Met up with Tessa to see how far we could go today in the mountains.

Maunawili

We showed up too early for the open house viewing. I guess we have to pass on the $875,000 lots. Too affordable for our pockets.

Piliwale Ridge

Going up the ridge pioneered by the legendary hiker, Silver Piliwale.

Piliwale Ridge

Catching the breaking sunrise as we started to gain elevation in the mountains.

Piliwale Ridge

Straddling the notch as we looked at the seemingly steep climb ahead of us.

Piliwale Ridge

Traversing the notch with the sun behind my back.

Piliwale Ridge

Tessa pulling herself up the side of the rockface.

Piliwale Ridge

Scrambling up and over another rockface.

Piliwale Ridge

Climbing up the ridge with the three peaks of Olomana, Pakui and Ahiki behind me.

Piliwale Ridge

Tessa working her way around the “tricky” rock.

Piliwale Ridge

Where the red fern grows.

Piliwale Ridge

Making the final push to the junction that will connect us to the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail.

Konahuanui

Enjoying the white out views at the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We humped our way over the two large testicles as the views soon opened up for us.

KSRT

Comin’ down the mountain.

KSRT

Breaking out into one of the many small meadows that dot the mountains.

KSRT

Trying to hold my ground as the wind gusts tried to prove me wrong.

KSRT

Rain, rain go away. The nursery rhyme actually worked as the rain showers kept their distance and stayed off the mountains.

Manoa Middle Summit

Somebody had to air their feet out. Glad the wind was blowing in the other direction.

KSRT

Tessa making her way towards the stand of pine ridges that interrupted the ridge line. We also kicked the tires on sedan rock after the tree line and resumed our hike.

KSRT

Contouring our way on the Castle Trail while enjoying views of Manoa Valley and points beyond.

KSRT

Connecting to the Wa’ahila Ridge Trail.

Awaawaloa Summit

Summit view of the extinct crater and Palolo Valley behind us.

Ka’au Crater

For a moment, it seemed like I was looking at the Golden Gate Bridge as the clouds glided over the power line towers.

KSRT

Trying not to roll down the eroded hill. The winds weren’t helping.

KSRT

Tessa looking back at our steep descent.

Ka’au Crater

Overlooking the marsh filled tuff cone.

KSRT

Tessa pulling herself up the rutted trail.

KSRT

Making our way towards the “big hill.”

KSRT

Looking out towards town and beyond.

KSRT

Pulling ourselves up with the abundant uki grass. Also stands in for emergency snacks as well.

Kainawa’au Summit

Non-paid promotion for Hyperlite Mountain Gear.

KSRT

Making my way to the true summit at 2,621′.

True Lanipo

The pipe dream has ended. Unless I get another wild hair up my arse.

KSRT

Tessa with a budding tree. Botanists we are not.

KSRT

My attempts at pole sitting were short lived.

Wiliwilinui Summit

The untimely visit from Aunt Flo ended our cross-over at the 2,480′ summit.

Wiliwilinui Ridge

Going down the two and half mile trail to civilization.

Wiliwilinui Ridge

Erosion has taken a toll on the steps that line the hill as most of the dirt has washed away leaving the slats exposed and not too sturdy looking.

All pau

Mahalo to Art for picking us up and bringing us cold beverages which was particularly refreshing at the end of our 7.2 mile hike. Post hike meal at Kenko-ya where I brought more customers. Do I get a free sushi for my efforts?

Photos taken by 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.

It was time for another camping weekend in the mountains.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Lilyn for dropping me off to begin my brief solo hike. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pali Notches

I soon ran across a group of hikers who were climbing down the second notch. They asked me two questions. Have you done this before and where is the rock formation? I could only answer one of their questions to the best of my knowledge. I asked them what their route was through these mountains. They could not answer my question. Or more accurately, All Trails could not answer it for them.

Chimney

I then ran across another solo hiker, Joy, who climbed the “rock formation” with me and gave me a good scare coming around the contour. Luckily the other group decided to trust their gut intuition rather than All Trails and turned around.

Mud Wall

Watching Joy approach the mud wall with clear views of the Windward coastline and mountains behind her.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Crossed paths with two hikers who were planning on going down to the Pali from the Kalawahine Trail. Thanks to All Trails.

Konahuanui

Uncommonly clear views on top of the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Olomana

Watching paragliders soaring on the thermals as they drifted lazily through the sky.

K2

Joy descending down from the two large testicles.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Walking into a postcard painted by fluted flanks cascading from the crest of the Ko’olau Mountain Range. Photo by Joy Rodriguez.

Manoa Middle Summit

Panoramic views of Maunawili Valley and points beyond.

KSRT

Lost in a sea of green. Photo by Joy Rodriguez.

Castle Trail

Contouring our way below the ridge line where we soon met up with the Wa’ahila Ridge Trail where Joy decided to hike down to make her daughter’s ballet recital.

Awaawaloa

Summit view from the massive peak between Manoa and Palolo Valleys.

Ka’au Crater

Climbed down from the 2,486′ peak and soon approached the power lines that mark one of three tuff cones on the island.

Ka’au Crater

Looking down into the marsh filled crater. I was also asked if I was a crane repair man sent up here to fix something. Perhaps it had something to do with my work shirt, but still somewhat perplexed as to how a crane would find itself on top of these mountains.

KSRT

Looking into Palolo Valley and the other tuff cone which also happens to be the hardest hike on the island.

Kainawa’aunui

Taking a load off my feet on the 2,520′ summit after the short and stiff climb up the huge hill.

Pu’u Lanipo

My dream of hiking Lanipo Windward is slowly becoming a pipe dream.

KSRT

Descending down the ridge marked with power line towers and approaching the cell tower that marks Wiliwilinui ridge.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Many thanks to Chris, Dale and Sally that brought us chicken and water and stayed to share the sunset with us.

Camp Wili

We enjoyed a cold, clear and crisp night at the summit camp. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Wili

The morning cloud formations filtered and painted the skies and scenery. It was quite the show.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Art hiked up to join us at the top, carrying a couple of sodas and two legged and four legged hikers in tow.

KSRT

Leaving the 2,520′ summit behind us as we started another day of hiking in the mountains.

Wailupe Summit

What’s going on here? What happened to the prayer flags and the green sign?

KSRT

It’s always hump day in the mountains.

KSRT

Slightly overcast conditions kept us from overheating in the mountains. Photo by Art Young.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Somebody sounded faintly familiar at the 2,520′ knob.

KSRT

Hiking up the next hill to look for that flapping chicken. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kulepeamoa Summit

Never say never? Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

The hills have hills.

Kuli’ou’ou 2?

Isn’t this Pu’u O Kona? I have the same book as well you know. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

The debate was still not settled and with a lunch riding on the outcome, we left the questionable summit. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Art warned us to be careful on this eroded section and promptly reinforced it by falling down. Thanks Art!

KSRT

Tessa showing us how to safely cross the trail. Somebody needs to take notes.

KSRT

Scenic view of Waimanalo and points beyond. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Just missing the tent. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Art making his way to the sounding knee. Maybe creaking knees. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Met up with Aida, Bill, Narissa, Quan, Shirley and Tanya at the 2,028′ eroded hill.

KSRT

It was time to take our leave of the windy and overpopulated summit. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Aida on the exposed ridge before being swallowed up by the forest. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Hey, let’s leave an arrow made of sticks so the rest of the group goes down the right junction. One problem with that, they will have to notice it.

KSRT

Are we on the right trail? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

The group making their way down the set of powerline towers that straddle the ridgeline. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Did you see the arrow? What arrow?

Scenic point

Where did the other three go? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Contouring on the Windward side of the ridge that was thickly covered with pine needles and cones. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Hahaione Pyramid

Looking ahead to the roughly triangular shaped rock that predates the more famous ones located over 9,000 miles away.

KSRT

Some of us took the high road and others took the low road. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Taking in the Windward views on top of the small, flat topped hill. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Tessa climbing up the short rockface. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

Watching the rest of the group make their way up to the summit that Kamehameha Schools would like you to forget. Photo by Art Young

Kaluanui Summit

Lunch in the shade. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Back on the trail that alternated between stands of trees and exposed ridge. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Everybody waiting their turn to go down the printer cable. Yes, printer cable. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Contouring around the rock that nobody wanted to climb. Photo by Art Young.

Tom-Tom Summit

Passing the powerlines that marks the trail that drops down into Waimanalo. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Scrambling our way up and over the rockfaces that dominated the trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

The sun was taking a beating on us. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Headed up to the steep and shaded pine forest. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kamiloiki Summit

Planking at the shaded spot overlooking the Waimanalo coastline.

KSRT

Breaking out onto the exposed trail before plunging back into another stand of pine trees.

KSRT

Leaving the brief shade before getting another does of Vitamin D. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Dropping down into the depression. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Scrambling out of the saddle. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Taking a brief break on top of the small denuded hill before another small dip. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kamehame Road

Physical dehydration, fatigue and inducements of free dinner convinced us to end the hike early. Early being relative. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kamehame Road

I guess it was past closing time. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

All pau

End of the well trafficked road for us. Thanks to Chris for picking us up and feeding us with fast food.

GPS Tracks

Our hike depending who you went with and what routes one took, covered a little over 12 miles. Post hike meal at Pho time. It took time for some of us to get our food. Guess it wasn’t pho time for everybody. Fun hike with new and old friends.

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

May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. What better way to spend St. Patrick’s Day than in the verdant mountains of the Ko’olau’s? Now if we only had a Patrick with us. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Poamoho Road

Met up with the group at Allison’s house where we then shuttled to the trailhead, where Chris inspected a Volvo parked on the side. Safe but no 4×4 capability. Let’s just wait for Olivier.

Truck selfie

Somebody wanted a group photo on the bumpy road, so I fished my GoPro out of my backpack and obliged with this very clear and detailed picture.

Stranger danger

You can’t sweet talk us lady, you’re still not riding in the cab with us.

Trailhead

Hunters were unloading their dogs near the trail sign, so we stayed back just in case any of us reeked of swine stench. Group photo by Olivier Rojas, left to right: Chris, Allison, Laredo, Ani, Janell and myself. Mahalo to Olivier for the ride up the jeep road.

Poamoho Trail

Laredo peeled off his jacket, so my brain finally registered that rainbow man was hiking with us.

Poamoho Trail

Heading into the gulch.

Poamoho Summit

We were greeted at the 2,520′ hump with piercing sun beams and suspended pollution particles that muted the mountains and valleys below us.

Poamoho Summit

Hanging a right at the Cline memorial to begin our trek on the KST.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Opening the gate to where the country is still country. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

KST

Contouring below the fence line as the views continued to stay with us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Some of us took the fence line while others took the original KST, but we all ended up in the same place.

KST

Laredo opening the gate for the ladies.

KST

Following the trail as it bended its way through the mountains.

KST

Making our way through the rolling terrain dotted by ohia trees in varying states of decay and growth.

Boot Junction

I always wondered who left the boot here?

KST

No fence sitters here. We all know where we are going.

KST

Panoramic view of the mountains and valleys below us. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

KST

Leaving the fenced meadows behind us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Hiking on the fenced periphery of the native plants. Photo by Chris Bautista

KST

Chris spotted a native lobelia jutting out from the side of the cliff below us, its isolated existence shelters it from close contact.

KST

One of many short ups and downs, helped or hindered by the fence line? Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

The girls crossing over another gate in the fence line. Keep to the left to our destination. Keep to the right to explore.

Opae’ula Cabin

Looking at the four star hotel in the distance.

KST

Janell’s baptism by mud. She took it like a champ.

Junction

Somebody doesn’t look too happy.

KST

Hopping over the gate to continue our hike on the muddy trail. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

KST

The group meandering their way through the mountains.

Papali Junction

Time to leave the KST.

Mud pits

Some of us chose to cling to the fence, while others gave the gift that keeps on giving a wide berth.

Castle Falls

We hopped the fence to catch a glimpse of the waterfalls that always seems to be flowing.

Papali Trail

Checking out the coastline views.

Castle Junction

Going off the reservation or was it the other way around? Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Allison and Laredo coming down the trail who were easily identified by the bright white shirt and bare skin.

Castle Trail

Janell snacking on the leaf base of the ubiquitous uki grass.

Castle Trail

Heading down into the hanging valley. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Passing through a clump of moss-ified trees.

Castle Trail

The trail down was peppered with miniature landslides and blowdowns that textured the terrain.

Castle Trail

Random trail meetings. Photos by Chris Bautista.

Kaluanui Stream

Standing in the stream that collects and cascades down multiple waterfalls before terminating at Kaliuwa’a Falls.

Kaluanui Stream

Stream life.

Kaluanui Shelter

I wonder if this shelter is built near the original redwood framed tin roofed cabin that was established in the 1930s?

Kaluanui Shelter

Sheltered life.

Castle Trail

Leaving the stream as we climbed up the trail.

Castle Trail

Making our way out of the hanging valley.

Castle Trail

Walking underneath a stand of moss-ified trees.

Castle Trail

The fence line has continued its migratory spread and shows no sign of slowing down.

Castle Trail

Passing through the notch on our way down.

Castle Trail

Bushwhacking our way down the Pig God trail.

Castle Trail

“The finest view on the island if it doesn’t rain, only it always rains.” 1946 HTMC schedule. Today it didn’t rain. Photo by Allison Banks.

Castle Trail

We cut out a lot of the vegetation choked switchbacks by going straight down a spur ridge. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Looking back at the notch in the mountains.

Castle Trail

Somebody’s skin seemed impervious to all that clawing and intrusive overgrowth.

Castle Trail

Looking for a four leaf clover in all the wrong colors and genus.

Castle Trail

The ridge eventually petered out and returned us to the overgrown switchbacks.

Castle Trail

Crossing over one of multiple boulder strewn runoffs from the mountain.

Castle Trail

Tree huggers are proliferating on these trails like so many strawberry guava trees. Photo by Ani Lagpacan.

Castle Trail

Heading down into the valley that once was golden colored from all the rice paddies that were once tilled by Chinese immigrants.

Punalu’u Valley

Speak softly and carry a big stick, especially when there are loose dogs running around and you go down the wrong road. Photo by Chris Bautista.

All pau

Janell doing her best impersonation of a speed bump. Many thanks to Jasmin and Quan for picking us up.

GPS Tracks

Somebody’s dream hike covered 14.2 miles through verdant mountains, muddy trails and lush valleys. Fun hike with a great group. Post hike meal at El Chile Relleno where they still give unlimited chips and salsa.

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

Chris and I spent the Labor Day weekend backpacking in the mountains. Thanks to Daryl for dropping us off.

Hau’ula Valley

Passing the revolving wall of graffiti.

Ma’akua Ridge Trail

Leaving the road behind us.

Bench

Views of the Hau’ula coastline and Laie Point to our left.

Papali Ridge

We left the loop trail to continue the climb up the ridge.

Papali Ridge

Gaining elevation through the uluhe ferns, which were surprisingly trimmed back. We found out later that some fellow hiking friends had cleared it earlier for their upcoming backpacking hike. Lucky us.

Papali Ridge

Humping up the rollercoaster ridge.

Papali Ridge

We followed the ridge line as it curved to the left towards the mountains.

Papali Ridge

Looking ahead to the saddle crossing.

Papali Ridge

Even our boonie hats took a break in the field of flowers.

Papali Ridge

Looking back at the sweeping views of the Windward coastline.

Papali Ridge

Our first contact with the sprawling fence line.

Castle Junction

The trail down to Kaluanui Stream. Not today.

Papali Ridge

Hiking through the wide open swath made possible by the recently installed fence line.

Castle Falls

We hopped over the fence to take in a brief look at this waterfall nestled back in the valley.

Papali Ridge

Passing a moss-ified ohia tree on the trail.

Papali Ridge

Strolling to the summit.

Papali Junction

Standing on the Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST).

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

We meet again. Last time we saw this particular pua’a (pig), it had recently passed and was lying next to a tree on the other side of the fence. Somebody staked its skull to the fence post.

Trail

Going off the reservation. The KST reservation.

Mud pits

Trying my (un)successful best to avoid sinking into the mud. At least I didn’t sink waist deep, like on one of our last visits. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trail

Chris pausing to soak in the views of the Waianae Mountains.

Opae’ula Cabin

We arrived at the recently painted cabin shortly before 3pm. What time is check in?

Opae’ula Cabin

It was one of the best feelings to exchange our mud soaked shoes for slippers, that I just had to jump for joy. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Opae’ula Cabin

Watching the sun rays poking through the clouds and dancing across the land.

Opae’ula Cabin

Fiery sunset on the North Shore.

Opae’ula Cabin

Cabin life lit by a flickering candle that needs to be replaced soon.

Opae’ula Cabin

Morning bowel movement view.

Opae’ula Cabin

We checked out at 8am. Mahalo for the hospitality!

Trail

Extreme hula hooping. Forget plastic hoops, hikers do it with metal hoops.

Trail

Following the fence back to the gate.

Ko’olau Summit Trail (KST)

Back on the KST. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

The rugged peaks of Manamana, Kanehoalani and Ohulehule poking out above the ridge line.

KST

Chris passing through another gate.

KST

It was a beautiful day to be in the mountains.

KST

Chris dropped down the fence line to follow the barely moist stream bed.

Trail

Standing on top of a trickling waterfall. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Jaw dropping views of the valleys kept us company.

Fence Meadows

Crossing the fence to get to the other fence.

Peahinaia Trail

Talks of exploring the overgrown and presumably lost trail soon fizzled out.

Boot Junction

Seated and waiting to try on a pair of boots. Make that singular. Shoelaces not included.

KST

Heading back into the jungle of uluhell ferns and assorted shrubs and trees.

KST

The fence line soon split into two forks. Which one to take?

KST

Outside the fence line.

KST

Inside the fence line.

KST

The contour below the ridge line is now fenced off. The gate is there if you look hard enough, otherwise climb over the fence.

KST

Hikers version of the fidget spinner.

KST

Chris getting off the ridge and fence line.

Poamoho Summit

Pitching tent at the summit for strictly photographic purposes.

Poamoho Summit

Chris climbed the hill to catch a better perspective.

Poamoho Summit

Clear day at the 2,520′ summit.

Poamoho Summit

Chris standing on one of the spur ridges looking down into the stunning valley views.

Cline Memorial

Leaving the breathtaking summit. I think over two hours was enough.

Poamoho Trail

Passing the gulch on our right.

Poamoho Trail

Transitioning from the unmaintained to the maintained trail.

Poamoho Trail

The trail going down was surprisingly bone dry. No complaints here.

Trailhead

Is that our ride? Wishful thinking.

Plantation Road

I switched to auto pilot going down the mentally and physically numbing road. One foot in front of the other. Repeat until needed.

Plantation Road

Our forward progress was momentarily halted by a rather large black cow that had planted herself squarely in the middle of the road and wasn’t budging. I waited for Chris to catch up as he had shed his red shirt as some cows were following him. We soon edged around the cow to resume walking down the road and thought we had saw the last of that heifer. We were sadly mistaken. Taking a break at the second gate, we heard loud bellowing and saw the same black cow had followed us! We climbed through the barbed wire to the other road and the cow soon lost interest.

All pau

No sign of the black cow. The red ninja hiker kept us safe. Mahalo to Dale and Kamalani for picking us up on short notice.

GPS Tracks

Our two day hike through some of the most scenic trails on the island covered 16.72 miles. Not a bad way to spend the weekend with good company. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse. Prime rib is what’s for dinner. Moooo!

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, Glenn, Huckett, Kristina, Stuart and Tina to take a walk where the country is still country. The rugged Northern Ko’olaus.

Trailhead

Have permits, will hike.

Laie Trail

The group making their way over the eroded trail section. A dirt biker’s paradise.

Laie Trail

The sun washing over the group coming up the dirt road. Photo by Derek Potter.

Laie Trail

Root level with the grove of Norfolk Pine Trees. The technical start of the trail. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Laie Trail

Glenn popping out of the corridor of strawberry guava trees and into the sunlight.

Laie Trail

We followed the graded ridge trail as the invasive forest slowly switched to mostly endemic forest.

Laie Trail

Crossing the Ko’olau Summit Trail to get to the top. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Laie Summit

Summit view at 2,240′ overlooking the town of Laie. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Laie Summit

Group photo at the foxhole, left to right: Ethan, Kristina, Stuart, Glenn, myself, Derek, Tina, Huckett and Chris.

KST

The summit air was chilly, so it was time to walk it off.

KST

A study in contrasts. Native loulu palm trees dotted the mountains, while invasive wind turbines populated the hills of Kahuku. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

KST

Crossing the bowl shaped depression to eventually meet up …

KST

… with the familiar fence.

KST

Looking back.

KST

Coming around the bend. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

KST

Mud up to your ankles was promised. And delivered. And then some. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Open country. Fenced country.

KST

Why did the hikers cross the fence? To get to the cabin.

Koloa Cabin

Cabin life. Boarded. Dental hygiene is the key to a happy mouth.

Koloa Cabin

Group photo at the cabin. Taking a photographic memory as the cabin log is gone, so we couldn’t leave any written memories behind.

KST

Picking up the trail from where we left off.

KST

Climbing into and out of a small notch. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Passing the rope that lead to somewhere. We were not going somewhere.

KST

The group crossing through a small meadow.

KST

The trail meandered to the Windward side …

KST

… and back to the Leeward side.

KST

Almost to the home stretch. But first, another stretch of mud. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

End to end views of the rugged Waianae Mountain Range.

KST

Almost there. See the fence?

Papali Junction

Group photo at the rubber slippah junction. Rumor has it that a certain king lost a pair in this same area.

Papali Ridge

Only two hours to the valley floor. Right Chris?

Papali Ridge

Just when Tina thought she left the mud all behind her. Think again. Knee deep mud.

Papali Ridge

Looking down the ridge. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Papali Ridge

The unabated fencing of the mountains continues.

Castle Falls

Just follow your ears.

Papali Ridge

When the fence becomes a ladder. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Junction

Hold that gate.

Castle Trail

Passing clumps of mossy covered trees as we made our way down the trail.

Castle Trail

Leap of faith. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

The trail soon dumped us into the cold and clear waters of Kaluanui Stream.

Kaluanui Stream

Stream life. Washing. Drinking. Tenting. Eating.

Kaluanui Stream

Group photo at the stream that feeds Sacred Falls.

Kaluanui Stream

Tour helicopters buzzing overhead us. Nothing to see here. Fly along folks. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

Huckett passing through the notch. What notch?

Castle Trail

We all had to pause and soak in the stunning valley views. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

Looking back. See the notch?

Castle Trail

Making our way down the spur ridge that cut out most of the middle man switchbacks.

Castle Trail

So, that’s what they call it. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

Castle Trail

Stuart making his down the mostly cleared trail.

Castle Trail

The detour stops here.

Castle Trail

Tina walking along the fern draped cliff.

Castle Trail

Avocado pickers, Chris and Derek, climbed and harvested a mountain souvenir for each of us. It was delish.

Castle Trail

Passing over a landslide area.

Castle Trail

Walking through a corridor of strawberry guava trees.

Castle Trail

What hike wouldn’t be complete without wading through a patch of uluhe ferns? Exactly.

Castle Trail

The long road out of the valley that was made short …

Castle Trail

… by a pick up truck. Photo by Stuart Krempin.

All pau

Thanks to the friendly farmer that gave us a lift out of the valley.

GPS Tracks

Our country hike covered 17.64 miles over some of the most rugged and beautiful terrain to be found in the mountains. Great grinder with a great group. Post hike meal at North Shore Tacos. Beats the run to the border any day.

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.

2:00am. What was I doing up so early on a Sunday morning? Boy’s Day? No, it was to join David and the crew of J, Tom, Ted, Yoshi, Randy, Troy, Chenay, Kinky and Gerwin to hike the last segment that David needed to complete the entire Koolau Mountains. We staged some cars at Laie and met at the Hauula 7-11 parking lot. Here we are, all nice and dry. That would change at the end of the day, or should I say night? Photo left to right: Tom, Yoshi, J (sitting), Troy, Ted, myself, David, Kinky, Randy and Gerwin. Photo by Chenay Borja.

Hauula sunrise

After we recovered from mis-communication issues and re-grouped, we all struck out a little after 6:00am as the sun rose through scattered clouds.

Early hunters gets the pigs

As we made our way down Hauula Homestead Road, we noticed a bunch of hunters with their dogs that were already at the gates.

Ma’akua Ridge Trail

We let the dogs and hunters pass us by as they went straight to the Hauula Loop Trail and we turned left onto the Ma’akua Ridge Trail.

Sunrise stop

After crossing a dry stream bed and going up several switchbacks, we took a short break at one of the benches that were installed on the trail. From here, we took the right junction to get on the Papali Ridge Trail.

Rainbow

Checking out a rainbow to our right in the Ma’akua Valley, as we made our way up the trail. Usually, rainbows come after the rain. So it should be dry weather ahead. Wishful thinking.

Where is the trail?

A taste of things to come, as we went through knee-high ferns and vegetation.

Tree rest

One doesn’t necessarily always have to sit down to take a rest, you can be like Yoshi and lean against a tree.

Trail clearing needed

The trail on Papali Ridge while slightly overgrown, is clearly marked and seems well-traveled.

Checking out …

So far, Mother Nature was giving us a respite from the rains that frequently visit the area.

… the view

Looking out to Laie and beyond.

Rolling hills

Crossing a saddle amongst the rolling hills of the Northern Koolaus.

Almost there!

Making our way up to a small hill with an outstanding view waiting for us.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Castle trail

We soon left the Papali Ridge and connected to the Castle Trail. Technically, access to Castle Trail from Punaluu Valley has been forbidden for quite some time. HTMC had legal access, but that was just recently revoked by the Bishop Estate due to over-exposure and liability concerns.

Castle Falls

According to Randy, Castle Falls was the highlight of the HTMC hike when it was legally sanctioned. We all had a mere 30 seconds or so to view the falls before the clouds robbed us of the view. Then somebody turned on the sprinklers.

Lunch

While waiting for the rest of the group to come back from looking at the falls, I noticed J taking his usual macro shots and tried my hand at it. Not as good.

Mud galore

 This section of the trail had shoe sucking mud. I hate mud.

KST!

We reached the Koolau Summit Trail at around noon, all cold and wet.

Lost

Even with GPS tracks, we got off the beaten path a couple of times. The Northern Koolau section is mostly broad with rolling hills and numerous spur ridges branching off. It’s very easy to get lost up here. Being socked in didn’t help either. What does help, is to have a bunch of seasoned hikers who will eventually figure out how to get back on the beaten path.

We’re on the right fence

The trail soon ran into a fenced off area, meant to keep out feral pigs and goats.

Koloa cabin

We hopped the fence to take a look at the Koloa cabin, which appears to still be under construction. It was still good enough to have a roof to keep out the rain as we took shelter inside.

It’s not the Ritz

It felt so good to lie down on something solid and dry, even if it was only for a couple minutes. Photo by David Concepion.

Last call

A simple touch of civilization in the Koolau mountains.

That’s the way!

We followed the fence as it roller coastered up and down, until somebody realized we had overshot the junction to Laie. Go back! We then went back to the junction and followed the trail until it passed a heli-pad and a small meadow which we crossed.

Laie summit

Top of Laie summit at 6:30pm. Congrats to David for finally completing the entire Koolau’s. An accomplishment I hope to repeat one of these days. We still had five more miles to go, but it was all downhill. In the rain. Always a catch. Photo by Francis Joy.

Time to turn the lights on

Five of the mountain goats – J, Ted, Tom, Yoshi and Randy ran down most of the five mile trail. The rest of us just hiked it down, using headlamps for about the last two hours. We made it back to our cars around 9:30pm. This was a long day, an understatement at best. But what a hike!

GPS tracks

The 15.6 mile hike took us 15 1/2 hours to complete. Cold, wet and tired. But glad to have completed my first hike on the Koolau Summit Trail.