Throwback. The mountains were calling and we must go. Or was that Heaven? Hope it wasn’t the other dark and dank place.

Moanalua Valley

We all met up in the valley that was once owned by Samuel Mills Damon who inherited it from Bernice Pauahi Bishop in 1884. The C&C employee promptly opened the gates to the park at 0700. Mahalo.

Kamananui Valley Road Trail

Crossing over one of seven bridges built to accommodate the horse drawn carriages of the Damon family back in the day.

Kamananui Valley Road Trail

Kenny checking out the “stone of the old woman.” This boulder carved with petroglyphs stopped the H3 construction in its tracks. It was of course re-routed through Halawa Valley at an insane cost of $1.3 billion and took 37 years from planning to completion in 1997. The current Skyline will easily exceed the time and money spent.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Plunging into the trail intersected with 28 stream crossings and tangled thickets of hau branches.

Kulana’ahane Trail

One of multiple stream crossings.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Short and sweet cardio climb up the spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

We caught up with Jace, Allie and Samuel at the terminus who had mistakenly taken the wrong ridge to their destination. Saddle. Ridge. Tomato. Tomatoe.

Moanalua Saddle

Our group remained the same in numbers, but the composition was slightly different as Jace replaced Kenny in the group.

Moanalua Saddle

Jeremy climbing up the direct path as he upheld the three core values of the Corps. Courage, Commitment and Honor. Semper Fi. Besides, he didn’t want to hear those motivating words from Gunnery Sergeant Hartman. “Are you quitting on me? Well, are you? Then quit, you slimy fucking walrus-looking piece of shit! Get the fuck off of my obstacle! Get the fuck down off of my obstacle! NOW! MOVE IT! Or I’m going to rip your balls off, so you cannot contaminate the rest of the world! I will motivate you, Pvt. Pyle, EVEN IF IT SHORT-DICKS EVERY CANNIBAL ON THE CONGO!”

Moanalua Saddle

Deborah electing to take the Leeward contour. She wasn’t in the military.

Moanalua Saddle

The group clinging on the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Regaining the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way towards the triangular shaped obstacle that lay in our path.

Dirt Triangle

Contoured on the right to climb the flank of the cliff while keeping our footholds and handholds firm to avoid sliding down the hill.

Dirt Triangle

One at a time. Falling rocks for everybody behind. Climbing helmets optional.

Dirt Triangle

Deborah pulling herself up, one step at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing over small rocks to get to bigger rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Slow and steady will get you across the finish line.

Moanalua Saddle

A curious helicopter with no markings buzzed us briefly and peeled off as the weather conditions worsened.

Moanalua Saddle

This was probably the most fractured and crumbly section of the saddle. Every visit shows a different character of the saddle as it constantly changes due to weather and traffic.

Moanalua Saddle

Now that we didn’t have any aerial gawkers, we could safely concentrate on climbing up this near vertical section.

Moanalua Saddle

Deborah slowly making her way up on the crumbly rocks, checking it twice, gonna found out which rocks are naughty and nice.

Moanalua Saddle

Six faces of determination. One even had a good sized rock fall in his lap. More determination.

Moanalua Saddle

All the “technical” sections were behind us. Just had to look forward to hiking in the rain.

Moanalua Saddle

We decided to have a quick bite to eat at the first landing.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the ladder to see first hand the results of the “Brazilian wax” that stripped most of the metal from the ‘aina.

Moanalua Saddle

Going down to the second landing. Back in the day, each landing had an A-frame that in total hung five suspended antenna cables across the amphitheater shaped valley that was used by the US Navy to communicate with far flung ships and submarines in the Pacific.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the CCL building that was built to house emergency communication back-up for the ground communications link during WW2. The twin microwave antennas on top of the building were installed after the war ended, for use by the US Air Force and later the US Coast Guard.

CCL Building

Group photo at the terminus for the storied 3,922 steps, count is actually less as people have stripped some of them for souvenirs, that make up the Stairway to Heaven. You can thank Bill Adams and Louis Otto who climbed the seemingly insurmountable cliffs in two weeks to lay the foundation for the original wooden Haiku Ladder in 1942. The fate of the stairs is tied up in the courts as FHS and the City both have opposing agendas.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We left the summit of Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe to continue our traverse on the muddy ridge line.

KSRT

Leaving the defunct radar station in the clouds and rain.

KSRT

Passing multiple sets of power line towers that transfer power from East to Windward.

Kaho’omoe’ihikapulani

Last group photo of the day at the summit most commonly referred to as Tripler, for obvious reasons.

Tripler Ridge

We left the 2,706′ peak and the clouds and rain as sunshine and other company soon greeted us on the trail.

Tripler Ridge

Going off the ridge and descending down the “End of Valley” trail. There used to be a green HTMC sign that marked the junction, now the only visual reminder is a weathered rope. Perhaps a victim of weather or scavengers.

Moanalua Valley

Hitting the valley floor that is initially covered in head high ginger plants and California grass.

Moanalua Valley

We soon met up with a patient Kenny who had been waiting for us at the Kulana’ahane Junction and we walked out the long road together.

All pau

Our day in the mountains covered 10.66 miles through inclement and sunny weather made bearable by hearty company. Post hike meal at Wendy’s so that the carnivores could join us. One to eat and one to socialize.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Deborah Tom, Jace Quinata, Jeremy Cannone, Kenny Lui, Scott Peterson, Tessa Bugay and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We did a saddle too far, for some today.

Moanalua Valley

Meeting with others that had already come down from their sunrise visit to the stairs.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Crossing over one of seven storied bridges that were built for the Damon family when they used to own the entire valley that was bequeathed by Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop.

Kamananui Valley Trail

We ran into Barry who had come to say his final farewell to the iconic stairs.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Impromptu history lesson on the nearby rock of the old woman, Pohaku ka Luahine, that stopped the H3 highway from being built through this valley. In 1965, the State determined that out of four options: Moanalua corridor, Kalihi corridor, Kalihi alternate, and Nu’uanu corridor; that Moanalua was the most viable one. Protests and lawsuits served to further stall construction, until in 1977, the US DOT directed the State of Hawaii to look at other routes through Halawa Valley, despite their protests that no “reasonable and prudent” alternatives to Moanalua Valley exist.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of the saddle, I will fear no drop, for you are with me; your rappelling gear and your webbing, they comfort me.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Matt giving directions to tourists who had lost their way to the stairs.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going over one of two dozen or so stream crossings in the valley. Who’s keeping count?

Kulana’ahane Trail

Heading deeper into the back of the valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Climbing up the short and steep spur ridge with the trickling Moanalua Falls in the background.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Allison warming up for the saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Agnes approaching the terminus which straddles the sloping saddle of Moanalua.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Deep thoughts. Daily affirmation. I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me!

Kulana’ahane Summit

Matt demonstrating how being harnessed up will work to a highly receptive audience.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Shall we go while the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak?

Moanalua Saddle

The first few steps are always the hardest.

Moanalua Saddle

Point of no return. Allison gave it the old college try. Props to her for getting this far out of her comfort zone. Sandra and Allison would retrace their steps back down after they saw us off.

Moanalua Saddle

The rest of us continued climbing up to what I call the baby triangle which is before the dirt triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes and Matt coming up the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up one crumbly rock at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Watching our steps as we contoured up to the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Matt bringing up the rear.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes walking down the wide runway.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing on the Leeward side of the dirt triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes making her way up the near vertical section.

Moanalua Saddle

Eye in the sky.

Moanalua Saddle

The face you make when you reach the top.

Moanalua Saddle

Drone view from afar.

Moanalua Saddle

Drone view up close.

Moanalua Saddle

Matt pulling himself up.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the “cliff” section.

Moanalua Saddle

So close, yet so “far.”

Moanalua Saddle

Matt starting his climb up the “cliff” section.

Moanalua Saddle

Who said it was a good idea for somebody to go down the saddle?

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the stream that feeds Moanalua Falls.

Moanalua Saddle

Somebody was looking for a native bird. Not a dodo bird.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the saddle stairs.

Moanalua Saddle

Soon, this view with the stairs will be but a memory.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes about to make her way through the tree tunnel.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up to the cloud shrouded CCL Building.

CCL Building

Matt taking a last sip of water before staying the night to rappel Moanalua Falls the next day.

CCL Building

Our last group photo together as Matt was staying the night. He preferred the company of a dark and dank place.

Haiku Stairs

Somebody had taken the last step of the stairs home before it gets ripped off the mountain. Great minds think alike.

Haiku Stairs

Making memories in the mountains.

Haiku Stairs

There’s a lady who’s sure all is gone. And she’s hiking Stairway to Heaven before it’s really gone.

Haiku Stairs

Oh-oh-oh-oh-whoa.

Haiku Stairs

Ooh, it makes me wonder. Ooh, I will really miss this wonder.

Haiku Stairs

In a house on the ridge,

Haiku Stairs

there’s a view that sings.

Haiku Stairs

Sometimes the handshakers are misgiven about the stairs.

Haiku Stairs

The voices of those who stand looking while hiking outside the stairs.

Haiku Stairs

Dear Amber, can you hear the weak cheehoos blow? And did you know your stairway lies on the whispering wind of legal recourse?

Haiku Stairs

There’s still time to change the road we’re on. If not, some shall hike on the ridge itself.

Haiku Stairs

There’s a feeling I get when I look to the East. And my spirit is crying for leaving. But I’ll be back to hike that ridge next over.

Haiku Stairs

And a new day will dawn for those who have stood on the stairs. And the forests will echo with silence. Except for the highway sounds from the nearby H3 highway.

Haiku Stairs

There’s signs on the barricade, but she wants to be sure. ‘Cause you know sometimes words have two meanings. Go stay go.

All pau

Walking on the access road, we noticed multiple branches on the ground that were seemingly not the work of Mother Nature. Hmmm.

Postscript

Sandra decided to go up the stairs one last time with Matt’s group of friends who were planning to all meet up at the top. Agnes and I ate at Alley Restaurant for our post hike meal. Salamat for the oxtail soup and crunch cakes. Great hike with good people.

Postscript

The stairs at twilight.

Postscript

Sun setting behind the mountains and the stairs itself.

Postscript

View of Kaneohe Bay at night.

Postscript

The Hoist House under natural and artificial illumination.

Postscript

Good night from the mountains.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Allison Banks, Matt Vidaurri, Sandra Walter, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

The original plan was to head West, but with the impending demise of the iconic stairs, some in the group wanted to visit it for one last time.

Haiku Valley

We all gathered at Allison’s place, some had a bite of pizza to eat and then shook the papaya trees on our way down the hill. Just needed some chickens and moringa leaves to round out the pot.

Haiku Valley

Jasper seeing us off on the trail.

Haiku Valley

Who brings a bag to the hike? Must be his superhero costume packed inside.

Haiku Valley

Leaving the relative obscurity of the bamboo forest as we made our way out.

Haiku Valley

Somebody would rather do the photographing instead of being the one photographed as we hit the access road.

Haiku Valley

Walking on the road less traveled. We hope.

Haiku Valley

Can you smell that? Is that Cheech and Chong near the abandoned shack?

Haiku Valley

Group photo under the shadow of the H3 highway at the entrance to the stairs.

Haiku Valley

Workers used to ride in this cable car to the peak, climbing Haiku Ladders was not the preferred option. Photo taken by Dave Jessup, Ted Urquhart, and John Flanigan.

Haiku Stairs

Is that a welcome sign greeting us?

Haiku Stairs

Who needs hiking shoes? Not Darryl. No socks to wash.

Haiku Stairs

The first stair module had already been removed by Nakoa Companies in preparation for the eventual dismantlement of the entire stairs.

Haiku Stairs

Circumventing around the structure which was invented by Charles Barnard in 1844.

Haiku Stairs

The rest of the group making their way around the chain link fence and slippery rocks.

Haiku Stairs

Going up the longest incline stretch of the stairs. Following in the footsteps of Bill Adams and Louis Otto, the Navy sailors who pioneered the route and climbed to the peak in 21 days back in 1942.

Haiku Stairs

Hikers practicing proper trail etiquette.

Haiku Stairs

We ran across Aileen, Haig and Lennard who had climbed up earlier to bear witness to a denied sunrise.

Haiku Stairs

Mona looking back towards the ridge that is home to Stairway to Hell.

Haiku Stairs

Allison navigating through the twisted sister section of the stairs that was damaged in a landslide back in February of 2015. The death of the stairs was greatly exaggerated by the fourth estate.

Haiku Stairs

Akira and Sandra with the backdrop of the H3 highway as it disappears into the Ko’olau Mountains. The Tetsuo Harano tunnels are 4,980′ long Kaneohe bound and 5,165′ Halawa bound.

Haiku Stairs

A day late and a dollar short. One is supposed to stretch before the hike. Better late than never.

Haiku Stairs

What’s that saying? “In a group, you only need to be faster than the slowest one to escape.”

Haiku Stairs

Group photo on the first platform.

Haiku Stairs

Back in 2020, a group over several days carried and assembled a trampoline on the first platform. While they got a lot of heat for it, nobody was hurt and it was all taken down the same day. No fuss, no muss.

Haiku Stairs

Tessa climbing down so that others may get their 15 minutes of IG fame.

Haiku Stairs

Chico on Profile Rock.

Haiku Stairs

Anybody missing a phone?

Haiku Stairs

One of the last known sightings of the endemic Lobelia gaudichaudii or Ko’olau Range lobelia circa 2011. A survey conducted in 2018 concluded that none of the woody shrubs no longer existed in the area. Photo provided by Sean Pager, Friends of Haiku Stairs.

Haiku Stairs

Practicing for when the stairs will no longer be here.

Haiku Stairs

Climbing our way to heaven.

Haiku Stairs

Enjoying the expansive views while we can.

Haiku Stairs

People perceive that you have a good chance of having a higher IQ when seen wearing glasses. However, without the lens, the pendulum swings the other way.

Haiku Stairs

Passing Chris on his way down the stairs. He had come up from Moanalua Saddle as he preferred hiking the safe route.

Haiku Stairs

Sandra at the top of the next platform.

Haiku Stairs

Hello from the next ridge over! Akira and I decided to check out the thin ridge which could have used a set of stairs.

Haiku Stairs

Going up the short flight of stairs to the Hoist House.

Haiku Stairs

This one is off the Scoville chart.

Hoist House

Never stop exploring. Ridge for another day.

Hoist House

Outside looking in.

Hoist House

Inside looking out.

Hoist House

There were not any available trees to climb, so the boys made do with what they had on hand.

Hoist House

Akira climbing over the roofless shelter.

Hoist House

How the structure looked back in the day. Photo taken by Dave Jessup, Ted Urquhart, and John Flanigan.

Hoist House

Leaving the graffitied building behind us.

Haiku Stairs

Have big hand to fill.

Haiku Stairs

Foot not big enough either.

Haiku Ladder

The original stairs known as Haiku Ladder, was constructed out of wood and later replaced by galvanized metal in 1955. Some of the original wood ladder sections are still scattered at the bottom of the hill. The Navy maintained the radio site from 1943 to 1970 and then it was reconfigured as part of the OMEGA radio navigation system from 1971 to 1997 and managed by the Coast Guard, where it was eventually shut down due to the advent of GPS which rendered the OMEGA system obsolete. The City acquired ownership in 1997 and spent $875,000 to fix the stairs in 2002 to eventually open it up to the public. However; the issues of access, trespassing and liability stalled any chances of opening the hike to the public. The Honolulu City Council voted unanimously in 2021 to remove the stairs after decades of misinformation, neighborhood complaints about trespassing hikers, lobbyists using their influence, multiple landowners that failed to come to a consensus and nobody wanting to take ownership of the stairs. The powers that be just wanted the “problem” to go away. Mayor Blangiardi announced in April of 2024 that Nakoa Companies was awarded a $2.6 million contract to take down the entire stairs. The same company that fixed the stairs in 1997 and took down the swing in 2016. Something finally happened, but not in favor of the hiking community. Photo taken by Dave Jessup, Ted Urquhart, and John Flanigan.

Haiku Stairs

Climbing up the last steep section.

Haiku Stairs

Looking down at the rest of the group making their way up.

Haiku Stairs

Approaching the CCL (Communications Control Link) Building and the terminus of the 3,922 steps. The count is actually less due to people taking steps home as souvenirs.

Haiku Stairs

Chris coming back up from the stairs.

Haiku Swing

Somebody had constructed a chain swing between the two poles at the summit circa 2015, however, due to a viral video in 2016 that showed a hiker slipping from the seat and dangling near a seemingly precipitous drop, which was just camera angles, the city swiftly took down only the poles the next day as an intrepid group of hikers had earlier taken down the swing. Urban legend has it that the swing is sitting in somebody’s yard.

CCL Building

Three of us decided to climb up to the moss slicked concrete roof that are home to the now defunct microwave antennae.

CCL Building

Sandra wanted to leave a lei on the antenna structure as the winds and rain shook and swept the area.

CCL Building

Rain soaked view of the top of the structure.

CCL Building

The rest of the group had retired to seek refuge from the sweeping rain showers as the unmasked hero cooked banana lumpia for us.

CCL Building

Champagne and Banana Lumpia at the summit. Where’s the Coke?

CCL Building

Some tourist was being frisked and somebody was being frisky. Hey, I thought that was Spider-Man’s job!

CCL Building

Group photo inside the structure. Spasiba!

CCL Building

Back in the day, the building housed equipment that provided emergency communication back-up for the ground link with Pearl Harbor, Ford Island Naval Air Station, Wahiawa Naval Radio Station and Lualualei Naval Radio Station. Now, Spider-Man uses it to hang out with his friends.

CCL Building

Our group photo at Stairway to Heaven at 2,820′ elevation.

Stairway to Heaven

The stairs gained even more publicity when it was featured in the Magnum PI episode “J. “Digger” Doyle” that aired back in 1981. The 15 minutes of fame is probably what lead to the decision by the US Coast Guard to shut it down in 1987 after the stairs were trashed and vandalized.

Haiku Stairs

Back outside to play in the rain as we made our way back down.

Haiku Stairs

Goodbyes are always hard. For some, harder than others.

Haiku Stairs

Coming down the cloud and rain soaked Stairway to Heaven.

Haiku Stairs

Approaching the Hoist House on our way down.

Haiku Stairs

Descending down the stairs as we dropped in elevation and gained the views back at the expense of the clouds.

Haiku Stairs

By some conservative estimates, thousands of hikers make the climb up and down the stairs annually. Despite erroneous claims that the stairs are dangerous, there has never been a single death on the stairs, except one person that died of a heart attack in 2012. According to HFD’s own statistics, 41 people needed to be rescued from the stairs during a period from 2010-2022. That averages out to three rescues a year. In contrast, Diamond Head in 2022 saw 40 rescues alone in just a year’s period.

Profile Rock

Mona soaking in the views one last time? Perhaps.

Haiku Stairs

One of the most asinine comments made by a local politician came from City Councilwoman Esther Kiaaina who stated in April 2024, that the removal of the stairs will restore the beauty of the scenery. “This is a manmade contraption on a natural valley,” said Kiaaina. “Restoring the valley and providing a natural setting so that people could remember what Haiku valley was.” Well, she might as well advocate for removing the major eyesores that have marred the beauty of the amphitheater valley and its surrounding areas. Namely, the homes and H3 highway to name a few. The saying “follow the money” to trace political corruption and influence rings true in this case. Of the five council members up for reelection in 2024, Esther Kiaaina collected the most money at about $79,000, according to her campaign filing. One has to wonder if any of her donors have a stake in the stairs removal? Enquiring minds want to know.

Haiku Stairs

If GPS hadn’t made the OMEGA station obsolete in 1997, there would have been a steel mesh cage that would have covered the H3 highway through the valley. It was thought that the electromagnetic waves would interfere with anybody that had a heart pacemaker. Talk about timing, otherwise the valley would have looked completely different than it does today.

All pau

Walking back to our cars in the rain. Elephant ears optional.

GPS Tracks

Our up and down hike on one of the island’s most storied trails covered a little under three miles. Some in the group were hoping against hope that the stairs will be preserved for future generations. Has the final chapter be written on the stairs? Only time will tell. Post hike meal at Saito & Pho where East Asian meets Southeast Asian food.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Akira Suzuki, Allison Banks, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Daryl Cacatian, Ferlino Carinio, Monaliza Guillermo, Sandra Walter, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Picked up from the last time when I tweaked my ankle and knee. Thanks to Ferlino for dropping Lilyn, Tessa, and myself off on the side of the highway as we started off unusually late for our hike.

Powerlines Trail

Going up the steps that time forgot, apparently the landscape service as well.

Powerlines Trail

We pushed up the wrecked trail to start hiking the saddle.

Camp Centipede

Tessa contouring around the knob.

Kalihi Saddle

Stepping foot on the saddle that was marked by a thin and crumbly ridgeline.

Witch’s Hat

This webbing looks familiar.

Witch’s Hat

Tessa climbing to the top of the conical shaped rockface.

Witch’s Hat

We were just missing a cauldron, black cats and broomsticks.

Witch’s Hat

Somebody forgot their broomstick so they had to climb down.

Kalihi Saddle

Resuming our hike as we slowly gained elevation with each crumbly rock that we either climbed or dislodged.

Scenic Spot

No time for vertigo.

Hump

Up and over another crumbly rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody was muttering that they are going to retire this hike. Promises. Promises.

Tabletop

Looking for handholds and reservations.

Tabletop

The rest of the group climbing their way up.

Kalihi Saddle

Keep your hands and feet inside the ride at all times.

Rock Triangle

Lilyn climbing up the Windward side of the rockface.

Rock Triangle

Taking a picture of the person taking a picture. Redundancy at its finest.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking on the edge.

Hot Wheels Track

Pausing at the area that was completely denuded of any vegetation.

Rock Triangle

Going up the second triangular rockface.

Rock Triangle

Not as hard as it looks.

Deja vu

I delayed telling inquiring minds where the spot was that another hiker had fallen 100′ down on the Leeward side a couple months ago.

Broken Wave

Tessa climbing up to the spot I named after her. Inside joke.

Dirty Slide

Pulling ourselves back up to the ridgeline.

Dirty Slide

It was all upper body strength on this one. Who needs the gym?

Slippery Slope

Tread lightly.

Kalihi Saddle

Lilyn coming up the grassy slope with the panoramic views of the Windward coastline behind her.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Climbing towards our first peak.

Bowman Summit

360 degree group photo at the 2,740′ summit of Pu’u Kahuauli.

KSRT

Traversing between summits.

Tripler Summit

Clear views from the 2,760′ grassy knob.

KSRT

Somebody wished they had balls where they could stand up and swing them.

Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe

Passing the flat 2,820′ summit where we followed the rutted trail to the top of Haiku Stairs.

CCL Building

Just missing her wings.

CCL Building

Where is everybody? It was deserted. Not a soul in sight.

CCL Building

Except these spooky spirits caught on camera.

CCL Building

Don’t we know this guy?

Stairway to Heaven

Time was not on our side so as not be a burden on the taxpayers of the City & County of Honolulu, we were forced to go down the safest trail on the island. What other trail has stairs and rails from top to bottom? Exactly.

Stairway to Heaven

Sunburst over Moanalua Saddle. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Stairway to Heaven

Tessa relaxing and pondering what it would be like to hike down the adjacent ridge from us. Only one way to find out.

All pau

Looking back at the old and new stairs. Thanks to Allison for letting us exit through her backyard. Fun Halloween hike with good company. Post hike meal at Kizuna. Domo arigato gozaimasu. Ni shuo shenme?

Photos taken by Lilyn Avendano, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Some of us went to Hell and some of us went to Heaven today. Some of us got two for the price of one. Just depended on how much sweat and tears one wanted to pay for the price of admission.

Aiea Loop Trail

Thanks to Quan and Lilyn for dropping Jennifer, Katie, Tessa and myself off at the Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area where only campers and chickens populated the park.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking towards all the ridges that connect to the Ko’olau Mountain Range. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Nobody was edited out of this photo.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Traversing the open saddle. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Enjoying the scenic views from the 2,441′ hill. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Basking in the manmade and natural views.

Aiea Summit

A lot of sign waving was going on, I just wanted to make my mama saimin.

Aiea Summit

Taking out the trash and possibly releasing my frustration on somebody that was not here to share the load. LOL.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the 2,805′ summit. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Looking back at all the Windward valleys with their ridges and peaks.

KSRT

Hiking on the windswept ridge with views of Kaneohe Bay ahead of us. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

We contoured around the protected plant enclosure where some of us almost got blown down into the valley.

KSRT

This valley, that had stunning views stretching all the way as far as H3 snaking through Halawa Valley.

KSRT

Working our way back towards the ridge.

KSRT

Going up and down false peaks that delayed the scenic gratification. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Almost there, just past this small peak. Photo by Katie Bingham.

KSRT

Going down the grassy ridge with sweeping views. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Welcome to Hell. May your stay be a pleasant one.

Stairway to Hell

The best stairway view. Hands down. You just have to work a little harder for these views.

KSRT

Panoramic view as we left Hell.

KSRT

Jenn going down the stairs that Mother Nature is slowly reclaiming. Photo by Katie Bingham.

KSRT

The girls making their way along the rusted cable. Everybody’s tetanus shots are up to date?

KSRT

Climbing up what’s left of the last stair section that is slowly rusting away. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Leaving hell behind us as we warmed up. Quite the contradiction. Photo by Jennifer LaRochelle.

KSRT

Traversing the ridge line with spectacular views of the valleys and mountains around us. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Our ending destination as framed by the rusty geodic marker.

KSRT

We found two things on the ridge today, one was anticipated and the other was unexpected. I found somebody’s black jacket with camera inside that was returned to its rightful owner. Katie found or perhaps, roughly 30 bees found her and left a stinging impression. Props to her for keeping her head and not panicking and running off the ridge. My webbing didn’t reach that far. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Red Hill Summit

Anybody got benadryl? The swelling and itching would come later. Photo by Jennifer LaRochelle.

KSRT

Leaving the summit for crumbly ridges. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Scooting our way down the crumbly edge of the cliff.

Moanalua Saddle

Passing the small meadow on our left as we descended down the ridge. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Katie and Tessa climbing their way down.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way through a patch of trees. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Jenn lowering herself down slowly the crumbly section.

Moanalua Saddle

Uki grass is your constant companion and friend in the mountains. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa on the scenic rock. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Moanalua Saddle

Katie coming down the rocky ridge line. Photo by Jennifer LaRochelle.

Moanalua Saddle

Are we supposed to be contouring or climbing?

Moanalua Saddle

The girls coming down the last hill on the Western half of the saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

It was the end of the road for Jenn and Katie as they went down to the valley floor. Kudos to Jenn for working through her anxiety of doing cross overs. She handled the ridges like a champ. Our group still grew in size with the addition of Aida, Ed, Lilyn and Sally who met us at the top. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo left to right: Lilyn, Sally, Aida, Tessa, me, Jenn, Katie and Ed. Photo by Sally Chow.

Moanalua Saddle

Starting our climb up the Eastern half of the saddle. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Moanalua Saddle

My webbing stayed in the pack this time around. Photo by Sally Chow.

Moanalua Saddle

Lilyn contouring on the Windward side. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Moanalua Saddle

Aida pulling herself back up to the ridge line. Photo by Sally Chow.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the exposed and eroded ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Moanalua Saddle

Panoramic view of the valley and mountains. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back to see that Matt had caught up with us from the valley floor. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Moanalua Saddle

Sally on the contour with views of Moanalua Valley.

Dirt Triangle

Climbing up the biggest obstacle on the saddle. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Dirt Triangle

Lilyn pulling herself up. Photo by Sally Chow.

Moanalua Saddle

Ed making short work of the rocks. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Moanalua Saddle

The group slowly making their way up the saddle to make room for the others that were coming up from the contour climb. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

There are humans up there! I’m glad Sally pointed that out, otherwise I might have confused them with aliens or animals. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa coming up the crumbliest section of the saddle. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Moanalua Saddle

We also met up with two other hikers who patiently waited for our group to ascend before they could descend. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Sally going up the short and tricky climb with the help of some dental floss. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa pulling herself up with the last rope on the saddle. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Moanalua Saddle

Lilyn stretching her glutues maximus to pull herself up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Moanalua Saddle

We took a leisurely break at the first landing, did calisthenics, munched on moon cake and chilled due to delays at our bottom connection.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa climbing up the ladder. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

Having fun on the stairs. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Moanalua Saddle

Perhaps too much fun.

Moanalua Saddle

Sally going up the backside to the world famous attraction that is still bound in purgatory as to its fate. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Moanalua Saddle

Matt coming up the hill where the stairs was replaced with a rusted cable. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Moanalua Saddle

The group approaching the CCL building. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Moanalua Saddle

Sally climbing her way up to Heaven. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Stairway to Heaven

Group photo by Matt Vidaurri in Heaven.

Haiku Stairs

No feces was actually dropped in the making of this photo. Nor did anybody actually get blown away. We also had to take the most direct route down as some of the group had problems with their IT bands and to preclude any medical rescues, we were forced to take the off limits stairs down. Hiking disclaimer.

Haiku Stairs

Leaving Heaven behind us with heavenly views ahead of us. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Haiku Stairs

Lilyn’s jump shot. Not a trampoline jump. Close enough. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Haiku Stairs

Sally coming down the stairs while others had their photographic moments being taken. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Haiku Stairs

Approaching the hoist house where somebody was already droning out. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Hoist House

Getting buzzed, in a good way and not a stinging way.

Hoist House

Stemming, sitting and standing.

Haiku Stairs

Waiting for the rest of the group at one of five landings. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Haiku Stairs

One way traffic coming down the stairs. Photo by Sally Chow.

Haiku Stairs

Approaching the last landing that interrupts the 3,922 steps to Heaven. This landing also temporarily hosted a trampoline that was brought and built and dismantled all in one day by a creative group several months ago. While they received a lot of flak and hate, I fall in the minority and heartily applauded their achievement. Nothing was disturbed on the man-made structure, nobody got hurt and people had fun. Just my two cents. Photo by Sally Chow.

Haiku Stairs

Going down the stairs as it lead us underneath the engineering marvel known as the H3 freeway. Photo by Sally Chow.

All pau

Somebody needs to call the City & County and let them know of this potential tripping hazard. Photo by Aida Gordon.

GPS Tracks

Our bookended stairways traversal covered over 9.4 miles through hell, purgatory and heaven. Another fun adventure with good friends in the books. It was Ed and Sally’s first time on this saddle and they hiked it like it was an old friend. Thanks to Allison for driving us back to our cars. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where we were seated with the gay husband and family under the same roof. Oxtail soup was still on the menu. Hot soup does a body good.

Video by Matt Vidaurri of our Moanalua Saddle hike.

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.

Back to back KST completion hikes saw us back at the world famous Haiku Stairs. Mahalo to Quan for dropping Aida, Lilyn, Tessa and myself off at Aiea. Thank goodness we didn’t get lost from Kahalu’u. Photo by Art Young.

Haiku Stairs

Climbing up the steep stairs while attempting to recover something of important medical value that we had lost on our last unexpected trip.

Trampolining

I don’t see a bright future in mimicry for these girls. Jumping jacks is not the same as bouncing up and down.

Hoist House

Catching sight of the CCL building perched on top of the ridge line.

Hoist House

Hope that pulley doesn’t fall and give somebody a bad headache one day. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Hoist House

Lilyn capturing the sun. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Haiku Stairs

The upper landing and stairs were clogged with campers catching the sunrise.

Haiku Stairs

Yielding to the traffic on the stairs. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Stairway to Heaven

Group photo left to right: Aida, myself, Tessa and Lilyn.

Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe

Taking our leave of the popular camping spot.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Looking ahead to the noticeable man-made infrastructures topping the ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Leaving the defunct radio tower behind us.

Tripler Summit

Shadows on the summit. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the 2,740′ summit. The last one we would step foot on today.

Kalihi Saddle

Getting ready to drop in on the saddle. Hang on tight. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting our way down the narrow strip of dirt that passes for a ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring on the crumbly Leeward side. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

This was either a nail biting or butt clenching moment for Lilyn. Only her manicurist or proctologist would know. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at our steep and crumbly descent from the summit.

Dirty Slide

Enjoying the ride down. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring our way back to the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Passing the non-existent wave on our way down. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa coming down one crumbly rock at a time. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Lilyn coming down the Leeward side of the hardest rock triangle. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Look! Up in the sky! It’s a mynah bird! It’s a drone! … Photo by Aida Gordon.

Rock Triangle

… It’s Lilyn! Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

One yawyaw and two substitutes at the bottom of the obstacle.

Kalihi Saddle

Going down the Hot Wheels Track. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

The group making their way over the crumbly, uneven and narrow ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

I never get tired of these views. I suppose that’s why I’m a frequent visitor.

Rock Triangle

Lilyn climbing down on the Windward side. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Rock Triangle

Tessa looking for her next foothold. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

To scoot or to walk? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

This is not your father’s dirt dragon.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way to the place where no reservations are required. First come, first serve. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Tabletop

The girls climbing down through the rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Riding the wave of a ridge. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

It’s always hump day somewhere in the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

Soaking in the views at the iconic photo spot. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

Aida coming down the steep and rocky section.

Witch’s Hat

Scrambling up the pointy obstacle in under two minutes. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at the steep drop that we had just climbed down. Never fails to disappoint. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Witch’s Hat

Art had come to meet us and was expecting a continued hike to the Pali and all he got was this ghetto candle. It’s the thought that counts. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Witch’s Hat

Best wishes on your birthday with a real candle.

Witch’s Hat

Lilyn going down the backside.

Kalihi Saddle

The group making their way over the still surprisingly narrow ridge line. The saddle was not over yet. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kalihi Saddle

Lilyn working her way towards the knob. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kalihi Saddle

Are we done? Am I finished?

Slacklining

We had time to kill so I decided to see if I could make a better go at mimicry than the girls. It’s best that I keep my day job. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Services rendered

That, and a nickel, will get me a can of Coke. Wait a minute! Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Powerlines

Group photo at the terminus of our hike. All smiles. We weren’t going to the Pali after all.

All pau

We were going to the Pali after all, but by mechanized means. Thanks to Quan and Sally for picking us up. We also found a iphone and turned it over to our AT&T contact.

Pali Lookout

Does anybody have a bottle opener? Since somebody didn’t get the twist off caps. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Pali Lookout

Pouring champagne on Lilyn to celebrate her completion of the KST. Congratulations! Photo by Aida Gordon.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Katie, Narissa, Petra, Quan, Chris and Sally for joining the champagne celebration.

Post hike meal

We grabbed food from Pampanga Kitchen and found out that persistence pays off when you want those halo-halos. We all retired to Casa Avendano where some had shots that took them to hell without even setting foot on the hike itself, some of us picked fruit from the neighbors yard, blondie went off the inebriated deep end and wrestled quite vigorously for her phone, Art showed off his dancing skills while enjoying a real birthday cake, and Agnes swung by with free eggs in hand, while some of us practiced our city and county skills while trying to figure out how to set up a tent and all these activities were papered over with a very direct, loud and opinionated New York accent. Fun times had by all.

GPS Tracks

Our 4.15 mile hike through heaven and down a crumbly saddle marked the end of the road for Lilyn’s KST completion. Cheers and congratulations again to her.

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.

Ferlino, Robin and myself decided to pay a visit to Heaven today.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Pounding the pavement. What happened to the jeep road?

Kulana’ahane Junction

We ran into Janell’s group who was going one way … Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kulana’ahane Trail

… and we were going the other way.

Moanalua Saddle

Real time weather forecast of clouds on the saddle. Photo by Robin Farr.

Godek-Jaskulski Trail

Ferlino and Robin going up the skinny section of the ridge.

Red Hill Ridge

Pushing towards the top of the rollercoaster ridge.

Red Hill Summit

We all brought our favorite chilled carbonated beverages to the summit.

Moanalua Saddle

Dropping down onto the eroded ridge and leaving the clouds behind us. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Moanalua Saddle

Have hiking stick, will hike.

Moanalua Saddle

The much improved views ahead of us.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the Western half of the Saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

A group of Korean hikers joined us at the top from the valley floor to soak in the expansive views.

Moanalua Saddle

The weather forecast for Heaven looked favorable.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way up on the Eastern half of the Saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

When the Windward climb doesn’t work for you, there is always the Leeward contour. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring on the Windward side with the H-3 below us.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way towards the Dirt Triangle. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Dirt Triangle

Climbing up on the Leeward side. Photo by Robin Farr.

Dirt Triangle

When one hiking stick is not enough. Photo by Robin Farr.

Moanalua Saddle

The weather forecast seemed to be holding.

Moanalua Saddle

There seemed to be less rocks holding this ridge together, as compared from the last visit. Photo by Robin Farr.

Moanalua Saddle

Ferlino climbing up the last “technical” climb up the ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Oh wait, let’s not forget the optional face plant section.

Moanalua Saddle

The view towards Hell.

Ka Hae Hawai’i

When you hike with Ferlino, it’s always Flag Day.

Moanalua Saddle

Panoramic view of the stairs coming and going.

Moanalua Saddle

And she’s buying the stairway to heaven. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking down at the Halawa Amphitheater.

CCL Building

The graffiti angel has fallen from heaven. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Fly by

For those that don’t want to run the risk of being ticketed or put the time in on the trail.

Stairway to Heaven

The couple that was hanging out at the top told us we arrived at the right time, as it was completely socked in before we got there. Lucky us.

CCL Building

Sporting the latest in eyewear fashion, the eyepatch sunglass. May lead to lopsided squinting.

Fly boy

We noticed a paraglider skimming the saddle.

KSRT

Leaving Heaven behind us.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

Mingling with other hikers on our downhill commute to the valley floor.

MMR

Ohia trees picture framing the view. Photo by Robin Farr.

MMR

Traffic jam. Passing on the left.

MMR

Ferlino and Robin coming down the eroded trail against the backdrop of the fluted ridges that composes the flanks of the Ko’olau Mountains.

MMR

A possible distant cousin to the now extinct tree-osaur in Kahana Valley.

Bark Park

Who wants a belly rub? Me!

All pau

Nine hours later and we were right back where we started from this morning.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike to heaven covered 10.35 miles through constantly changing and eroding terrain. Great hike with good friends. BOGO coupon dictated the venue of our post hike meal to be at the Cattle Company. We just had to wait over 30 minutes which helped to build our appetite up.

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.

I decided to start off 2017 by slipping back into the saddles. Joining me today were Derek, Glenn, Lee and Matt.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks to Zack for dropping us off in the land of wallabies. No sightings.

Kalihi Valley

Making our way up to the power lines.

Sunrise

We caught the sun breaking over the three peaks of Olomana. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Glenn, Lee and Derek popping up over a hill.

Kalihi Saddle

Going up one at a time. Photo by Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Panoramic view of the Windward side by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Single file shuffling down Witch’s Hat.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing queue. Photo by Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving behind Witch’s Hat.

Kalihi Saddle

Lee going up the saddle. Photo by Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Dancing on the ridges of Kalihi Saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

We passed tabletop rock, found no breakfast and moved on. Photo by Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Glenn crabbing on the narrow and eroded ridge section.

Kalihi Saddle

Going up the first crumbly rock triangle. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Derek scrambling his way up.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking ahead to the second rock triangle.

Kalihi Saddle

The waiting game.

Kalihi Saddle

Where’d he go? Photo by Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt excused himself to the front of the line in order to recreate his bowel movement from our last hike up here. The only saving grace was that no Korean food was previously consumed like the last time.

Kalihi Saddle

Trying to stay downwind. Or should that be upwind? Photo by Derek Potter.

Kalihi Saddle

Lee and Derek barreling through the broken dirt wave.

Kalihi Saddle

We dropped below the ridgeline to contour around the narrow and crumbly sections.

Kalihi Saddle

Double shaka for me. Double hands on the rope for Lee, as she climbed up to the ridgeline. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt, Lee and Derek making their way along the crumbly and eroded ridgeline.

Kalihi Saddle

Primate hiking up the ridge. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving all the hard parts behind us.

Kalihi Saddle

Pausing and taking in the refreshing views. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

KSRT

Making our way to the clouded summit of Bowman.

Bowman Summit

The sitting group photo. I didn’t get the memo.

KSRT

Hiking in the clouds with only the highway noise to keep us company.

Tripler Toilet

When you gotta go, you gotta go. At least Matt brought his own TP.

Tripler Summit

Group photo by Matt Vidaurri, left to right: Derek, Lee, Glenn, myself and Matt.

KSRT

Traffic jam. Do you know where Stairway to Heaven is?

KSRT

I wanna go up there too!

KSRT

Go big or go home. Lee’s motto. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

KSRT

Somebody must have been plucking the lehua flowers like crazy. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

KSRT

Glenn almost passing out, I mean almost topping out at Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe.

KSRT

The trail to heaven was filled with mud, crowds and covered in clouds. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Haiku Stairs

We ran into Ryan Chang, Katie Ersbak and their friends at the top. Group photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Haiku Stairs

Let’s go hiking together. Text me. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Haiku Stairs

Glenn looking for a pot to piss in.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving the CCL building behind us.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking across Haiku Valley at Stairway to Hell.

Moanalua Saddle

The back stairs are slowly succumbing to Mother Nature. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Moanalua Saddle

Glenn and Lee contouring around an eroded section.

Moanalua Saddle

Glenn perched on the eroded section, affording him a commanding view of the valley. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Moanalua Saddle

All clear?

Moanalua Saddle

Glenn making his way down as we noticed we were not alone on the saddle. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Moanalua Saddle

Derek making his way down to the Dirt Triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

I heard there is an active golf course in this area. Fore! Ouch! Photo by Derek Potter.

Moanalua Saddle

Lee making her way around the contour section with Moanalua Valley behind her.

Moanalua Saddle

Glenn leaving the Dirt Triangle behind him.

Moanalua Saddle

Is this the way to Haiku Stairs? The hard way. Ok, turning around.

Moanalua Saddle

Did somebody call rescue? Or a tour? Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kulana’ahane Terminus

Panoramic view from the terminus by Matt Vidaurri.

Kulana’ahane Terminus

Leaving the summit to make our way down the spur ridge leading into the valley.

Moanalua Falls

We saw a trickle of a waterfall coming down the chute.

Kulana’ahane Trail

What? We’ve been hiking on unmaintained trails this whole time?

Kulana’ahane Trail

One of many stream crossings. The water was so clear. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Glenn and Lee making their way underneath the tangled thicket of hau tree branches.

Kulana’ahane Junction

Our last group photo.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Walking the long road out of the valley.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Lee crossing one of seven storied bridges that was built for the Damon family back in the day.

All pau

Walking out towards the sunset.

GPS Tracks

Great hike to start off the New Year with new and old friends. Our rollercoaster of a double saddle hike covered 10.76 miles. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse. Prime Rib, I have missed you.

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 Agnes, Art, Chris, Ethan and Glenn at Moanalua Valley. Back in the saddle(s)?

Moanalua Valley Park

Bouncing and slipping. Group photo by Agnes Bryant, left to right: Ethan, Glenn, myself, Agnes, Chris and Art.

Trailhead

Where are those Korean hikers?

Kamananui Valley Road

The trail was surprisingly dry. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Junction

Is this the legal way to Haiku Stairs? Or the hard way? Or both? Group photo by Agnes Bryant.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going under the hau tree branches …

Kulana’ahane Trail

… over …

Kulana’ahane Trail

… and back under.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Point of no return?

Kulana’ahane Trail

Dry chute. No water works requested today.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Huffing and puffing our way up the spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Looking towards Red Hill.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Almost there.

Kulana’ahane Terminus

Ethan taking in the Windward swept views from the eroded lookout.

Kulana’ahane Terminus

Weather forecast looks cloudy at the top. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Moanalua Saddle

Enough sightseeing and weather speculation, time to resume our hiking.

Moanalua Saddle

Ethan making his way up the rocky ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Moanalua Valley – the original route for the H-3, until a petroglyph etched rock forced it into the next valley over.

Moanalua Saddle

Ethan climbing up the crumbly rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing queue. One at a time. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris making his way up. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Moanalua Saddle

Glenn and Art coming up from the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Ethan making his way to the Dirt Triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Straight up. Shaken not stirred.

Moanalua Saddle

Shaka and climb in progress. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Moanalua Saddle

Making my way up the face of the Dirt Triangle. Photo by Art Millan.

Moanalua Saddle

Glenn climbing his way up.

Moanalua Saddle

Sorry, this attraction is now closed. Please contour. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris making his way up the contour side.

Moanalua Saddle

Art climbing up. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Moanalua Saddle

Art finishing what the fraying started. Photo by Agnes Bryant.

Moanalua Saddle

Ethan and Glenn scrambling up.

Moanalua Saddle

The trail has been slowly eroding with the passage of time, weather and hikers traveling on the ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Ethan hiking into the clouds.

Moanalua Saddle

Glenn paying rapt attention as Chris demonstrates the five points of contact climbing method.

Moanalua Saddle

Ethan going up.

Moanalua Saddle

Clear on the left, cloudy on the right.

Moanalua Saddle

IPhone rescue in progress. When an electronic device that has your life encapsulated means more than life itself. LOL.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris and Glenn going up the back stairs to the top.

Moanalua Saddle

Anybody home?

CCL Building

Ethan enjoying his lunch topside.

Haiku Stairs

We took our leave of Agnes and Art as we headed off into the clouds.

Pu’u Keahi A Kahoe

Our muddy shoes on the geodetic marker at the 2,820′ summit. The Moanalua Middle Ridge wooden sign was still MIA.

KSRT

Thinking of Kalihi Saddle.

KSRT

Rain started dumping on us, which forced us to think again.

KSRT

Clouds and rain washing over the power line towers.

Tripler Summit

Group photo at the 2,760′ socked in summit.

Tripler Ridge

Chris dropping below the clouds to better conditions on this side of the ridge. Never fails.

Powerlines Ridge

We decided to drop down into the valley via the Powerlines ridge. Tripler is just too long of a ridge. Especially on ones way back down.

Powerlines Ridge

Glenn picking his way over the landslide area.

Kamananui Valley Trail

We dropped back down into the valley and began to walk out the seemingly never ending trail.

Junction

Where was Agnes and Art? Long gone.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Chris contouring past a heavily eroded section of the trail.

All pau

Back at the park.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered 10.5 miles with a fun crew. Post hike meal at Lilihia Bakery. Just in time for the Prime Rib Special. Life is good.

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.