I decided to recreate a hike that we did for Chico’s finish almost two years ago. Too close for comfort.

Trailhead

Parked in the neighborhood that started off as the Manana ahupua’a which was turned into pineapple fields and evolved into the residential neighborhood as it exists today. Solitary hike today as the usual suspects had other plans on the platter.

Manana Trail

Hiked the 5.5 miles of the ungraded ridge trail that was seemingly comprised of endless humps and knobs as the darkness slowly began to be erased by the increasing illumination of the sunrise.

Manana Summit

Arrived at the 2,660′ dew soaked summit to be met by a wall of whiteout. Expect nothing. Get nothing. Turned right on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains to continue my hike in the clouds.

Eleao Meadows

Passing through the wind swept grassy area that we had once foolishly camped overnight. Needless to say, we did not enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Followed the fence line until the gate breached it and allowed me passage down the hill to regain the ridge line.

KSRT

I soon caught a break as airflow, temperature and moisture intersected to provide a window into the valley views.

KSRT

Passing the large landslide as I descended towards the saddle and the reflective sign that marked the 2,160′ summit of Waimano.

Waimano Summit

Photo of myself with the background of Waihe’e Valley bordered between Kalahaku Teeth and Eleao Windward. I contemplated going down Waimano Trail as the mud soaked trail, intermittent rain showers and overgrowth from Manana was trying to tell me something. However, I had barely scratched the morning and was hard of hearing, so I decided to press forward on the trail.

KSRT

Scrambling out of the saddle, I looked back to see the seven mile graded trail beckoning to me. I was also myopic.

KSRT

Traversing over the stretch of cardio hills and false summits that was aggravated by overgrowth that gave me unwanted acupuncture treatments many times over and mud slicked trails that resulted in my hands cramping for the first time ever as I had to compensate for the loss of traction by disproportionately using more of my upper body strength climbing up the multiple hills. Just falling victim to Father Time.

Waimalu Meadows

Climbing up the spongy hill as I made my way out of the neither mythical nor magical meadows today.

KSRT

Working my way in and out of the clouds.

KSRT

Pitter patter of rain that soon turned into a wet mess that was sandwiched between a downpour and torrential rain.

KSRT

The trail that kept giving.

Aiea Summit

I reached the 2,805′ summit shortly after dark. My dreams were dashed of finishing the hike when the sun was still out. Time to make new dreams.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Going down the gem of a ridge as described by Stuart Ball, I have never felt more exhausted by a trail as today. I felt like cowboy camping on the lower parts of the trail. The only thing that stopped me was a streak of stubbornness and the fact that I was saturated and soaked head to toe.

All pau

My 14.02 mile hike that didn’t turn out as well as I expected tested me to my limits today. Many thanks to Kenny and Akira who met me at the deserted road where a neighbor couldn’t believe that I had finished hiking at this ungodly hour. Thanks to Kenny who drove me home and saved me from a potential accident on the road and Chico who drove me the next morning to collect my vehicle.

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 roam the mountains by myself today.

Aiea Loop Trail

Thanks to Aileen for dropping me off to the nearly deserted loop trail where I only ran across two trail runners.

Aiea Loop Trail

The winds were howling today, the trees in the distance were bending and swaying like so many hula dancers.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking at the highway considered an engineering wonder by its admirers and a cultural blight by some native and local groups. I was just appreciative of the sunrise spilling over the Ko’olau Mountains.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Checking out my six.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Approaching the first set of power line towers that sits at the base of the summit.

Aiea Summit

Panoramic Windward and Leeward views from the 2,805′ summit. The winds were howling something fierce, so I took off my cap as I had already made my involuntary donation a couple weeks ago.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Following the flanks of the mountains seemingly spill down towards the verdant oasis’s and urbanized pockets of humanity.

KSRT

Approaching the second set of power line towers on the ridge line.

KSRT

Northern views.

KSRT

High winds kept the clouds at bay for the most part, which afforded valley views to the Leeward side.

KSRT

Enjoying a relatively flat section of the mountains which gave me a brief respite from the cardio hills. The winds however was giving no breaks.

Waimalu Meadows

Climbing to the last major peak on the hike today and looking down into the magical and mythical meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

360 view of the largest grassy spot on the Ko’olau Mountains.

KSRT

Back on the ridge line again as the landmark landslide loomed ahead.

Waimano Summit

Saddle summit selfie at the 2,160′ spot that looks out over Waihe’e Valley.

Waimano Ridge

Going down the path that Stuart Ball calls “the best preserved of the graded Ko’olau ridge trails built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.”

Waimano Trail

I passed all the switchbacks, groves of Australian Tea trees, stream crossings, irrigation ditches and tunnels before arriving at the picnic shelter. One more hour. When will it end?

All pau

Perfect timing as Aileen’s car rolled up just as I exited the trail. Mahalo!

GPS Tracks

My time in the mountains covered over 14.3 miles that was made memorable by high winds that at times almost felt like it was trying to blow me off the ridge line. Post hike meal at Bravo’s as Anna Millers closed early. No pies for me.

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

Aida, Aileen, Akira, Amber, Chris, Ferlino, Orion, Roger, Tessa, and myself got together to celebrate fireworks, ring in the new year and bear witness to a good friend completing his last section needed to finish the entire Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST).

Trailhead

We were two short of a baker’s dozen due to a no show and another one stopped for an OVUII. The show must go on.

Manana Trail

Passing through the eroded section of the trail under artificial illumination.

Manana Trail

Amber talking to her errant roommate.

Manana Trail

The group approaching the 2.5 mile marker.

Manana Trail

Climbing up one of several eroded hills.

Manana Trail

Passing underneath the tree arch.

Manana Trail

Going over the gated fence line as we passed the 3.5 mile marker.

Manana Trail

Scrambling up another hill in the land of rolling hills.

Manana Trail

Taking a break at the helipad as we gazed ahead to the erosional remnants of the massive shield volcano that was sharply etched against the morning sky.

Manana Trail

Somebody used their background in operatic singing to good use.

Manana Trail

A small cheehoo in return. I did not attend the University of Maryland College Park.

Manana Trail

The last sunrise of the year breaking over the mountains. It was going to be a hot day.

Manana Trail

Traversing the ridge punctuated with knobs and humps and with the strikingly clear Waianae Mountain Range in the background.

Manana Trail

Are we there yet?

Manana Summit

Approaching the 2,660′ summit.

Manana Summit

Group photo at the massive knob with photobombers in the background.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Stepping foot on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains.

KSRT

Shadows in the mountains as we left the summit behind us.

KSRT

Overlooking Kahalu’u Pond, Kaneohe Bay and the Sandbar.

Eleao Meadows

Standing in one of multiple meadows that populate the mountain range.

Eleao Summit

Looking down at the ridge that drops down into the valley. The stuff of some hiker’s dreams or nightmares.

KSRT

Following the only stretch of fence line that we would run across today. The eyesore fence line started to make their appearance in the mountains circa 2001. They are meant to control the invasive ungulates from devouring and destroying the native fauna and flora.

KSRT

Leaving the gate for greener pastures on the other side.

KSRT

Descending the grassy slope to stay on trail.

KSRT

It must have been nice to have a wide brim hat on this sunny day.

KSRT

Practicing my controlled descent down the Windward side.

KSRT

Contouring our way around the landmark landslide as we dropped down to the saddle.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit that overlooks Waihe’e Valley, where we also had our lunch.

KSRT

Climbing our way out of the saddle.

KSRT

Somebody was “shaking it off” in the mountains.

KSRT

Enjoying our office views.

KSRT

Approaching the largest meadow on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Waimalu Meadows

Getting off the ridgeline as we dropped into the spot many have described as magical and mythical.

Waimalu Meadows

Amber doing a handstand for her legions of fawning admirers on Tik Tok.

Waimalu Meadows

Ferlino jumping for joy. I think he wanted to attract the same type of followers on social media.

Waimalu Meadows

Tessa looking out towards the Windward views.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo in the verdant oasis that was surprisingly free of winds and clouds. A magical moment indeed.

Waimalu Meadows

Chris standing on one of the mounds in the meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Trudging up on the spongy ground as we climbed our way towards the summit of Waimalu.

KSRT

Back on the undulating ridgeline.

KSRT

Clouds lingering over the mountains due to increases in air pressure and temperature.

KSRT

Spike repair service in the mountains.

KSRT

Looking down at a broken spectre with glory rings which is the result of the sun shining behind a person who is looking down into a cloud of water droplets. It was around this time that a genetically gifted person shared their water with me. Danke, genetisch uberlegener mensch.

KSRT

Climbing our way towards one of the bigger peaks on the ridge.

KSRT

Rose who was recently released from captivity, joined us on the trail, as she had taken multiple naps since hiking up from Aiea.

KSRT

Chico with the last sunset of the year.

KSRT

Time to turn the headlamps on.

KSRT

Night marchers. In person.

KSRT

Are those people on the mountains? Taken by Jeremy Uota from Kahuku.

KSRT

Scrambling up to the powerlines on the ridge. Are we there yet?

KSRT

Looking down on the Windward side, the aerial fireworks had commenced earlier in the day and had picked up its pace, but not by much.

KSRT

The final push to the 2,805′ summit.

Aiea Summit

#21. I fumbled my speech due to me being dead tired, but my faulty recall was along the lines of “Congratulations to Chico for completing the Ko’olau Summit Trail in its entirety. He got here due to his commitment, dedication and perseverance.” I finished with my customary champagne dousing. Full bottle. This man is truly an inspiration. Always ready with an off-color joke, positive attitude and unbridled energy on and off the trail. Truly fun company and a good friend. I also believe at 67 years young, he is the oldest person to have finished the KST. On New Year’s Eve to boot. Major props.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Going down the gem of a ridge hike, per Stuart Ball. I’m not sure that applies to night time conditions. It was fitting that we started in the dark on a ridge and ended the next day in the dark on a ridge.

Aiea Ridge Trail

As soon as the clock struck midnight, the aerial fireworks on the West side picked up in terms of frequency and intensity. The 105,000 pounds of illegal fireworks that was seized, failed to put any noticeable dent in the unrestrained orgy of pyrotechnics of every shape, size and form. You can’t put the toothpaste back into the tube.

All pau

We ended our hike on the paved street of Aiea Heights Road on New Year’s Day 2024. Post hike meal was a stick of butter for one special person. The rest of us got cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches and pork adobo courtesy of Jasmin and Lilia. We also got a free newspaper thrown to us and we don’t even live in the area.

GPS Tracks

Our unexpected and unplanned 24-hour hike that spanned New Year’s Eve 2023 and New Year’s Day 2024 covered over 14 miles with a solid group that saw Chico connect the KST dots at the finish line. Thanks to the group for the most part that stuck together on the extremely taxing hike in more ways than one. Nobody complained. Everybody helped each other out. Outstanding teamwork. Congrats again to Chico for one of the most memorable KST finishes in recent memory. I was glad as well to complete my 17th finish of the KST at the same time.

Postscript

We all gathered to have a proper celebration of Chico’s KST accomplishment the next day at his house. Thanks to everybody that came out to party the night away. Group photo left to right: Jasmin, Orion, Ferlino, Roger, Justin, Rose, Groot, Chico, Amber, Lilia, Xena, Quan, Lilyn, Akira, Aida, Jen, Tessa, Mari, Aileen, Chris, and myself.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Amber Fonte, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Ferlino Carinio, Orion Satori, Roger Schiffman, 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.

We spent the weekend in the mountains hiking a section that we usually do in a day. Change of pace. Literally.

Aiea Loop Trail

Day 1
Thanks to Matt for dropping me off at one of the most trafficked hikes on the island in the afternoon. Somebody was running late so I decided to push off on the straight forward trail.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Enjoying the views while I had them from the 2,441′ hill.

Aiea Ridge Trail

I soon passed descending hikers who let me know there were two other hikers ahead of me.

Aiea Summit

Talking to the pair whose original plans were to hike to Stairway to Hell, but the soupy weather dissuaded them and they went back down to the powerline towers to set up camp.

Aiea Summit

The clouds soon cleared at the 2,805′ top and revealed sweeping views of Kaneohe Bay and the Windward coastline.

Aiea Summit

Looking down at our campsite for the night.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Rose soon joined me at the summit and we began our descent down the ridge line.

KSRT

Approaching camp. Now if the rain would just cooperate and stay its hand until our tents were pitched. Thank you Mother Nature!

KSRT

We retired early in the mountains to hear the sounds of voices in the far off distance. Night marchers? Also known as huaka’i po, are spirit manifestations of Hawaiian warriors that have been recorded as marching down from the mountainsides carrying torches and blowing conch shells. Bottom line, best not to mess with them.

KSRT

Day 2
The next day we woke up and looked across the valley to find out the source of the voices, the two hikers who I had met earlier yesterday. Sometimes the physical world can be more scary than the spiritual world.

Waimano Trail

Meanwhile, down in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, Jen and Tessa started off on what has been described as one of the best preserved graded trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) back in the 1930s.

KSRT

We broke down camp and hit the trail with the goal of passing the invisible demarcation line of the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail and the Ko’olau Summit Trail. Tomato. Tomatoe.

KSRT

Hiking on the cloud soaked ridge line, where the views were measured in feet and not miles.

KSRT

What goes down …

KSRT

… must go back up.

Waimano Trail

Jen switch backing her way to the summit.

KSRT

Scrambling our way through the moisture rich vegetation that was getting a steady feed from the blanket of clouds around us.

Waimalu Summit

We gained the boggy summit to be greeted by parting clouds with Windward views.

Waimalu Meadows

Dropping in on the mythical and magical meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo at the relatively wind and cloud free grasslands, an uncommon experience in my books.

KSRT

Back on the ridge line as we left one of the largest meadows on the KST behind us.

Waimano Summit

Where are they? Did somebody rush themselves into a lather by confusing Waimano for Waimalu?

KSRT

Approaching the low point in the mountains marked by a noticeable landslide.

Manana Trail

On another ungraded trail, Chris had hopped off the delayed plane from the mainland and jumped right into the hiking frying pan. So many moving parts on different trails that would join at the summit of Manana.

KSRT

Going down the slippery slope.

KSRT

Alternating between the rut and ridge to get to the summit.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ saddle before Rose took our leave of us due to mobility concerns.

KSRT

Traversing over the landmark landslide.

KSRT

Hiking on the edge.

KSRT

Going up the cardio intensive hill(s).

KSRT

Scrambling up the last big hill towards the fenced ridge.

KSRT

A lot of elbow grease was required to open the rusted gate. Somebody couldn’t wait and climbed over the fence.

KSRT

Following the fence with sweeping views towards our right.

Eleao Meadows

Taking in the “pocket” meadows.

KSRT

Almost there!

Manana Summit

Group photo at the 2,660′ knob. Sometimes you feel like a nut and sometimes you don’t. I was definitely the Mounds candy bar today. The original plan of reaching Camp Rusty below the summit of Waiahole was swept off the table and we decided to stay put and make camp.

Manana Summit

Due to no vacancy, Chris left to make his home at Waimano Summit.

Manana Summit

Trying to decide who got the better spot for their tent.

Manana Summit

We soon got a return visitor as Chris came back to borrow a battery charger for his phone and then hiked back under dwindling daylight hours.

Manana Summit

City lights.

Waimano Summit

Day 3
Chris got a sunrise inside and outside his tent.

Manana Summit

Our sunrise viewing was kept strictly outside. We didn’t have spare tents to burn.

Manana Trail

Going down the trail that I thought I would never step foot on again. That’s what I get for thinking.

Manana Trail

The roller coaster of peaks and valleys and seemingly endless false peaks is why I beg to differ with Stuart Ball’s characterization of this trail as the best of of the ungraded Ko’olau ridge trails. To each their own.

Manana Trail

Working our way through the rutted section of the trail.

Manana Trail

Mountain shadows.

Manana Trail

Climbing up the hill to the gate that marks 3.5 miles left to hike.

Manana Trail

Taking a break at the clearing where Jen rested her back and Tessa rested her foot.

Manana Trail

Documented slip and fall.

Manana Trail

Pushing up the last false peak of the trail.

Manana Trail

When Marco doesn’t meet Polo. Unexpected surprise that Chico came to meet us at the picnic shelter and came bearing cold beverages. What a guy!

Manana Trail

Balancing ourselves across the eroded section of the trail.

Manana Trail

Group photo at the end of the trail where we jumped into Chris’s van and Chico went back home.

Pearl City

We honked the horn for an open house but visiting hours were over, so we picked up our other car and met at Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area to wait for the last member of the group to come down from the mountains.

All pau

Picked Chris up from Aiea Loop Trail, where we drove to the nearby Alley Restaurant to have our post hike meal of oxtail soup.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend camping hike while it didn’t go as originally planned, still covered 13.7 miles with a fun group.

Photos taken by Chris Bautista, Jen Odence, 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.

We spent a camping weekend in the mountain and defied the weather predictions of rain all weekend.

Poamoho Trailhead

Thanks to Renato for picking Alexis, Quan, Tessa and myself up and shuttling us to the Poamoho trail. He also managed to finally break in his 4×4 on the jeep road and get a taste of what’s it like to carry a heavy backpack.

Poamoho Trail

Passing the halfway mark, thankful that we no longer have to worry about cannibals. Just have to read about them.

Poamoho Trail

Headed into the gully where we soon passed two other kids who had spent the night at the cabin and were making their exit down the trail we had just come up from.

Poamoho Summit

Group photo at the 2,520′ grassy summit with some of the best views on the island.

Poamoho Trail

Leaving the summit for the boardwalk.

Poamoho Cabin

We filtered water to stock up our water supplies, signed the log book and poked around the cabin. Clean as a whistle.

Poamoho Cabin

I think not many hikers know you can reserve this cabin in advance. But I’m not sure how that would play out in real life. Would a group that had no reservations but were already staying in the cabin vacate for an arriving group with reservations? We had no reservations so we took a group photo and shoved off.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Making our way towards the man-made notch in the mountains.

KST

The group crossing one of many meadows in the mountains.

KST

Hiking on the trail that was blasted and dug out the side of the cliffs back in the 1930s.

Pauao Junction

Looking down at the ridge that drops down into Kahana Valley.

KST

Alexis staying hydrated on the trail. A good practice that would result in running low on H20 later in the day.

KST

Looking back at the lush and verdant valleys separated by multiple peaks.

KST

Weather forecast had shown a 40% chance of rain today. The KST weather in the mountains is always unpredictable and rewarding at the same time it seems.

KST

Tessa petting the last known specimen of the Ko’olau Goose. Looking rather long in the tooth.

KST

Background view of the valleys with the three peaks of Kualoa, Manamana and Ohulehule.

KST

Leaving the fence line and taking the lower trail.

Schofield-Waikane Summit

Quan picked up a leaf hitchhiker that stayed with her for some time. I think she is taking the green movement a bit too seriously.

Schofield-Waikane Summit

Panoramic view of the mostly undeveloped valleys from the 2,360′ summit.

KST

Heading towards the split in the trail that was visibly etched into the mountains.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

Going up the higher trail to stay in the mountains. Taking the lower trail will descend down into Waikane valley.

KST

Traversing over the well-trodden landslide.

KST

Contouring on the Leeward side as we rounded hill after hill.

KST

Taking a break in the mountains. Miles away from civilization. Many miles.

KST

Resuming our contouring below the ridges. Are we there yet?

KST

Hiking by the city lights.

KST

Following the fence line down as it dropped us into the valley for the night.

Tree of Life Campsite

We set up camp in the dark on the grassy slope and ate our dinner in compartmentalized solitude.

Tree of Life Campsite

The bee that proved science wrong, as it hung outside her tent all night after being swatted by Alexis. Science claims that insects do not possess such high order intelligence to harbor anger or vengeance. I guess this bee was literally just dying to prove that theory wrong.

Schofield-Waikane Campsite

Meanwhile, a couple clicks over, Chris had finished work and ran up the Schofield Waikane trail to camp at the summit for the night.

Tree of Life Campsite

Day 2
Catching the cloudy sunrise the next day from our campsite.

Tree of Life Campsite

Tessa standing in front of the horizontal leaning sugi pine tree that seems to be slowly creeping up the hill.

Tree of Life Campsite

Some wanted coffee for breakfast. No water. No coffee. Time to break down camp and take our leave.

Tree of Life Campsite

Climbing out of the valley to regain the trail.

KST

Looking out towards the other and older mountain range of Waianae.

KST

One of our last of multiple fence crossings on the trail.

KST

Hugging the uluhe carpeted mountain as we made our way on the trail.

KST

Picking our way through the trail riddled with false holes and shin and ankle high branches and roots.

KST

When you got to drink, you got to drink. Can you filter water from the leaves?

KST

Arriving at the notch that marked our descent down into the grove of pine trees.

KST

Looking back at Quan and Tessa at the notch.

KST

Walking through the grove of Japanese sugi pine trees under the shadow of Waiahole summit.

Camp Rusty

Taking a break at the former site of Kipapa Cabin.

KST

Climbing our way out of the grove of pine trees.

Kipapa Summit

Where the KST becomes the KSRT.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Chris the goat, soon caught up with the group on the trail.

KSRT

We left the mountain meandering behind us, as it was just straight up hiking on top of the mountains from this point on.

Waiahole Middle

Chris expressing his feelings about this windward ridge that we had climbed over five years ago.

KSRT

The walking wounded.

KSRT

Looking down at another cabin off the KST sitting on a spur ridge. Hmmm.

KSRT

The trail soon turned into a cardio rollercoaster. Big hills. Up and down. Repeat until finished.

KSRT

Chris going through the gate that leads to the saddle known as Waiawa Gap.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping down into the saddle.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing our way out of the low point. No bees reported.

KSRT

Hills. Let’s take a break. Drink water. Don’t tell me what to do.

KSRT

More hills.

KSRT

Looking down at a broken spectre, a natural phenomenon that happens when one is looking down from a misty ridge with the sun behind their back.

KSRT

Quan pointing to our water filling station in the mountains.

KSRT

Alexis passing through the tree tunnel that leads down to the creek.

The Corner

For some of us, reaching the water source couldn’t have come soon enough.

The Corner

The rest of us making our way towards the upper creek, one soggy step at a time.

The Corner

Replenishing our water stocks. With increased water comes increased weight.

The Corner

What’s for lunch? Saimin with chicken is what’s for lunch.

The Corner

Sun worshippers.

The Corner

Climbing out of the creek bed with water in our tummies and on our backs.

KSRT

Hiking up and around what can be a confusing junction when socked in. Not so much today.

KSRT

Tessa hanging a shaka towards the cloud frosted peaks and valleys we had left behind.

KSRT

Yes, I know I can take my own shadow picture. But I would like you to take it. Aye aye Captain.

KSRT

Chris catching a clear and cloudy view of the corner.

KSRT

Tree hugger.

Kaneohe Bay

Looking out towards the largest sheltered body of water in the islands.

KSRT

Hiking towards our last summit of the weekend.

KSRT

Heading to the summit. That is the summit. I don’t care what you say.

KSRT

Scrambling the last few hundred feet to the top.

Manana Summit

A rather dramatic expression of how we all felt after arriving at the 2,660′ summit that marked the end of our KST weekend traverse.

Manana Summit

Our last group photo after somebody regained their composure from overacting.

Manana Trail

Catching the golden hour as we left the massive knob.

Manana Trail

Shedding light on our way down the 5.5 mile ridge trail.

Manana Trail

Looking back at the mountains as the moon began its rise towards the heavens.

Manana Trail

The arachnid burning the midnight oil as it instinctually weaved its geometric web, that is considered a engineering marvel that serves as its home and a food trap.

Manana Trail

A big thanks to Art who had hiked up the trail to meet us with pork hash and assorted drinks. I think I want a soda. Oh, was I thinking out loud?

Manana Trail

Wakey wakey, eggs and bakey. Don’t hit your head on the way down from the bench.

Manana Trail

Looking up towards a moon ring, which is another atmospheric optical phenomenon that is formed by moonlight being refracted from suspended ice crystals. There was a planet in the orbit of the moon ring, not sure if it was Mars or Venus. I flunked astronomy.

All pau

We came down to the trailhead in the dead of night with no chance encounter with the resident homeless who supposedly likes to get too close for comfort.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend hiking covered almost 17 miles through the country country of the Northern KST with fun company.

Post hike meal was at the Pearl City Drive-Thru McDonald’s. That’s what happens when you finish late. You can’t be picky about your food choices.

Photos taken by Alexis Catarina, Chris Bautista, Quan Haberstroh, 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.

It was a reunion of sorts in the mountains as I haven’t hiked with Alexis in over seven years. Her personality hasn’t changed for good or bad.

Trailhead

Who let the dogs out? The hunters. The age-old question has finally been answered, never mind the Baha Men.

Trailhead

The cats let themselves out.

Trailhead

Somebody got confused about the meeting place. Not once. But twice. We finally all got onto the trail after one of us got hello checked by the resident homeless while using the bathroom.

Manana Trail

Let’s follow the hiking sign, shall we? And let’s try not to get spooked by the cloud of screaming parrots. Somebody please find them a zoo!

Manana Trail

Standing on the bench to see the sunrise. Somebody wanted to sit down.

Manana Trail

Waiting to offer Roseann assistance if needed coming over the narrow cliff. Or maybe just to laugh at her if she fell. I think more the latter.

Manana Trail

Roseann passing under the bent arch. A precursor of things to come. Old age and all.

Manana Trail

Group photo at the gate. Two more miles to go!

Manana Trail

Passing through the tall grass and uluhe ferns. Scratch city.

Manana Trail

First aid clinic in the mountains. One of the million uses for duct tape.

Manana Trail

All fixed up and ready to go!

Manana Trail

Eating away at the last mile before the summit.

Manana Trail

Almost there!

Manana Summit

Group photo at the somewhat socked in 2,660′ knob. Luckily the winds soon blew the clouds away.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit for greener and overgrown trails.

KSRT

Windward views to the left and Leeward views to the right.

KSRT

Looking straight down Eleao Windward and neighboring Kalahaku Teeth, two of the hardest hikes I’ve done to date.

KSRT

Passing Eleao Meadows as we followed the fence line.

KSRT

The gate soon spit us out onto the grassy slope with commanding views of the mountain range and surrounding areas.

KSRT

Jason not letting the gate hit him where the sun don’t shine.

KSRT

Coming down in a controlled descent on the soft under footing, more or less.

KSRT

What a view!

KSRT

Back on the ridge line.

KSRT

Looking down into Waihe’e Valley and points beyond.

KSRT

Hills for daze.

KSRT

Roseann passing the landslide section before dropping down into the saddle summit.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit.

Waimano Summit

Somebody had to get their obligatory shoefie picture in somehow against the backdrop of Waihe’e Valley. Jason?

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle.

KSRT

Traversing the seemingly serpentine ridge line.

KSRT

Up and down. Up and down. You get the picture.

KSRT

Views for daze.

Waimalu Meadows

Approaching the large grassy field under the shadow of the flat topped peak.

Waimalu Meadows

Roseann on the ridge looking out to Waiahole, Ohulehule, Manamana and Kualoa ridges.

Waimalu Meadows

The meadow, The myth, The legend. Group photo in the oasis in the mountains that was unusually calm and clear. No complaints from the peanut gallery.

Waimalu Meadows

Trudging our way up the spongy hill to higher ground.

Waimalu Meadows

Crossing over the connecting ridge to more spongy ground.

Waimalu Meadows

Leaving the mythical spot behind us as we slowly grinded our way to the top.

Waimalu Summit

Roseann standing on the grassy summit.

Waimalu Summit

Leaving the summit for more rolling hills.

KSRT

Back on the edge. The cliff edge.

KSRT

Aileen making her way up against the Windward backdrop.

KSRT

The hills have hills. Never ending.

KSRT

Are we there yet?

KSRT

Dropping down the grassy slope. Whichever way it takes to get there.

KSRT

Alexis looking back at the mountain range we had just partially traversed.

KSRT

Approaching the power line tower on the ridge line, signaling that we were close to the summit.

KSRT

Looking out as the sun made its last call over the peaks and valleys.

Aiea Summit

Our last summit group photo at 2,805′ elevation.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Climbing our way down from the power lines tower and onto the trail.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Setting the tone for the rest of the trail. Hiking in the dark until my batteries died. My cuss words didn’t die out. Just like the Energizer Bunny.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Hiking by the city and highway lights. Somebody rolled their ankle pretty bad on the trail. Thankfully it was mere moments from the trailhead. Need a hand? How about a hiking stick?

All pau

We were all plumb tuckered out from our long day and night in the mountains. Some more so than others. Luckily for somebody, there was a nearby fire hydrant.

Drive-thru

Thanks to Richie for picking us up and feeding us shakes, sodas and chicken nuggets in the back of a speeding truck. Good eats. Good times.

GPS Tracks

Our 14.3 mile hike was blessed with good weather, spectacular scenery and great company. Fun times.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Alexis Catarina, Jason, Roseann Fai 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 the weekend in the mountains celebrating the harvest and other blessings of the past year.

Keaiwa Heiau State Recreations Area

Day 1

Walking under the moonlight with nothing but feral cats and nothing else I hope to keep me company. Thanks to Marilyn for dropping me off.

Interstate H-3

Leaving the loop trail as I caught a glimpse of the interstate highway that is not connected to other states but built to the same standards.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

This was pretty much my last view at the 2,441′ summit as I continued my climb towards the top of the ridge line.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking back at the power-line tower that I contoured to get back on the ridge.

Aiea Summit

Cloudy and rainy at the 2,805′ summit. Just another day in the Ko’olau Mountains.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

I followed the HECO (local utility) ropes down the knee high overgrowth and muddy trail as I approached the second power line tower.

KSRT

The constant drizzle and moisture laden clouds kept the peaks and dips of the ridge sufficiently saturated.

Waimalu Meadows

Descending down towards the largest meadow on the Ko’olau Mountains where brisk winds and rain kept my stay short.

Waimalu Meadows

Climbing out of the meadow as I looked back at the native palm trees dotting the landscape.

KSRT

The strong winds intermittently punched through the clouds to tantalize me with Windward views.

Waimano Summit

Dropped down to the 2,160′ summit in the saddle and left my John Hancock in the bauble of a log.

KSRT

Climbing up to the fence line to find that there is now a gate that makes it easier to navigate in socked in conditions.

Eleao Meadows

Somebody must have plucked one of these dew kissed crimson flowers from an ohia tree. In Hawaiian mythology, Ohia (tree) and Lehua (flower) were two lovers who were turned into local flora by a jealous Pele (Goddess of Fire). It is said that if you pick the flower from the tree, then the skies will be filled with rain, much like today.

Manana Summit

Reaching the 2,660′ knob where my stay was cut short due to nothing to write home about.

Corner

Scooping up water in the bug and foam filled creek.

KSRT

The weather finally started to break apart as I approached the Waiawa Gap.

Camp Ko’olau

I had my fill of the rainy ridge conditions and decided to make camp at the flattest spot I could find on the ridge.

Waiawa Gap

Day 2

The next day was quite a change from yesterday. The sun was out and the clouds were high in the sky. Picture perfect.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping down through the grove of Loulu palm trees.

Waiawa Gap

Looking towards the Waianae Mountains in the middle of the field of flowers that were swarming with bees.

KSRT

Enjoying the views after I lost my brand new phone on the trail which I luckily recovered and then the wind plucked the cap off my head. Needless to say, my enthusiasm to continue the hike had been considerably dampened.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Passing the summit of Kipapa as I left behind the ridge trail.

Camp Rusty

Relaxing in the middle of the stand of Japanese Sugi pine trees.

KST

Pushing my way through the knee to shoulder high overgrowth on the trail.

Tree of Life

Approaching the backside of the horizontal leaning Japanese Sugi.

Tree of Life

Enjoying an uncommonly clear day at this spot.

KST

Pulling myself up the fence line with Windward background views.

KST

Looking back at the trail system that contours it way through the mountains.

KST

The peaks of Manana, Ohulehule and Kanehoalani in the distance.

KST

Shadow hiker.

Schofield-Waikane Summit

The unmatched 2,360′ summit view of the valleys of Kahana, Ka’a’awa, Hakipu’u and Waikane.

Pauao Junction

Looking down into the ridge that drops down into Kahana Valley.

KST

Traversing the trail that was blasted out of the side of the mountains back in the 1930s.

KST

One of multiple gates on the trail meant to keep out the foraging pigs.

Poamoho Cabin

I was expecting solitude at the oldest cabin on the KST and instead found two hikers that I knew and two others along with their dogs. Quite a pleasant surprise.

Poamoho Cabin

Day 3

Cabin companions. We soon all went our separate ways as Dana and Shari were going down Schofield-Waikane and Jon and Marissa were going down Pauao trail. I decided to not continue towards Laie and took the easy way down after Jon gave me the combination to the gate.

KST

Hiking over the cloud soaked boardwalk.

Cline Memorial

I bypassed the wind swept and socked in 2,520′ summit and hurried down the mud soaked trail.

Poamoho Trail

HTMC and other parties did a remarkable job in repairing the landslide ravaged trail.

Poamoho Road

Shout out to Andy for picking me up on the road like the dirty hitchhiker that I was.

All pau

The end of my hike did not reach the planned destination but it was time still well spent in the mountains. Photo by Andreas Wiegand.

GPS Tracks

My three day hike covered almost 28 miles through the most cardio intensive and scenic stretch of the Ko’olau Mountains. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse, where we came too early for the prime rib.

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 Lilyn and Quan for a camping weekend in the mountains. It turned out to be a shorter stay than expected. Photo by Art Young.

Aiea Loop Trail

Stepping foot on the popular trail as it already started filling up with trail runners and casual hikers. Thanks to Allison for shuttling us to the trailhead.

Junction

Trading the wider trail for a narrower one. Why are our packs so heavy? Perhaps because we are camping?

Aiea Ridge Trail

Passing through introduced and native trees on the trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Aiea Ridge Trail

We are going that way. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

The views were still holding steady as we paused at the 2,441′ peak.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Quan standing on top of the grassy clearing with commanding views of the Windward side. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Aiea Summit

Looking back at the Leeward side with its multiple ridges leading to the summits.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ top with uncommonly clear views of the Windward side.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Beginning our roller coaster ride on the ridgeline.

Valley of the Temples

A cramp perhaps of spiritual design directed somebody’s gaze to where her parents are buried. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

KSRT

Lilyn contouring her way past another powerline tower.

KSRT

The summit of Waimalu seemed so close, yet so far away. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Climbing our way up … Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

… to enjoy the valley views. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Lilyn preparing for colder temperatures that thankfully never materialized.

KSRT

The ups and downs seemed to go on and on. Cardio city.

KSRT

The panoramic views never get old.

KSRT

Are we there yet? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Summit

Our second summit of the day which turned out to be our last as we were running out of daylight.

Camp Waimalu

We pitched our tents and settled in for the sunset that never quite showed up.

Camp Manana

However, it did show up for Aida and Art who were camped on Manana Ridge. Lucky them. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Camp Manana

Camping night lights. Photo by Art Young.

Camp Waimalu

Somebody was “volunteered” to take our night lights.

Camp Waimalu

The morning moon greeted us rather than the sun peeking out from the mountains.

Waimalu Meadows

Hikers in the morning mist.

Slip’n’Fall

Pictures or it never happened. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Meadows

Hiking down into the clouds. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Meadows

The girls coming down the spongy ground.

Waimalu Meadows

And then just like that, Mother Nature snapped her fingers and lifted the cloud veil. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimalu Meadows

Our individual and not collective photographic memories of the meadows.

Water Cooler Talk

Somebody just had to get past the off-putting color and floating dead bugs to taste the H20.

Waimalu Meadows

One last look around at this magical and mythical place before we took our leave. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Waving from the edge. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Leaving the largest meadows on the KST behind us.

KSRT

Quan enjoying a wide section of the trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waimano Summit

Panoramic view of from the 2,160′ top of Waihe’e Valley bordered by the toothy ridges of Kalahaku and Eleao Windward.

Waimano Summit

Our parting group photo as the girls decided to cut short the hike and go down the seven mile graded trail.

KSRT

Crossing over the landslide section. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

KSRT

Looking down into the saddle as the girls saw me off on what turned out to be an abbreviated journey for myself as well.

Eleao Meadows

Following the fence line as it lead me through the bowl shaped grassy field.

Manana Summit

Aida enjoying another uncommon view from the 2,660′ knob, before she made her way down. Photo by Art Young.

Manana Summit

The heat had gotten the better of me, so I decided to go down Manana instead.

Manana Summit

Art being recalled from the semi-dry watering hole.

Manana Ridge Trail

Traversing our way through the multiple humps on the ridge. Where is Aida?

Manana Ridge Trail

Passing through the gate with no latch and the 3.5 mile marker. Photo by Art Young.

Manana Trail

We left behind the countless false peaks and enjoyed the relatively flat trail as we made our way out.

Yellow Bird

Just glad it wasn’t us being airlifted. Even though we might have appreciated the ride.

All pau

Who wants to be my Popeyes? Thanks to Tessa who picked us up and brought ice cold beverages. Photo by Art Young.

GPS Tracks

Our camping hike covered roughly 13.5 miles, give or take. It seems the mileage varies with what GPS unit is tracking the hike. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where Lilyn, Narissa and Quan joined us. We were then segregated based on our odorous scents. At least oxtail soup was still on the menu. Fun weekend with good 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.

Picking up from three weeks ago; met up with Art and Tessa at the Manana trailhead where we got a ride to Keaiwa Heiau State Park. Mahalo to Robert for shuttling us.

Trailhead

The park gates were surprisingly open, which saved us about 10 minutes of walking up the road. Not surprising, was the rain that came down. Photo by Art Young.

Aiea Loop Trail

Somebody was hoping for no repeat of swooping owls or screeching birds. Photo by Art Young.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking back at the large peak of Pu’u Kawipo’o where I could faintly pick out Art and Tessa at the 2,441′ top.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Approaching the powerline tower. Forget about the high voltage, expect high winds. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Aiea Summit

Art using his knife to open the water valve for Tessa.

Aiea Summit

Group photo by Art Young at the 2,805′ freezing summit. We are going ahead rain or shine. Does that include extremely high winds?

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit behind us as the winds tested our balance on the ridge line. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Descending down the hill towards the other powerline tower.

KSRT

Art rolling down the hill. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Coitus interruptus

After Art had his fun, he squashed somebody’s else fun. At least they went out with a bang.

KSRT

Catching our breath or more accurately just trying to breathe. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Art “enjoying” the windy rollercoaster of a ridge line. Whose idea was this again? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waimalu Summit

Enjoying the windy panoramic views around us. The spectacular scenery revolved around us on the whole hike, but the chilly and gusting winds minimized the picture taking.

Waimalu Meadows

Descending on the spongy ground towards the meadows. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waimalu Meadows

Art and Tessa crossing over one of the largest meadows to be found on the KST.

Waimalu Meadows

Meadow life. The watering holes were surprisingly mostly dry and what little H20 had was a dark shade of brown with an unappetizing surface skim of dead bugs. Glad we didn’t need to filter water for our hike.

Waimalu Meadows

Quick group photo at the meadows so that we could freeze on the ridge line instead of in the meadows.

KSRT

Back to battling the stiff winds on the ridge line.

KSRT

Going up and down a couple more times until our next summit stop.

Waimano Trail

Looking out towards another landslide that has seemingly interrupted the Waimano trail. Still not as bad as the ones that ravaged the Poamoho trail that we were witness to last weekend.

Waimano Summit

Summit life where we took a pause to find out that the winds were so strong that it popped one of Art’s lens from his glasses. Perhaps we should’ve took a swig from the found liquor to keep us warm on the trail.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ saddle summit.

KSRT

Tessa passing the landslide as she made her way down the ridge line.

KSRT

Almost there. To the meadows that is. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Jackson Chameleon

Eye see you. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Climbing up the hill as we saw the fence line across the ridge line.

KSRT

Hanging on to the fence line for dear life as the winds whipped around us. The winds were no joke on this day. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Eleao Meadows

Passing through the bowl shaped meadow that is slowly being fenced in. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Manana Summit

Feeling wet, cold and exhausted at the 2,660′ knob.

Manana Trail

Stepping foot on what I would respectfully disagree with Stuart Ball’s characterization of this trail as “the best of the ungraded Ko’olau ridge trails.” Especially at the end of a long hike.

Manana Trail

Some of us were more tired than others. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Manana Trail

Trying to beat the sun going down. An exercise in futility.

Sunset

The sun setting behind the Waianae Mountain Range. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Manana Trail

Art and Tessa approaching the gate which marked the 3.5 mile marker. Time to switch on the headlamps.

Manana Trail

The only company we had hopping on the trail with us. Who else would be hiking in the dark on a Sunday night?

All pau

The end of the road for us.

GPS Tracks

Our grinder hike covered over 14 miles on a mud soaked trail made even more exhausting by the super windy “take our breath away” vacuum conditions that prevailed in the mountains. No post hike meal as we couldn’t find a establishment that was open to eat in. A trying and testing hike for all, made bearable by good company.

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 was in the mood for another grinder in the mountains. Met up with Art, Chris, and CJ in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in the wee hours of the morning. Photo by Art Young.

Trailhead

Look! Up in the tree! It’s a owl! It’s a rat! It’s just a cat. Call HFD.

Manana Trail

I think Chris wants a bike for Christmas.

Manana Trail

We took a quick break at the picnic shelter. No signs of campers today.

Manana Trail

CJ in the twisted tree. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manana Trail

Passing through the gate. Halfway to the summit. We also saw what looked like workers on an adjacent ridge. Fellow early risers.

Helipad

The KST looked strikingly clear from our flat vantage point. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Manana Trail

Chris striking a pose on one of the many humps we had to traverse. My friend calls this the b*tch trail for obvious cardio reasons.

Manana Summit

CJ at the 2,660′ knob. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manana Summit

Group photo left to right: CJ, Chris, Art and myself. The views were amazingly available today.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The end and beginning of the trails for our group.

KSRT

A flowering lobelia on the side of the scenic cliff.

KSRT

Sighted another lobelia with different colorings.

Eleao Meadows

Passing the small grassy fields made smaller by the fencing. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Leaving the fence line behind us as we went down the slippery slope to stay on trail.

KSRT

CJ soaking in the views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

CJ crossing over the landslide section of the ridge line which soon marked our descent into the saddle.

Waimano Summit

Our last group photo together as Art decided to go down the seven mile graded trail after overworking his leg muscles coming up the muddy Manana Trail. Chris also collected his rubbish from his previous KST one shot hike and had to shed on of his pant legs.

KSRT

Climbing out of the 2,160′ summit with sweeping views of Waihe’e Valley.

KSRT

Back to our regularly scheduled program of up and down hills.

KSRT

Approaching the largest meadows on the KST.

KSRT

Dropping off the ridge line and into the meadows. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waimalu Meadows

“Mythical” and “Magical” are the two most common adjectives used to describe this area.

Waimalu Meadows

We were struck by the fact that the meadows was eerily devoid of wind and clouds. No complaints here.

Waimalu Meadows

When you have no fork to eat your pancit, you fall back on what you got.

Waimalu Meadows

The slow and steady climb to the summit. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waimalu Meadows

Always a lung buster going up the spongy ground. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Waimalu Summit

Chris pointing to our destination. Or he could have been stretching out his arm.

KSRT

What Mother Nature gave, she took away. Clouds rolled in and out of the mountains as we resumed our ups and downs on the ridge line.

KSRT

CJ climbing up towards the base of the power lines. Less than half an hour to the summit now. It can’t come any sooner.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the rainy 2,805′ summit. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Heading down the muddy trail.

All pau

We reached the Keaiwa Heiau Park 5-10 minutes before closing. But the gates were already locked. Thanks to Quan for picking us up outside the park.

GPS Tracks

Our 14.2 mile hike covered rollercoaster ridges, scenic and sunny mountain and meadow views, cloudy and rainy ridges. The complete hiking package. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where Art met up with us. Oxtail soup was sold out. Need to hike faster so we can get here earlier before they sell out. Thanks to CJ for picking up the tab. Great hike with a fun crew.

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.