It was time to help another friend finish her last section of the KST today. Thanks to Sally for dropping Aida, Cisco, Somphet and myself off in Chinatown to start our hike. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Pali Lookout

Scrambling up the steep and rooted climb under the cover of darkness.

Pali Puka Trail

Somphet making his way on the narrow trail bordered with thick growth on one side and steep cliffs on the other.

Pali Puka Trail

Aida approaching the towering rock edifice. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Pali Puka

Outside looking in.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing and contouring our way up through the scattered blowdowns.

KSRT

Cisco pulling himself up to the ridge. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the sunbeams streaming through the clouds as they scattered across the valley floor.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making my way down the first hill on the saddle. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at Olomana framed between the ridge line and the Pali Notches.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The distinctive summit of Lanihuli in the background, our halfway point. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Somphet leaning in the same direction as the tree. Being one with nature.

Incisor Rock

Climbing up the tooth shaped rock. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Incisor Rock

Contouring around the narrow edged rock.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making my way up to the Leeward side of the ridge, where the winds were absent and the trees in abundance. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Aida cresting at the top of the ridge with verdant views of the Windward side in the distance.

W

Approaching what I now call “little Olomana.” Photo by Aida Gordon.

W

The crew contouring and climbing down the backside, mindful of the drop.

True Pali Notches

Climbing up and over the middle “tooth.” Photo by Aida Gordon.

Donkey Kong

The rest of the group coming down from the skinniest and tallest of the three “teeth.”

Anvil

Dropping down from what some people think was once a puka or hole in the ridge. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Anvil

Aida’s turn at descending the steep and concave wall.

Nu’uanu Wall

Contouring our way up the thimble berry infested trail that took us back to the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the steep and eroded section that was once easily passable. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Somphet pulling himself up the ridge line. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

You can’t pay me $20k to do this again. Can I quote you on that? Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

KSRT

The group traversing over a couple false peaks to get to swirling heavens.

Lanihuli Summit

We lucked out with clear views from the 2,700′ top. Group photo left to right: Cisco, myself, Somphet and Aida.

KSRT

Leaving the summit as we climbed up our last false peak before dropping down into the saddle. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Dropping in elevation as we slid down the grassy ridge line. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Kalihi Saddle

Following the curvature of the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Parts of the ridge were smothered in woody climbers which provided a help and hindrance at often the worst possible times.

Kalihi Saddle

The other parts were bald of vegetation and often were cracked, crumbly and eroded.

Kalihi Saddle

A solitary lehua flower clinging to a well weathered ohia tree. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Dirt Dragon

Making our way down to a part of the ridge that was particularly skinny, eroded and crumbly more than any other section. And we were going to sit on it. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Dirt Dragon

Angles.

Kalihi Saddle

Traversing on another patch of exposed ridge line. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting was the main mode of movement on the ridge coming down.

Lanihuli Wall

Dropping off the ridge line as we contoured the suicidal descent down the Can Opener. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Lanihuli Wall

The group controlling their descent coming down.

Lanihuli Wall

Looking for those footholds.

Lanihuli Wall

Waiting for those footholds. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Lanihuli Wall

Cisco coming down from the multi-tiered climb down the wall. Photo by Somphet Chanhpheng.

Kalihi Saddle

Aida contouring her way back to the ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Group photo at the scenic spot that stretched all the way to the summit of Kahua’uli and Heaven.

Can Opener

Slowly making our way down the crumbly and shifting rocks, lest we tumble and fall off.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing down to our next set of obstacles. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Kalihi Saddle

The blowing winds threw dirt in our face and made sure we kept our center of gravity low to the eroded ridge coming down.

Pimple

Playing human anchor again. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Pimple

Somphet and Cisco scrambling their way to the next obstacle. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Doorstop

Spotter at the top. Hiker in the middle. Spotter at the bottom. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Doorstop

Aida pulling herself up to the top.

Kalihi Saddle

Coming down from the doorstop and making our way towards the bunny ears. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Bunny Ears

Aida coming down the crumbly bunny ear. Nothing soft and fuzzy here.

Kalihi Saddle

Perched on the arch. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Bunny Ears

Aida between the last bunny ear and the mushroom rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Somphet and Aida hiking over the loose rocks and scattered tree roots on the ridge. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Kalihi Saddle

Some enjoyed the spectacular views, while others seemingly concentrated on the trail views. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

Traversing the skinny ridge to the dorsal shaped rock face. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Shark Fin

Aida downclimbing the last obstacle on the saddle.

Powerlines

Descending towards the middle of the saddle which also marked the terminus for our hike today. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Powerlines

Payment for services rendered. A shiny nickel. And I wonder why I’m still not financially independent. Photo by Somphet Changhpheng.

All pau

Traditional dousing of top shelf champagne on the willing victim. No expenses spared. Congratulations to Aida for completing the KST in its entirety. Photo by Somphet Changhpheng.

Post hike meal

Mahalo to Sally and Ed for picking us up on the side of the highway, reeking of alcohol. We retired to Lilyn’s driveway where Aida got lei’d and snacked on baked goods. No venue was spared for Aida’s celebration.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle traversal covered roughly 3.28 miles that marked the end and completion for Aida’s KST journey. Congratulations again!

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 Anne and Dennis at the Pali Lookout to break in their saddle cherries. Drone photo by Dennis Regan.

Pali Lookout

Scrambling our way up the steep and slippery rooted trail.

Pali Puka Trail

The sun was slowly peeling the shadows away from the imposing rock spire ahead of us. Glad we are not climbing that!

Konahuanui

Looking back at the strikingly clear summit of the highest peak on the Ko’olau Range.

Pali Puka

View from the other side. Drone photo by Dennis Regan.

Trail

Anne making her way up the long slippery slope to the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We hit the exposed ridge line and starting climbing our way down the saddle. Photo by Dennis Regan.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Anne and Dennis passing the wind bent trees, but hardly a whisper of wind blew through the mountains today.

Incisor Rock

Swinging myself up and over the rock. Beats contouring any day. Photo by Dennis Regan.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Anne and Dennis coming down one crumbly rock at a time.

Thimbleberry

Passing thorny bushes of these tart trail snacks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We had stunning panoramic views from Kanehoalani to Olomana.

Donkey Kong

Grabbing fistfuls of uki grass as we made our way up to the adventure in the mountains.

Donkey Kong

It’s on like Donkey Kong. Photo by Anne Fai.

W

Dennis contouring his way down the non-visible trail.

W

Somebody was either exhausted or glad to have made it to the top. Or both.

W

Anne and Dennis trying to pass themselves off as the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

Anvil

Making my way down the short drop. Photo by Anne Fai.

Anvil

Did that rock just move?

Trail

Anne contouring her way back up to the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pulling ourselves up the severely eroded ridge line which has seen much better days.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing our way out of the saddle and to the summit.

Lanihuli Summit

Drone photo of Swirling Heavens by Dennis Regan. The only thing swirling was our heads over the crystal clear 360 degree heavenly views around us.

Lanihuli Summit

Sometimes a helping hand is all a drone needs.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the 2,700′ summit behind us as we dropped down into another saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting and scrambling our way down the serpentine ridge. Photo by Anne Fai.

Kalihi Saddle

When hikers on a narrow ridge line have to regress to their pronograde posture of their forebears.

Dirt Dragon

Group photo on the crumbly back, left to right: Dennis, Anne and myself.

Lanihuli Wall

What happened to the webbing?

Lanihuli Wall

Lowering ourselves down the steep flank of the ridge line.

Trail

Dennis contouring his way back to the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Drone photo by Dennis Regan of the most photographed spot on the saddle.

Can Opener

Leaving the eroded section underneath the sofa sized rock that is just waiting to pop out. And we’re not even at the pimple yet.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way down to start our colorful climbs. Photo by Anne Fai.

Pimple

Trying my best not to dislodge any rocks going up. Photo by Anne Fai.

Doorstop

Dennis climbing his way up. Photo by Anne Fai.

Doorstop

Anne making her way to the top.

Bunny Ears

They sure don’t feel soft as one. Photo by Dennis Regan.

Bunny Ears

Anne and Dennis making their way down the crumbly ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

You go your way and I’ll go my way. Photo by Dennis Regan.

Kalihi Saddle

Almost there. Really.

Kalihi Saddle

Request wide angle photo please. Photo by Dennis Regan.

Sharks Fin

Anne making her way down the last obstacle.

Powerlines

Drone photo by Dennis Regan with Kalihi Valley in the background.

All pau

Walking out the service road as we finished our less than three mile saddle hike that was blessed with the best weather I have seen to date. Thanks to Jasmin for picking us up. Nobody had time or wanted to eat, so it was McDonald’s for me.

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 Andy, Chris, Matt and Olivier at the Pali Lookout to continue riding the saddles. Somebody woke up late and got to ride in the boot (trunk). Thanks to Nandor for dropping us off on the side of the highway. The other side.

Trailhead

We don’t need hard hats where we’re going today. Maybe on second thought …

Kalihi Saddle

Looking out at the ocean of trees rising to meet the ridge line. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Stepping foot on what some folks call the hardest hike on the island. I would beg to differ. Diamond Head is the hardest hike on the island.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking on the edge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Single file hiking

No passing allowed. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Don’t look down

Olivier skirting around a boulder on the ridge. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Windward Views

Panoramic photo by Andrew Keller.

Sharks Fin

The John Williams music was drowned out by the whipping winds. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Sharks Fin

Finning our way down the back of the hill.

Bunny Ears

Chris climbing up the first of the hills named after the rabbits organ of hearing. We could hear the winds loud and clear.

Bunny Ears

Traversing between the twin hills. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Bunny Ears

Making our way to the Doorstop. Photo by Chris Bautista

Doorstop

Everybody waiting their turn to climb down. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Doorstop

Are we being challenged yet? Photo by Chris Bautista

Pimple

Chris making his way around the pimple.

Pimple

When you realize your fly is open while your picture is being taken. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Can Opener

Scrambling our way over the loose and rocky terrain to our breakfast spot.

Kalihi Saddle

Group photo left to right: Chris, Matt, myself, Olivier and Andy.

Caution

Keeping a wary eye on a sofa sized rock that seems to be slowly edging its way loose from the mountain. It could just be my imagination.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring on the Windward side below the Can Opener.

Lanihuli Wall

Matt going up the shortest and steepest section of the multi-tiered wall.

Lanihuli Wall

Leaving the serrated ridges of the saddle behind me. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Lanihuli Wall

Another “brick” in the wall.

Kalihi Saddle

Pulling ourselves up the mountain where the webbing was soon replaced with uki grass. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Dirt Dragon

Sitting room only. Photo by Chris Bautista

Kalihi Saddle

Passing a weathered husk of an ohia tree on the ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way out of the saddle. Photo by Olivier Rojas.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Trudging through the Leeward side of the trail which afforded temporary protection from the gusting winds.

Lanihuli Summit

Socked in at 2,700′. Might as well have our lunch.

KSRT

Making our way down the sliver of a ridge, where the drops were masked by the clouds around us.

Contour

Dropping off the ridge to contour through the tangled, thorny thimbleberry bushes on our way to the lost pali puka.

Anvil

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try, try again. Luckily it only took one more try. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

W

Trying to redeem myself with the alphabet. Photo by Chris Bautista

Watch your drop

Matt climbing up on the Leeward contour. Photo by Andrew Keller.

W

Looking back at the W, Donkey Kong or “true pali notches.” Tomato. Tomatoe.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Dropping down the ridge below the cloud banks.

Swirling Heavens

Leaving behind the aptly named summit.

Picture Frame

Climbing up and over a small pu’u (hill). Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Incisor Rock

To swing or not to swing? That was the question of the day.

Pu’u Suicido

Matt had no problems with being a swinger.

Windward Views

We passed two girls who seemed like they were vacillating between pressing forward or hanging out with the views. I think her friend was leaning towards the latter.

Makai Parking

We can see our cars for the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Primary colors on the saddle.

Contour

Dodging and keeping pace with the falling rocks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Pali Puka

Hello from the other side.

Pali Highway

Making our way down to the Pali Lookout. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Bamboo Forest

Finishing in the bamboo sieve that sifted and filtered the light and sounds. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

All pau

Our abbreviated 2.10 mile air cooled hike that failed to reach the planned end of Piliwale due to a lack of consensus, still was a fun day filled with “not so challenging” moments. Post hike meal at Rainbow Drive Inn. You can lead someone to the slush float and loco moco, but you can’t make him eat and drink it.

Video by Matt Vidaurri of our saddle hike.

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

It was time to pick and pack the champagne again. Met up with Ani, Analyn, Chris, Ferlino and Khym at the Pali Lookout. Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us off on the side of Likelike Highway.

Powerlines Trail

Making our way up through the overgrown and slightly eroded trail.

Powerlines

Catching the sunrise at the top. Always a nice way to start the day.

Kalihi Saddle

Back in the saddle. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Shark’s Fin

Climbing up the initial steep rock formation. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving the power lines behind us.

Kalihi Saddle

Following the undulating ridge line. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Slanting down the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Wait, is that the Shark’s Fin? Maybe it’s a Dolphin’s Fin. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at the cloud capped Bowman side of the saddle. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Bunny Ears

Approaching the Bunny Ears. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Bunny Ears

The group scooting their way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up the second ear. Not as soft as I was led to believe. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way to the Door Stop. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Door Stop

Descending down the steep rock formation that had ample handholds and footholds and weathered webbing for peace of mind. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Ani making her way down as Chris waits his turn.

Kalihi Valley

Still searching for those elusive wallabies.

Pimple

Making our way to the bump of a rock. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pimple

Khym contouring his way around the awkward pile of rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

It seems that every time I hike this saddle, I see a new rope here and there.

Pimple

Chris about to pop the Pimple on his way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic view of the saddle and Windward views.

Kalihi Saddle

Group photo left to right: US Flag, Ferlino, Analyn, myself, Khym, Chris and Ani.

Can Opener

Ferlino hawking a bag of boiled balut eggs while we took a short break. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Can Opener

It was here at this very spot, that somebody assaulted me for my non-balut egg. Thanks to Khym for the photographic proof. Police report to follow.

Can Opener

Contouring below the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Lanihuli Wall

Analyn making her way up to the first tier. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Lanihuli Wall

Ani climbing up the steep flank of the ridge. Please don’t take the webbing with you. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Waiting for everybody to make it up topside.

Kalihi Saddle

Exploring the extremely crumbly ridge above the Can Opener. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking up ahead to the crumbly section known as the Dirt Dragon.

Kalihi Saddle

The group passing through the more exposed section of the ridge line.

Dirt Dragon

Straddling the sliver of its former self. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Dirt Dragon

Everybody taking turns riding the soon to be extinct dirt dragon.

Kalihi Saddle

The ridge started to get noticeably thinner as we gained elevation.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris overlooking Kalihi Saddle. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Kalihi Saddle

Khym climbing his way through uki grass to gain the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

The ridge eventually widened on our final ascent up the ridge. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way to the crown jewels of the Ko’olaus – Lanihuli Summit.

Lanihuli Summit

If you have something on your teeth, open wide and smile for the group photo.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing our way down the ridge where some sections are barely held together by tree roots and plants. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Down the rabbit hole as we contoured below the ridge.

Anvil

Khym breaking a smile while pulling himself up.

Anvil

Analyn making it to the top of the former puka. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group back on the cloud washed ridge line.

W

Trying to mimic a letter of the alphabet. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Donkey Kong

The group flossing their way through the triple peaked rock formation.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We scrambled up the steep Leeward side of the hill to regain the ridge line going down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Losing elevation and the clouds, we soon got back the views. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Khym in between a rock and some rubber trees.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing around, down and over the assorted sizes of boulders that punctuated the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Back to scooting on the ridge.

Pu’u Suicido

Swinging my way around the (im)movable rock. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Incisor Rock

Look mom, no feet! Don’t try this in the mountains, boys and girls. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Just a couple more humps left on the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Which way does the wind blow? Just ask the tree. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Khym scrambling up the last hump.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at our saddle traversal. Photo by Khym Ansagay.

Trail

Khym rooting his way down.

Pali Puka

Perfect timing as the rain started to sprinkle and fog Khym’s oversized goggles.

Trail

Making our way down to the lookout that was teeming with tourists. Kama’ainas still park for free. Until the rail project starts looking for more money.

Pali Lookout

Khym only getting half of the champagne treatment. Somebody forgot the corkscrew. Just pretend. Next time, get the twist off bottle cap. Congratulations to Khym for completing the entire Ko’olau Summit Trail.

All pau

Post hike meal at the Pali Lookout? Fired up my stove and cooked us a mess of Hot Chicken Flavor Ramen which clocks in at a reported 8,706 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), hot enough to melt your lips off. Some washed it down with another serving of balut. One sat the entire food challenge out. Party pooper. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered a whopping 2.9 miles. Really? Fun hike with a great group and an amazing accomplishment for Khym today. The real post hike meal was at Max’s of Manila. No balut on the menu here.

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.

This is a story of one hike that split into two hikes. Ethan picked up Chris, Daryl and myself and drove to the end of the island to begin our journey across the mountain. The Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Pupukea

Day 1 – Saturday, May 27. We got off to a late start at a little past 8am, as three of us were sober and one was slightly hung over. The mountains are calling and we are coming. Photo by Kristina Eizenhofer.

Pupukea

Chris recycling a hiking stick from the forest grounds that would stay with him until the end. The very end.

For Sale

Mother Nature is slowly taking her real estate back. Photo by Daryl Cacatian

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

Ethan passing the picnic shelter.

Sign Junction

We soon left the road strewn with fallen rocks and trees for a trail strewn with overgrowth, roots, rocks and mud.

Black Junction

Preparing to plunge into the trail system carved out of the mountains by the Army and Civilian Conservation Corps back in the early 1900s. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Ko’olau Summit Trail

Walking through waist high uluhe ferns on the trail. Welcome to the jungle, probably the most overgrown section of the KST.

Pu’u Hina

Taking a short break amidst the whistling leaves of grass.

KST

We soon dropped off the ridge to contour on the Windward side.

Geocache

Hey, there’s a Tupperware party going on back here. Anybody?

KST

Enjoying a brief respite on the ridge from the claustrophobic and cloying vegetation, which snatched my water bottle and in return, gave up my sunglasses from an earlier hike.

Green Sign Junction

It was around noon when we reached the halfway point to Laie. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Breaking out into the more exposed section of the ridge and some sorely needed fresh air.

Malaekahana Junction

Covered with condensation and perspiration, we arrived at the gloved junction and dropped down to contour to the Leeward side. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Making our way up to the foxhole that marks the 2,240′ summit, only to discover that we had familiar company sitting at the top.

Laie Summit

Somebody was drinking beer at the top. Somebody didn’t need another beer. Group photo left to right: Ethan, Daryl, Arnold, myself and Chris.

KST

We left Arnold at the summit …

KST

… and soon bumped into the ubiquitous fence line and another familiar face – Rob Johnson.

KST

Daryl extricating himself from the ankle deep mud. A taste of what was to come.

KST

The cabin in the distance.

KST

Crossing our mud soaked toes that the cabin would be open.

Koloa Cabin

We got to the cabin around 4pm to find out that Rob’s group had already opened the cabin. The largest cabin on the KST was made smaller by nine hikers setting up home for the night. We took turns filling our water and rinsing the mud from our blackened shoes and feet.

Koloa Cabin

Some of us made our way up to the helipad to catch the evening entertainment that buzzed us on their way to Sacred Falls. Then we trickled back down to the cabin to cook our rice and chicken and beans and rice. Rice dominated the dinner table. Somebody was going to cut their toothbrush in half to save grams of weight, when somebody else pointed out that they still had to carry it back out. Light bulb time.

Koloa Cabin

Enjoying the golden hour as we settled in on our first night on the mountains. Earplugs muffled the noise pollution floating around the cabin while air mattresses eased our tired bodies.

Koloa Cabin

Day 2 – Sunday, May 28. Daryl enjoying the glowing sunrise from the helipad, while the rest of us made our bunks and breakfast. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Koloa Outhouse

When you got to go, you got to go. Never mind the smell. Pass the toilet paper. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Koloa Cabin

Rob’s group heading out to rappel Koloa Falls.

Koloa Cabin

We left the cabin around 8am to start slogging our way through the muddiest section of the KST. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Leaving the fence line and gates behind us as we contoured on the Leeward side of the trail.

KST

Punching through a stream of pungent mud that passed for a trail. No Spartan Mud Race this year.

KST

Crossing an open field to regain the ridge.

Smartwater Bottle Junction

Look long and hard at this bottle. Let’s not have another deja vu moment.

KST

Approaching the fenced Papali summit.

Papali Junction

Rain showers met us at the summit around 10am. No sign of the “King’s Slipper” from an earlier hike. Group photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

Rounding the fenced corner to find …

Please do not pet the dead animal

… our lechon lunch? Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

The fence line and gates served as a surrogate firebreak through the uluhell of ferns.

KST Junction

The rain went away shortly after we got to the signed junction around 11am. Time to put away our rain gear. Only to take it out later again. Life in the mountains. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

Misery aka knee deep mud loves company.

KST gate

Leaving the mud trail behind us.

KST

The views were fleeting due to the drifting clouds, but what views they were when we had them.

KST

Chris dropping into the fenced gully, whose streambed was remarkably dry given the wet weather we were experiencing.

KST

Hanging on the fence line, our constant companion in the mountains, as we contoured on the Windward side with muted valley views.

Fence meadows

Passing through stacks of fences and pallets that provided temporary shelter from the sweeping rain showers that came and went.

Boot Junction

We arrived at the iconic boot junction around noon. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

Looking out towards the Leeward side as we left the fence line for the ridge line.

KST

Walking on the Windward side of the ridge as we got treated to stunning views of the valleys. Never gets old.

Weather station

Checking the weather forecast. Sunny with splendid views. Guy Hagi was alive and well in the mountains.

KST

The group queuing around the gate to get off the ridge.

Cline Memorial

Greeting hikers since 1978. Built to honor an avid hiker who particularly loved this spot and whose life was tragically cut short by a car crash.

Poamoho Summit

Sweeping views of Punalu’u and Kahana Valleys.

Poamoho Boardwalk

Panoramic view of the recently installed boardwalk and Kahana Valley.

KST

Switch backing our way to the cabin.

KST

Panoramic view of the West side with the cabin, marsh and the WST in the backdrop.

Poamoho Cabin

We got to the vacant cabin around 230pm with a lot of time on our hands. Ethan called first dibs on a slowly leaking air mattress that somebody had left behind. We washed off the mud from our shoes, socks and feet.

Poamoho Cabin

Cabin life. Reading the gems of Darth Vader poems that were trying to pull us to the dark side. We filled up our water and fired up our stoves to cook our dinners. Hot food does a body good.

Poamoho Outhouse

Chris trying to be one with nature or nature was calling.

Poamoho Cabin

Day 3 – Monday Memorial Day, May 29. Sunrise from the cabin.

Poamoho Summit

Chris slippered to the summit to catch a solitary sunrise washing over him, while the rest of us ate our breakfast.

KST

We put on our still wet, but clean shoes and left the last four walled shelter we would see in the mountains.

KST

Daryl enjoying the scenic views of Kahana Valley while munching on the abundant thimble berries that populated the trail.

Pauao Junction

The long and overgrown Windward ridge that goes down into Kahana Valley.

KST

Watching our steps as we made our way down through the false holes and eroded sections of the trail.

KST

One can’t but be awed and impressed hiking through the most scenic stretch of the KST.

KST

The morning sun was hitting us particularly hard as we made contact with the fence again.

Fresh cut fans

Ethan harvesting fan umbrellas for the crew. Chris’s sickle did come in handy. Ethan would never mock his gardening tool again.

KST

Leaving the fence for the trail.

Schofield-Waikane Junction

We got to the junction with the Leeward trail that leads down to Wahiawa around 9am. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

When you fall off the ridge, get right back on, with a helping hand.

KST

The heat was somewhat diffused by overcast clouds, so we disposed of our fan umbrellas.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

It passed the sniff test. Now for the taste test? It wasn’t even 10am and it was too early to be drinking suspect beverages.

KST

The mass of hikers follow lives of bustling trails, while the minority of hikers enjoy lives of quiet trails. Besides bumping into Arnold and Rob’s group back at Laie, we would not see another soul until Kulana’ahane Summit.

KST

Chris rounding the bend in the trail. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Walking across a relatively fresh landslide that had wiped out part of the constantly evolving trail system. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Contouring on the Leeward side, that for the most part protected us from the elements.

KST

Back on the exposed windswept and cloud covered ridge line.

KST Junction

One does not always follow the fence on the KST, there are certain junctions that must be navigated or one will end up lost and burning precious time getting back on the right trail.

Metrosideros Rugosa

The largest known specimen of Lehua Papa provided scant cover from the rain showers sweeping the mountains.

KST

Following the fenced ridge line, where we soon dropped down and detoured into the tree of life pass.

Tree of Life

Looking at the powerful example of wind at work in the mountains. A horizontally growing sugi pine tree. The views weren’t that bad either. Until the clouds rolled in. Story of our lives in the mountains.

Selfie Stick Junction

Leaving the sprawling fence line behind us at 1230pm. It’s just a matter of time before the necessary eyesore continues its march on the KST, which also seems to be pushing the pigs ahead of the fence.

KST

Passing through the notch in the mountains.

Cryptomeria

Contrary to popular belief, there are several groves of these Japanese Sugi Pine Trees sprinkled throughout the mountains. Besides the ones at your local nursery.

KST

We skirted the pine trees and crossed the trickling stream to make our way up the hill.

Kipapa Summit

Can we just crash and camp here? It was only 1:30pm, so we decided to change the schedule and push on. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

Leaving the contours and switchbacks behind us. It was just straight up punishing hills and ridges ahead of us.

Waiahole Middle Junction

Passing the overgrown Windward ridge from hell that none of us would repeat again under any conditions.

KSRT

The scale of the mountainous terrain was more than equal to the physical exertion needed to traverse the hilly ridges.

Lost & Found

Where is my GoPro? Chris and Daryl backtracked to retrieve Daryl’s GoPro that he had left on an earlier spot on the ridge.

Waiawa Gap

Threading our way down into the heavily vegetated gap.

Waiawa Gap

Minding the buzzing bees in the notch.

Waiawa Gap

Pushing up the short but steep climb out of the notch.

Waiawa Gap

Enjoying the stunning scenery wrapped around us at a little past 4pm.

Waiawa Gap

Looking back at the rollercoaster of a ridge ride. More to come. Keep your feet on the trail and your hands in front of you.

KSRT

Enjoying the short stretch of flat and wide open ridge line. Mountain and ocean views included.

KSRT

Concentrating on wading through the waist high overgrowth on the trail as we had no views to distract us.

The Corner

Dropping down to our campsite around 6pm. Ethan had surged ahead to Manana for the night. We noticed a lot of pig rooting activity in the area and checked our water supply and decided not to replenish our water, despite having steripens in stock.

Camp Corner

Goodnight from Camp Corner. Pounding rain kept the grounds wet and air mattresses kept our bodies insulated from the damp grounds.

The Corner

Day 4 – Tuesday, May 30. It was wash day in the mountains. The smell of rain hung in the mountains.

KSRT

Leaving the soggy camp grounds in our squishy shoes a little past 8am.

KSRT

We got disoriented in the clouds and “explored” in the dew dropped tree lined ridge until we found the trail.

KSRT

Approaching the socked in summit of Manana to meet up with Ethan.

Manana Summit

We arrived at the 2,660′ summit around 9am to recover the water bottles that Chris had stashed earlier. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Pu’u Eleao

Dropping down from the rain kissed summit, we walked through the bowl shaped grassy meadows before getting back on the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Working our way back to the ridge line.

KSRT

The elevating mountainous views kept us grounded on the trail.

KSRT

Passing the constantly eroding and evolving ridge line.

Waimano Summit

Dropping down into the trail terminus around 1130am, experienced cloud blocked views of Waihee Valley, so we pushed on after taking a quick breather. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KSRT

The crew silhouetted against the clouds going down the ridge line.

KSRT

Dropping off the ridge and into the mystical meadows a little past 1pm.

Waimalu Meadows

Chris fishing for water that was sprinkled with floating bugs. Double filtered. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo at the edge of the mythical meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Ethan heading up to the summit.

Waimalu Meadows

Leaving the meadow oasis in the middle of the mountain range was harder for some than others. Who can blame them? Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Whole Foods Market

Why eat gummy worms, when you can have the real thing?

KSRT

Back to our regular programming. The rollercoaster ridge.

KSRT

The sound of huffing and puffing was alive and well in the mountains.

KSRT

The clouds came back to keep us company.

KSRT

It was amazing to hear the cacophony of civilization drifting up to the mountains.

Powerlines

The best views for us after the grueling climbs was the power lines appearing from the clouds. Another couple humps and we could call it a day.

Aiea Summit

I felt every inch of the elevation gains and losses as we made it to the 2,805′ summit around 6pm. The hardest and hilliest section of the KST were behind us.

Aiea Summit

Can you pass the butane please? I need to cook my Rice and Chicken. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Aiea Summit

Day 5 – Wednesday, May 31. Hiking stick doubling as a stretching stick for Chris.

KSRT

The gusting winds snatched my boonie hat and sunglasses from my head and sailed them into the great beyond. Daryl lent me his fitted cap to keep my big head warm in the chilly winds.

KSRT

Passing the plant protected enclosure on the way to Hell.

KSRT

It was hump day in the mountains.

KSRT

Rounding the corner to find welcoming Windward views.

KSRT

We dropped off the cloud soaked ridge and made our way towards the rusting stairs of Hell.

North Haiku Stairs

Panoramic view from Stairway to Hell.

North Haiku Stairs

Our stay in Hell was brief, as it was not as hot as we expected. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Following the flag towards Moanalua Saddle.

KSRT

Leaving Hell behind us as we made our way up the dilapidated and rusting stairs.

KSRT

Daryl making his way down the ridge with the backdrop of H3 behind him.

Geodetic Marker

The weathered marker has seen better days.

Red Hill Summit

Taking a shoefie at the summit around 1215. No stashed water from the search years ago was left, but the webbing that Ethan had stashed was still here.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the crumbly and eroded section.

Moanalua Saddle

Stumbling down the saddle, or at least that’s what somebody told me.

Moanalua Saddle

The mountain tops trying to pierce the cloud ceiling.

Moanalua Saddle

The clouds lifted to reveal the CCL building that has been drawing hikers to her since the mid-1950s.

Kulana’ahane Summit

We hit the summit a little past 2pm. I was spent and exhausted from not enough food and water from the past two days. My stomach had shut down. A couple we met at the summit, graciously offered their egg sandwich, which I couldn’t stomach so it was time to end the hike. Parting group photo by Chris Bautista.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Looking back at the guys contouring and climbing the Dirt Triangle.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Mahalo to Ethan for accompanying me down the valley to make sure that I made it down safe and sound. End of the road for us, sorry about that prime rib dinner and cutting the hike short. Thanks to Ben Hinders for picking us up on short notice. More importantly, thanks to my wife who let me take off to the mountains for this hike. I think she was more disappointed that I didn’t finish than I was! I still enjoyed my five days in the mountains with good company and great times. The company always matters more to me than the hikes.

Moanalua Saddle

Meanwhile, back in the mountains … Daryl making his way up the last chossy section. Photo by Chris Bautista

Moanalua Saddle

Chris climbing up the overgrown back stairs to the CCL building.

Moanalua Saddle

Enjoying a brief break with the stashed water and food. Photo by Chris Bautista

Moanalua Saddle

Daryl climbing the steep hill to heaven.

CCL Building

Nobody was around the WW2 building. They had the heavenly view all to themselves.

ET Call Home

Coming down from the Moanalua Middle Ridge Junction, they made their way down to stop briefly at the defunct radar station for a better view. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Camp Tripler

Home for the night. Face time gave way to battery time.

Tripler Summit

Day 6 – Thursday, June 1. Daryl greeting the morning sun. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Bowman Summit

It was a beautiful but windy day to saddle up again.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring on the Leeward side of the crumbly ridge. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris untangling the webbing from the vegetation. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl about to do the dirty rope slide down. Photo by Chris Bautista

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting down past the broken wave. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl climbing his way down the first rock triangle. Photo by Chris Bautisa.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris standing above the second rock triangle. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Witch’s Hat

Standing on the narrow dike before the last main obstacle on the Bowman side. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Witch’s Hat

Daryl cresting the top of Witch’s Hat. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Camp Centipede

Don’t kick over any rocks, lest a creepy crawler goes up your leg. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Powerlines

Vienna Sausage break. Just missing the saimin.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl walking on the narrow ridge fringed by abundant vegetation. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking ahead to the crown jewels of Kalihi Saddle.

Bunny Ears

Daryl making his way up. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Can Opener

The classic photo spot. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Lanihuli Wall

Daryl making the steady climb up the flank of the grassy ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Dirt Dragon

It was blowing hard on the saddle today. Just ask Chris’s hair.

Kalihi Saddle

To paraphrase Sir Edmund Hillary, “It is not the saddles we conquer but ourselves.” Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Almost there.

Lanihuli Summit

Taking a short break. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Anvil

Daryl making good use of all his gym time pulling himself up with the new webbing. Photo by Chris Bautista.

W

Playing Donkey Kong in the mountains. Well played. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Dropping in elevation, they shed the clouds and gained the views back.

Pu’u Suicido

Daryl contouring and climbing his way around the incisor rock. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pali Puka

Arnold, Ethan and Krissy climbed up to the puka to meet the guys. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris and Daryl dropping back down to civilization and more importantly, hot food. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Pali Lookout

Chris and Daryl hitting the pavement around 5pm after a six day hiatus in the mountains. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Pali Lookout

Shout out to Agnes Bryant, Amber John, Arnold Yago, Becca Frager and Justin Brackett, Christine DC, Cynthia De Lafuente Wolarey, Dale Yoshizu, Darlina and Junanita Cacatian, Derek Potter, Ethan Clavecillas and Kristina Eizenhoefer, Harold Viloan, Kathlea Kay Evans, Lee Shreve, Mia Garrison, Nandor Szotak, Scott and Dalia Bowling, and Shirley Hamamura who turned out to show their support for Chris and Daryl and more importantly for bringing assorted foods and drinks.

Camp Pali

Talking story at the campsite that Derek Potter had found that was relatively protected from the wind and prying eyes. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Camp Pali

Day 7 – Friday, June 2. Early hikers roll up their camp early. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Pali Notches

Daryl climbing down the second notch. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Chimney

The wind was blowing hard in the morning and they had discovered the webbing had shifted to the far right. Chris shed his pack and climbed to retrieve the webbing for Daryl. After multiple attempts, the webbing was passed to Daryl and the hike continued. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

All the technical were sections behind them as they continued their climb to the highest peak on the Ko’olaus. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Awaawaloa Summit

A hippy hiker was their only company along with the cloudy views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ka’au Crater

Chris at the top of the crater trail. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KSRT

Enjoying a short break before the big climb up to Lanipo. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Looking back is always easier than moving forward, but not as rewarding.

KSRT

Passing the powerlines. Almost pau for the day.

Camp Wiliwilinui

They hit the summit around 5pm and promptly gorged on dinner for four. Buffet in the mountains.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Day 8 – Saturday, June 3. Chris greeting their last and rainy day on the mountains. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KSRT

Around Wailupe, Chris fell off the ridge and was caught by a tree on the Leeward side. Don’t fall at all, but if one must, veer towards the Leeward side which is generally more forgiving in terms of trees and grade.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Enjoying the Waimanalo views at the 2,520′ top. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Passing through a sliver of a trail.

KSRT

Sliding down the eroded section of the trail towards Kuli’ou’ou, where they met a couple of hikers at the Bear Claw summit.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

The usually crowded summit was eerily empty. Chris decided to dry his tent further down at Hahaione summit.

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

Daryl at the abandoned lookout. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Tom-Tom Trail

Looking out towards Rabbit Island surrounded by the blue-green ocean. It was almost more tempting than the mountains.

KSRT

No photo shoots to delay their progress.

Kamiloiki Summit

Crashing Camp Awesome to enjoy the first beers of the day, courtesy of the Caveman aka Marcus Griego.

KSRT

Enjoying the view before setting off on the exposed and rocky section. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Dropping down the rocky ridge to find …

Makapu’u Puka

… Arnold and Mark waiting for them with a couple more beers. Alcohol and hiking go hand in hand, or was that foot to mouth? Photo by Arnold Yago.

KSRT

Nearing the end of a week long journey. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Makapu’u Lookout

A big thanks to Agnes Bryant, Arnold Yago, Christine DC, Derek Potter, Ethan Clavecillas and Kristina Eizenhoefer, Kath Pablo, Lee Shreve, Mae Christine Dizon, Mark Carinoso, Mia Garrison, Rocky Serrano, and Scott Bowling for coming out to see Chris and Daryl crossing the finish line and bringing assorted foods and drinks.

All pau

Celebratory congratulations to Chris Bautista, Daryl Cacatian and the walking stick for hiking the entire Ko’olau Mountains in eight days! Others have done this trek with and without company, with and without assistance; regardless of how it was done, an awesome accomplishment to all that have done it and will do it. Great job guys!!!!

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.

Weekday. Hiking. Usually those two things don’t go together, but since I had to burn my last vacation day before my work anniversary, I found myself at the Pali Lookout with Chris and Shirley.

Trailhead

Thanks to David for dropping us off on the side of the highway. Chinese and Hawaiian times do not mix well. I don’t think that qualifies as a hard hat.

Powerlines

We scrambled up the trail to find ourselves in the middle of Kalihi Saddle. The winds were blowing. Hard. Time to put away the tourist hat.

Kalihi Saddle

Back in the saddle. Comfortable as an old shoe. Old hiking shoe.

Kalihi Saddle

Hello Bowman! We’ll see you on the flip side.

Shark Fin

Shirley and myself climbing up a slight pitch. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

The wind was in our faces the whole hike. Just ask Shirley’s hair.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic view.

‘Ie’ie

The bugs haven’t swarmed the fleshy fruit of this woody climber yet.

Kalihi Saddle

Where are the handrails?

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking at a 45 degree angle. Or something close to it. Math was never my strong suit.

Kalihi Saddle

The summit of Lanihuli was surprisingly clear.

Kalihi Saddle

We noticed a lot of bees. They noticed us too. Just ask Shirley and myself. Chris somehow escaped unscathed.

Kalihi Saddle

More walking, less sitting please. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

There we go again – sitting.

Kalihi Saddle

It’s obvious which way the wind blows on the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Shirley scrambling up the sliver of a ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Approaching the Bunny Ears.

Bunny Ears

Shirley scooting her way down.

Bunny Ears

Chris and Shirley in between the Bunny Ears.

Bunny Ears

Which one is the Rabbit’s Foot?

Kalihi Saddle

Nice view of the Windward side.

Doorstop

Shirley climbing down Doorstop. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Doorstop

Chris making his way down Doorstop.

Pimple

Shirley climbing down the Pimple, while Chris waits his turn at the top.

Can Opener

Scrambling to our brunch spot.

Kalihi Saddle

Group photo rule: There can only be one selfie stick up at one time.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring below the Can Opener. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Lanihuli Wall

Found the rope. Let’s climb.

Lanihuli Wall

Shirley pulling herself up.

Lanihuli Wall

Chris and Shirley on the contour trail below the Can Opener.

Lanihuli Wall

Where’s the rope? Let’s free climb.

Lanihuli Wall

Looking back at Kalihi Saddle.

Lanihuli Wall

The last section with webbing.

Lanihuli Wall

Almost there.

Kalihi Saddle

All uphill climbing.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Shirley back on the ridge.

Dirt Dragon

How to train your dragon. Caption credit: Shirley Hamamura.

Kalihi Saddle

The struggle is real.

Kalihi Saddle

The struggle continues.

Kalihi Saddle

Uki grass is your friend on the mountains. Your best friend.

Kalihi Saddle

Heading towards the socked in summit of Lanihuli.

Lanihuli

The smell of sardines punctured the air which must have helped to clear the clouds from the summit.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Our appetites and sensory views somewhat sated, we took our leave of the summit.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Panoramic view.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris and Shirley approaching the anvil.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We dropped down the flank of the ridge to work our way around the sharp drop.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Shirley contouring to get back on the ridge.

Anvil

Climbing up towards the anvil or the original Pali Puka. How long has this electrical cord been here? Photo by Chris Bautista.

Anvil

Shirley showing off her results from working out at 24 Hour Fitness.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris and Shirley back on the ridge.

W

Can you spot the photobomber? Photo by Chris Bautista.

W

Group photo perched on the “W” or the “true” Pali Notches. Depends who you ask. Photo by Chris Bautista.

W

Chris and Shirley weaving in and out of the rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The clouds started to follow us down as we lost elevation on the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking across at the summit of Konahuanui that was completely socked in.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Shirley coming down cobblestone ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back as the clouds slowly left the summit of Lanihuli.

Nu’uanu Saddle

One of many tour choppers that buzzed past us on the saddle. Wonder if they saw us? We saw them.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Double shaka on the saddle. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Shirley coming down one step at a time.

Pu’u Suicido

We stopped a bit to check out the unshaven views, found no razors and then moved on. Photo by Shirley Hamamura.

Pu’u Suicido

Chris and Shirley dropping down and contouring around the rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Shirley scrambling out of the notch.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris and Shirley coming over the rocky ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Almost there.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The last climb.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Taking in the last panoramic view before dropping off the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Shirley going down the contour trail.

Pali Puka

Last group photo of the day.

Pali Puka Trail

We can see our cars. That’s a good thing.

All pau

The bottom of the trail was teeming with hikers making their way up as we were making our way out.

GPS Tracks

Our rollercoaster of a double saddle hike covered 3.13 miles that included bee stings, dust in our eyes, gusty winds, a whole lot of climbing and stunning sights. I couldn’t have asked for better company to spend in the mountains with on my day off. Post hike meal at Au’s Garden. Out of clams with black bean sauce. What kind of Chinese restaurant is David running?

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.

Chris, Justin, Ryan, Thessa and myself spent Easter in the mountains looking for the mythical rabbit that leaves the chocolate eggs. Or was it the hiker that poops the plastic eggs?

Trailhead

Nobody but us hikers and chickens at the lookout. Early hikers get the adobo?

Scramble

Thessa coming up the short, steep and sweet hill.

Good Morning

We caught the sun breaking over the Windward side.

Pali pinnacle

Approaching the Pali Puka.

Pali Puka

Group photo by Justin Hirako, left to right: Ryan, myself, Thessa, Chris and Justin.

Contour

Chris coming up the contour around the pinnacle.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Back on the saddle again.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the clear summit of Konahuanui.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The hotline went unanswered, so we continued our climb to Puu Suicido.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris scrambling up the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Silhouette hikers.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris and Ryan contouring around a “toothy” rock.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Justin and Thessa making their way over the ridge. Photo by Ryan Leano.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Minor rock scrambling. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Soaking in the views and taking a break. Multi-tasking hiking. Photo by Justin Hirako.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The sun was shining on our sweaty faces and the clouds were dancing over the Ko’olaus. Nice day to be outside.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Give me a X. Give me a Y. Give me a Z.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up to the “W.” Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Panoramic view of the Windward side.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Left? Right? Upside your head.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The crew contouring around the “W.”

Nu’uanu Saddle

Thessa’s point of view. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Nu’uanu Saddle

My point of view.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris giving us the “W.”

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris and Ryan approaching the long lost Puka of the Pali. Photo by Justin Hirako

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris about to come down from the anvil rock.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Justin making his way down. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris contouring around the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back. What a view.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Almost there.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo by Justin Hirako at the 2,700′ summit. Clear views to be had by all.

Lanihuli

Halfway there. We munched on our lunch and picked up where we left off. Well some of us picked up.

Lanihuli

Looking back at Justin and Thessa who decided to go down the Alewa Ridge Trail and pick us up on the other side. With cups of steaming hot cocoas. Topped with an expletive.

Lanihuli

Disappearing from their view. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic view.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Ryan coming down the mountain.

Kalihi Saddle

Dropping down into the saddle. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Riding the dirt dragon, or what’s left of it. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Some sections were a tad crumbly.

Kalihi Saddle

Descending down Lanihuli Wall.

Kalihi Saddle

Uki grass is your friend. Repeat many times. Hold many times.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Ryan contouring around the ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Coming down from the Can Opener.

Kalihi Saddle

Pimple. Doorstop. Bunny Ears. Sharks Fin. Colorful names for crumbly rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris coming up the Pimple.

Kalihi Saddle

Perhaps we will find the chocolate eggs between those ears?

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Ryan traversing the Bunny Ears.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris coming down the last Bunny Ear.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking out towards the lush and verdant Kalihi Valley.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Ryan making their way down Sharks Fin.

Kalihi Saddle

Almost there.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris got to break in his new webbing.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris and Ryan approaching the power lines and our way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Dropping down into the valley floor.

All pau

We walked out to the highway and waited for Justin and Thessa to pick us up. Our ride came with benefits. Slushy Icees! Expletive taken back!

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered 3.19 miles with a great crew. Post hike meal at Au’s Garden. Is that a discount? No. Let me adjust and give you the full price. Gee thanks.

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.