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

Waianae Valley

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

Ka’ala Trail

Lights are on but nobody’s home.

Ka’ala Trail

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

Ka’ala Trail

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

Three Poles

Sticker envy.

Ka’ala Trail

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

Ka’ala Trail

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

Ka’ala Trail

Steady climb to the highest peak on the island.

Ka’ala Bog

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

Ka’ala Bog

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

Ka’ala Summit

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

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

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

WST

Does the pushup match the grade?

WST

No views on both sides.

WST

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

WST

Transitioning from asphalt to densely packed uluhe ferns.

WST

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

WST

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

Three Corners

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Proof that rats do live outside of Diamond Head.

WST

Following the fenced trail as we bordered Makua Valley.

WST

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

Mokuleia Shelter

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

Mokuleia Trail

Leaving the Pahole Nature Reserve Area.

Peacock Flats

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

Mokuleia Access Road

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

Mokuleia Access Road

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

Mokuleia Access Road

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

Mokuleia Access Road

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

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Ferlino Carinio and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Team no sleep gathered to help Aileen finish the WST this particular weekend.

Kaena Point

Mahalo to Edgar for dropping off us at the trailhead in the middle of the night.

Kaena Point

All bright eyed and bushy tailed. Or maybe not.

Kaena Point

Skirting the predator proof fence that protects 59 acres of land that are home to endemic fauna and flora.

Kaena Point

The westernmost views from the first bunker on the ridge.

Kaena Point

Climbing our way to the second and third WW2 bunkers.

Kaena Point

Akira climbing over a clump of boulders.

Kaena Point

Tessa scrambling her way up.

Kaena Point

Traversing the open area littered with loose rocks, barbed wire and hale koa shrubs.

Kaena Point

Skirting the visitor proof fence that protects 153 acres that are home to the US Space Force. Not be confused with Spaceballs.

Kaena Point

Wait. Inside or outside?

Kaena Point

I had to f*cking lie flat down. I had f*cking thorny seed pods on my legs. Maybe it was the lack of sleep or time of day that resulted in the outburst of profanity from somebody.

Kaena Point

Going through a gate meant to keep out the large bovid ungulates? No cow tipping.

Kaena Point

We spent an inordinate amount of time bushwhacking even with the artificial illumination being cast our way before we got back on track.

Kuaokala Trail

Taking a break at the picnic shelter. Too much excitement is not good for the heart of outbreaks of profanity.

Kuaokala Trail

Back on the trail again.

Kuaokala Trail

Starry night. A view best savored in person and more enjoyable than the Dutch post-impressionist painting of the same name.

Kuaokala Trail

Are we taking a power nap? No, then we wouldn’t be living up to our name.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the 4×4 road for a trail more suited to hiking.

WST

Catching the breaking sunrise after the exhausting cardio climb up the deeply rutted hill.

Moku

Gloves optional at the geodetic marker.

Pahole NAR

Hiking through the 685 acres set aside to protect endemic fauna and flora in the lowland mesic zone. Stay on trail.

Pahole NAR

When you fall, get up and fall down again.

Pahole NAR

Looking back at how far we had come. Optical illusion?

Pahole NAR

Skirting past the native snail habitat.

Makua Valley

We left the tree line and broke out into the open ridgeline to view the stunning vista of the verdant valley that belies its scarred history of when the US Military evicted all the valley residents after the Pearl Harbor attack. White crosses were then painted on the church and homes and were then bombed, infrastructure was razed and demolished, fishing holes bombed,
and fresh water wells were used as dumps for waste oil. Planes and ships shelled the valley for target practice which basically rendered the valley uninhabitable. In fact, the US Army in 1955 declared the valley as so contaminated that it was not practical to return the land to the previous owners. Despite promises by the US Military that after WW2 ended, the valley was promised to be cleaned and cleared and returned to the Commissioner of Public Lands after six months. To this date, the land still remains off-limits much like Waikane Valley that was rendered indefinitely contaminated by the US Marines for live fire training during the war as well.

WST

Akira grooming Tessa. Or something close to it.

WST

Following the fence line as we made our way on the ridge line.

WST

Passing the Mokuleia Shelter on our left. No stop needed for water, avocados or oranges.

Mokuleia Bench

Group photo at the bench with a different view of the valley. The Hawaiians believe this is where man was first created, hence the name makua, which means parent in Hawaiian.

WST

Hiking up hills after hills, or that’s how it seemed to us.

WST

Enjoying the relatively flat section of the trail while it lasted.

WST

Going down the steepest part of the trail.

Three Corners

Somebody can sleep anywhere anytime at the drop of a hat. Not living up to the team name.

Three Corners

Group photo with valley views of Makua, Makaha and Mokuleia.

WST

It was time to go swimming in uhule.

WST

We had to do multiple fence crossings, more than the illegal migrants down South.

WST

Now you see him. Now you don’t. The uluhe ferns was so thick and seemingly impassable at several spots.

WST

We could soon see the road for the overgrowth.

WST

Aileen down climbing a steep spot with slippery stakes masquerading as steps.

WST

Pushing through the last of the insufferable uluhe ferns as signs of civilization was just a step away.

Ka’ala Road

Transitioning from trail to road.

Ka’ala Road

There is no lack of visibility here at this spot.

Ka’ala Road

Pounding the pavement. Literally.

Ka’ala Road

Walking commentary. If you understand Japanese, aside from hai hai arigatou gozaimasu.

Ka’ala Road

Sometimes you just have to stop, turn around and enjoy the views.

Mount Ka’ala

The slow and punishing walk of a little over two miles of incline road was quite tiring to say the least.

Mount Ka’ala

#22 – Customary champagne celebration dousing of the (un)lucky recipient. Congratulations to Aileen for completing her last section of the WST. Two feathers in her cap. KST and WST.

Mount Ka’ala

Can I get a nickel for this bottle?

Mount Ka’ala

Group photo at the highest peak on the island. Glad that Chico made it up here to bear witness and garnered a personal best in his time ascending the 4,025′ mountain.

Ka’ala Bog

Traversing the roughly 3/4 mile boardwalk that cuts through the 1,100 acres of native cloud forest where we also ran into dozens of volunteers from the OANRP.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Climbing down the steep trail as we descended off the summit.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Aileen climbing down the ladder on the first set of boulders.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Tessa and Chico enjoying the mountainous views on the second set of boulders.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Akira ready to drop down into the valley from Three Poles.

Waianae Valley

Walking down the much maligned paved road.

All pau

Shout out to Chico who not only met us at the summit but picked us up and drove us back to our cars at Mililani.

GPS Tracks

Our night to day trek through the Waianae Mountains covered just shy of 17 miles with good friends. Congratulations again to Aileen for f*cking completing the Waianae Summit Trail. Dessert before dinner. Soft serve ice cream cones at McDonald’s. Craving for loco moco was satisfied and substituted by latin food at Coquito’s. We all went home to take a hot shower and get some much needed shut eye.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Edgar Gamiao, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

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

Waialua

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

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Hiking up to the first bunker on the ridge.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

The sun aka the heat rising above the third bunker.

Kaena Point

Scrambling our way through the dry grass and basaltic rocks.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Tessa making the final push to the top.

Kaena Point

Skirting the fenced base that tracks satellites in orbit.

Kaena Point

Enjoying our brisk walk in the morning.

Kaena Point

Leaving the radomes behind us.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Open the gate. Close the gate.

Kaena Point

Have permit, will hike. We shall see.

Kaena Point

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

Kaena Point

Thomas waiting for his ride.

Kaena Point

No H & H for us this weekend.

Kuaokala Trail

The group reunited and ready to hike.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Breakfast break at the picnic shelter.

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

Thomas coming down the tree lined corridor.

Kuaokala Trail

Trading in the soft ground for some hard rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Standing tall.

Kuaokala Trail

An ubiquitous sight in the mountains. Fences.

Kuaokala Trail

Brief break at the trail sign.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Back on the road again.

WST

When 2WD is better than 4WD.

WST

Detouring off the jeep road.

WST

Makua Valley views along with a splash of rain.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

One of many fence crossings on the trail.

WST

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

WST

Contouring our way around the endemic enclosure.

WST

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

WST

Following the fence line as it bordered the valley.

WST

Windmills in the background, shelter in the foreground.

WST

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

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

Camp Mokuleia

Back to our regularly scheduled program of hiking.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Back on the undulating trail.

Three Corners

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

WST

A solitary scarlet lehua flower.

WST

Plunging into the overgrowth.

WST

So close, yet so far.

WST

The fence line is the hikers lifeline in the uluhell.

WST

Making our way off the hill.

Ka’ala Road

Trail meets the road.

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

Using the traffic mirror for our group photo.

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

Taking in the views.

Ka’ala Road

Halfway there! Numerically speaking that is.

Ka’ala Road

Straight from the pipe. Unfiltered. Undrunk.

Ka’ala Road

End of the road for us.

Mount Ka’ala

Brief stop at the recently built three walled shelter.

Mount Ka’ala

Group photo at the highest peak on the island.

Mount Ka’ala

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

Mount Ka’ala

Trematolobelia flowers were in bloom throughout the bog.

Waianae Kaala Trail

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

Waianae Kaala Trail

Climbing down one at a time.

Waianae Kaala Trail

On rope.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Going down the steep mountainside.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Scrambling down the second set of boulders on the trail.

Waianae Kaala Trail

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

Waianae Kaala Trail

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

All pau

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

Popeyes Chicken

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

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

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

I decided to do another long haul hike back to back from coming off my camping weekend. I don’t want to get fat and lazy. Well maybe just fat. Thanks to Tessa for dropping Chris, Jen and myself off deep into Waianae Valley where the feral dogs still roam at will.

Waianae Valley

They must refresh the painting on the road every now and then. The message is always the same, but the delivery is slightly different.

Waianae Valley

Walking up the service road, our olfactory senses were dusted with a rustic mixture of smoke and shit.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Going down the trail to cross the dry streambed and making our way through the lowland forest.

Three Poles

Jen pulling herself up to the ridge line.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Climbing over the first boulder section with Kamaileunu and Ohikilolo ridges in the background.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Jen going up the ladder on the second boulder section.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Working for that elevation gain.

Mount Ka’ala

Walking through the native cloud forest, that was once home to a freshwater pond full of mullet and other fish.

Mount Ka’ala

The end of the roughly 3/4 mile walk through the stunted ohia forest that harbors endemic fauna and flora found nowhere else.

Mount Ka’ala

Skirting the radar tracking station that is operated by the HANG 169th ADS, to check out the mountain and coastal sights.

Mount Ka’ala

Group photo at the relatively new sign proclaiming the elevation at 4,026′, the highest peak on the island. Smoke from recent brush fires gave the surrounding skies a hazy veneer.

Ka’ala Road

Walking down the road that only a truck could love.

Ka’ala Road

Road reflections.

Ka’ala Road

The saving grace to the unyielding road was the postcard views that decorated the way down.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

We soon left the road and followed the fence line as it sliced an uneven corridor through the clawing and cloying uluhe ferns whose pollen was aggravatingly annoying.

Three Corners

Group photo with Makaha and Makua Valleys behind us. I don’t have an Insta360 camera.

WST

Following the fence line as it went up and down the highs and the lows on the ridge line.

Mokuleia Bench

Approaching the overlook where we ran across a couple on their way to Three Corners, perhaps they had an Insta360 camera and another individual who preferred to remain benched and came back for his hydroflask of … hot coffee on this hot day?

WST

Chris at the exposed ledge with the strikingly clear flat top mountain of Ka’ala and the fluted ridges that circled Makua Valley in the background.

WST

Switch backing our way down the hill that were festooned with blue flags and tinkling metal tags that marked endemic plantings?

WST

Jen snacking on the invasive strawberry guava plants that were sprinkled throughout the area.

WST

Thanks to Chris who brought us a bag of mountain apples or what I call nature’s hydroflask.

WST

Looking into the valley where ancient Hawaiians believed man was first created. Now the same man can’t step foot into this deceptively looking valley strewn with unexploded munitions dating back to WW2. The lease runs out in 2029, let’s see if the US military will give the land back to its rightful owners.

WST

Meeting up with the jeep road where we ran into several trucks making their way to Peacock Flats. No sparkling water was handed out.

WST

Leaving the jeep road for the fence line. One of the constants when hiking in Hawaii.

Kuaokala Trail

Following the fence line for the last time on the trail as it bordered the valley on one side and pine forests on the other side.

Kuaokala Trail

I heard rumors that Johnny Depp purchased this particular rock and re-named it the Amber Turd Rock. It just could be an urban legend.

Kuaokala Trail

Making our way to the pine tree forest, where we ran across another hiker who was seemingly picking flowers.

Kuaokala Trail

Our last pit stop as we took stock of our water and food supplies. Good to go.

Kuaokala Trail

Heading off the reservation.

Kaena Point

Are we on trail or off trail? Safe or not safe?

Kaena Point

Chris couldn’t decide whether to dribble or do a chip shot.

Kaena Point

Walking on the road that gives you ten minutes of self-induced anxiety.

Kaena Point

End of the road for us. Big sigh of relief.

Kaena Point

Going down the point that is believed to be the jumping off point for souls leaving this world for the next one.

Kaena Point

Jen making her way down the rocky ridge punctuated with multiple bunkers from WW2.

Kaena Point

Silhouetted against the sunset.

Kaena Point

Approaching the bottom of the ridge with sunlight to spare. We didn’t want no random encounters with the huaka’i po or night marchers.

All pau

Chris waiting for the green flash. Mahalo to Edgar for grabbing us at the bird sanctuary gate which saved us over two extra miles of walking. The dogs were barking loud and clear for some of us.

GPS Tracks

Our grinder of a hike covered 16.3 miles through the eroded remains of the shield volcano that is over 3 million years old. Post hike meal at the nearby beach where Cathy, Marilyn, Quan and Tessa joined and fed us with chicken papaya, summer salad and cold drinks. Much appreciated guys.

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Jen Odence and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Chris, Ferlino and myself decided to traverse the entire Waianae Mountain Range this Veteran’s Day Weekend. From the other side.

Nanakuli Valley

Day 1

Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us in the kiawe infested valley.

Nanakuli Valley

The chilly morning was soon replaced by the heat and humidity of the valley as we made the short and stiff climb to gain the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Escaping the oppressive sauna box as we gained the ridge line. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Nanakuli Ridge

Standing out on the rocky ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Looking back as the rising sun torched the top of Heleakala ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Climbing up the exposed ridge to gain the shade of the forested canopy at the top. Photo by Chris Bautista

Nanakuli Ridge

Looking back over into the largest coastal valley on the island that is also home to two of the tallest antenna towers in the Western hemisphere. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nanakuli Ridge

Chris coming up the sweaty hill.

Palehua

Running across one of many military or government structures that dot the island.

Palehua

Ferlino making good use of his hiking poles on the paved road. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Palehua

What many call the “official” start or end of the Waianae Summit Trail.

Palehua

Chris rolling through the Indiana Jones boulders after passing Mauna Kapu which once had a heiau at the point. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Palehua

Ferlino overlooking the valley views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Palehua

Going up the staircase after we passed an area rich in endemic fauna and flora. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Palikea

Group photo at the 3,098′ ti leaf summit.

Heleakala

Looking at the ridge that descends to the “Hawaiian Pyramid.” Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Awash in a sea of uluhe ferns, clawing and scratching us as we went down.

WST

Following the fenced ridge as we lost some of the elevation we had just gained.

WST

Treading softly on the mossy corridor. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Getting ready to drop into the pass. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Come on down and join the fun!

Pohakea Pass

Climbing down the 80′ cliff. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pohakea Pass

Ferlino finally getting to climb the pass after so many missed attempts.

Pohakea Pass

Chris about to climb off the pass.

WST

Ferlino climbing up the crack.

WST

Back on the ridge line to have the sun shining down on our sweaty faces. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

We still had a little more rock climbing and scrambling ahead of us. Nothing to break a sweat over. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Chris pulling himself up and around a rock blocking the ridge line.

WST

Nature’s rock climbing gym. Free. Just pay with your sweat and hopefully no blood.

WST

Putting distance between us and the imposing and intimidating pass. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Climbing over the fence to continue our climb along the rocky ridge line.

Camp Kaua

We set up camp at the 3,127′ grassy summit.

Camp Kaua

Watching the sunset. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Camp Kaua

Good night from the third highest peak on the island.

Pu’u Kaua

Day 2

We broke down camp and welcomed the second day of our hike.

WST

Some people had to take the harder way instead of the contour. To each their own.

WST

Ferlino climbing his way down to the first obstacle. Sliding down works as well. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Chris climbing down the rockface.

Gorilla Heads

Looking at the backside of the larger of the gorilla head obstacles. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Gorilla Heads

Ferlino climbing up and over the boulder.

Gorilla Heads

Going down the frontside of the crumbly rockface. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Gorilla Heads

Watching Chris and Ferlino making their way down.

Gorilla Heads

Chris the Redeemer and a photobomber on the smaller rockface. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

O Tannenbaum. 42 days to be exact. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Approaching the summit of Kanehoa.

WST

Scrambling over the rocky section after we left the 2,778′ summit.

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo on the squared off pad with wrap around views of the island. I have it on good authority that the actual 2,883′ summit was more up the hill.

Pu’u Hapapa

Enjoying the coastal views below from the pallet runway. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pu’u Hapapa

Taking shelter from the brutal afternoon sun where we took a short nap.

Hapapa Trail

We woke up refreshed and resumed our hike down the ubiquitous fence line.

Hapapa Trail

Going down the exposed and rocky ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Ferlino approaching the second notch.

Hapapa Trail

Panoramic views from the top of the notch. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Descending down towards the larger notch.

Hapapa Trail

Looking back at the sheer cliff. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Sliding our way down through the stand of paperbark trees. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Hapapa Trail

Ferlino checking out a possible camp site. It was rejected for not meeting milspecs.

Kolekole Pass

We set up camp at the lowest point in the Waiane Mountain Range. Thanks to Chris who met Mia down the road to pick up our doordash delivery from Popeye’s.

Kolekole Pass

Day 3

We broke down camp as a steady stream of hikers started to show up. Mahalo to CJ for bringing us unexpected breakfast and other goodies.

Kolekole Pass Rock

It’s hard to find a person to play the victim in a realistic manner.

Kolekole Pass

Who brought the metal detector? I guess we have to tread softly.

Kalena Trail

Going up the stiff and eroded climb as the sun broke over the mountains behind us.

Kalena Trail

A military geocache that has seen better days. Time for a new ammo can. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalena Trail

Hiking on the ridge line with the hazy mountains behind us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Scrambling up the narrow rock dike. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Clear views of both of our destinations – Kalena and Ka’ala, the two highest peaks on the island. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Enjoying the morning mountain views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Chris traversing another narrow dike on the trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kalena Trail

Ferlino passing sexxxy ridge as he followed the fence line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Star Trek

Live long and prosper. Man down. The search for more cardio. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalena Trail

Hiking up the final and steep climb to the 3,504′ summit. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pu’u Kalena

Group photo at the second highest peak on the island.

Pu’u Kalena

Chris enjoying the shade from the sun on the moss carpeted ohia tree.

WST

We ran into two other hikers, Takashi and Susy, coming from the other direction.

WST

Chris and Ferlino contouring up the ridge line.

WST

Climbing in and out of the split fence line.

Hobbs

Resting before the final leg to the highest peak on the island.

WST

Pushing through the thick and thorny overgrowth. Punctures for days.

WST

Somebody didn’t let the weight of the hike crush his spirit.

WST

I didn’t know this swing determines if you are a goat or monkey. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

Going up the steep and moss slicked boulders.

WST

Pulling myself up. It was rather taxing I must admit. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ka’ala Bog

Wandering through the misty rainforest home to endemic fauna and flora.

Ka’ala Bog

Meeting up with the boardwalk. We have no dogs. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ka’ala Bog

Ferlino approaching the 4,025′ summit and radar installation.

Camp Ka’ala

Bench with a view.

Camp Ka’ala

We set up camp after a worker nearby told us to be careful and spun some supernatural stories about this area. Sleep tight and don’t let the ghosts bite. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Ka’ala

Day 4

We woke up and broke down camp after a ghost free experience on the highest peak on the island. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Ka’ala

Looking back at the red blinking lights of the radar installation.

Mount Ka’ala

Walking down the road with the twinkling city lights of Waialua and Haleiwa in front of us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Ka’ala

Chris checking out the secret route to Stairway to Heaven. Hush hush.

Mount Ka’ala

Only one way traffic on the road this morning. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Leaving the road and going up the steep flank of the ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

WST

The fence line served as our navigational aid in the dense sea of uluhe overgrowth.

Three Corners

Chris checking out the valley views of Makaha and Makua in front of him, Mokuleia was behind him. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

WST

Leaving the roughly 2,800′ hill as we followed the fence through dips and peaks along the way.

Makua Valley

Looking down into the valley where ancient Hawaiians believed man was first created. The original inhabitants were slowly driven out by the roaming cattle from nearby ranches and then completely evicted by the US military who wanted the verdant valley home to three temples and other endemic fauna and flora for bombing practice. The lease is set to expire in 2029. Let’s see if the land is returned as promised by the US military.

WST

Contouring off the ridge where we passed a snail habitat and a spread of blue flags denoting endemic plants.

WST

Back on the exposed fenced ridge line with coastal, valley and mountain views.

WST

Ferlino was too busy hiking to enjoy the splendid views of Makua Valley.

WST

Chris walking down the trail to connect to the jeep road.

WST

I flagged down one of the many 4×4 trucks driving on the road to see if any kind souls would sell us some ice cold soda. Shout out to the lovely couple that gave me a can of sparkling water to be split three ways. A cold beverage on a hot day on a dusty road never tasted so good.

WST

Leaving the jeep road. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kuaokala Trail

Can somebody get me a soda? Sorry, Chris was only making hot Korean ramen. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kuaokala Trail

Chris and Ferlino making their way through the pine forests and towards where I was sitting on top of the dodo rock.

Kuaokala Trail

Heading to the Makua Rim trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Where are those 4×4’s when you need them?

Kuaokala Trail

Taking a short break underneath the picnic shelter before our final push to the end. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kuaokala Trail

Enjoying the wide open trail while we can.

Kuaokala Trail

In search of a suitable trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kaena Point

Trying to stay on the off-beaten track is always a challenge.

Kaena Point

Putting the bushwhacking behind us.

Kaena Point

Straying off the off-beaten track after we lost the stalking truck.

Kaena Point

Our ten minutes of stress induced anxiety were finally over.

Kaena Point

Chris overlooking the westernmost point on the island, a place that ancient Hawaiians called the “leaping place for the souls.”

Kaena Point

Ferlino coming down from the mountain.

Kaena Point

Looking out towards the ocean where a little known volcano, Kaena, sank over two million years ago. Kaena along with Waianae and Ko’olau helped to create the island of Oahu. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kaena Point

#17. Group photo celebrating our first, third and eighth time finishing the entire Waianae Summit Trail. This also marked my twenty-first cumulative completions of both the KST and WST. 21 for 2021. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kaena Point

Somebody could already taste the ice cold soda coming down the grassy and rocky ridge.

Kaena Point

Thanks to Art, Lilyn and Quan for meeting us with cold carbonated beverages at the base of the ridge. It’s the little things that can pick you up after a long weekend. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Kaena Point

Hiking our way back over the two mile long trail that follows remnants of railroad tracks and home to cliffs harboring tidepools, arches and abandoned vehicles.

Kaena Point

No green flash for us, but the sunset was still striking.

Kaena Point

Obviously the coordination to pull off a triple champagne dousing was a little beyond us. But everybody still got wet. Photo by Jasmin Carinio.

Electric Beach

Plenty thanks as well to Aida, Jasmin, Marilyn and Tessa for joining us with enough delicious food to whet our caloric deficit. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

All pau

Our bellies were full and our hearts content. Thanks again to everybody that came out and supported us. Much mahalos!

GPS Tracks

Our original three day hike turned four day hike due to technical difficulties covered 28.6 miles through the entire Waianae Summit Trail. The hike was filled with soaring temperatures, rough terrain and unmatched views. Best of all, it was done with and the support from great friends.

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

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Mokuleia Road

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

Peacock Flats

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

Peacock Flats

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

Mokuleia Trail

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

Mokuleia Trail

The trees were fruiting but not quite ready for picking.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Climbing up the short stretch to gain the ridge line.

WST

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

WST

Only one hour to the next summit?

WST

Post with a view. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Pushing our way through the endemic overgrowth.

Three Corners

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

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

Ka’ala Road

Halfway there. Photo by Art Young.

Mount Ka’ala

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

Mount Ka’ala

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

Ka’ala Bog

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

Ka’ala Bog

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Art descending down the steeper section of the trail.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Taking the easy way down. Photo by Art Young.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

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

Three Poles

Leaving the ridge line for the verdant valley.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Skipping and sliding down the leaf covered trail.

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

I joined a different team this weekend to tackle the other mountain range on the island, the Waianae Summit Trail. Thanks to Mike for dropping Analyn, Bill, Shirley and myself off under the bright lights of the Kaena Point Satellite Tracking Station to start our late evening hike. Team BASK.

Kaena Point

Walking on the remnants of the railroad tracks where only our shadows kept us company.

Kaena Point

I guess we should have gotten a 4×4. Whose name was on the rental contract?

Kaena Point

Passing one of several WW2 pillboxes on our way up the grassy and rocky ridge line that was under lunar illumination.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

Approaching the military installation that dominates the landscape of the 1,500′ ridge line.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

Somebody wanted to shed more light on themselves and bring unwanted attention to ourselves. Talks of hiking in the dark to our destination soon became a distant memory as we set up camp at the BSA shelter. Bill and Shirley shared a tent, while Analyn and I shared the picnic table.

BSA Shelter

We woke up the next day, broke down the tent, cleaned off the table and had breakfast.

Kuaokala Trail

Hiking the wide tree lined corridor that was strewn with pine cones and needles.

Kuaokala Trail

Making our way through the barren and rocky terrain where views of Makua Valley greeted us.

Kuaokala Trail

First contact with the fence line that is sprawled over the mountain range.

Kuaokala Trail

We followed the fence line down for a bit before it spit us back onto the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the well trodden trail for the overgrown one.

WST

We snacked on lilikoi passion fruit before trudging back up the road.

Moku

Turned a right at the geodic marker to pick up the trail.

Pahole NAR

Entering the 685 acres of protected ecosystems that are home to native fauna and flora. Mount Ka’ala looked so close, yet so far.

WST

Seeking scant shade from the blistering sun.

WST

Fences for daze.

Mokuleia Trail

We dropped down to the shelter to have our lunch and top off our water. Slim pickings for the oranges and avocados. Who the hell brings a chair to a hike? A comfortable person that’s who.

WST

Back to hiking under the hot sun.

WST

Giving our hands a workout as we went up and down the fenced hills.

WST

Approaching the summit where a shin high metal stake caught a couple of us on the way up. Ouch!

Three Corners

It was a nice day to be enjoying the sweeping views of Makaha, Makua and Mokuleia Valleys.

WST

Plunging through the dense uluhe corridor laced with thorny thimbleberry bushes. While hiking has a lot of joys. This was definitely not one of them.

WST

Looking ahead to the road that would take us to the 4,025′ summit.

WST

Coming down the steep hill, Analyn skinned her right hand on the fence coming down. Wear and tear.

Ka’ala Road

Two bumps on the road otherwise known as potential road kill.

Ka’ala Road

Click your heels together three times and say ‘There’s no place like home’ and you’ll be there. Unfortunately, this is not the movies and you are not Dorothy. This is the Ka’ala Road, hard and unforgiving. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Ka’ala Road

Putting our heads down and putting one foot in front of the other. This road sucks.

Ka’ala Road

End of the road. Thank goodness. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Camp Ka’ala

We set up camp; enjoyed a stunning sunset, munched on Godiva Chocolate and somebody got gassed to the point of retching.

Camp Ka’ala

Our morning view from the highest peak on the island, as rain showers slowly marched its way towards us.

Camp Ka’ala

Breaking down camp under a light drizzle of mountain rain.

Ka’ala Bog

On the boardwalk that crosses through 1,100 acres of ancient Hawaiian rain forest home to many native plants and animals. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Ka’ala Bog

The Northern KST doesn’t have the exclusive monopoly on deep sole sucking mud. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Ka’ala Bog

Finding the fence line and following it down to the ridge line.

WST

Going down the slippery slope. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Analyn climbing her way down.

WST

The girls climbing down and out from the moss covered boulder section. Photo by Bill Yogi.

WST

Bushwhacking through the fenced corridor of uluhe ferns and thimbleberry bushes. The overgrowth was too much for Bill’s selfie stick as I cracked the tip while clearing the trail, no fusion videos of the hike. My bad. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

The last time I saw my selfie stick before the overgrowth snatched it out of my pack. It’s supposed to be used for selfies and not bushwhacking. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

The girls passing through a stand of trees that were thickly padded with green and spongy moss.

WST

The trail overgrowth relented somewhat, but not that much. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Hobbs Junction

Taking a break from all that bushwhacking. Agony by a thousand punctures.

WST

Resuming our fenced hike with the second highest peak staring us in our sweaty faces.

WST

Making our way down the split ridge.

WST

Waiting for our turn to climb down. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Shirley contouring the crumbly ridge line. Photo by Bill Yogi.

WST

Looking for that ledge to land her size 7.5 shoes on. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Analyn climbing up one of the last rock faces before the summit.

Pu’u Kalena

Fabulous views of the West side from the 3,504′ peak.

Pu’u Kalena

What? No lunch break here? Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Back on the fenced trail to get to the eroded section over on the next hill.

WST

Lunch break and scenic photography spot.

WST

False peak after false peak.

WST

Selfie at one of the step fence sections. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Looking down at the hot mess of crumbly rocks otherwise known as Pu’u Ka’ilio.

WST

West side boy on the West side dike.

WST

Looking back at sexxxy ridge. No opportunity for sexxxy time. Next time. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

We left the fenced ridge line and made our way down the spur ridge.

WST

Analyn throwing out a shaka before going down another narrow dike section.

WST

There’s always time for another shaka on the dike. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Getting off the rocky ridge line as we descended towards the pass, the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range.

Lualualei Valley

Looking down into the largest coastal valley on this side of the island.

WST

Can you take a video of me sliding on my butt sis?

WST

Sure thing sis! Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Kolekole Pass

Why did the hikers cross the road? To get to the other hiking trail.

Pohaku Hupeloa

Everybody try and keep their heads about them.

Kolekole Pass

Approaching the clearing with sweeping views and looking for my carbonated beverage. Sorry Analyn.

Kolekole Pass

Thanks to Matt for bringing us the fried chicken without an apostrophe. Our group just got bigger by one. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Our bellies full, we climbed straight up the crumbly hillside to save 15 minutes. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Matt bringing the chicken with him. Leftovers are the best. For some people.

WST

The sun silhouetting Matt as we descended down to the notch.

WST

Bill and Shirley climbing out of the first notch.

WST

Coming over the second notch. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Almost there.

Camp Hapapa

We set up camp; enjoyed another spectacular sunset, no dessert this time and no gassing was reported as well.

Camp Hapapa

Twinkling city lights. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Camp Hapapa

The morning sunbeams spilling over on the central plain. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

We broke down camp and set out for the square sized summit of Hapapa.

Pu’u Hapapa

Our collective photographic poses on the 2,883′ peak.

WST

Leaving the summit.

WST

Misty mountains.

WST

Looking back at Matt and the valley that are home to two of the tallest transmission towers in the Western hemisphere.

WST

Contouring and not climbing. Photo by Shirley Gloriani

WST

Traversing the eroded section of the ridge line.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Cheesy pose by the girls at the 2,728′ summit. Not my words. From the cheesy person herself.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Watching Bill “No Breaks” Yogi moving on the ridge line. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Matt checking out the views and kicking himself for not bringing his drone.

WST

The clouds drifting over the mountains.

WST

Most of the clouds soon left, but some stayed. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

We went through a section of pine forest before getting back onto the exposed ridge.

WST

Approaching the “Christmas Tree” that marks the gateway to the first main obstacle.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up and over the smaller of the primate rocks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Gorilla Heads

Supplemental webbing does a body and mind good. Or so I heard. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Gorilla Heads

Bill climbing up the biggest of the ape rocks. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Gorilla Heads

Shirley’s turn.

Gorilla Heads

Passing resemblance to their Simian namesake. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

Gorilla Heads

Bill climbing his way down.

Gorilla Heads

Spotting Analyn coming down. Catching services not included. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Gorilla Heads

Looking back at the two humps. And it wasn’t even Wednesday yet.

WST

The group going up between a hard rock and a fence. There was only one decision to make. Up.

WST

There’s always a photographic opportunity in the mountains, especially with these two. Photo by Bill Yogi.

WST

Blackhawk doing a fly by. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

You go right, I’ll go left. Who wants to follow? Webbing will be provided.

WST

Analyn contouring her way around the crumbly rock. We took a musubi break at this spot. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Following the fence line as we climbed up the rocky ridge.

WST

Pushing our way through the insufferable patch of uluhe ferns that was thankfully interrupted by the fence line.

Pu’u Kaua

Looking back at the mountains we had traversed from the third highest peak on the island.

Pu’u Kaua

Group photo by Analyn Baliscao, left to right: Analyn, Bill, Matt, myself and Shirley at the 3,127′ peak.

WST

What broad shoulders you have, the better to see the views with. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Bill coming down the rock face, the start of the most rock climbing on this section of the WST that you can shake a crumbly rock at.

WST

Team BASK perched on the rocks. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

The girls climbing their way down and posing. Multi-tasking at its finest. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Follow me. Or maybe not. Some people have to learn the hard way. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Matt making his way around the rock that was in our way. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

WST

Contouring our way around the slippery and rooted hill to pick up the trail. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

Analyn climbing down the short drop with the overhang. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

WST

The pine tree corridor that took us to the main obstacle of the day.

Pohakea Pass

Going up the crumbly 80′ cliff for the fourth time and my stomach still had butterflies. The saving grace was the red webbing that was leftover from another group’s ascent. No free climbing needed this time. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Pohakea Pass

Bill climbing his way up.

Pohakea Pass

Shirley using the blue and red webbings to pull herself up. We just had to have a white webbing and it would have been a patriotic climb. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Pohakea Pass

Somebody was focused on getting to the top. Need a hand? Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Scrambling up and away from the sheer cliff.

WST

Shirley threading her way between the trees on the mossy ground.

WST

Pulling ourselves up the last major fenced climb.

WST

Pondering the anticipated removal of my facial hair after my self-imposed shaving hiatus that was to be lifted when I finished both mountain ranges in one shot. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Palikea

Brief stop at the ti leaf summit that at 3,098′ elevation had panoramic views of the West side. Only an hour left to the end of our hike.

WST

Trying to beat the sun to the bottom. Mother Nature would win.

Palehua

Our last selfie of the day as the daylight slipped away from us.

All pau

Not quite. We still had a roughly five mile road to walk down to Makakilo. We were going to pool our cash together to get a ride back down. But nobody answered the call of opportunity. So we ended up pounding the pavement all the way down to Makakilo. We piled into Matt’s truck and met up with Janell at the nearby shopping center where frozen cokes and bubbly were waiting for us.

Post hike celebration

Matt was the only one afforded the traditional champagne dousing over the head, as he had to head home. The rest of us retired to Bill and Shirley’s lawn and just sucked it down. I don’t know who got the better deal. Thanks again to Janell for giving us a ride. Photos by Janell Tuttle.

GPS Tracks

Our Labor Day weekend hike over the entire Waianae Mountain Range and then some, covered almost 33 miles through rugged and spectacular terrain that defines the West side. Amazing adventure with awesome friends. Until the next adventure.

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

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

Our Lady of Kea’au

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

The Shack

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Tree Stand

The only game seen today were two legged hikers.

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

Climbing up the ridge. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

Katie climbing her way up.

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

Contouring and climbing our way up.

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

Bird’s eye view. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Valley

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

Ohikilolo Valley

Quan still having fun. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Fence Hammock

Surprisingly comfortable. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Approaching the helipad. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Helipad

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Traversing the exposed and eroded ridge line.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Our arms were getting quite the workout today.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Cabin

Katie stumping for views.

Ohikilolo Cabin

Snack break. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Cabin

You can knock, but you can’t come in.

Ohikilolo Outhouse

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

Ohikilolo Outhouse

When you got to go, you got to go.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Summit

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Fences for daze. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Hello from the other side. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Following the fence line. The theme for the day.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Straddling a very crumbly dragon. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Martians

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

The girls getting some air time.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Lilyn stepping on the dragon. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Climbing my way down. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Scenic views all around. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Ohikilolo Ridge

Katie contouring her way down the ridge.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Katie sliding her way around the protruding boulder.

Ropes and Ladder

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

Ohikilolo Ridge

Lilyn overlooking the valley views. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ohikilolo Ridge

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

Three Corners

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

Three Corners

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

Three Corners

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

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the clear summit as we followed the fence down.

WST

Taking in the somewhat obstructed view of Makua Valley.

Mokuleia Overlook

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

Tangelo Tree

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

Mokuleia Trail

Leaving the short and sweet trail.

Peacock Flats

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

Mokuleia Access Road

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

Mokuleia Access Road

Pounding the pavement on our way down.

Mokuleia Access Road

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

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

Permit in hand and with a 4×4 ride secured; Jasmin dropped Ferlino, Yoly and myself off at the Kaena Point Tracking Station Road. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Jeep convoy

Waiting for the rest of the jeeps to roll in. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Guard shack

We checked in and made sure that we got the right ID’s back. Mistaken identity averted. We then took off from the main jeep convoy as we had places to go and people to drop off. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Jeep road

Our two truck convoy had to stop and regroup as a low hanging branch had cleaned off Brian’s water tank on his roof. Some took this as an opportunity to pick low hanging guava fruits. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Jeep road

On the bumpy drive to our destination, we were treated to scenic ocean and mountain views.

Sun beams

I chose to sit in the back of the truck to immerse myself in the dust clouds being kicked up on our drive.

Peacock Flats

Turning into the Earl Prawn Campground.

Trailhead

We got off our rides and prepared ourselves for the grueling 15 minute hike to the shelter. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Mokuleia Trail

Brian opening the gate to Pahole Reserve. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Mokuleia Trail

Hiking the trail that was first constructed in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

Mokuleia Trail

Strawberry guava trees are solid and sturdy trees. Perfect to sit on and take a family photo. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Mokuleia Lookout

We left the barely standing shelter and made the short and steep climb to the bluff overlooking Makua Valley. Group photo, left to right: Yoly, Elle, Ivy, Bradley, Ferlino, myself, Brian and Nora.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

We parted ways with Brian and his group and followed the fence for ridges.

WST

Looking ahead to our intended destination, Mount Ka’ala with her white radar dome perched on top.

WST

Skirting the fenced ridge that borders Makua Valley. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

WST

The ultimate selfie stick. It fit like a gloved hand. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Three Corners

Group photo with two of the three corners, Makaha and Makua Valleys.

Three Corners

Looking out to the third valley, Mokuleia, where dark clouds were gathering. A harbinger of wet tidings to come.

WST

Why pack your food can out, when you can simply leave it on the fence post?

WST

The uluhe ferns and thorny thimbleberry bushes formed a dense and suffocating corridor that we had to push through. Not high on my fun list. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

WST

We were in over our heads. Literally. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

#38

I was so glad to be on solid ground and not being pulverized by plants, that I did not feel the usual misery going up the slow slog of the 2.5 mile road. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Hairy balls

Hangs low and to the right. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ka’ala Road

On road. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Ka’ala Road

Off road. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ka’ala Road

We were warned. Rain showers began dumping on us and soon made it slippery when wet. Photo by Yoly Bedford

Ka’ala Road

The little known but equally challenging ladder to Ka’ala. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

#78

Forty stops later and we were at the highest point on the island. All wet. Photo by Yoly Bedford

Flag Day

We sought temporary refuge from the rain underneath the shelter where we ran across some volunteers from the OANRP, that were nice enough to take our group photo.

Mount Ka’ala

Bench with a view. Sometimes. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Mount Ka’ala

Ferlino going over the boardwalk that protects the fragile bog.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Panoramic view of the valley that opened up as we left the forested summit.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Yoly climbing down the bolted ladder. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Making our way over the last boulder section.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Sweeping views of Bolohead Ridge, Waianae Valley, Kamaileunu Ridge, Kawiwi and No Name Peak. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Following the fenced trail down to the Three Poles Junction.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

A vertical Ferlino standing on a horizontal tree. I’m surprised he wasn’t hanging upside down. Not enough clearance. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Waianae Ka’ala Trail

Yoly crossing the trickling stream bed on our way out.

All pau

Thanks to Jasmin for picking us up in the remote valley where barking dogs kept us company.

GPS Tracks

Our hike covered 19.82 miles through jeep roads, ridges, mountains and valleys. Post hike meal at Coquito’s; where if the pork chops are not fried to your liking, you can take it home and fry it yourself.

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

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

Kaena Point Tracking Station

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

Deja vu

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

Road

Entering the facility that has been tracking satellites since statehood.

Road

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Kuaokala Trail

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

Trail runners

Are you guys with AAA?

Kuaokala Trail

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

Peacock Flats

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

Mokuleia Trail

Stepping foot in the Pahole Natural Area Reserve.

Mokuleia Trail

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

Mokuleia Trail

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

Mokuleia Trail

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

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Climbing out of the ravine to the WST.

Mokuleia Lookout

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

WST

Hiking underneath the ominous blanket of udderly striking clouds.

WST

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

WST

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

WST

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

WST

Making the push up the final hill. Almost there.

Three Corners

Panoramic view of Makaha and Makua Valleys.

WST

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

WST

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

King Kong Ridge (KKR)

Making our way down. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

KKR

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

KKR

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

Pueo Falls

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

KKR

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

Halloween

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

KKR

Contouring our way down another steep descent down the ridge.

Kahuna Cave

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

KKR

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

KKR

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

Halloween II

Too soon for the sequel? Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Mango Tree

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

BWS

Passing through the head high and itchy California grass.

Makaha Icy Ponds

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

Chain link fence

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

Temple of Lono

One of the best preserved Hawaiian temple in the islands.

got poi?

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

All pau

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

Post hike meal

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

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