becomes a ladder. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Junction

Hold that gate.

Castle Trail

Passing clumps of mossy covered trees as we made our way down the trail.

Castle Trail

Leap of faith. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

The trail soon dumped us into the cold and clear waters of Kaluanui Stream.

Kaluanui Stream

Stream life. Washing. Drinking. Tenting. Eating.

Kaluanui Stream

Group photo at the stream that feeds Sacred Falls.

Kaluanui Stream

Tour helicopters buzzing overhead us. Nothing to see here. Fly along folks. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

Huckett passing through the notch. What notch?

Castle Trail

We all had to pause and soak in the stunning valley views. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

Looking back. See the notch?

Castle Trail

Making our way down the spur ridge that cut out most of the middle man switchbacks.

Castle Trail

So, that’s what they call it. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

Stuart making his down the mostly cleared trail.

Castle Trail

The detour stops here.

Castle Trail

Tina walking along the fern draped cliff.

Castle Trail

Avocado pickers, Chris and Derek, climbed and harvested a mountain souvenir for each of us. It was delish.

Castle Trail

Passing over a landslide area.

Castle Trail

Walking through a corridor of strawberry guava trees.

Castle Trail

What hike wouldn’t be complete without wading through a patch of uluhe ferns? Exactly.

Castle Trail

The long road out of the valley that was made short …

Castle Trail

… by a pick up truck. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

All pau

Thanks to the friendly farmer that gave us a lift out of the valley.

GPS Tracks

Our country hike covered 17.64 miles over some of the most rugged and beautiful terrain to be found in the mountains. Great grinder with a great group. Post hike meal at North Shore Tacos. Beats the run to the border any day.

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.

I met up with Gen, Glenn, Jose and Justin to do some exploring on the North Shore. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trailhead

We passed the revolving graffiti wall on our way to the Ma’akua Ridge Trail.

Sunrise

The sun breaking over the town of Hauula.

Bench

Group photo by Justin Hirako, left to right: Jose, Gen, Justin, Glenn and myself.

Papali Ridge

We left the loop trail and headed up the ridge.

Rope Log

There were no rope and no log. What the heck is this thing?

Papali Ridge

The trail started like a typical ridge hike, multiple short ups …

Papali Ridge

… and downs.

Papali Ridge

The trail was surprisingly clear. The uluhell was only ankle high. Ankle biters.

Papali Ridge

Spoke too soon. Glenn wading through waist high uluhell.

Coastal view

Looking back at the coastal communities of Hauula, Laie and Kahuku.

Papali Ridge

Group photo at the Papali junction. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail snacks

Gen munching on uki grass. A good source of dietary fiber.

Papali Ridge

Justin approaching the saddle.

Papali Ridge

Ferns and fungus growing out of a fallen tree.

Mountain of dreams

Dirty yoga. Wrong in so many ways. Photos by Justin Hirako.

Papali Ridge

The ridge became a steady chore going up.

Papali Ridge

Justin and Glenn making their way up.

Ridges and Valleys

We soon noticed a fresh looking cut trail going down into the valley.

Costco Hot Dog

Glenn sucking down the mustard like there’s no tomorrow to combat his cramps.

Trail Junction

A sign pointed to the trail we had just been checking out from the top of the ridge.

Trail

The trail looked like it had been recently cleared. Lucky us.

Bare Tree

A lonely tree shorn of its leaves.

Moss Trees

The trail switch backed through a forest of moss covered trees.

Leap of faith

One had no faith. One went blindly. One went with eyes wide open.

Trail

Gen and Jose checking out the stream below the trail.

Kaluanui Stream

White hibiscus lined the banks of the stream.

Kaluanui Stream

Group photo by Justin Hirako.

Kaluanui Stream

We dumped our packs and decided to do some exploring.

Kaluanui Stream

Glenn rock hopping down the stream.

Kaluanui Stream

What’s around the corner?

Waterfall

Waterfall! Photo by Justin Hirako.

Tours

Helicopters frequently buzzed the valley during our short stay. We waved. They waved back.

Waterfall

Noticed a couple of old rappelling anchors at the top. No ropes. No rappel.

Waterfall

We contoured our way down to the base of the waterfall. Group photo by Justin Hirako. Hey, where did the other two go?

Kaluanui Stream

If only we had more time to explore downstream.

Sunning

We made our way back upstream to find Jose sleeping soundly on a rock. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

We refilled our camelbacks from the stream and picked up the trail on the opposite side of the banks.

Construction

Stopped to check out the site of a future cabin? Group photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

Leaving the stream behind us.

Trail

Looking out towards the ocean.

Notch

I can’t go any higher. Something might rip. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Notch

Justin squeezed through horizontally and vertically. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Punalu’u Valley

Click here for the larger image.

Trail

The trail was completely overgrown with towering pink fringe flower vines. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

Going under and around strawberry guava trees. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

Heading down into Punalu’u Valley. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Trail

Some overgrown sections were so thick that we had to crawl on our hands and knees.

Trail

Justin used sheer momentum and mass to break through.

Trail

Passing underneath a tangled thicket of tree branches. Luckily we didn’t have to go through them.

Trail

Between a hard rock wall and a drop off. Walk carefully.

Detour

Looked like a section of the original trail got closed down. Possibly due to a landslide?

Detour

Gen going down the detour trail.

Trail

The detour trail soon dropped us back to the switchbacks.

Road

We followed the sign that pointed to a road further down. Talk about taking a spur ridge down instead, dissipated with the fact that darkness would soon cover us and we didn’t know the lay of the land.

Trail

Gen wading through head high uluhell.

Trail

Flower girl.

Trail

Glenn making his way under and over thickets of tree branches. That road can’t come soon enough.

All pau

We made our way down off the ridge, passed through the valley populated with farms and palatial houses until we popped out on the road. Photo by Justin Hirako.

GPS Tracks

Our hiking mileage varied, depending on whose tracking app you asked, 9.85 or 11.01 miles. Either way, it was quite an epic day hiking in the mountains with a fun crew. We even had a “valet” that was watching our truck. Glenn gave him some cash and a job referral for his “troubles.” Post hike meal at Zippy’s.

Chris B and myself joined the HTMC on their hike to a sharp peak on a rugged ridge in Kahana Valley. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trailhead

We met up with the group and were briefed by Grant, the hike leader and then moved our cars to the visitor parking inside the valley to begin our hike.

Trail

Single file shuffle.

Dam crossing

The group crossing Kahawainui Stream.

Nakoa trail

Which way guys? Straight?

Uphill

The group walking through a stand of lauhala trees.

Uluhell

HTMC had cleared the lower portion of the trail earlier, but the remaining part to the top was steep and heavily overgrown.

Looking back

Looking out towards Kahana Valley, the former playground for the US Army during WW2.

Short, steep and sweet

Looking ahead to the summit of Pu’u O Kila. It took us only 90 minutes to get to the top. Huffing and puffing 90 minutes. Still only an hour and a half.

Steep

Who needs rope where we’re going?

Puu O Kila

Click here for the larger image. The 1,520′ summit was quite sparse in terms of space and views.

Bushwhacking

I had asked earlier about the possibility of breaking away from the group and doing the connector ridge from the summit to Ohulehule. Word was that it was probably not doable anymore. Key word on probably. We separated from the group and forged ahead on the connector ridge. Rain clouds looked promising.

Fiddlehead

Toss them in a pan with butter and sea salt. Drizzle with lemon juice. Serve.

Trail

The ridge started to get overgrown as we pushed forward.

Kahana Valley

Click here for the larger image.

Ridge

We had some rock climbing to break the monotony of the heavy overgrowth.

Ridge

Chris swinging around a tree to get back on the ridge.

Ridge

This rocky section reminded me of the second peak of Paku’i.

Looking back

Leaving Pu’u O Kila behind us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ridge

Typical ridge hike filled with multiple short ups and downs. Some sections were narrow and crumbly.

Pu’u Koile

Group photo at the 1,660′ summit. There was another connector ridge to the KST. Another hike for another day.

Ridge

We were within striking distance of Pu’u Ohulehule. Or was that hiking distance?

Ridge

Chris “Machete” Bautista hacking away at the overgrowth.

Uluhell

The struggle was real. Steep and heavily overgrown climb to the junction.

Junction

We took a breather after battling through all that overgrowth.

Pu’u Ohulehule

Talk about summiting Ohulehule was dispelled by the rapidly accumulating cloud cover at the top.

Ridge

We turned left and started our descent down the Northwest ridge.

True Manamana and Two Apes Talking

A possible loop hike for another day?

Stream crossing

We dropped down from the ridge and started making our way through the valley.

Looking back

The rugged ridge we had just traversed behind us.

Hidden dragon

Where was the crouching tiger?

Trail

Chris walking next to the gurgling stream.

Stream crossing

No flash flood conditions today.

Nakoa trail

We meet again.

That dam crossing

No swinging or swimming in the water for us today.

All pau

We walked back to the trailhead and the barking dogs. Leashed.

GPS Tracks

The scenic hike covered a scant 7 miles through sometimes steep, narrow and overgrown ridges. Post hike meal at Waiahole Poi Factory. Scratch that. Closed. Next stop. Zippy’s.

Visions of carved pumpkins dancing on a certain extinct crater were soon extinguished, to be replaced by another Halloween hike deep in Kahana Valley. Dale picked me up from Helemano Military Reservation and we journeyed around the island to a place where cell phone reception does not exist.

Trailhead

These boots are made for walking. Or was that past tense?

Hunters & dogs

We saw a pack of hunters ahead of us that went down the Nakoa trail. We were headed uphill to the water tank.

Water tank

The trail for us was the opposite of the sign’s direction.

Cleared trail

HTMC had recently cleared the bottom part of the trail. Lucky us.

Sunrise

The sun was trying to pierce the clouds and the clouds were winning.

Pauao Ridge

The trail soon met up with the ridge and we turned left to continue our climb towards the Koolau Summit Trail (KST).

Uluhell

The cleared trail slowly lost ground to a tangled mess of uluhe ferns as we climbed higher.

‘ie’ie

Endemic woody climbers scattered on the trail.

Ridge

Our destination was masked by heavy cloud cover.

Mossy break

Taking a break amidst the mossy covered trees and ground.

Waterfall

Tucked away deep in the valley. Another hike for another day. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Cloudy ridge

One of many false summits that teased us on the hike.

Steep

We lost our bipedal locomotion as the ridge angle slowly increased.

Steeper

The ridge maintained the steep angle to the summit. Crawling and climbing. Huffing and puffing.

KST

Looking at the contour trail carved into the side of the mountains.

Kahana Valley

Besides being the wettest valley on the island, it also boasts one of the best views on the island.

Where is the KST?

You’re standing on it Dale!

Pauao junction

Group photo at the top. Small group. Not really a group.

Loulou palms

Dale passing through a cluster of endemic palm trees with their rustling fan shaped leaves.

Cloudy trail

We turned right on the trail towards Poamoho.

Signs

This must be a hiking trail. There is a sign. Signs of progress or not. Depending on ones point of view.

KST

Dale looking out at the historical Ko’olau Summit Trail that was originally created for hunters to control the feral pig population and not for hikers back in the 1930’s.

Magic gate

My feet never touched the gate, however not the same could be said for my posterior which kissed mother mud. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Leeward trail

The trail crossed to the Leeward side, affording us cloudy views of the Waianae Mountain Range and Central Oahu.

Notch

Dale opening one of many gates we would encounter on the trail.

Windward trail

The trail switched back to the Windward side with stunning views of Kahana Valley and the Windward side.

Gated trail

The trail switched back to the Leeward side, sheltering us from the howling winds.

Cabin trail

Dale making his way to the cabin.

Poamoho Cabin

The legend of the old man in the cabin was true! Photos by Dale Yoshizu.

Happy Halloween!

Dressing for the occasion. We both wore pumpkin orange.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

That way?

The other way.

Windward trail

Dale making his way towards the summit.

Poamoho summit

One of the greatest views on the island. That is, when the weather cooperates.

Cline memorial

The only view was that facing the Waianae Mountain Range.

Mud gate

Dale leaving the no view summit.

Stream jumper

Dale making sure his feet does not touch water. Just mud.

Checking in

Or was that checking out?

Trail

We left behind the unmaintained trail. Walk in the park from this point. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Poamoho trail

The trail meandered through the vast Ewa Forest Reserve.

Bananas

Slightly radioactive leathery berries.

Trail steps

Dale climbing up the steps on the trail.

Trailhead

The easy part was over. Now the long and boring part lay ahead of us.

Poamoho road

Six miles of jeep road. There is actually a permit you can obtain to drive a 4×4 on this road to save you some mileage. Unfortunately for us, we were going down and not up.

Moo

We decided to move along in case they became bored with just chewing grass. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

What’s the combination?

The first of three gates we would encounter on the trail.

All pau

The sun was still shining on our sweaty faces. My car was still parked where I left it. Intact. All treats and no tricks today.

GPS Tracks

Our Halloween Ko’olau traverse hike covered 13.95 miles. Mahalo to Dale for keeping me company on today’s hike. Post hike meal at Zippy’s.

Marvin invited Jose, Thessa and myself to tackle a large chunk of the Northern KST (Koolau Summit Trail) stretching from Waikane Valley to Papali Trail, a grinder of a hike at over 16 miles. Who wouldn’t jump at such an opportunity?

Any loose dogs?

The group picked me up at Hau’ula Beach and we then parked on Kamehameha Highway nearby Waikane Valley Road. The report of large, loose dogs on the road was slightly exaggerated. They were large barking dogs, but all restrained by fences and chains. Rabies shot? Check.

Follow the fence

The fence into the valley was decorated with large weathered signs that stated high explosives impact area. On the other side of the fence, I hope.

Headed into Waikane Valley

As we headed deeper into the valley, rain showers paid us a visit. Not a surprise since we were on the Windward side.

Waikane stream

The only active stream crossing of the hike. Last time I was going to get my shoes wet. Fat chance.

Scenic lookout

The rain had just left us to be replaced by some sorely needed sunshine. Group picture looking into Waikane Valley left to right: Thessa, myself, Marvin and Jose.

Rugged beauty

Checking out Pu’u Manamana, True Manamana and Pu’u Ohulehule in the valley below us.

Trail snacks

Thimbleberry plants lined the trail, most of them red and ripe, ready for picking and eating.

Manana junction

We arrived at the Waikane terminus to begin our hike on the KST (Koolau Summit Trail). Behind us was the Manana junction. Another grinder hike for another longer day.

Lobelia sighting

Further up the trail was the rare Lobelia gaudichaudii, endemic only to this island.

The trail ahead

Hiking on the Northern KST seems worlds apart from the Southern KST. Maybe it’s just me.

The trail behind

Looking back at how much or how little ground we already covered. It’s all relative.

Scenic lookout #2

Breathtaking views of Pu’u Piei, Pu’u Manamana, Pu’u Ohulehule and the Kualoa mountains in Kahana Valley. The Windward winds were whipping today in full force.

Schofield junction

Looking back at the Schofield junction. Hmm, maybe not another hike for another day.

Looking ahead

The Northern KST trail is for the most part a contour path that was cut into the side of the mountains.

Looking back

Digging into the history bin, it seems that a crew from the Kahuku Plantation Company started the trail in 1906 and the work was continued by the Civilian Conservation Corp in 1934. That must have been some backbreaking work. Thank you!

Small landslide

Jose and Thessa make their way over a small landslide area of the trail.

Big landslide

A much larger landslide took out this section of the KST trail.

Pauao Trail

The Pauao Ridge Trail goes down into Kahana Valley. There used to be a troll doll attached to the top of the sign until somebody decided to take it home. Maybe I should’ve replaced it with my Kikaida doll?

Contour trail

Hiking on the contour trail while enjoying the valley views made the distance more tolerable.

Lobelia sighting #2

We encountered another Koolau range lobelia on the edge of the trail.

The notch

Marvin told us a historical anecdote regarding the trail, the crew had to use a huge amount of TNT to blast a hole through and the sides of the mountain to build the KST.

Horse trail?

The trail had to be wide enough to accommodate pack mules that were used to transport supplies up the mountains back in the old days. Erosion and time has taken their toll, but the path still remains quite wide.

Reservations for two?

We soon arrived at Poamoho cabin. This would be the final stop for Jose and Thessa who had decided to overnight at the cabin. They would go down Pauao trail the next day.

We have four open bunks

The cabin provided a nice dry spot to take a load off our feet for awhile. Marvin re-filled his water from the cabin’s supply. One still needs to bring water purification tablets as the water is captured from the constant rain this area gets but is not filtered.

Please sign the log

Everybody signed the famous Poamoho Cabin Log Book. If one is staying overnight, it makes for an interesting read, as there are pictures, comments and even short stories people have penned.

Check out the marsh/pond?

As we all made our way to the summit, Jose and Thessa said they were going to bushwhack their way down to the marshy pond area below the cabin, when they returned from seeing us off.

Cline memorial

The wind was whipping so hard that I could barely hold my GoPro steady! The winds are fierce at Poamoho summit.

Poamoho summit

I finally had to use both hands to keep it steady. What a view!

Hikers in the wind

We tried jumping off, but the wind held us back. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Farewell

Looking back at Jose and Thessa waving at us from Poamoho summit.

Wind velocity?

I guess this beats slopping saliva on your finger and sticking it in the wind.

The fence

After climbing up a small hill, we soon encountered a familiar feature on the Northern KST. Miles and miles of fence line.

Follow the fence

We kept to the Windward side as we hugged the fence line up and down the broad rolling hills.

Boot size?

We soon crossed over the KST junction. Thank goodness for these signs. One can easily get lost up here.

Meadow

Leaving the blighted fence line behind …

The fence again!

… or maybe not.

Papali trail

The muddiest part of the KST. Shoes down!

Last sign on the KST

We took leave of the fence line for good as we turned right at this junction.

Sunbeams

Looking to our left, sunbeams poking out of the heavy cloud banks over central Oahu.

Leaving the KST

Leaving the KST as the clouds rolled in and the sun started to leave our company.

Castle junction

Taking a break at the Castle junction that was to our right. We would be continuing on our left down the Papali Uka trail.

What time is it?

The trail was all downhill, with some small hills to climb. In the dark. Shortly after this picture was taken, combined with exhaustion and my Black Diamond headlamp dimming after only several hours (note to self: complain to the company), I took a false step and fell off the ridge. Cussing the whole time while tumbling down in the dark off a 2,000’+ ridge, vines arrested my fall about 40′ later. Upside down. I’ll take 40′ over 2,000′ any day. Marvin called out to me and asked if he should call rescue. After taking stock of everything and not feeling anything bleeding or broken, I yelled that rescue was not needed and if he had rope with him. No was the reply. Great was my reply. Hanging off the side of a severely eroded ridge with only vines and scrawny trees to grab on, I still managed to recover my headlamp and GoPro that had fallen out of my backpack. Must be my lucky day! With my GoPro clutched in one hand, I resumed my cussing and started making my way up to the ridgeline. When I finally reached the ridgeline, I was gassed out. Marvin helped pull me up and we resumed our hike down the trail. What else could go wrong? My headlamp soon died. Now I had no light and my right ankle was swollen from the fall. We moved at a snails pace going down the rest of the ridge with Marvin intermittently looking back with his light so I would not take another false step. We finally staggered into Hauula at 4am to find my car still where I left it. Best news of the day or night!

GPS Tracks

The grinder totaled 16.96 miles and at 22 hours (not planned due to my fall) was my longest hike to date. An experience that I have no wish to repeat, especially the falling part.

Marvin put together another fun hike today, this one was Pu’u Piei out in Kahana Valley. We all met at the first parking lot and please silence your cellphones for the hike, as phone reception is zero in this area. The group consisted of Marvin, Chrissy, Hiram, Julz, Matt, Nani, Ray, Rob and myself. Photo by Julz Pruett.

Kapa ‘Ele’Ele Trail

The trail is a 1.2 mile loop that passes a fishing shrine and a lookout, today it was just going to take us to the ridge. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Follow the leader

We followed the trail into an open clearing and turned left into the forest. The trail soon led us to another junction, where we took another left to gain the higher ground.

Photo break

About halfway up the ridge, was a wide washed out clearing that served as an impromptu break area. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Rain forecast – 100%

Matt and I soon separated from the group and made our way up to the top of the ridge, where we turned left to head to the summit. We soon saw a rain shower making its way around the coastline. Yes, we did get soaked.

Pu’u Piei Summit

The summit of Pu’u Piei is postage stamp sized and overgrown. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Panoramic view from the summit

 The outstanding views of Kahana Bay and Valley. Photo by Nani Dee.

Smoking mountain

 Making our way back down to the group on the now slippery and muddy trail.

Leaving the summit

Another rain shower gave us a second good soaking. No wonder Kahana is one of the wettest valleys on the island. We soon met up with the group at the top of the junction and hiked up ahead to join Hiram as we continued on the Makai part of the ridge. No other takers wanted to join us on some fun rock scrambling. Next time.

Strike the pose

Matt took off his shoes to get better purchase on the small square footage of this thumb of a rock. I had climbed up earlier but didn’t trust my wet soled shoes to stand on the rock without slipping and falling over.

Which way?

Hiram checking out webbing left by previous hikers. We elected to simply hike up and over. Straight to the point.

Nice views!

Typical rocky ridgeline. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Rock climbing

We noticed paragliders circling over our heads as we had our fun and they had their fun. 

Fun, fun, fun!

We got another sprinkle which made the rocks somewhat slick, so we took our time.

Bugs eye view

Going down the first notch. You can either free climb and go down the front or contour to the left and use these handy ropes. Due to the rainy weather, we decided that ropes were our friends.

Birds eye view

Try not to put all your weight on the ropes, as these particular ones went over a small rock wedged between bigger rocks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

First notch

I heard a fellow hiker fell off the first notch while free climbing and plunged about 100′. While these rocks seemed more solid than on other trails, you just never know.

Second notch

We came down the second notch by contouring to the left and then working our way down towards the middle of the notch.

Downclimbing

We got our last sprinkle of the day as made our way down the last set of rocks. Once again, ropes were our friends due to the slick rocks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Punaluu Valley

The Army in WW2 had Jungle Training Camps in Kahana and Punalu’u Valleys.

Checking out the views

The fun rock climbing is over! Time to relax and check out the scenic views of Kahana Bay and Valley.

Back to hiking

This part of the ridge was heavily overgrown with vegetation.

Leaving the rocky ridge behind

I can see why the valley and surrounding areas are so green and lush with vegetation what with all the constant watering that Mother Nature provides.

Last group photo

Our last group photo together. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Trail snacks

Snacking on the abundant, ripe and chilled guavas on the trail. Spit out the seeds.

The ridge going down

The trail ends at the last spur ridge going back down into the valley.

Paragliders

Watching the paragliders circle lazily above the ridges, made me want to try that one day. It looks like fun!

Back on the road again

Hiram popping out of the bushes as we followed Kamehameha Highway back to our cars. Lunch at Uncle Bobo’s!

GPS Tracks

The fun filled scramble was a short 3.75 mile hike, but well worth the climb!