A bunch of us took a walk on the West side today.

Kuaokala Trail

Thanks to Edgar for driving Akira, Allison, Mari, Marilyn, Tessa, Val and myself up the winding road to the Kaena Point Space Force Tracking Station. Not to be confused with Spaceballs.

Kuaokala Trail

Foraging for trail snacks when we haven’t even been 10 minutes on the path. Priorities.

Kuaokala Trail

Yellow guavas are much sweeter than their red cousins.

Kuaokala Trail

Stepping foot on the Waianae Summit Trail (WST). It was a refreshing change to do this in broad daylight rather than under the cover of darkness.

Kuaokala Trail

Passing the Boy Scout Picnic Shelter. We are hiking today and not having a picnic. Besides, nobody brought steak today.

Kuaokala Trail

Rolling pine logs gather no moss. They just leave sap on your hands.

Kuaokala Trail

Following the well signed and marked trail. Hard to get lost.

Kuaokala Trail

Going down the exposed and eroded area of the trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Somebody had already staked out his position on the dodo or fin rock. You can call it whatever is most palatable for you.

Kuaokala Trail

How many people can fit on this spit of a rock? Apparently seven.

Kuaokala Trail

Going through the gate as we met up with the ubiquitous fence line that seems to dominate the mountains as of late.

Kuaokala Trail

Allison training for either one of her multiple half-marathons or the Inca Trail.

Kuaokala Trail

The end of the trail where we took a quick break.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Just a tad overgrown. Luckily, it was just for a short stretch.

WST

Sharing the road with others. Especially when they weigh several thousand pounds more than you do.

WST

Detouring off the road for higher ground.

WST

Scenic view of Makua Valley, the valley that has gone to hell and back. But not back to its rightful owners. The current 65 year lease that the US Army paid for with one dollar, expires in 2029. The local families that were forcibly evicted from their homes and were told they would get it back after WW2 ended. The clock is ticking.

WST

Trail snacks from your favorite convenience store. No need for any foraging for this one.

WST

Trudging up the rutted trail that is also a tad overgrown.

WST

Shoefie at the geodic marker “Moku.”

WST

Passing the water shelter with the hanging first aid kit that needs first aid itself.

WST

The group going over one of many fence crossings meant to keep out the invasive species that snack on the endemic fauna and flora.

WST

Welcome to Pahole, the 658 acres of natural area reserve established in 1981 to help protect the native fauna and flora from going extinct and to help build up their numbers in the wild.

WST

The group going down on another exposed and eroded section of the trail.

WST

Switch backing our way up through the plot of blue flagged native plantings.

WST

Passing the enclosed native snail habitat enclosure.

WST

The backdrop of the highest peak on the island that was strikingly clear, greeted us as we made our way out of the forest.

WST

Group shot on the ridge that borders Makua Valley.

WST

We followed the fenced ridge line as we started our descent down into the valley.

WST

Can you see the shelter for the forest?

WST

Turning off the WST as we dropped down the side trail towards the shelter.

Mokuleia Shelter

We had curry and noodles for lunch. Avocados for snacks. Future snacks. No fruiting oranges today.

Mokuleia Shelter

Everybody was looking forward to the long walk down as we collected ourselves from the shelter and made ready to leave.

Mokuleia Trail

It was a hop, skip and jump before we found ourselves at the end of the trail. Well, more closer to 15 minutes.

Peacock Flats

Walking down the jeep road that was dominated by the towering pine trees.

Peacock Flats

Passing through the camp grounds that was host to several families enjoying the weekend.

Peacock Flats

Leaving the 4×4 road for the 2×2 road.

Service Road

Walking down the paved road that is only open to two foot traffic.

Service Road

Halfway there! These roads get old pretty fast.

All pau

Shout out to Edgar who not only dropped us off but also picked us up on the other side of the island.

GPS Tracks

Our hike across the Waianae Mountains and valleys covered roughly 11 miles and change. Fun hike with a good group of friends. Post hike meal at Mililani BBQ due to Jerry’s Pizza not having enough room and more importantly no AC. Hot hikers want a cool environment to eat in. Spoiled, but that’s the truth.

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our West side hike.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzasyCnorA4

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Allison Banks, Edgar Gamiao, Mari Saito, Marilyn Bermudez, Tessa Bugay, Val Wang 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 spent Easter Sunday on the “forbidden mountain” with Andy, Enrique and Lilyn today.

KoleKole Pass

Walking down the shuttered road passing signs that warned of high winds and falling rocks. The signs did not lie at all.

KoleKole Pass

Leaving the twisting hairpins behind us as we traded the asphalt for basalt.

Ka’ilio

We were not going up the side ridge as somebody had relished in anticipation, but rather straight up.

Ka’ilio

The winds were so strong that it literally took our breath away, not to mention flapping hats in somebody’s face.

Ka’ilio

Pulling ourselves up one crumbly rock at a time.

Ka’ilio

Going through a small patch of stunted trees that provided temporary cover from the raging gusts.

Ka’ilio

Enrique going straight up the rock face.

Ka’ilio

Lilyn trying to give Alex Honnold a run for his money.

Ka’ilio

Andy taking the safer and saner route.

Ka’ilio

Pushing against the wind. Pushing against the crumbly rocks. Pushing to the summit.

Ka’ilio

Somebody was glad to be at the top.

Ka’ilio

Group photo at the 1,865′ summit with the largest coastal valley on the island in the background.

Ka’ilio

Catching a rainbow after rain showers drizzled the area. Luckily, they didn’t stick around long.

Ka’ilio

Happy Easter from the Dog Hill.

Ka’ilio

You take that way and I’ll take this way. Let’s see who gets down faster.

Ka’ilio

Controlling our descent as we climbed down, lest we roll and tumble like the rocks we dislodged.

Ka’ilio

Andy approaching the relatively flat spot on the mountain.

Ka’ilio

Why didn’t we take this way going up? Life needs challenges.

Ka’ilio

Dropping in elevation as the twisted road got closer.

Ka’ilio

The high winds and falling rocks continued unabated.

Ka’ilio

Somebody was really happy to be going back down.

Ka’ilio

Andy in the notch.

Ka’ilio

Scrambling back down to the road that was built back in 1937 by the Army Corps of Engineers.

KoleKole Pass

We all survived largely intact, minus my red cap which I involuntarily donated to the mountains.

All pau

100% ID Check in progress.

Our wind blasted introductory hike covered a scant 2.07 miles, with new and old faces. Post hike meal at Taps and Apps, a pub in Mililani that serves tasty food and alcohol of many kinds. The food and drinks were so good that it was passed around and luckily nobody got COVID.

Photos taken by Andy Pender, Enrique Chavez, Lilyn Avendano 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.

Thanks to Robert for dropping Art, Enrique, Lilyn and myself off to Waianae Valley where we met Justin for somebody’s WST finish.

Waianae Valley

This must be the way to the trail. Thanks for the visual reinforcement, as I would’ve totally missed it.

Picnic Shelter

End of the service road and the beginning of the “real” trail.

Waianae Valley

Going up the leaf covered hill.

Three Poles

Waiting for the rest of the group as we gained the ridge line.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Looking back at the prominent and jagged ridges behind us.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Steady climb towards the highest point on the island.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Enrique scrambling up the first boulder section.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

Art climbing up the ladder on the second boulder area. Easy peasy.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

I thought my calves were big! Echoes of Kauai.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

The climbing must be getting serious as somebody put his gloves on.

Waianae-Kaala Trail

I found out that everybody has different ways of entering a gate. Some climb over it and others swing it open. To each their own.

Mount Ka’ala

Entering the 1,000+ acre reserve that was once a fishpond and is now home to endemic plants, many found nowhere else.

Ford Models

Justin strutting it on the boardwalk.

Beer Goggles

Walking through a bog with a beer in hand gets better with every step.

Mount Ka’ala

After wandering and getting turned around a couple times, we found the fence line and followed it to the ridge.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the bog behind us as we made our way down the ridge marked by a breath of fresh air and poked by countless raspberry bushes.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Art climbing down the moss slicked rocks.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

What happens when you don’t listen to your own advice about being careful going down, you walk away with a rope burn on your finger.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Justin straddling the leap of faith gap.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Lilyn lowering herself down.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Enrique carrying the weight of the problems of Waiea on his shoulders.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

I’ll bushwhack through the raspberry bushes but don’t expect your GoPro stick back in one piece. Promise delivered.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Art making new friends on the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

The overgrowth wasn’t actually that bad this time around.

Hobbs Junction

Guys, I’m telling you the chameleon was this BIG!

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Enrique about to traverse the split in the fence line.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Art going down using vintage webbing.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Lilyn dropped down and contoured around the rock face.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Art leaving the fence behind as he climbed up another small rock face.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Lilyn standing on the sitting tree.

Pu’u Kalena

#18. I was misguided and thought we had overshot Star Trek which marked Art’s official completion of the WST. Prematurely celebrating his finish with my customary champagne dousing. Check that bubbly. It was wine. Same family.

Pu’u Kalena

Justin “Nambooty” Nambounmy cleared for take off. Get out of my drone’s way.

Pu’u Kalena

Group photo at the second highest peak on the island, notice that Art is cherising his prized kukui nut broken shell which symbolizes today’s accomplishment. This tradition dates back hours, if that.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the summit and looking forward.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Getting the rocks out of his shoes. The other ones are still stuck in his head.

Star Trek Junction

The official end of Art’s WST finish. Congratulations Arthur Young on completing all 26 miles that make up the Waianae Summit Trail that traverses the Waianae Mountain Range.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Some chose to push through the pine tree while others jumped the fence. The path of least resistance.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Hiking the WST is always a welcome change from the KST.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Climbing and contouring our way around the fence line and the rocks.

SeXXXy Ridge

Looking at unfinished business. We’ll be back.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Climbing down towards the narrow rock dike.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Shoefie with the 3,504′ peak of Kalena in the background.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Tower, this is Ghost Rider requesting a fly by. Wait until May 27.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Art coming to the end of the fence line for us, with the background of Lualualei Valley and Pu’u Ka’ilio.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving our perch on the mountain as we made our way down.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Justin stepping his way down.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Making our way down the dike as it gradually leveled off bordered by bushes on one side and steep drops on the other side.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Art turning off the ridge line for greener pastures.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Leaving the forest behind us as we broke out into the open and heavily eroded section of the hill. Anybody brought their cardboard boxes?

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Running and sliding our way down towards the lowest point in the Waianae Mountain Range.

Kolekole Pass

Yea, though we walk through the valley of the shadow of UXO, we will fear no MPs.

All pau

Walking down the road as we heard artillery fire in the distance. There’s nothing like the smell of discharged gun powder in the afternoon.

GPS Tracks

Our walk on the wild west side covered roughly 8.37 miles with a great group. Congrats again to Art for finishing the 26 miles of the Waianae Summit Trail. Mahalo to Aida and Quan for picking us up, despite our less than hygienic conditions. Post hike meal at Popeye’s Chicken. On base. The only downside for somebody was the lack of free flowing alcohol.

Photos taken by Art Young, Enrique Chavez, Justin Nambounmy, Lilyn Avendano 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.

Looking for a short easy hike to do this weekend, I found it in the form of Kuaokala Trail. Thanks to Quan for letting me tag along with her group. Photo by Lahela.

Trailhead

We found the road to Kaena Point closed due to high surf, but the road going up to the Kaena Point Tracking Station was still open for business. Our military escort took us to the trailhead where we parked and started our hike.

Trail

It was my first time setting foot on this trail …

Trail

… from this way.

Junction

I always wondered what trail this was. Wonder no more.

Picnic Shelter

The tree was not doing a very good job of hiding Quan. Or was it the other way around?

Trail

I still say this has got to be one of the widest trails on the island.

Helping hand

Lahela pulling Quan up the hill. What about the rest of us?

Junction

No mountain bikers seen today.

Trail

Somebody was standing on Quan’s “rock.”

Trail

The group coming down the denuded section of the trail.

Shark Fin Rock

Waiting for some company on my lofty perch. Photo by Quan Haberstroh

Shark Fin Rock

Group photo left to right: Quan, Ehjay, myself, Lahela and Lani.

Trail

Going over the fence to get to another fence.

Makua Valley

Backdrop photo of the “parent” valley, where man was first created according to Hawaiian mythology, but now is home to unexploded military munitions. Photo by Ehjay.

Kawailoa Wind Farm

Looking over into the pinwheels that populate Hawaii’s largest wind farm.

Lookout

We met another family at the fence line who had come up from Kealia Trail and attempted to take something that resembled a group photo before heading back.

Wild Mushroom

Running across a flat topped shroom on our way back.

Trail

Watching the group make their way down the fence line back to the shark fin rock.

Trail

Group photo by Lani Ricasa. Nobody was left out.

Trail

Hello from the other side.

Pine cones

We collected some of the woody cones on the trail. Arts and Crafts.

Junction

Nobody wanted to take a walk on the wild side, so we went back down the signed junction.

All pau

Our 4.8 mile hike ended in the blink of an eye. Slight exaggeration. Nice hike on the West side. Post hike meal at Coquito’s. BYOB and BYOD (dessert).

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.

Nobody was in the mood to do a grinder on the KST, so we switched to the West side to do a shorter but slightly sketchy hike. Depends on your interpretation of what exactly is sketchy.

Trailhead

Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us off deep in Waianae Valley where we soon picked up a certain four legged companion that tagged along for our first hike of the year.

Potassium pants

Is that a banana in your pants, or are you just glad to see us?

Ka’ala Road

Time to leave the road and get our feet dirty.

Waianae Valley

We soon lost our canine companion to a group of hikers who were irritated that she was throwing off their dogs.

Waianae Valley

I guess yellow is for Bolohead.

Bolohead Ridge

The meandering trail through the valley eventually lead us to our desired destination.

Bolohead Ridge

Pushing our way through the dry grass to clamber over the moss covered boulders.

Bolohead Ridge

The pitch of the ridge soon relented to a more bipedal friendly grade.

Game of Thrones

Optical illusion, as the space was not big enough to park my skinny butt. Photo by Shirley.

Bolohead Ridge

Is that Bolohead? Nope.

Bolohead Ridge

Group photo by Ferlino Carinio on the very narrow and windy ridge.

Bolohead Ridge

The group making their way over the skinny ridge while trying not to get blown off.

Bolohead Ridge

Our first climb of the day. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Bolohead Ridge

Which way does the wind blow? Just let the webbing show you.

Bolohead Ridge

One of a few trees on the ridge line itself.

Bolohead Ridge

It was just a matter of time before we ran across a fence in these mountains.

Bolohead Ridge

I had tied some webbing to my pack to secure at the top for the rest of the group as I climbed up the front, little did I know that Shirley was at the end of the webbing, stalling my progress. I had thought the webbing had snagged onto a branch and I was pulling up dead weight. It was just Shirley.

Bolohead Ridge

The back side of Bolohead, since nobody got a picture of the front side.

Bolohead Ridge

Time to climb to the highest peak on the island.

Uluhell

The hardest part of the hike where we were in over our heads literally with uluhe ferns that were so dense and the pollen and dust being released had me constantly choking and gagging. Ferlino climbed up a tree to point us in the right direction as we battled our way out of the fern forest.

Stand your ground

We ran across this rock dove who didn’t flinch or fly away at our approach. Perhaps she was nesting and keeping a wary eye on us to see if we were egg eaters.

Bolohead Ridge

The tangled thicket of ferns soon gave way to dry grass. Thank goodness.

7-11

Our well deserved lunch spot for the day. Photo by Shirley.

Bolohead Ridge

Group photo left to right: Cisco, Shirley, myself and Ferlino with the ridge we had just climbed in the background.

Bolohead Ridge

Passing some hairy balls on our way up.

Bolohead Ridge

One last photo. I promise. Where have I heard that before?

Ka’ala Bog

We soon reached higher elevation, at the point where refrigerated air from the bog cooled us down.

Ka’ala Bog

Shirley getting swallowed up in the uluhe ferns.

Ka’ala Bog

Following the fence line as we passed native lobelia plants.

Mount Ka’ala

Nobody with the exception of Cisco had an interest in going to the actual summit, despite the excellent weather conditions. We are only interested in going to the summit when it’s rainy and windy, like our last visit.

Waianae Kaala Trail

Grabbing the fence line as we made our way back down to the valley.

All pau

Look who we found waiting for us at the bottom! Photo by Shirley.

GPS Tracks

Our first hike of the year covered 5.5 miles through valleys and ridges that was blessed with fun company and ideal weather, albeit windy conditions. Thanks to Jasmin for picking us up again and shuttling us to our post hike meal at Coquito’s. The go to eatery on the West side.

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 Matt for a hike in his backyard today.

Trailhead

Nobody else showed up at the appointed time, so we pushed off into the farmlands.

Swing

Sometimes it’s the simple things in life that give you the most happiness. But this is not one of them. LOL.

Kunia

Going up the trail littered with forest detritus.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Briefly setting foot on the graded trail …

Spur Ridge

… before heading up the spur ridge.

Scenic spot

Looking through the forest canopy across Wahiawa to the lagoon harbor and the iconic symbol of Hawaii.

Saddle

Battling the overgrowth as we descended to the low point on the ridge.

Uluhell

What hike in Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without the clawing and scratching staghorn ferns?

Destination

We could see the mountain for the overgrowth.

Two-Minute Mark

No turning back now.

Spur Ridge

A short scramble was all that separated us from …

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

… the washed out area just shy of the summit of Kanehoa.

WST

Matt decided to keep me company on the way to Kolekole Pass.

WST

Looking back at missed opportunities.

WST

Did we miss the trail?

WST

Matt contouring his way around the ridge line.

WST

Looking back at the exposed grey rock edifice sticking out like a sore thumb amidst all the green overgrowth.

WST

Following the fence line. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

A-OK

No complaining back here.

WST

Fences for daze. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

WST

Passing showers, not enough to melt.

WST

Clouds on the left and windmills on the right. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Lualualei Valley

Looking back at the largest coastal plain that also has the tallest man made structures as well.

Pu’u Hapapa

Standing on the 2,883′ squared summit.

Washout

The quickest but highly not recommended way down to Wahiawa. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Hapapa Trail

I always particularly liked the panoramic vista that this approach offered when dropping down from Pu’u Hapapa. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Hapapa Trail

Matt making his way down the ridge.

Notch

Climbing down the shallower and smaller cut in the ridge. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Notch

Matt making his way down the deeper and bigger incision in the ridge.

The Gap

Feeling small, insignificant and full of wonder.

Hapapa Trail

Matt coming down the corridor of paperbark trees.

Hapapa Trail

Overlooking the ridges, valleys and coastline.

Meadows

Soaking in the views one last time. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Kolekole Pass Stone

Dead tired. Don’t take it literally.

Instafamous

“You’re Matt? I follow you on IG!”

All pau

Our hike through the Waianae Mountains covered 5.4 miles through rugged terrain and raw scenery. Thanks again to Matt for showing me his “backyard.” Shout out to Mia for picking us up at the lowest point in the mountain range. Post hike meal at Popeye’s Chicken.

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 Analyn, Anne, Chris, Cisco and Ferlino to labor our way in the mountains this weekend. Thanks to Jasmin for waking up at an ungodly hour to drop us off.

Trailhead

Walking in the footsteps of the trains that once circled this part of the island.

Ridge

Making our way up the rocky ridge line.

ArtByEoin

The pill boxes have eyes. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Kaena Point

Is it time to use the red light or the white light?

Golf ball

Too early for tee time. Photo by Chris Bautista

Sunrise

Silhouetted against the morning sky. Photo by Anne Fai.

Grazing

Nothing to see here. Mooove along.

Blue Flash

We were able to capture her in slow motion due to the absence of motorized vehicles. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kuaokala Trail

Leaving the road behind us.

Kuaokala Trail

Chris looking out at the Waianae coastline.

BSA 162

Sun out. Sunscreen on. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Guava Tree

Branch to mouth. No middleman here.

Kuaokala Trail

Enjoying the broad and flat jeep road while we can. Photo by Chris Bautista

Kuaokala Trail

Looking out from the tree lined trail. Photo by Chris Bautista

Shark Fin

We put our packs down for photoshoot #1.

Kuaokala Forest Reserve

Looking across the tree topped ridge lines. Photo by Anne Fai

Kuaokala Trail

Stepping down the eroded rocky section.

Kuaokala Trail

Back on the jeep road, with a communications tower seen in the distance. We have four bars.

Kuaokala Trail

Chris taking a nap on the trail. We have four zzzz’s.

Makua Rim

Looking into the historic valley that has yet to be scrubbed free from her military scarring.

Pahole

Entering 685 acres of protected native fauna and flora.

Not potable

Break time. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Makua Valley

Trying to get the synchronization down for photoshoot #2. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Back to our regularly scheduled program of hiking.

Fruit Pickers

We came down the ridge hoping to pick some juicy Tangelos. Our stomachs were sorely disappointed.

Da Glove

The KST has its boot and the WST has its glove. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Three Corners

Time to go from vertical to …

Three Corners

… horizontal. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Three Corners

Lunch break with views. Some of us were too tired to take in the views. One was never too tired for photoshoot #3. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Ridge

Dropping down to the road that winds its way to the highest point on the island.

Fence

Swinging over the fence line. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Hairy Ball

Singular, not plural. What happens when you don’t clear the fence. Photo by Chris Bautista

Road Trip

The road was extremely punishing this time around. Frequent breaks were the order of the day.

Weeping Wall

Free water. Just bring your own bottles. Filter optional, but highly recommended. Photo by Chris Bautista

#78

The end of the very long road.

Mount Ka’ala

Setting up camp at the highest point on the island. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Ka’ala

Communal dining while Cisco and I snored the night away. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Mount Ka’ala

Jumping for air at our 4,025′ camp spot. Our morning departure was slightly delayed by photoshoot #4. Photo by Chris Bautista

Ka’ala Bog

Stepping foot onto the boardwalk that winds it way through 1,100 acres of moss covered trees and native plants.

Ka’ala Bog

One can’t escape the mud in here, it’s inevitable.

Ka’ala Bog

One can’t seem to escape the fence line as well.

WST

Leaving the bog and heading down the muddy ridge.

Boulders

Slipping my way down the rocks. Photo by Chris Bautista

Boulders

Study in concentration. Hand there. Foot there.

Hammerhead Worm

“Landshark” bipalium searching for its prey. Photo by Anne Fai

Boulder

Put your backs into it and tell the photobomber to pitch in as well.

Get a shell

What? Take a picture, it’ll last longer.

WST

Back on the fence line. Photo by Anne Fai

Hobbs Junction

Melts in your mouth, not in your hands. I think its the other way around. Photo by Anne Fai

Trail hazard

The attack of the terrifying inch worm with its looping gait. Pull out the magnifying glasses for this one and use your earplugs.

WST

Climbing in and out of the gap. Photo by Chris Bautista

WST

Ferlino climbing up a short and steep rocky section.

Pu’u Kalena

Heavenly, as in the clouds, views at the second highest peak in the island. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

WST

We left the 3,504′ summit to go down the overgrown ridge that soon yielded to eroded patches of ridge line populated with pine trees.

WST

The smell of garlic shrimp seemed to be coming up from the valley or was it simply the collective stink of the group?

WST

We finally got a view. Better late than never. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Mountain views

Mount Ka’ala and Pu’u Kalena also cleared up for our viewing pleasures.

WST

We wrapped up photoshoot #5 and went down the spur ridge.

Scareface

Say hello to my little friend. Photo by Chris Bautista

WST

Going up the dike and … Photo by Analyn Baliscao

WST

… coming down from the dike. Photo by Analyn Baliscao

WST

We left the ridge and headed down towards the manmade pass that was blasted out of the mountains in the mid-1930s.

Pu’u Ka’ilio

Cisco looking at the crumbly pile of rocks that makes up the forbidden mountain.

WST

Watching the clouds lazily drift across the mountainous landscape as we made our way down.

Kolekole

Sliding our way down the raw and red terrain that lives up to its name. Photo by Ferlino Carinio

GI Joe

The lone surviving toy soldier. There could be other survivors out there.

Exit

We could smell the fried chicken and hear the carbonated soda fizzing or was I just hallucinating?

Kolekole Pass

Enjoying ice cold soda at the lowest point in the Waianae Mountains. Shout out to Matt for bringing us the refreshing beverages and Louisiana chicken.

Kolekole Pass

I guess red beans and rice can be explosive.

Kolekole Pass

Setting up camp and preparing for photoshoot #6. Drone photo by Matt Vidaurri

Camp Kolekole

All the greatest American and Filipino hits were being sung tonight.

Camp Kolekole

The karaoke gang migrated to somebody’s tent to have her join in, but she was busy washing herself with the extra water.

Camp Kolekole

Our morning departure was once again slightly delayed by photoshoot #7.

WST

Heading up the densely packed tree lined trail.

Nature recycling

Going up the corridor of paperbark trees.

WST

Matt at the top of the trail before it dips back down into the notches.

WST

Taking in the views. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

WST

Looking back at the West side. The best side.

WST

Cisco climbing out of the notches.

Rorshach Test

Mother Nature has a good sense of humor or some peoples minds are in the gutter. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

WST

Cisco and Matt on their way to the summit of Hapapa.

WST

This spider web was not even catching the dew drops, let alone any appetizing bugs. Location, location, location. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo at the squared 2,883′ summit left to right: Ferlino, Cisco, Matt, myself, Anne, Chris and Analyn. We sat down for photoshoot #8.

WST

Leaving the fifth highest peak on the West side.

WST

Following the fence line through the ridge line.

Bon Appetit

Finger food. It goes down slowly. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

WST

Making our way down to the rock edifice that dominates and straddles the ridge line.

WST

Climb or contour? Photo by Cisco Quintanilla

WST

Protruding rocks provided temporary relief from the cloying overgrowth.

Pu’u Kanehoa

Time to fly the drone again for the last time and our final photoshoot of the hike.

WST

Headed towards the most overgrown section of the WST.

Nobody better lay a finger on my butterfinger. Oh, wrong candy bar.

It was still hard, even after three days. Somebody should go see a doctor. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

WST

Bushwhacking our way through overgrowth …

WST

… upon more overgrowth. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

WST

Climbing out of the overgrowth as the clouds started to roll in towards the mountains. Photo by Chris Bautista

Gorilla Heads

Making our way to the two obstacles known as Gorilla Heads or Kryangles. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Gorilla Heads

O Christmas Tree. 113 days left. Photo by Chris Bautista

Gorilla Heads

Chris going up the little head. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Gorilla Heads

Cisco at the top. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

Gorilla Heads

Chris dislodged a couple loose rocks climbing his way up the big head.

Gorilla Heads

The grey clouds started to dislodge rain upon us as made our way up.

Gorilla Heads

Ferlino bringing up the webbing on his way up.

Gorilla Heads

Matt climbing his way down the backside.

WST

Climbing our way up to the interrupted fence line.

Gorilla Heads

Looking back at the rain showers sweeping the Waianae Mountains.

WST

Matt muscled his way up the slick section of rocks and threw webbing down for the rest of us.

WST

Slippery when mossy.

WST

Contouring our way through the overgrowth as we avoided …

WST

… the old vertical fence trail. Photo by Matt Vidaurri

WST

Climbing up the near vertical fence as it cut a swatch through the tangled mess of uluhe ferns.

Pu’u Kaua

Time and weather were not on our side, so we made the difficult decision to descend from the 3,127′ summit.

Trail

Leaving the third highest peak on the island.

Trail

Clouds clearing over agricultural lands that are slowly being developed into farm lots, off-grid and often unregulated housing.

Trail

I should have brought my cardboard box, or at the very least my spikes. Photo by Anne Fai

Trail

Chris riding the timber log ride at Kunia’s Berry Farms.

Kunia

Dimming the lights as we walked down the road past the slowly growing trailer village filled with a chorus of barking dogs.

All pau

Our 26 mile three-day hike that was filled with laughs, great views and good company; came to an abbreviated end in the farmlands of Kunia. Thanks to Lee for picking us up and bringing chilled Coca-Cola. Post hike meal at Zippy’s. You can’t go wrong with oxtail soup, unless it’s too expensive and then you fall back to the Zip Mein.

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.

Gen, Jose and myself spent the Kamehameha Day Weekend hiking and camping on the Waianae Mountain Range.

Trailhead

Thanks to Ryan for dropping us off at Kaena Point, the jumping off point for departed Hawaiian souls and the starting point for our hike.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

We walked past the slumbering fishermen and scrambled our way to the top of the blinking ridge.

Kaena Point Tracking Station

Hiking on the road. Enjoying the level and compacted ground while it lasted.

Waianae Summit Trail

We left the road for greener pastures. Only one cow sighted. He obligingly left the road for greener pastures as well.

Waianae Summit Trail

Checking for traffic. JPO flashbacks. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Kuaokala Trail

Have permit, will hike.

Kuaokala Trail

If we had a 4×4, it would have shaved a couple miles off the hike.

Kuaokala Trail

The sunlight being filtered by the tree lined trail.

Kuaokala Trail

Enjoying the revenant experience at the picnic shelter. Photo by Genesaret Balladares.

Kuaokala Trail

Gen and Jose rounding the trail that borders Makua Valley.

Kuaokala Trail

Rock yoga. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Waianae Summit Trail

Our first contact and certainly not our last with the fence line on the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail

The hike began to slightly rollercoaster. Small ups and downs.

Waianae Summit Trail

We left the fence and dropped down onto the jeep road.

Waianae Summit Trail

Here comes the rain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Rainbow in Makua Valley.

Waianae Summit Trail

The rain left us as the hills took on a more pronounced grade.

Waianae Summit Trail

No feet picture at the Moku geodetic marker?

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose hopping over the fence that is meant to keep out feral ungulates.

Waianae Summit Trail

The trail soon opened up to reveal the wide expanse of the Waianae Mountain Range. Quite the sight.

Pahole Natural Area Reserve

Passing through the 658 acres of Hawaiian endemic fauna and flora.

Waianae Summit Trail

We had no plans to do any landscaping down in the valley.

Waianae Summit Trail

Densely packed red stamens of the ohi’a lehua blossom.

Waianae Summit Trail

Panoramic view.

Waianae Summit Trail

We had planned on taking lunch at the Mokuleia lookout but the weather was not cooperating. So we dropped down into the valley to seek refuge from the looming rain clouds.

Mokuleia Shelter

It felt good to have a rickety roof over our head as we ate our lunch in relative dryness.

Waianae Summit Trail

Back on the trail. Nice and clear.

Waianae Summit Trail

Group photo left to right: myself, Jose and Gen overlooking Makua Valley.

Waianae Summit Trail

Almost there.

Waianae Summit Trail

But first, we had to make our way up and down the overgrown trail that leads to the highest mountain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking ahead to the summit of Three Corners.

Waianae Summit Trail

We’re here!

Three Corners

Group photo at the summit.

Waianae Summit Trail

Now we had to just follow the fence on the ridge …

Waianae Summit Trail

… that will take us all the way down … Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Mount Ka’ala Road

… to Mount Ka’ala Road. If you thought the road in Waianae Valley was bad, you haven’t walked up this road. Especially at the end of a long day and shouldering heavy packs. Talk about a slow cardio burn.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Sometimes you just have to get off the road. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Mount Ka’ala Road

The monotonous road was tempered by magnificent views.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Every curve and bend on the road played with my mind as to how false summits does on a ridgeline. You think you are almost to the top. Think again.

Mount Ka’ala Road

Look! An endemic tree snail up there. Don’t walk away. Just walk away mad.

Mount Ka’ala Road

All roads lead to Mount Ka’ala. Well, at least this one does.

Mount Ka’ala

Our cloudy view of the North Shore.

Mount Ka’ala

We spent the rest of our daylight hours making camp and dinner.

Mount Ka’ala

Good morning from Ka’ala.

Mount Ka’ala

Somebody used the public outhouse this morning. One guess and one guess only. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Mount Ka’ala

Gen and Jose about to enter the Ka’ala bog.

Mount Ka’ala

Gen checking in on her “plant.”

Mount Ka’ala

Life off the boardwalk.

Waianae Summit Trail

We soon left the bog and began our descent off the mountain.

Waianae Summit Trail

To climb down with or without our backpacks. Such was the question for the day.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen making her way down the rain slicked boulder section.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose crossing the boulder gap.

Waianae Summit Trail

Don’t lean too far back.

Waianae Summit Trail

Who wants to go first? Heavy overgrowth from this point.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking out towards the central plain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Heavy overgrowth of uluhell mixed in with blackberry thorns.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking back at cloud capped Mount Ka’ala.

Waianae Summit Trail

The trail started to get narrow in some sections as we forged ahead.

Waianae Summit Trail

Lillikoi flower. Too early for trail snacks.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose crossing the gap in the trail.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen making her way across.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose about to drop down and swing over a narrow section.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen climbing up.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose looking at the second highest mountain on the island from the last false peak.

Pu’u Kalena

Group photo at the 3,504′ summit. Time to dry out our tents and feet.

Waianae Summit Trail

Break over. Back to hiking.

Waianae Summit Trail

The overgrowth thinned out from this point, still there but not as pervasive.

Waianae Summit Trail

However, the rollercoaster hike stayed with us.

Waianae Summit Trail

This hike will develop your bushwhack arm and fence arm.

Waianae Summit Trail

No sexxxy time today.

Waianae Summit Trail

Approaching the narrow and rocky dike.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking out towards Pu’u Kalena and Ka’ala.

Waianae Summit Trail

Nothing to see here. Facebook status checking.

Waianae Summit Trail

All downhill from here.

Pu’u Ka’ilio

The forbidden mountain.

Waianae Summit Trail

Looking for Martians.

Kolekole Pass Road

Where’s the crosswalk? Safety first. Lowest point on the Waianae Range.

Waianae Summit Trail

Watch your step.

Waianae Summit Trail

Meadow view.

Waianae Summit Trail

Set up for the night. Pigs are not welcome.

Waianae Summit Trail

Tobacco – breakfast of hikers.

Waianae Summit Trail

Headed towards Pu’u Hapapa.

Waianae Summit Trail

Forget the switchbacks.

Waianae Summit Trail

Approaching the notches.

Waianae Summit Trail

Panoramic photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Waianae Summit Trail

Scrambling up from the notches. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Waianae Summit Trail

After we cleared the notches, it was a short ridge hike to the summit.

Waianae Summit Trail

Jose warming up.

Pu’u Hapapa

Boxing and yoga on the mountains.

Pu’u Hapapa

Group photo at the 2,883′ summit.

Waianae Summit Trail

The long stretch home. We still had to hit the summits of Kanehoa, Kaua, Palikea and Palehua along with some climbing sprinkled in for good measure.

Waianae Summit Trail

Heavy overgrowth returned on this trail section.

Waianae Summit Trail

Gen and Jose approaching the summit of Pu’u Kanehoa.

Pu’u Kanehoa

The ridge keeping the clouds at bay.

Kanehoa Trail

We had been talking of doing the Kanehoa trail one day. Be careful of what you ask for. Fatigue and carelessness resulted in me bumping myself off a rock for an unexpected drop that resulted in double sprained ankles. Time for a detour.

Kanehoa Trail

Light rain drizzled over us as we came down the ridge.

Kanehoa Trail

Hiking through the corridor of strawberry guava trees.

Kanehoa Trail

Jose checking out the view to make sure we were on the right ridge.

Kanehoa Trail

Stay to the right.

Kanehoa Trail

Headed down into the forest.

Kanehoa Trail

Coming off the ridge.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

Finding our way out of the storied 3,592 acre area that encompasses lowland forests up to the mountains and are home to a diverse array of endemic fauna and flora.

Kanehoa Trail

The trailhead was blocked by trailer homes. What the heck? As we rounded the trailer, I noticed a large black dog that made no sound but followed us with his head. Lucky he was fenced. Lucky us.

Kanehoa Trail

Walking out of the farmlands. Thanks to Ryan for picking us up. Again. Need to get more friends.

GPS Tracks

We covered almost 26 miles during our three day hike across the raw and rugged beauty of the Waianae Mountain Range. While bummed that we didn’t complete the hike as originally planned, thankful that I spent it in the company of good friends. Post hike meal at Maui Mike’s Fire-Roasted Chicken. Should’ve got the half chicken instead.

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.