Plan A was dismissed for lack of permit, Plan B was discarded due to lack of commitment, and so it was down to Plan C today.

Aiea Loop

Thanks to Tessa for dropping us off at the park as they opened the gates, perfect timing as it saved us 10 minutes of walking. We are part-time hikers.

Aiea Loop Trail

Bench with a semi-sunrise view on the trail that follows the historic railway that operated between 1898 to 1947 that supported the sugar industry.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking back at the John A Burns Freeway that was mired in controversy before its opening in 1997, but the passage of time has proven its effectiveness as another transportation corridor that helps to reduce clogged traffic on the island.

Pu’u Kawaipo’o

My office view today from the 2,441′ hill.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Hiking over one of multiple humps on the ridge line.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Akira and Kenny making their way on the muddy trail.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Passing somebody’s discarded tent on the trail. Perhaps the original occupant will come back to claim it, if not, CB said he will put it to good use on his next visit.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Akira passing near the crackling powerline transmission tower that is part of the infrastructure that keeps the islands humming with electricity.

Aiea Summit

Drone view of the socked in 2,805′ summit.

Aiea Summit

Thanks to Chef Suzuki for the bacon, eggs and rice brunch at the socked in and soggy summit.

Aiea Summit

Leaving the summit as we stepped foot on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains that were thankfully shedding the cloud coverage.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Enjoying the expansive views of Kaneohe Bay and beyond while somebody else was focused on keeping his footing steady on the ridge line.

KSRT

Cramping with the verdant valley views that were strangely devoid of the normally present strong circulation movements aka wind. No complaints here.

KSRT

Descending towards what has been called a raft of different names: Haiku Hidden Stairs, North Haiku Stairs and the more common Stairway to Hell.

Stairway to Hell

Welcome to Stairway to Hell, the red-headed stepchild of Stairway to Heaven.

Stairway to Hell

Group shot on the dilapidated stairs that are slowly returning to Mother Nature.

Stairway to Hell

Climbing back up the stairs that were left incomplete by the US Navy due to the ridge topography that doesn’t lend itself well to man-made infrastructure.

Stairway to Hell

Exploring the bunker that was pleasantly clean and devoid of the rank smell of ammonia from past visits.

Stairway to Hell

Threading our way through the tetanus spikes that were once part of the railings and are now slowly rusting away.

Stairway to Hell

Passing through one of multiple platforms that were once home to A-Frames that hung suspended antenna cables across the valley.

Stairway to Hell

Climbing the rusted stairs out of Hell.

KSRT

Going up a small hill to be soon replaced by bigger hills.

KSRT

Kenny making his way down the trail with the presumably vacant Stairway to Heaven beckoning to us from across the valley.

KSRT

Akira hiking on the edge of the pali (cliff) overlooking the H-3 Freeway as the traffic noise wafted up to the ridge line.

Red Hill Summit

The guys approaching the summit that looked like it was recently cleared as it was almost unrecognizable from my last visit.

Moanalua Saddle

Striking out towards the Western half of what is considered the “easiest” of the three main saddles on the KST.

Moanalua Saddle

One has to crawl before one can walk.

Moanalua Saddle

Akira climbing down the rockface section while Kenny contemplates the meaning of life or thinking he could be relaxing in his new home instead of subjecting himself to today’s hike.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the saddle against the backdrop of Halawa Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

Standing and scooting our way down the grassy ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Descending down the long line as I like to call it.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving the imposing and intimidating looking mountains behind us.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Our final group photo at the summit before heading down into the valley and the 28 stream crossings and the endless road out. We left the summit at 1630 and hustled our way out in two hours as we didn’t want to test the police presence that shuts the park down at 1900 and we also wanted time to wash our muddy shoes.

GPS Tracks

Our virgin saddle hike covered 11.5 miles to hell and back. Great job on Kenny’s part as he works on overcoming his acrophobia. Post hike meal was at Plan A which was Pepper Lunch but too crowded. Plan B was Alley Restaurant which was also too crowded. We ended up at BBQ Chicken which was not crowded, where we were joined by Tessa and Marilyn.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Kenny Lui, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

I decided to 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.

The plan was to end at Tripler but weather and other factors would have the final say in our destination today.

Aiea Loop Trail

Thanks to Roger for dropping us off at the “mysterious” park to start our before the chickens wake up hike.

Aiea Loop Trail

Stopping at the bench that was installed by Thomas Yoza and his biking buddies that overlooks Kalauao Valley.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Scott standing under the sign that he installed. Still waiting on the summit sign.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking out at the illuminated H3 highway, the most expensive interstate highway ever built per mile. Hawaii #1.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Hump day in the mountain. Add rain. Joy.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Contouring around the base of the power-line tower.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the typical socked in 2,805′ summit.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Striking out on the wind and rain soaked ridge line.

KSRT

Are we going forward or backwards?

KSRT

Hard blowing rain and wind outside the native tree enclosure. Are we having fun yet?

KSRT

Catching a break in the clouds as we started coming down the ridge. Enjoy it while it lasts.

KSRT

The clouds started to saturate the area as we got closer to the bottom.

Stairway to Hell

Scott finally found it. No views. When the weather does cooperate, the scenery is just leaps and bounds from the other side.

KSRT

We sought temporary refuge in the bunker from the wind and rain that was slowly draining our body heat. Somebody had finally cleaned up all the tents, sleeping bags and other detritus that occupied the bunker since the days of 2015 when they were searching for the lost hiker, Daylenn Pua.

KSRT

The condition of these stairs stands in stark contrast to the other side.

KSRT

Steps are missing, rails are slowly disintegrating into rust and being reclaimed by Mother Nature.

KSRT

Climbing out of Hell.

KSRT

Neither wind nor rain nor heat nor mud nor overgrowth stays these hikers from the completion of their hikes.

KSRT

Pausing at the top of the hill where the weather had finally toppled the geodetic pole marker.

KSRT

One good point that with all this bad weather flying around, the bees won’t be bothering us on the trail.

Red Hill Summit

Rain, rain go away. Come again another day. Nursery rhymes don’t seem to work in the mountains.

KSRT

Chico getting himself out of the hole he fell in.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the “easier” side of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Chico lost five points for using the rope.

Moanalua Saddle

The constant erosion keeps changing the “character” of the KST.

Moanalua Saddle

Sliding down the slippery slope thanks to the rain.

Moanalua Saddle

The rain started to dissipate as we dropped in elevation down the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Scott dirt surfing his way down.

Moanalua Saddle

Akira lowering himself down with the trickling Moanalua Falls in the background.

Moanalua Saddle

Somebody could see us. Must be an iphone.

Moanalua Saddle

Scott standing on the scenic rock.

Moanalua Saddle

Roger! Somebody was missing the “Oh” part. Aida and Roger had hiked up from the valley to meet us at the summit and continue towards Tripler. Plans would change.

Moanalua Saddle

Almost there.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Thanks to Akira for the hot rice soup, does a cold body good.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo as we decided to cut our hike short due to weather and mobility problems and hike down into the valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Making our way down the short, slippery slope.

Moanalua Falls

The trickle had turned into a white ribbon of water cascading down the multi-tiered falls.

Moanalua Valley

Hitting the valley floor and crossing one of 28 stream crossings. I don’t think anybody was counting.

All pau

The last of seven bridges before we exited the trail. I counted.

GPS Tracks

Our not so favorable weather for today’s hike covered 12 miles with a fun group. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where I had another bowl of hot soup to warm up my cold body.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Roger Schiffman, Scott Peterson, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

I decided to 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.

Somebody told me to go to hell. I told them to go to hell. So we all went to hell today.

Aiea Loop Trail

Thanks to Chico for dropping Akira, Roger, Val and myself off at the park that is home to a healing heiau (temple) that was possibly constructed in the 16th century and surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees that were planted in the 1920s.

Aiea Loop Trail

Leaving the loop trail as we connected to the ridge trail.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Catching the sunrise bursting over the Ko’olau Mountains.

Pu’u Kawipoo

Panoramic view from the 2,441′ flat peak.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Pushing to the summit that was less than a mile away, as the mynah bird flies.

Aiea Ridge Trail

This is not the summit, let’s push on.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Climbing and contouring our way around the HECO powerline tower.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ top with expansive Windward views.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We pushed off the summit and stepped foot on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains.

KSRT

The winds were something fierce as they plucked my cap off my head and sent it soaring into the mountains. My donation.

KSRT

Contouring around the fenced native plant enclosure. I have yet to catch a glimpse.

KSRT

We could see heaven but not hell. Yet.

KSRT

Climbing up the last hill before our final destination.

North Haiku Stairs

Approaching the windswept meadows that is home to what many people commonly call “Stairway to Hell.”

North Haiku Stairs

Going down the stairs that time has “forgotten.”

North Haiku Stairs

We decided to go down just a short stretch and not all the way to the bottom as originally planned.

North Haiku Stairs

Climbing our way down the stairs that are falling apart, literally. The stairs do not go completely down to the base of the cliff as the opposite stairs does, due to a steep cliff that prevented further construction and progress of the stairs.

North Haiku Stairs

Best seat in the mountains.

North Haiku Stairs

Akira climbing back up through the stairs that are slowly being reclaimed by Mother Nature.

Stairway to Hell

Meanwhile, over yonder a couple saw us climbing up the dilapidated stairs from their vantage point.

North Haiku Stairs

Val climbing back up the near vertical section whose supports are being slowly exposed to the elements, further hastening the erosion of

North Haiku Stairs

Roger exchanging unstable and rotten footing for terra firma.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Seeking temporary refuge from the gusting winds that definitely brought our body temperature down a degree or two.

KSRT

Following the decaying stairs that lead us out of the hike that is best served cold.

KSRT

Roger crossing over one of the platforms that housed A-frames that supported one of six antennas suspended across the valley for military communication use in WW2.

KSRT

Climbing our way out of hell.

KSRT

Val coming up the last section of the rusted stairs that will soon disintegrate into oxidized dust.

KSRT

Descending down the hill as we approached the junction to the Halawa Trail.

KSRT

Running into Amber and Orion who was also told to go to hell. They went all the way to the bottom of hell.

H-3

Looking down at the most expensive interstate highway ever built, at a cost of roughly $80 million per mile.

Red Hill Summit

Taking a break at the grassy area with the laminated flyer regarding Daylenn “Moke” Pua who went missing on February 26, 2015. Extensive searches that canvassed the area by foot and air were conducted with no luck. I believe it was his disappearance that was the catalyst for the formation of Oahu Search and Rescue (OSAR), an all volunteer group that assists with the search for missing hikers and educating the public at large about safe hiking practices.

Moanalua Saddle

Roger directly dealing with the troublesome tree that has tripped many a hiker.

Moanalua Saddle

Going down the “easy” side of the saddle. Easy being relative. Christian hymns optional.

Moanalua Saddle

Scrambling down one of many eroded spots on the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing down the constantly changing character of the mountains. Tree here today. Tree gone tomorrow.

Moanalua Saddle

The group sliding their way down the steep hill cushioned by ferns and packed with loose dirt.

Moanalua Saddle

Roger standing on the photo opportunity rock.

Moanalua Saddle

Why contour when you can climb? Exactly.

Moanalua Saddle

Almost there!

Kulana’ahane Summit

Our last group photo before we descended down into the valley. Talks of continuing to heaven were blown away by the strong winds.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going down the short and steep spur ridge.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Val crossing the last of 28 stream crossings in the valley.

Moanalua Valley

Going over the last of seven bridges that were connected to the cobblestone carriage road that once served as a path for the horse and carriages that the Damon family used at the turn of the century.

All pau

Mahalo to Aida, Aileen and Tessa who met us in the community park. It worked out in the end as they were originally supposed to have joined us on the hike. Instead, they came bearing gifts in the form of soda floats.

GPS Tracks

Our windy as hell hike covered 12.3 miles with good company. Post hike meal at Teishoku where the eye was bigger than the stomach for some and the Japanese pronunciation of the French expression resulted in uncontrollable laughter from some. Ice cream for dessert for some as others didn’t care.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Roger Schiffman, 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.

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.

Why do two hikes when you can do just one? Why see only one stairway when you can see both? Rhetorical questions aside, that is how we found ourselves at top of Aiea Heights this morning. Thanks to Chris for dropping us off.

Aiea

Campers and chickens were sleeping as we walked up the road that was slowly being illuminated by the breaking sun.

Aiea Loop Trail

Turning off the loop trail, we were treated to a colorful cascade as the sun torched the mountain peaks.

Aiea Ridge

Multiple downs …

Aiea Ridge

… and multiple ups.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Taking a short break at the 2,441′ grassy peak.

Aiea Ridge

Heading into the home stretch of the 5.5 mile ridge trail.

Aiea Ridge

Coming up the last hump on the ridge.

Aiea Ridge

Aida enjoying the sweeping views of the windward side from the grassy clearing.

Aiea Ridge

Milling around the base of the power-line tower.

Aiea Ridge

The group finally got enough of the eye candy views and started making their way down.

Aiea Ridge

You can take the man out of the ironworks, but you can’t take the ironworks out of the man.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ clear summit.

Aiea Summit

William trying to talk to the locals. Perhaps it was his Midwestern accent that was getting lost in translation.

Ko’olau Summit RIdge Trail (KSRT)

The group contouring on the leeward side of the ridge under clear skies.

KSRT

Stunning views to be had all around as we traversed the ridge.

KSRT

Views like these are icing on the hiking cake.

KSRT

Contouring around the fenced native plant enclosure. I have yet to see one, then again I don’t know what I’m looking at either.

KSRT

Descending down into the verdant windswept pastures of hell.

Stairway to Hell

Group photo at the stairs that the US Navy started but never finished. The views were uncommonly clear and striking.

Stairway to Hell

William tried talking to the locals again. A hint of pidgin thrown in for good measure. No luck. What kind of neighbors are we?

KSRT

This place is going to hell in a handbasket.

KSRT

Climbing out of hell for greener pastures.

KSRT

Overlooking the engineering marvel that was the most expensive interstate highway ever built back in 1997 at a cost of 1.3 billion. The current rail system costs pegged at over 12 billion will easily eclipse it and make H3 look like a bargain.

Red Hill Summit

Group photo at the terminus of the trail that starts down in Moanalua Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

The group traversing over the crumbly section with the tree trip hazard in the way.

Moanalua Saddle

Descending down the western half of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

It was just a walk in the park. A windy park.

Moanalua Saddle

Following the serpentine ridge to the next summit.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo in the “pocket” of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

The winds started to pick up as we began our ascent of the Eastern half of the saddle. I turned my cap backwards, not to emulate athletes or rappers, but to serve as a hiking windsock.

Moanalua Saddle

When hiking turns back the clock to when we used to drag our knuckles.

Moanalua Saddle

Just when I thought was out of the elevator service, they pull me back in.

Moanalua Saddle

Minding the huge windward drops on our right side.

Moanalua Saddle

Somebody was glad to be back on relatively level ground.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the most well known obstacle this side of the saddle – The Dirt Triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Oh, I get up with a little help from my friends and some extra webbing.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up a particularly chossy section of the ridge. The gusting winds had blown the assist ropes to the far right side. Time to recover them.

Moanalua Saddle

The ropes were returned to its rightful place for the rest of the group to use.

Moanalua Saddle

Chico pulling himself up one crumbly rock at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Passing a cascade on our right that feeds the main Moanalua Falls.

Moanalua Saddle

Chico traversing over an eroded section of the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

The start of the “other” stairs to heaven.

Moanalua Saddle

Knockin’ on heaven’s back door.

Moanalua Saddle

Closing the gap to the CCL building with its distinctive dual microwave antenna perched on the top.

CCL Building

Group photo at the top of the stairs that the city wants to keep. Demolish. Keep. Demolish. Bipolarism at its finest.

Stairway to Heaven

We started going down the 3,922 steps as weeks ago I was contacted by a quasi-official entity that wanted me to count and verify the number of steps for possible future wasted resources. They were also going to pay me. Check’s in the mail. Yes, I’m also the type that believes that I have a snowball’s chance of hell in winning the Publisher’s Clearinghouse Sweepstakes. There is one born every day.

Stairway to Heaven

The windward views were indeed heavenly on this day.

Stairway to Heaven

Who’s keeping count? Chico?

Stairway to Heaven

I believe at this point, William gave up trying to communicate with the locals. Instead he made an impassioned plea to save the stairs. I think it fell on deaf ears.

Stairway to Heaven

Catching the setting sun behind the mountains.

Stairway to Heaven

It took two Navy men in 1942, 21 days to climb from the bottom to the top to install the original ladder. Thanks to their pioneering efforts, travel time is now measured in hours instead of days.

All pau

Thanks to Lilia for picking us up at the exit point. Post hike meal had to be someplace quick as most of the group didn’t want to sit and wait for their food. Fast food. McDonald’s. Drive-Thru.

GPS Tracks

Our back to back stairways hike covered 10.1 miles with almost perfect weather conditions with good company.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Chico Cantu, William Mayo 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 paid a birthday visit to Hell today and some of us carried extra baggage with us. Might as well be comfortable sitting on that chair. Or not.

Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area

Why walk an extra ten minutes when the custodian is nice enough to open the gate early? Mahalo to Lilyn and Quan for dropping Aida, Aileen, Amber, Jen, Rose and myself off at the 384 acre park.

Trailhead

One person in the group photo is not hiking.

Aiea Loop Trail

Pushing off on the trail.

Aiea Loop Trail

Taking a load off their backs, some more so than others.

Aiea Loop Trail

Leaving the five mile loop trail for the mountains.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Aida with the background views of the H3 highway on Windward viaducts as it runs through Halawa Valley.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Amber illustrating the difference between a headstand and a handstand at the 2,441′ hill.

Aiea Ridge Trail

There’s views in them thar hills. Not today.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Going around the base of the power line tower before gaining the summit.

Aiea Summit

You know your backpack is oversized, when people see it first before they see you when coming up to the summit.

Aiea Summit

No need to stand up group photo at the socked in 2,805′ top.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Descending into the clouds.

KSRT

Contouring around the fenced native plant enclosure.

KSRT

Climbing up our last hill …

KSRT

… to prove that there are views in them thar hills.

KSRT

Dripping wet.

Stairway to Hell

Happy Birthday Jen!

Stairway to Hell

It’s cold as hell. Oxymoron’s that work well together in this part of the mountains.

Stairway to Hell

Group photo at the stairs that leads to nowhere.

Stairway to Hell

The pair of Amber and Rose stashed their stuff for their upcoming KST traverse. Don’t touch our stuff. Pretty please. In sharpie. Permanent.

KSRT

Making our way on the steps that time forgot and that Mother Nature is slowly reclaiming.

KSRT

Following the wire rope that soon replaced the steps.

KSRT

Climbing out of hell.

KSRT

Leaving the rusted remnants behind us.

KSRT

Making our way up to the geodetic marker that has since lost its circumference.

KSRT

Dropping down into saddle that is also the junction for the Halawa trail.

KSRT

Approaching the summit of Red Hill.

Moanalua Saddle

Trip hazard.

Moanalua Saddle

Hold your excitement. This not the pearly white ohi’a lehua flower. The search continues.

Moanalua Saddle

Walking on the edge.

Moanalua Saddle

Going down on crumbly dirt.

Moanalua Saddle

Watching the rest of the group make their way down the thin ribbon of a trail.

Moanalua Saddle

If it’s not a tree hugger, it’s a rock hugger in the mountains.

Moanalua Saddle

We contoured on the Leeward side and regained the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the Western half of the saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Approaching our last summit of the day.

Kulana’ahane Summit

What could this be? Let your imagination run wild.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Our last group photo in the slot.

Moanalua Falls

I see people. Live people. Coming down the spur ridge, we noticed a pair of people at the top of the falls. Turned out to be Jason and Pam setting up their anchors, a day that lasted over 24 hours for them. I thought my hikes were long!

Kulana’ahane Trail

Somebody started counting the stream crossings as we hit the valley floor. Never did finish the task. Unfinished business.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Threading our way through the thickets of hau tree branches.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Everybody looking forward to the walk out.

All pau

We washed our shoes and walked back out to our cars to finish the day. Post hike meal? One had steak waiting at home. The other was tuckered out and went home. The rest of us went to nearby Alley Restaurant to get our fix of oxtail soup.

GPS Tracks

Our birthday/stash hike covered 11.5 miles to hell and back. Mixed bag of weather day spent with good people.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Amber Fonte, Jen Odence, Rose Mathis, 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.