It was that time to play Santa Claus and bring Christmas cheer to the mountains this weekend.

Trailhead

Passing the gate, several two and four legged hikers kept me company on the trail until the stairs section.

Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

The mountains were strikingly clear against the blue backdrop of the sky. Why can’t every day on the trails be like today?

Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

Approaching the summit that is landmarked with the communications tower. Plane optional.

Wiliwilinui Summit

I had the panoramic view all to myself at the top.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Left the 2,480′ summit to thread my way through the new HECO poles on the ridge.

KSRT

Looking at the streak in blue catch up to me on the ridge line.

Lanipo Windward

Chris standing on the path that Dick Davis took on his way down.

Kainawa’aunui Summit

It was a toss up if the Mau’umae trail has more ups and downs than this section that we were doing. I think I would rather do the cross over.

KSRT

Dropping down from the big hill to the valley views.

Ka’au Crater

HFD Chopper looking for tourists disguised as hikers in distress?

Ka’au Crater

One day I want to row, row my boat across this marsh.

KSRT

Climbing to the summit of Awaawaloa. Photo by Chris Bautista

Mount Olympus

Hydrating at the 2,486′ summit.

KSRT

Taking a break from the ridge and enjoying the relatively wide open contour trail.

KSRT

Looking out towards hazy views of the Waianae Mountain Range.

KSRT

Blue tour helicopter searching for views for their paying customers.

KSRT

The contour trail soon ended shortly past sedan rock and we got back on the ridge trail.

Manoa Middle Summit

It was a pleasant surprise to run into Lita’s group at the flat clearing, as they had come up from Manoa Valley.

KSRT

Resuming our hike on the ridge line, we bumped into Janell’s group who had come down from K2.

KSRT

Chris heading to the crown jewels of the Ko’olau’s.

KSRT

Traversing between the two summits. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Almost there.

Konahuanui Summit

The summit was one of the clearest days that I can recall being here, I almost didn’t recognize or more accurately believe we were standing on the highest point on the Ko’olau Mountains.

K1

The things that you find in geocaches.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris with a commanding view below him.

Nu’uanu Saddle

A lot easier going up than coming down this rock. Maybe it’s just me. Photo by Chris Bautista

Nu’uanu Saddle

The ridge soon lost most of it’s vegetative character and took on a more crumbly note.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making my way around the contour. Always mindful of what happened here. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Time to pass out lumps of chossy rocks. Photo by Chris Bautista

Nu’uanu Saddle

Sitting on the nipple and watching Chris getting ready to come down. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris coming down the Chimney.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Approaching the second notch, where Analyn was waiting for us.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We unintentionally crashed somebody’s photo shoot. Photo by Analyn Balisco.

Nu’uanu Saddle

A paraglider skimming the saddles also photo bombed the other group.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Now it was time for our photo shoot.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Time to pack up our dresses and head back down.

All pau

Mahalo to Analyn for meeting us at the notches and taking us back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our crystal clear day on the mountains covered 7.54 miles from start to finish. Great hike with Chris but coming down from K1 seemed harder than in the past. It was somewhat unsettling to be honest. Post hike meal at Pieology. Coming soon to a shopping mall near you.

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.

Returned back to the mountains after a two-week hiatus filled with Christmas parties and festivities. Met up with Chris and Ferlino at Tanatalus. Thanks to Jasmin for dropping us off again.

Trailhead

Chris keeping the sign under wraps until we get to the summit.

Kalawahine Trail

Pushing off on the trail that is part of the Honolulu Mauka Trail System, a sprawling network of 19 connected trails in the Maikiki Heights area.

Kalawahine Trail

Chris crossing the plank into the mixed forest.

Kalawahine Trail

The trail meandered in and out of the numerous gulches.

Kalawahine Trail

Groot is alive and well in the Maikiki Forest.

Kalawahine Trail

Stepping up the trail. We must be on a Na Ala Hele Trail.

Pauoa Flats Trail

Taking a left at the junction on the heavily rooted trail.

Pauoa Flats Trail

Back on the boardwalk, dry shoes for now.

Pauoa Flats Trail

Bogging our way through the bamboo forest.

Nu’uanu Overlook

We popped out of the forest to the windswept view at the 1,600′ lookout.

Trail

Contouring on the Windward side of the ridge which afforded us views of upper Lulumahu Falls on our way up.

Twin Testicles

We got an itch to scratch up there or down there.

Trail

Looking down at the ridges flowing into Nu’uanu Valley.

Trail

Whew! That was a good cardio burn going up the hill. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

K2

Group photo at the socked in summit, left to right: Chris, myself, Ferlino and a girl from Utah that had come up from the Pali Notches. Mahalo to Chris for taking the time out to make a sign marking the summit of Konahuanui 2.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The girl from Utah decided to join our group as the clouds began drifting away.

KSRT

Wrap around ridge views of Maunawili Valley as we dropped off K2.

KSRT

One of my favorites sections of the KSRT due to the broad ridge with the grassy meadows on the side and the straight shot view to Makapu’u. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manoa Middle

Hmmm, what is the rated load limit for that tree? Photo by the girl from Utah.

KSRT

Making our way to contour around the ironwood stand and crawl over the sedan rock.

KSRT

We decided to drop off the ridge and explore the contour trail on the Leeward side.

Trail

Coming around the contour trail with Manoa Valley behind us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

On our steep climb to Olympus, we lost the girl from Utah, who had enough of being cut and scratched on her legs by the uluhell ferns and decided to go down the Waahila Trail.

KSRT

The hills have hills in these mountains as Ferlino can attest.

Awaawaloa (Olympus)

Picking out Olomana, Manana Island, Koko Head, Ka’au Crater and Diamond Head from the 2,486′ summit.

Awaawaloa (Olympus)

Looking down at the contour trail continuing beneath the Ka’au Crater Loop trail as it left a brown streak across nature’s lawn. Photo by Chris Bautista

KSRT

Dropping down from Olympus.

KSRT

Making our way to the tuff cone nestled against the Ko’olau Mountains that are marked with twin power poles marring the otherwise scenic view.

Ka’au Crater

I guess it’s always Flag Day in the mountains.

Ka’au Crater

How many hills are there in the mountains? Many. With more to come.

KSRT

The bamboo staff has been passed along. Take care of it and it will take care of you.

KSRT

Enjoying the superb valley view before climbing up the big hill.

KSRT

Ferlino and Chris making their way up the mother of all hills on this particular section.

Pu’u Kainawa‘anui

Ferlino arriving at the 2,520′ summit. No rest for the weary as we continued on the trail.

KSRT

Passing a false summit before gaining the “true” summit of Lanipo.

Lanipo

Soaking in the coastal, mountain and valley views from the top.

KSRT

Passing the Waialae Nui junction on our way down the HECO pole lined ridge.

KSRT

Coming up from the helipad through the freshly shaven trail, courtesy of HECO. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Wiliwilinui

Some hikers got carried to the 2,480′ summit. Lucky dawg!

KSRT

We left the summit that was quickly filling up with hikers coming up from the Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail.

KSRT

Making our way across the undulating ridge.

Wailupe

Long gone are the green wooden sign and the colorful fluttering prayer flags.

KSRT

Passing the Waimanalo reservoir as we made our way across the slightly overgrown ridge.

KSRT

Encountering a stunted loulu palm tree on the trail.

KSRT

Almost there!

Hawaii Loa

Group photo at our final summit stop on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Hawaii Loa Trail

Leaving the 2,520′ summit.

Hawaii Loa Trail

Stepping our way down the ridge trail.

Hawaii Loa Trail

Going down the severely eroded and rutted trail.

Hawaii Loa Trail

Reflecting back on the mountain views.

All pau

Approaching the final ironwood stand before dropping back to our cars and leaving the gated community of the rich and famous.

GPS Tracks

Our pre-Christmas hike covered almost 10 miles that was filled with scenic views, cheer and good company. Post hike meal at Pieology. Loaded up the carbs for tomorrow’s hardest hike on Christmas Day.

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.

Ben joined me on a hike to to pick up from where I had left off a couple months ago.

Trailhead

We started before the chickens were up and walked through the valley of darkness. We had nothing to fear but fear itself and the feral pigs. Oink. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Moanalua Valley

Daylight broke through the shrouded valley as we reached the end of the maintained trail.

Kulana’ahane Summit

The breaking sunrise illuminating the mountains. It was going to be a beautiful day. Did I say that out aloud?

Moanalua Saddle

Time to hit the trail as we had a lot of ground to cover today.

Moanalua Saddle

Trying to discriminate against the loose rocks.

Dirt Triangle

Ben contouring the crumbly obstacle while ignoring the views of Moanalua Valley.

Dirt Triangle

Why use one rope, when two will do?

Dirt Triangle

Right hand in front of the left hand. Repeat. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Moanalua Saddle

Couple more crumbly sections ahead of us.

Moanalua Saddle

Well, I guess that’s one way to bite your GoPro.

Moanalua Saddle

The classic spot to pose on the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

The Captain Morgan pose and I don’t even drink. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Moanalua Saddle

Ben approaching the first landing.

Moanalua Saddle

The back stairs going up into the cloudy soup known as heaven. Photo by Ben Hinders.

CCL Building

Following the tetanus approved cable to the top.

Haiku Stairs

What happened to that beautiful day? I’m not a mind reader, but I think those guys were thinking the same thing. Well, at least it’s not raining.

Stairway to Heaven

Can you take the picture in landscape and not portrait mode? Thanks!

MMR Junction

Missing the green wooden sign that used to hang in the trees.

Radar Station

Ben making his way down the cloud washed ridge.

Tripler Summit

Refreshing the cocaine addicted public since 1886.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Another short break and it was off to enjoy more of this beautiful mountain weather.

“‘Ie’ie

Glad it wasn’t harvesting season for the bug swarms that eat the fruits of these woody climbers.

Bowman Summit

Let’s not take any wrong turns around here.

Kalihi Saddle

The ridge soon transitioned from somewhat wide to somewhat skinny. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben descending the steep and crumbly ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring around the sliding dirt section.

Kalihi Saddle

Hmmm, should I go over or around? Decisions. Decisions.

Kalihi Saddle

Watch out below for the dirt and rock showers.

Kalihi Saddle

Passing the broken wave.

Kalihi Saddle

Making my way to the overhang spot to avoid falling rocks. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben making his way down the first rock triangle.

Kalihi Saddle

Pausing to check out the Windward views.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben climbing down the second rock triangle.

Kalihi Saddle

The summit of Lanihuli was strikingly clear.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at our descent from Bowman. Crazy fun.

Witch’s Hat

Too early for Halloween.

Witch’s Hat

Looking for treats and not tricks on the backside coming down.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben approaching the knob that would drop us down to the power lines.

Power Lines

It was too early for lunch so I snacked on a bag of “fresher tasting” tuna. But is it dolphin safe?

Kalihi Saddle

Back in the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Wrap around view that never fails to disappoint.

Kalihi Saddle

Glad we’re hiking instead of being fighting the pau hana Friday traffic.

Jackson Chameleon

The one that got away.

Sharks Fin

I was in the mood for Chinese, since my three horned snack had scurried away.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben making his way up to the first Bunny Ear.

Kalihi Saddle

Popping our way towards the pimple.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben dropping down the Door Stop.

Kalihi Saddle

Classic photo spot below the can opener.

Kalihi Saddle

A pink ribbon! We must be on the right trail. So excited. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kalihi Saddle

Preparing to climb The Great Wall of Lanihuli.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben coming up from the first tier of the wall.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking cool on the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

Riding the dirt dragon, a shell of it’s fiery former self. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben continuing our uphill climb through tangled roots and ample uki grass.

Swirling Heavens

The view from our 2,700′ summit perch. Not bad. Photo by Ben Hinders.

Lanihuli Summit

Peeking over to the town side.

Nu’uanu Saddle

All downhill from here. Crumbly downhill. But still downhill.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Yeah come on down. It’s safe. These tattered and frayed ropes will keep you safe.

Anvil

Ben looking laser focused on climbing his way up.

Donkey Kong

Giving the W or was that the finger? Photo by Ben Hinders.

W

… And now we know our alphabet.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The Pali Lookout and Highway soon popped into view under the towering shadow of Konahuanui.

Nu’uanu Saddle

This rock looks safe to grab. Right?

Pu’u Suicido

Ben didn’t want to use the hotline or lifeline.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Just a couple more humps before getting off the ridge.

Nu’uanu Valley

Best sex ever? Looking out for any used condoms as I didn’t want to slip down on the already slippery slope.

Invasive critter

The one that did not get away.

Nu’uanu Valley

Why is it taking so long to get down?

Pali Puka

Almost done for the day.

Nu’uanu Valley

Out of the woods and into walking on egg shells. Ben’s feet had blistered on his way down the ridge.

Pali Lookout

What’s for dinner? Chicken. Not the feathered kind, but the boxed kind. Shout out to Chris and Hannah for bringing us iced soda and food from Louisiana Kitchen.

Pali Lookout

Good night from Camp Pali. Ben could finally take a load off his blistered feet and sleep the night away.

Pali Lookout

Instead of waking up to crowing chickens, we woke up to the sounds of cars ferrying people to the lookout. Ben’s blisters did not evaporate overnight, so he grudgingly threw in the towel.

Pali Lookout

I mulled over my choices which were to abort the hike or run afoul of my wife’s no hiking alone rule. The Grace Hopper saying of “It’s easier to ask forgiveness than it is to get permission” kept bouncing around my head. That’s how I found myself heading up the ridge.

Pali Notches

Met Alexis, Jason and Robert as they made their way back from the base of the chimney. I offered to take them up the chimney since I was going that way, but they weren’t buying it. Next time. Photo by Jason Murano.

Pali Notches

You sure you guys won’t change your minds?

Chimney

Time to sweep the chimney.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Clearing the rocky, technical sections as rain showers pelted the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The ridge keeping the clouds at bay on the Leeward side.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Panoramic view of the Windward side.

Konahuanui Summit

Denied views at the highest point, so I refreshed myself with the real thing.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

The ragged and rugged curves of the ridge were clearly defined by the hugging clouds as I made my way to K2.

Manoa Middle

So close, yet so far.

Castle Trail?

Exploring the swath of a trail that parallels the KSRT.

Mount Olympus

Passed a few hikers as I dropped off Awaawaloa Summit to continue the hike.

Ka’au Crater

Looking down at one tuff volcanic cone nestled against the mountains and the other one hugging the ocean.

KSRT

Pausing to enjoy the steep valley views on my climb up to Lanipo.

Lanipo

The trail that leads to my “Meru.”

KSRT

Approaching the power lines and relay station of Wiliwilinui.

KSRT

I pitched my tent at the heli-pad before the summit of Wiliwilinui and called it a day. Checked in with my better half and that Grace Hopper saying came into play.

KSRT

Sunrise from the mountains. Not a bad way to wake up.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Thanks to Stuart for coming up to see me and bringing sugary beverages.

Wiliwilinui Summit

This pooch had the right idea.

KSRT

Another day, another dollar, different hike.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Bumped into Daryl and his friends at the 2,520′ knob.

Kulepeamoa Summit

When you fall off the ridge, pick yourself up and try again. Words to remember.

Pu’u O Kona Summit

Met Art and some mutual friends at the grassy flat topped mountain. Even got some home baked foods from Art. It was a good day.

KSRT

Skirting the eroded section on my way down. Photo by Art Millan.

KSRT

Art saying hello or waving goodbye?

KSRT

Looking back at the fluted cliffs cascading down from the mountain tops.

KSRT

Koko Crater on my left and Koko Head on my right and now I know my mountains.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

The two legged hikers outnumbered the four legged hikers at the 2,028′ top.

KSRT

Passing the power lines on my way to Hahaione.

KSRT

Selfie at the scenic point.

Hahaione Pyramid

Not hiking like an Egyptian to the top today.

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

The trail that Kamehameha Schools would like hikers to forget.

KSRT

Approaching the Tom-Tom trail named after Tom McGuire and Tom Cadle who “discovered” the old Hawaiian trail.

KSRT

Making my way to the canopied forest to escape the scorching heat.

Kamiloiki Summit

Nobody was home at Camp Awesome.

KSRT

The sun striking and illuminating Manana (Rabbit) Island.

KSRT

Approaching the old Nike-Hercules missile sites as I climbed out of the saddle.

KSRT

The sweeping views from the hang gliders platform. Missing the plastic lawn chair.

KSRT

Climbing down the exposed and rocky ridge line. No shade until the finish line.

Makapu’u Puka

The drifting sounds from Sea Life Park kept me company in the mountains

Makapu’u Lookout

I can see somebody’s van.

All pau

If three times is the charm. What is the fourth time? What happened to my other glove? Thanks to Chris for meeting me at the lookout with a cold carbonated beverage and driving me back to my car. Photo by Chris Bautista.

GPS Tracks

The three day hike covered 24.11 miles across the Ko’olau Mountains. Great company on the first day and scenic solitude on the last two days. Thanks to Ben for sticking it out with me on the first day and to my wife for allowing me to finish the last two days by myself. Post hike meal at Pho Viet. A hot bowl of rice noodles with real chunks of assorted meat parts floating in a chili laced broth tasted so good after three days in the mountains.

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

Lacking any direction or motivation for hiking this weekend, I was invited by Daryl to join his group for a loop hike starting in Palolo. Photo by Mark Carinoso.

Trailhead

It was a full house in the back of the valley. Outside of organized club hikes, this was the biggest group I have hiked with to date.

Trailhead

We started down the trail at our own risk. Where do we sign the liability waivers?

Palolo Valley

Making our way down through fallen trees and moss slicked boulders.

Wai’oma’o Stream

Rock hopping the stream that feds the lush valley.

Palolo Valley

Following the water pipe into the forested valley.

Palolo Valley

Pushing deeper into the valley with dreams of mountain apples hanging from low hanging branches dancing in my head.

Palolo Valley

Switching from the new pipe to the old pipe, where somebody in the group had to be administered lite first aid. Hike on.

Palolo Valley

We dropped down to see the first waterfall after some deliberation at the top.

Waterfall #1

Group photo with the mosquitoes. Didn’t get their names. But they got ours.

Palolo Valley

We contoured and climbed up to the left of the first waterfall.

Waterfall #2

Sitting and standing in front of the second and slightly larger waterfall.

Palolo Valley

Climbing up the rocky trail to the right of the waterfall. Photo by Cristy CM.

Palolo Valley

Making our way on the rooted trail that leads to the top.

Waterfall #2

Looking down at some of the group still snapping pictures from the base. We didn’t get too close, as the edge has claimed a couple of victims in the past. Photo by Harold Viloan.

Palolo Valley

We followed the stream to the base of the last waterfall where preparation for the flag photo shoot was underway.

Waterfall #3

Celebrating Independence Day a little early.

Waterfall #3

Making our way up the trickling multi-tiered waterfall. Photo by Terrance Manuel.

Waterfall #3

The group staggering their climb up.

Waterfall #3

Crossing over to the dry side.

Waterfall #3

Almost to the top of the waterfall where we would connect to the crater rim. Photo by Harold Viloan.

Crater rim

Group photo with the marsh filled reservoir behind us. I cracked open my semi-frozen bottle of Coca-Cola that I had brought along, something I had been longing to do, but always forgetting. Not today. I think I will start doing this on every hike. Refreshing.

Crater rim

Cardio climb through the fern covered rim.

Crater rim

Waiting for the wind to flutter the flag.

Crater rim

Some chose to take the higher road and others the lower one.

Crater rim

Huffing and puffing our way to the top.

Close shave

Mark and Harold demonstrating the proper execution of a dry shave in the mountains.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Setting foot on the Ko’olau Mountain Range. Photo by Cristy CM.

KSRT

The group coming down the mountain.

Panoramic view

Power lines to Power lines.

Swingers

Build it and they will swing it.

KSRT

Just missing the fireworks for our group flag photo.

KSRT

Leaving the crater behind as we enjoyed Windward views on our way down the ridge.

KSRT

Wading through the overgrowth on the ridge as we approached the notch.

KSRT

Climbing up the pock marked hill.

KSRT

Following in the footsteps of others before us. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Mount Olympus

Group photo at the top of Awaawaloa Summit.

KSRT

Leaving the summit behind us.

KSRT

It was unusually clear on the ridges, especially in the vicinity of Mount Olympus.

KSRT

We saw what looked like a fresh cut trail ahead of us that contoured below the KSRT.

Waahila Ridge Trail

Looking back. Still clear. Amazing.

Waahila Ridge Trail

Making our way down the deeply rutted trail. Photo by Cristy CM.

Junction

We took a short break and then headed down the trail into Manoa Valley.

Kolowalu Trail

Kevin sitting in a tree … missing somebody … and the nursery rhyme would be complete.

Kolowalu Trail

Scenic dead tree spot overlooking Manoa Valley.

Kolowalu Trail

Passing another fallen tree in the forest.

All pau

We got everybody? Let’s see. 1, 2, 3 … 14. Missing one. Kay couldn’t wait for the rest of the group. Call off the search party.

GPS Tracks

The hike covered 5.27 miles through waterfalls, tuff cone and ridge trails. Fun hike with new and old friends. Post hike meal at Happy Days. Made it in time for the dim sum carts. Make sure you double down on those chicken feet.

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

Back to the mountains for another camping weekend. Met up with Ethan, Shirley and Yoly in Upper Manoa.

Trailhead

Ethan providing curbside assistance in the form of packing. No shoelace tying offered.

Trailhead

Let’s keep the noise down for the neighbors. Stay on the trail and watch out for blood thirsty mosquitoes. Let’s hike.

Kolowalu Trail

Shirley straddling one of many fallen trees on the trail.

Kolowalu Trail

Looking back at the view of Manoa Valley.

Kolowalu Trail

Going up the short, steep and heavily rooted trail.

Waahila Trail

Just asking. Are they ever going to maintain the trail beyond the sign?

Waahila Trail

Shirley going through the knee high uluhe ferns. Hiking wouldn’t be the same without them. Strange as that may sound.

Waahila Trail

Pushing up the last section of the steep and rutted trail. Glad it wasn’t raining today. Otherwise, it would have been mud city.

Awaawaloa Summit

Group photo at the 2,486′ summit with Ka’au Crater behind us, left to right: myself, Yoly, Ethan and Shirley.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

We briefly chatted with some other hikers and left the summit to drop down onto the trail.

KSRT

Looking back at the summit more commonly known as Mount Olympus.

KSRT

Making our way towards the power lines that tower over one of three tuff cones on the island.

Ka’au Crater

We ran across some European hikers and failed to take a single picture of the crater. I think this spot is the last we saw of Yoly’s Hana Pa’a hat.

Kainawa’au Summit

Yoly making her way up to the summit where the Mau’umae ridge trail terminates.

KSRT

Shirley headed towards the peak of True Lanipo.

KSRT

Coming down to a stunning valley view of town. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

True Lanipo Summit

I have a dream. A pipe dream? Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Headed down to the HECO poles that bridge the power divide between Leeward and Windward.

KSRT

Shirley and Yoly vying to be the next HECO pole replacements.

KSRT

Enjoying the relatively wide open roped trail while it lasts, courtesy of HECO.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Group photo at the 2,480′ congested summit, left to right: Yoly, Shirley, myself and Ethan.

KSRT

We left the teeming summit to resume our hike.

KSRT

Two way traffic on the trail. Who yields first?

Hawaii Loa Summit

The minimalist hiker, who eschews fancy hiking shoes and gear, has come home to roost. I don’t need your offers of water or food, but thank you. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Panoramic view from the 2,520′ summit.

KSRT

Back on the trail.

Kulepeamoa Summit

Can you see the palm tree from 2,480’? Photo by Shirley.

Pu’u o Kona Summit

Ethan took his leave of us, as he had a house to watch and left us in a cloud of uluhe ferns and dust.

KSRT

Shirley dropping down from the summit.

KSRT

Yoly passing over an eroded section of the trail.

KSRT

Headed towards our camp site. Or so we thought.

KSRT

This is not going to work after all. So much for the IG photo shoot. Plan B. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Leaving behind compacted dirt and crushed dreams.

KSRT

Shirley on the exposed and eroded section of the trail.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Yoly decided that her dwindling water supply necessitated a return down the trail with promises of returning the next day with breakfast service or something close to it. We set up our tents and got ready for cooking when a loud scream cut through the air and a bare footed Shirley ran after her rolling water bottle down the cliff. Something to have experienced in person.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Tucked away in our tents for the windy night. Chris had summited with Ted earlier in the evening to join us at the camp site. Ted shot a couple sunset photos and trotted down the Kuli’ou’ou Trail to go back home. Photo by Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Our first visitor at the summit to greet the sunrise with us.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Squatters in the tent. Oh, it’s Yoly! Photo by Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Sunrise group photo at the windy 2,028′ summit, left to right: Chris, myself, Yoly and Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Chris jumping for joy. Photo by Shirley.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Guess who brought us carbonated beverages for breakfast?

KSRT

The summit began to slowly fill with hikers as we left the summit.

KSRT

Looking back as we saw more hikers joining the swelling crowd at the top.

Hahaione Junction

Group photo of a semi-dressed, over dressed and dressed hikers.

KSRT

Shirley trudging up through a carpet of pine needles.

KSRT

Yoly at a scenic point.

KSRT

Winding our way through the heavily forested section of the trail.

KSRT

We broke out of the forest to the exposed section of the trail affording scenic views of the East Valleys.

KSRT

Making our way to Mariner’s Ridge Summit.

Kaluanui Summit

Looking up towards the sunny top.

Kaluanui Summit

The group making their way up the rocky cliff to the abandoned summit.

Kaluanui Summit

Can you see us? Chris and Yoly hiked up to the knob.

Kaluanui Summit

Can you see us? We stayed back at the summit. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Kaluanui Summit

Shirley showing how to climb and pose at the same time.

Kaluanui Summit

Group photo at the top of Mariner’s Windward Ridge.

KSRT

Looking out towards Waimanalo with her white sand beaches and inviting blue green water.

KSRT

Hike like a snake.

KSRT

Breaking free of the overgrowth to the open rocky ridge line.

KSRT

Looking out towards Koko Crater.

KSRT

We are hiking through another dimension, a dimension not only of pose offs…

KSRT

…but one captured through composition and lighting.

KSRT

We are hiking into a land where time stands still. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

You unlock this door with the key of the perfect photo. Fail and you are stuck in photographic purgatory. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

You’re moving into a land of colors, shapes and lines. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

A journey into a wondrous land whose boundaries are that of angle and perspective. Photo by Chris.

KSRT

You’ve just crossed over into the Photo Shoot Zone.

Bells Tower

Climbing up the rock formation also known as Rito’s Tower.

KSRT

Looking out at Keahupuamaunalua Pond that once sprawled over 500 acres but has since been shrunk by urban constriction and development.

Tom Tom Ridge

The Windward ridge that will take you to the bottom of Waimanalo.

KSRT

Whack-a-hiker. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Shirley looking down into the deep gorge.

KSRT

Cliff notes on rock climbing.

KSRT

Time to leave all this fun behind us as we had places to go. Other photo shoots were waiting on the trail.

KSRT

Shirley sitting on a tree … Wait, we are missing someone ….

KSRT

… Let’s go back to hiking.

Kamiloiki Summit

Group photo minus one at the 1,245′ summit. Dropping elevation as we made our way down the ridge line.

KSRT

Panoramic view of the Ko’olau Range and the Waimanalo basin.

KSRT

Approaching the communications tower.

KSRT

Humping the middle of the saddle.

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Coming up from the saddle. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

Yoly sitting on a rock.

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Shirley sitting on a different rock.

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Yoly scrambling her way to the top.

KSRT

Just missing the bars, I mean doors. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

Dead Man’s Catwalk

I guess it worked. Tear it down and they will stop coming. Haiku stairs – watch out.

KSRT

A plastic lawn chair with a million dollar view.

KSRT

Enjoying the sweeping views of Manana and Kaohikaipu Islands, Makai Pier, Sea Life Park and Makapu’u Lighthouse as we continued our way down.

KSRT

Making our way down to the puka.

KSRT

Looking straight down the backside of Kohelepelepe.

Makapu’u Puka

Warming up for another photo shoot … Photo by Shirley.

Makapu’u Puka

… because you can’t just take one photo at the puka.

KSRT

Hiker see … Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

… hiker do.

KSRT

Shaka in the puka. Photo by Shirley.

KSRT

We were blessed with trade winds and overcast conditions which helped immensely as there was no shade on this section of the trail.

KSRT

Sun beams splashing across the landscape and washing over the group. Magical and mystical. Photo by Yoly Bedford.

KSRT

Making our way down to the lookout.

Kalanianaole Highway

Why did the hiker cross the road? To join the other hikers. Photo by Shirley.

All pau

Going to the lighthouse? Not today. Mahalo to Jasmin for picking us up at the lookout. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno.

GPS Tracks

Our weekend hike covered 14.3 miles that was blessed with beautiful weather, fun times and great company. Post hike meal at Kona Brewery Company, because somebody wanted to quaff a beer labeled in the islands but brewed in California.

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

Met up with Chris, Derek, Ethan, Khym and Krissy to finish Chris’s last segment hike of the Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST).

Pali Lookout

Some of us caught the breezy, breaking sun over the Pali. Others waited in the valley. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas

Trailhead

Going up the surprisingly dry pock marked trail.

Pali Notches Trail

Just a couple minutes later, we were treated to outstanding Windward views. The winds were surprisingly light.

Pali Notches Trail

Chris and Khym climbing down the first notch.

Pali Notches Trail

Making our way up the mountain. Photo by Chris B.

Pali Notches Trail

Khym making his way down the second notch. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Pali Notches Trail

Dropping down from the nipple. Photo by Derek Potter.

Chimney

Climbing up the chimney. Photo by Derek Potter.

Chimney

The many happy faces of the chimney.

Chimney

Group photo by Khym Ansagay.

Chimney

I think my pants have seen better days.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Time to resume our climbing.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Krissy making her way around the contour. Photo by Derek Potter.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Khym creeping up the contour.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Continuing our climb up the rocky ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

More Windward views. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We spotted a hovering helicopter dropping off supplies down by the golf course. Photo by Chris B.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Popping up over the ridge. Photo by Derek Potter.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pulling ourselves up with uki grass. A hiker’s best friend on the mountains.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris peering down the mud wall.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The muddy Piliwale junction. Almost there.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris making his way to the summit.

Konahuanui

Group photo at the highest spot, 3,150′, on the Ko’olau Mountains, left to right: Chris, Derek, myself, Khym, Ethan and Krissy. The usually persistent cloud cover was surprisingly light and scattered today.

KSRT

Looking down the Southern spine of the Ko’olau Mountains. Photo by Chris B.

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Making our way down to K2.

K2

The views kept on improving. Life was good. Group photo by Chris B.

KSRT

Leaving the twin testicles behind us. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KSRT

Dropping down onto the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail.

KSRT

Hiking on the edge. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

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Coming and going. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

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Sitting down and soaking in the views.

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Looking out towards Manoa Valley.

Manoa Middle

Failed group photo at the 2,320′ summit. All talk, no photos. Photo by Chris B.

KSRT

The fence is coming. The fence is coming.

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Khym and Krissy coming around the stand of ironwood trees. Photo by Chris B.

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Continuing our hike as the ridge pitched up and down on our way to Olympus.

KSRT

The group scrambling over sedan rock. Can I get that in another color besides gray? Photo by Chris B.

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We took the trail less cleared up to the summit.

KSRT

Looking back. Photo by Chris B.

KSRT

On the way to Awaawaloa (Olympus). Foot traffic ticked up as the KSRT soon intersected with the Waahila Trail.

Awaawaloa

Close your eyes. No pop. Just twist. Not chilled. Room temperature. Less bubbly. Just pour. Surprise!

Awaawaloa

Congratulations to Chris for completing the Ko’olau Mountain Range. Next stop. The Waianae Mountain Range.

Awaawaloa

Summit life at 2,486′. Napping. Eating. Outpatient surgery. Thank you Nurse Eizenhoefer. Two gulps. Where is the summit?

Waahila Trail

Hikers making way for the newly crowned King of the KST.

Junction

Taking the junction trail at 1,640′, down to Manoa.

Kolowalu Trail

One of many fallen trees on the trail. Yes, a loud crashing sound was made.

All pau

Coming off the ridge and down onto the valley floor, which lead us back to our parked cars.

GPS Tracks

Our hike covered 7.43 miles as the GPS flies. Congratulations again to Chris for completing the KST. Awesome accomplishment.

Post hike meal

Post hike meal at Haleiwa Joe’s, because somebody wanted prime rib. Somebody got the chicken instead. I got the honking slab of cow that was just missing the horns and tail.

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

Gen, Jose, Matt and myself met up at the Pali Lookout with the goal to traverse to Kuli’ou’ou. The hot weather would have a say in those plans.

Trailhead

Hiking with headlamps underneath the thicket of hau branches.

Lanihuli

Looking across to the other half of the Nu’uanu saddle.

Notch #1

After climbing down the first notch, we hung out for awhile to catch the sunrise. The clouds did not cooperate.

Notch #2

Gen and Jose coming down the second notch.

Trail

Making our way to the Chimney.

The Nipple

Admiring the view. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

The Chimney

From this angle, going up looks like a walk in the park. All about angles. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Looking up

Everybody waiting their turn. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

The Chimney

Gen making her way up. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

The Chimney

So many shiny new ropes. Which ones to use? All ropes are suspect and should be treated as such.

The Chimney

Group photo at the Chimney, left to right: Matt, Jose, Gen and myself.

Trail

More climbing ahead.

Trail

Matt making his way to the contour section. Climb or contour?

Rock contour

Gen contouring around the rock. This is the same area where another hiker fell 300′ and survived to hike another day.

Trail

Grab that tree! Grab that rock!

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Trail

All the hard parts behind us. Cruising on the KST.

Olomana

The sun breaking over Olomana and Kailua.

Trail

Abundant uki grass that we used to pull and move ourselves up on the ridge.

Trail

Matt coming up the ridge with stunning Windward views behind him.

Trail

Splash of color on the ridge.

Mud wall

The mud wall had turned into mud steps. When trails become popular, ropes and increased erosion in the form of handholds and footholds shows up. A good and bad thing.

Trail

Almost there.

Piliwale junction

Matt at the Windward spur ridge junction, named after Silver Piliwale who pioneered the trail back in the 1980s.

Konahuanui

Sharing a bag of tasty beef jerky at the 3,150′ summit.

Trail

We soon headed to the other peak or “testicle” of Konahuanui.

K2

Geodetic mark that was emplaced back in 1927 and used for triangulation surveys.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Trail

Gen and Jose making their way down to the saddle.

Looking back

We left the twin peaks of Konahuanui behind us as we descended down from the highest points on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Lunch spot

Who brings hot soup and rice to a hike? Something else was getting hot. The weather.

Manoa Middle

We ran across two other hikers who had come from Ka’au Crater and were going down Manoa Middle.

Trail

Jose passing the sedan rock section of the trail.

Mount Olympus

Group photo at the top of Awaawaloa with Ka’au Crater in the background. It was unusually clear. And hot.

Trail

The heat had started to slowly roast us from the inside and we collectively gave up on our goal to reach Kuli’ou’ou. Dwindling water supplies had a say in that too. Somebody kept saying Makapu’u.

Trail

Jose coming down from Mount Olympus.

Trail

The twin power lines that mark Ka’au Crater.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Trail

Looking out towards Ka’au Crater and town views. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Tourists

Hikers with a European twist coming down the trail that looped around Ka’au Crater. We also met some channel swimmers who were taking a “break” hiking.

Trail

Jose pointing out the big hill that we still had to climb.

Trail

What goes down …

Trail

… must go back up. It was a steep hill.

Kainawa’aunui

We took a short break at the 2,520′ summit.

Trail

Clouds and the attendant cooler temperatures rolled into the mountains. Somebody repeated Makapu’u.

Trail

Matt looking back at the summit and Mau’umae Ridge.

True Lanipo

Geodetic marking the 2,600′ summit of Lanipo.

Trail

Gen making her along the cloudy ridge.

Trail

Making the steep descent down towards the row of power lines on the ridge.

Lanipo Windward

Looking back at the ridge that connects to Aniani Nui Ridge and Olomana.

Trail

Almost there.

Trail

Matt coming up the trail with the summit of True Lanipo behind him.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Group photo at our last summit on the Ko’olau Range.

Trail

It was all downhill from here.

Swing

I found out that a girl named Tina put up the original swing here. Don’t even know if this is the original swing anymore.

All pau

Our hike was over. Now all we needed was a ride since we came down a different trail than originally planned. Who can we call?

GPS Tracks

While our hike did not end as originally planned, it was still quite a day that covered 7.56 miles with great company. Shout out to Justin for picking us up and shuttling us back to our cars. Post hike meal at Thai Valley Cuisine. Tasty tom yum soup. Matt’s treat.

I joined Brad, Marcus and Scott today to hike another Windward ridge. Marcus picked me up from my car on Alani Drive in Manoa and we met the others at the hairpin turn on Pali Highway.

Maunawili Demo Trail

The trail is popular with hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers and pigs. We didn’t run into any of them today on our hike to the ridge.

Last stop for water

Unfiltered water, straight from the tap.

Ko’olau Mountains

Scott had researched and scouted the trail earlier based on Dayle Turner’s ascent in 2002. Pete Cline’s group also made the climb in 2011.

Warm up is over

The group taking a break after hiking four miles to the base of the ridge. Can I get some sunscreen?

Uluhe hell

Long sleeves and long pants highly recommended.

Plunging in

Scott had cleared the lower portion of the ridge earlier, leaving a swath for us to climb up the ridge. Photo by Scott Bowling.

Bushwhacking

We eventually contoured to the right to avoid a steep section, skirted the gully and resumed our climb. Brad stayed on point for the hike, plowing through the thick flora. What a beast.

Pink ribbon

A faded and tattered pink ribbon hung from an overhead branch. A confirmation from the past that we were on the right track.

Scenic view

Today was a good day to be on the mountains.

Burrowing

Tunneling through the thick uluhe ferns. Photo by Scott Bowling.

Looking back

We enjoyed a respite from climbing as the ridge leveled off to a flat spot.

Almost there

Caveman. Da mountain! Da mountain! Photo by Steve Bowling.

Watch the drop offs

Break time over. Resuming our climb up the ridge. Photo by Scott Bowling.

Getting steep

Deep rooted clidemia plants, uki grass, ohia trees and other flora covered the crumbly dirt and rocks on our steep climb up the ridge.

Ko’oko’olau

We found this native plant near the top.

Your pic…

The top was a stone’s throw away. Or was that a webbing drop away?

…for ours

Looking back at the ridge we had climbed up. Photo by Marcus Griego.

Contouring

We contoured to the left to avoid another steep section, before heading straight to the summit. Photo by Scott Bowling.

Steep

Any more vertical and we would fall off the ridge.

So close, yet so far

A vertical section with few handholds and crumbly footing halted our climb. Marcus contoured more to the left to find a better spot, despite Scott’s objections that it was a death drop on that side. I was game as I had no desire to go back down the way we came from. Then something amazing happened. Photo by Scott Bowling.

All smiles

Quiet! I hear voices!

Trail angels

By a stroke of luck, Nick and Angie happened to be traversing the ridge on top of us and they had webbing. Christmas came early!

Waiting our turn

Brad climbing his way up. Photo by Nick Kalanakilaokalahui.

Thank you

Scott making his way to the top of the saddle between Ka’au Crater and Mount Olympus.

Don’t use the rope

Code word. Inside joke. Photo by Scott Bowling.

Olympus Windward

Group photo left to right: Marcus, Scott, myself and Brad. We gave our thanks to Nick and Angie as they continued on their way to Ka’au Crater.

KSRT

No rest for the weary, we resumed our climb along the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail towards Mount Olympus.

Final push

Marcus and Scott climbing towards the summit of Mount Olympus.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Mount Olympus

Rare to see the summit dry and not cloaked in clouds.

Awaawaloa

Group photo with Olomana, Awaawaloa (Mount Olympus) and Ka’au Crater behind us.

Waahila ridge trail

Marcus making his way down the eroded trail.

Looking back

Leaving behind the 2,486′ summit of Mount Olympus.

Four legged hiker

The dog and her owner wisely decided to turn around after they found out how much more ground they had to cover to the summit and their water was running low.

Kolowalu Trail

We took the Kolowalu junction that dropped us down into Manoa and my car.

Manoa Valley

Caveman take tree for firewood. Make lots of firewood.

All pau

Many thanks to Scott for organizing, scouting and clearing the hike, Brad for being on point and Marcus for not using the rope.

GPS Tracks

The hike covered 7.1 miles. Of that mileage, roughly half a mile was for the Windward ridge. The hardest and shortest section of the hike. Post hike meal at Brick Oven Pizza. Burnt pizza. Extra charge for olives. No love.

I had always wanted to do a loop involving Waikeakua Falls, so Glenn and I tagged along with the Oahu Hiker’s group that was doing such a hike. Well, half of the hike.

Bridge #1

We met up with the group deep in Manoa Valley to start our hike.

Bridge #2

The trail is also known as the Seven Bridges Road.

Manoa forest

Walking under canopy. The road soon split, where we took the left fork to stay on trail.

Bridge #3

Toby was waiting at the third bridge, as he had started earlier in the day to take pictures.

Bridge #4

There are stories that this trail is haunted by a banshee. Nothing heard. Keep moving.

Waiakeakua stream

Waiakeakua means water of the gods in Hawaiian.

Abandoned car

One of two cars slowly being swallowed by the forest. Maybe they ran out of gas?

Bamboo forest

The group making their way through the bamboo forest.

You guys coming?

The trail started to disappear amidst the heavy foliage and fallen trees, but we kept to the right and eventually made our way up a flight of cement stairs.

Queen’s bath

We soon came across this pool of water fed by a small waterfall known as Queen’s Bath. A couple of us partially climbed on the overhead pipe. We then picked up the trail again on the right of the stream at the top.

Bridge #5

This was the last bridge seen or counted. What happened to the other two?

Landslide

The group taking a break at a recent landslide.

Waterfall #1

Khym making his way up the first waterfall. Didn’t even get his feet wet.

Waterfall #2

Time to take the plunge. The water was over waist high and icy cold. Most of the group took the trail on the left to stay dry. Photo by Richardson Mike

Slippery rope

Glenn climbing up. Karen soon followed and gave everybody a scare when she lost her footing and was dangling from the rope. She eventually regained her footing and made her way up.

Waterfall #3

The tallest of the waterfalls at roughly 60′. Photo by Chris Hiona.

Up we go

Climbing up the waterfall with the help of several ropes that were anchored to the trees. Photo by Naomi Bruneau.

Made it!

Glenn making it to the top.

Looking down

We left the group behind as they stayed at the base of the waterfall and eventually turned around. Our group grew by one, as Khym decided to join us as we continued towards the Koolau Summit.

Leaving the streambed

We followed a faint trail to the right to make our way up the ridge. Going left will take you to Manoa Middle Ridge.

Uluhe trail

Fighting the uluhe to gain the summit.

Looking back

View of Manoa Valley. It was a nice clear day.

On the KSRT

Group photo at the top, left to right: Glenn, myself and Khym.

Windward view

Looking out towards Olomana. It was a super nice clear day.

Follow the slippers

We soon turned right and followed the spine of the Koolaus.

Mount Olympus

The summit of Mount Olympus or Awaawaloa was unusually cloud free, it’s actually the second peak in the picture.

Going up and down

We didn’t actually summit Olympus as we followed the KSRT and connected to the Waahila Ridge Trail.

Dirt slalom

Glenn doing a controlled slide down the dirt trail, while Khym took the middle rut down.

Kolowalu junction

We took the Kolowalu trail to loop back down into Manoa Valley.

Fallen tree

When a tree falls in the forest, you sit and stand on it.

Kolowalu trail

The trail eventually connected to the Puu Pia trail which was the way out.

Splash of color

Red ginger flower?

Walking out

We soon walked out onto Alani Drive where Glenn had staged his truck.

GPS Tracks

The loop that took us through rainforest, waterfalls and mountains covered 4.31 miles with good company all the way. Post hike meal was at Peppa’s Korean BBQ. Courtesy of Glenn. Never bet on hiking time!

Rain rain go away, come again another day. That childhood nursery rhyme was going through my head as I pulled in Wa’ahila Park at the top of St. Louis Heights to be greeted by morning showers. I met Jason there, as Glenn had bugged out due to the rain. We talked about it and hoped the rain would pass, so we got into my car and drove to Hawaii Loa to start our hike at 7:15am.

Going up Hawaii Loa Ridge

As we made our way up Hawaii Loa ridge, the clouds seemed to be settling lower and lower on the Koolau Mountain tops. The rain had not followed us, but what we got instead was clumps of dirty water drops.

Hawaii Loa Summit

We got to the top of Hawaii Loa Summit at 2,520 feet in whiteout conditions. The views of Waimanalo and the Windward side of the island were nowhere to be seen. Not having anything to keep us at the summit, we proceeded to follow the heavily vegetated trail on the left.

Wailupe Middle Ridge

We hiked the Koolau Summit Ridge in the clouds and at times, could barely see in front of us. The top of Wailupe Middle Ridge harbored the same whiteout conditions we had hoped we left behind at Hawaii Loa. There was a little sign on the ground that pointed in the direction of Wailupe Loop, didn’t seem too stable as somebody or something could easily move the marker.

Wiliwilinui Ridge

About an hour later, we still had no view at Wiliwilinui ridge. But we did see the communication tower appearing out of the clouds like a pirate ship. I was beginning to think the whole hike was going to be in these conditions, a total bummer.

Diamond Head

A funny thing happend coming down from Lanipo where we had our lunch, the clouds started to clear up. As we made our way down into this little valley and climbed back out of it, the views started opening up, which gave us renewed energy to push on.

Mount Olympus

We could finally see our goal ahead of us, which was Mount Olympus or Awaawaloa.

Panoramic view going toward Mount Olympus

Click here for the larger image which shows the split views of the Town and Windward side.

Ka'au Crater

As we passed the two powerlines on the ridge, we saw the marsh filled Ka’au crater nestled against the Koolau Mountains.

We're coming Zeus!

Little wisps of clouds started rolling in from the Windward side, threatening to cover the summit. That made me push harder to get to the top as I didn’t want to miss an opportunity for a clear view from the top, something which rarely happens. 

Olomana

Going up Mount Olympus, we had to climb a narrow and rocky ridge that was followed by a 10′ rockface and a somewhat steep hill. No ropes required.

Top of Mount Olympus

The top of Mount Olympus at a little over 2,400 feet was remarkably devoid of clouds, the last time I was here, there was zero visibility. The original plan was to continue until Manoa Middle Ridge and then double back. That would have completed the last part we needed to finish hiking the Eastern part of the Koolaus. But that idea was scratched due to lack of time and being plain tired on our parts. So we began the long descent down the Waahila Ridge trail towards our car.

Panoramic view of Manoa Valley and Town

Click here for the larger image of Palolo and Manoa Valleys.

The long trail home

Only twenty minutes until we get back to the trailhead (inside joke).

Need water!

We completed the hike in twelve hours, which was drawn out by being tuckered out and a tad dehydrated as we didn’t bring enough water. But how often, can you do three hikes all rolled into one?