It was time for a certain individual to tackle one of her biggest challenges in the mountains to date, with a little help from her friends today.

Kunia

Somebody had time to snap a picture of the fiery sunrise over Ke Awa Lau O Pu’uloa (Pearl Harbor) and Le’ahi (Diamond Head).

Kunia

We all met up, eventually, at the trailhead to start our hike deep in farm country.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Stepping foot on the trail that actually spans from Kolekole Pass to Makakilo. We were just going to taste a piece of it today. A very small piece.

Kunia

We soon left the wide open trail to plunge into the clump of itchy California grass.

Kunia

Climbing our way through the mixed forest.

Kunia

Noticeably absent from my last visit was the swarms of mosquitoes that had descended and made a feast out of us, but we were too busy scrambling our way up the hill anyway.

Kunia

We all soon took what we perceived as the path of least resistance to make it to the top.

Kunia

Matt explaining how he saw Chico dislodge two rocks the size of bowling balls that rolled towards Aida and Roger. Split. Not a strike.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

We eventually joined up with the WST.

Pohakea Pass

Looking ahead to the 80′ crumbly cliff that loomed ahead of us.

Pohakea Pass

Matt climbing up to the base of the pass.

Pohakea Pass

Akira and Chico making their way to the base with a rainbow in the background. Just don’t send any rain showers our way.

Pohakea Pass

Climbing my way up.

Pohakea Pass

The group securing the webbing at the base.

Pohakea Pass

The only viable way to get Aida safely up the cliff was to have more than one person on the rope at one time. Falling rocks was another hazard.

Pohakea Pass

Matt and Chico guiding Aida up the pass.

Pohakea Pass

Dang! This is scary. Who said that?

Pohakea Pass

Chico hanging on the near vertical section of the pass.

Pohakea Pass

What? No running commentary in Japanese? Sonna koto nai desho

Pohakea Pass

Aida making the final climb to the top.

Pohakea Pass

The happy faces in ascending order.

Pohakea Pass

Our group safe and sound at the top. We can all take a deep breath and relax now.

Pohakea Pass

Scenic spot.

WST

Plunging into the mixed forest as we left the pass behind us.

WST

Walking on the spongy green moss. It was like Tempur-pedic for our feet.

WST

Matt working his way through the tree branches that were blocking our way.

WST

The slow and steady climb up the fenced hill.

WST

My koala patch must be working. No mosquitoes were bothering me today.

WST

“Swimming” our way through the sea of uluhe ferns.

WST

Aida taking in the view of the largest coastal valley on this side of the island.

WST

Traversing the tangled tree line.

WST

Looking out towards the ridge that ends at Heleakala, the Hawaiian pyramid.

WST

Matt taste testing what is non-potable water.

Palikea Summit

Steak, eggs and rice courtesy of Chef Suzuki.

Palikea Summit

Group photo at the 3,098′ summit marked by ti leaf plants. I noticed a lot of the summits are marked as such, as the leaves are believed to bring positive energy and purification and keep evil spirits away.

WST

Walking down the steps to an area that are rich in native fauna and flora.

WST

Echo. Echo.

WST

Passing through a grove of ironwood pine trees.

WST

Enjoying the sights on the trail. Look left.

WST

Looking out towards Nanakuli Valley, the name means to “look deaf” as in the old days, the valley was dry and didn’t lend itself well to planting crops so the locals were unable to offer food to passing travelers in the spirit of Hawaiian hospitality, so they pretended to not hear them and stayed indoors.

WST

Just missing the golden idol and the “The Raiders March” music.

WST

Walking up the trail carved out of the side of Mauna Kapu.

Palehua

A log bench with a stunning view of the West side.

Palehua

Group photo at the start or finish of the WST.

Palehua

The paved road down would have been too hard on our feet so we doubled back on the trail.

Palehua

Matt trying to plant the flag in the wrong direction.

WST

I think the tree hugger was trying to procreate another baby Groot.

Kunia

We left the well defined trail to traverse through a no defined trail as we made our way through the gully that was littered with fallen trees, rocks and clouds of mosquitoes.

Kunia

Are we out yet?

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Walking on the trail that was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and the US Military in the 1930s.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The trail for the most part is unusable due to years of neglect, overgrowth, hurricanes and some parties would like to keep it that way as there are rare native plants that are best left undisturbed. Thankfully, the part where we had to walk was seemingly well trafficked and used by motorized vehicles as well.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The Flyin’ Filipino not to be confused with Shane Victorino.

All pau

We all met back at our cars, took a look at another trailhead but didn’t have time to check out the farm that Matt grew. Next time.

GPS Tracks

Our hike covered 9.58 miles that had a brief adrenaline rush that finished with what seemed like endless miles walking on a jeep road that never seemed to end. Fun hike that was accomplished with teamwork where everybody had fun and came out safe and sound. Post hike meal at Julie’z as the first choice was closed. Food is food.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Ferlino Carinio, Jeremy Cannone, Matt Vidaurri, Roger Schiffman, 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 set out to explore an obviously underused trail that contours a good chunk of the Waianae Mountain Range. The trail seems to have for the most part been lost to the passage of time and reclaimed by Mother Nature as we were to find out.

Kolekole Pass

Many thanks to Jasmin and Lilia for dropping us off on the base that was open to the hiking public this weekend.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Going up the short slope of the stepped hill.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Chico adjusting for just the right angle.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Akira on the exposed dirt with panoramic views of the central plains and the Waianae Mountains.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Group photo at the bench with a view.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Leaving the meadows and plunging into the head high grass.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Going up the rutted trail under the tree canopy.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Breaking out onto the exposed trail with surrounding views.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Hiking on the exposed and eroded trail where a slip would not be pretty.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Ferlino and Tessa re-enacting the incident where

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Akira underneath the twisted and gnarled tree.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Stepping foot on the “dark bay” trail as we crawled, contoured and climbed through the many tree blowdowns littered on the trail.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Traversing on the trail that would soon disappear into overgrowth and twists and turns.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The waning gibbous moon behind the Waianae Mountain Range.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

We soon ran across a hiker and his dog Piper who had turned around due to losing the trail to overgrowth. Overconfidence got the better of us so we pressed on despite the no trail warning. Somebody said think of us in six hours. Famous last words.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Chico balancing on the tree loop that was okay according to the botanist in the group.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The group contouring in and out of multiple gullies in the mountains.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Who said this was a flat trail?

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Climbing and sliding down the crumbly hill which claimed a red shoe and some people’s dignities. Still good for a few laughs.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Climbing back up with the help from her friends and some webbing.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The girls taking a break while we tried to figure out where the trail was located in the mountains. Just like trying to find hidden Easter eggs. Bread crumbs would have been preferred.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Some of us went low …

Honouliuli Contour Trail

… the rest of us went high.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Passing a bucket marker as we all joined back up and continued on the trail.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

The point of return. We decided to throw in the towel and turn around. I read on some old posts that this trail was so bad that a trail clearing crew got trapped around 1982 and had to spend the night? Then on top of that, Hurricane Iwa of that same year wrecked the trail with landslides and vegetation wiping out the trail in most places. Some parts of the trail were cleared but I don’t think this trail is maintained anymore and there are several groups such as The Nature Conservancy that would like for the trail to remain blocked so as to protect the endemic plants.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

But first we decided to eat our lunch in the mountains. Along with the clouds of mosquitoes that also call this place home.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Thanks to Chef Suzuki who grilled us steak and shrimp and the rest of the gang for bringing chicken adobo, pancit, sausage, rice and soda. We eat good when we hike.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Famous last words from the botanist. This tree is strong, the roots go all the way back, this tree is not going anywhere. Timber!

Honouliuli Contour Trail

First aid in the mountains.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Mari poking around the base of the toppled tree for the golden egg.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Leaving our lunch spot.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Going downhill.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Dropping into the gully where we got slightly disoriented.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Back on the trail.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Agnes threading her way through the tree blowdown that was being slowly recycled by the fungi growth.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Chico with the background of Wheeler Army Airfield where he used to fly choppers at the army post that was built in 1922.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Leaving the overgrowth behind us as we made our way to the stand of paperbark trees.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Breaking out of the tree line as we made our way down back to the meadows.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Yielding to one of many dogs on the trail.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Happy Easter from the scenic spot.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

These guys are no stranger to danger.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

The group lined up going down the trail.

Hapapa Hiking Trail

Hanging out while waiting for our rides.

All pau

Thanks to Jasmin and Lilia who picked us up and brought us cold drinks. Much appreciated.

GPS Tracks

Our first crack at this trail barely put a dent in it at 4.62 miles roundtrip, 2.23 miles out of an estimated 15.8 miles. Nevertheless, it was a fun exploratory hike with a good group of friends. Post hike meal at Five Guys where you build your own burger and milkshakes.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Ferlino Carinio, Mari Saito, 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.

Easy hike Plan A got cancelled due to Poamoho Trail being closed. I settled on what I thought would be Easy Hike Plan B for the group. Relatively speaking.

Kolekole Pass

It was a chilly 53 degrees as Aida, Aileen, Akira, Chico, Ferlino, Jasmin, Mari, Tessa, and myself met up on the largest military base in Hawaii. The meeting spot was also the lowest elevation on the Waianae Mountain Range.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Akira playing the part of the sacrificial lamb at the “beheading rock.” Legend has it that Wahiawa people and the Waianae people would meet at this pass and battle each other for the right to cross over to the other side. The losing side would have to submit their chief to be beheaded on this rock and his skin would be stripped raw (kolekole). Others say this is a modern fabrication.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Passing through an open area as we skirted the fenced enclosure and followed the hiking trail signs.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Standing on the eroded bluff as the sun started to illuminate the mountains and central plain.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

We soon got to the grassy meadow with the crooked bench as I pointed our where we were headed next.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

That ridge? That steep and high ridge?

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Group photo in front of Lualualei Valley, the largest coastal valley on the island.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Can Ferlino tell the difference between Jasmin’s pat and Chico’s pat? Perhaps he enjoys both or is just a good sport.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The group going up the rutted trail.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Single filing our way on the Honouliuli Contour Trail which contours the Windward side of the Waianae Mountain Range from Kolekole Pass to Makakilo.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Going up the hill dominated by paperbark trees which is also the start of the Waianae Summit Trail (WST).

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Jasmin probably thinking this doesn’t resemble Aiea Loop Trail.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Climbing our way down to the first notch or gap in the ridge line.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Group photo. Somebody was thinking they should turn around. Luckily it was just a passing thought.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Picture of the group standing on the gap with the dog hill pile of crumbly rocks aka Ka’ilio framed in the middle.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Watching the group make their way down from their lofty perch.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Scrambling in and out of the notch.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Contouring and climbing our way on the side of the mountain.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Jasmin pulling herself up on the OSHA approved strap.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Are we there yet?

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The sun began to rise higher than the mountains, shining on our sweaty faces.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Climbing up the ridge as we continued to gain elevation and the destination got closer, not soon enough for some folks.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Standing and sitting on the rock that bears a passing resemblance to a chair.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Cactus Mickey Mouse Ears in the wild. Disney wants their royalties.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Climbing out of the second gap or notch.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Mari getting a helping hand.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Jasmin getting a helping stick.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Aileen found a female Jackson Chameleon in the bushes, these invasive critters were introduced to Hawaii in 1972 from Tanzania and Kenya.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Ferlino and Jasmin coming up on the ridge as it began to ease up on the steep angle.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The introduction of the fence line. A common sight in the mountains as of late, meant to keep the feral ungulates from destroying what’s left of the endemic fauna and flora.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

A boisterous group soon caught up to us on the ridge.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Partial group photo with the Jumanji Explorers on the wooden walkway.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The group passing the true summit of Hapapa at 2,883′ elevation as we skirted a massive erosion that seemingly leads straight down the mountain.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Getting the hang of it while on the helipad.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Fly by with the naval magazine in the background. Most of the munitions were supposed to have been transferred to West Loch, supposedly leaving the valley barren of explosives.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Keep your eyes on the GoPro, and your feet next to the poke. Today was a good day to be on the mountains as both ranges were exceptionally clear.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Akira smacking his lips as he was salivating in anticipation for his first camping hike. Or maybe it was just the ramen.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Watching a paraglider circle the area on thermals.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The photoshoots must go on.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

We passed the tent on our way back down.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Following the fenced line as we lost elevation on the ridge line.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The chameleon whisperer found another one, this time it was a male specimen with its distinctive three horns. Scientists have noted that the chameleons in Hawaii have evolved into brighter colors than their African cousins due to an absence of predators in the islands, this also helps them to find and attract the opposite sex.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Every heart shaped cactus has its spines.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

At least the hiking sticks got out of my backpack and into the hands of their rightful owner.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

We soon branched off to the loop trail instead of descending back down the WST.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Enjoying the sun and scenery on our hike down.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

We let the Jumanji group pass us as they had another scheduled photoshoot.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Sweeping views of the central plain and the windmills in the distance.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Descending down the last rooted hill on the trail.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Passing time as we waited for the rest of the group to catch up.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

Ducking to make the low overhead clearance.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail Loop

The power couple crossing the creek after their little spill on the trail due to wet rocks and a loose hiking stick.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Intersecting the trail from where we had climbed up earlier.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Descending back down to the meadow.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

The French Bulldog smells something. Something pungent and earthy. Can’t quite put his nose on it.

Pu’u Hapapa Trail

Photo of Akira, Jasmin and Mari who hiked this ridge for the first time. Congratulations especially to Jasmin and Mari who hiked outside of their comfort zone and pushed it to the top.

All pau

Going down the steps and back to our cars.

Post hike meal

We had our dinner at Chicken in a Barrel, whose cooking style was brought from California and had its roots in Kauai.

Post hike smoke

Secondhand smoke. I don’t think it’s the kind of smoke these guys were looking for.

GPS Tracks

Our loop trail covered a little over three miles in the foothills and ridges of Kolekole Pass with a determined and supportive group.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Ferlino Carinio, Jasmin Carinio, Mari Saito, 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 went looking for a shortcut today and ended up taking the long road back home.

Trailhead

Thanks to Jay and Urai for dropping Aileen, Jen, Lilyn, Merrill and myself off deep in Kunia Farmland.

Honuliuli Contour

Pushing off on the jeep road.

Kunia Farms

We left the known trail and plunged into the itchy California grass in search of the “shortcut trail.”

Kunia Farms

Clouds of little flies soon descended upon us, in what I have since dubbed “Mosquito Valley.”

Kunia Farms

We scrambled uphill in order to gain the ridge line while attracting the female bloodsuckers that preferentially target humans based on type O blood, heavy breathers, an abundance of skin bacteria, high body heat and pregnant women. I guess we all somehow and somewhat fit the bill. I still don’t know who’s expecting. They hide it well.

Kunia Farms

Glimpsing a different perspective of the crumbly cliff.

Kunia Farms

We soon left the valley but not the mosquitoes behind us as took a small breather on the trail we were searching for this morning.

Kunia Farms

Following the trail as it slowly gained elevation towards the ridge line.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Taking a well deserved break away from the mosquitoes. Gawd, they were awful.

Pohakea Pass

Aileen climbing her way up.

Pohakea Pass

Merrill hauling himself up.

Pohakea Pass

Climbing and contouring our way up.

Pohakea Pass

Merrill duct taping his shoes together, further proving the phrase “it ain’t broke, it just lacks duct tape.”

Pohakea Pass

The rest of the group joining us at the base.

Pohakea Pass

Making my way up the crumbly pile of rocks.

Pohakea Pass

Aileen climbing with her left hand.

Pohakea Pass

Merrill reaching the top.

Pohakea Pass

Sitting pretty at the top of the roughly 2,100′ pass.

WST

Scrambling out of the pass onto more stable ground.

WST

Group photo on the narrow dike between the pass and the forest.

WST

Who’s on the right side of the fence line?

WST

Taking a short break after our relentless climb up the fenced hill.

WST

Wading through the sea of uluhe ferns.

WST

Pushing our way through the heavily overgrown trail.

Palikea

Group photo at the 3,098′ ti leaf summit.

WST

Descending down the steps into an area that is chock full of endemic plants.

WST

Why slip and fall when you can scoot your way down the slippery stairs?

WST

Aileen exiting the stand of pine trees.

WST

Contouring our way alongside the basaltic rocks.

WST

Views of Nanakuli Valley.

WST

The social media tree.

WST

What goes in …

WST

… must come out.

WST

Erosion control at work.

Palehua

Leaving the trail for the road.

Palehua

On the road to Nanakuli … or so we thought.

Palehua

When a landslide interrupts your plans. Stop. Do not pass Go. Go back where you came from.

WST

Sad stories do not play well in the mountains.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

I had always wanted to check out this trail ever since the landowner pointed it out to me a couple years back. Be careful what you wish for, today was the day. Voluntary or involuntary.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

Passing through the remains of some type of shelter.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

We were back in another mosquito valley as clouds of them attached themselves to everybody in the group. Not again!

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

The “trail” soon petered out to be replaced by scattered ribbons and the path of least resistance.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

Merrill checking out a boulder cave.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

Taking the fastest way down. Jump.

Honouliuli Forest Reserve

Scrambling our way down while avoiding cliffs and paths of most resistance.

Honouliuli Trail

We soon hit the 15.8 mile trail that contours below the Waianae Mountain Range. Talk about a sight for sore eyes and legs.

Honouliuli Trail

Another trail that I had always wanted to explore. Killed two birds with one stone today.

Honouliuli Trail

Following the trail through the dips and peaks as it afforded views of Pearl Harbor and the central plains.

Honouliuli Trail

The remains of a previous group that failed to make it out.

Honouliuli Trail

When will this road end?

Honouliuli Trail

Back at the crossroads where we had started earlier in the morning. Full circle.

All pau

Thanks to Chris who patiently waited several hours over the projected exit time to pick us up.

GPS Tracks

Our unintended loop hike covered 11.49 miles through bushwhacking, mosquito swarms and rugged mountain terrain. Outstanding crew who took everything in stride. Post hike meal at one of the few remaining Outback Steakhouses, where clam chowder was still on the menu.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Jen Odence, Lilyn Avendano, Merrill Kalapodes, 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.

Met up with Bill, Lilyn and Shirley to spend Easter in the mountains this weekend.

Kunia

Thanks to Jalen who dropped us off and wished us well on our “painful” hike, how did he know?

Sunflower field

Grow them and they will come. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kunia

Heading towards the tree line. We missed it by that much. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kunia

Making our way up the short and stiff spur ridge.

Kunia

The trail was a marked departure from the last time I hiked it three years ago, as some folks had cleared the overgrowth and marked the trail. We also found somebody’s stash of chemical leached bottled water. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Hono’uli’uli Contour Trail

We soon met up with the firebreak road that contours on the Windward side of the Waianae Mountain Range. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Hono’uli’uli Contour Trail

Leaving the trail that spans from Kolekole Pass to Palehua Road.

Kunia

Following the trail which soon dipped into a saddle.

Kunia

Looking back into the Kunia farm lands as we gained elevation in the mountains. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Kunia

Lilyn climbing out of the saddle and up to the WST.

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

Stepping foot on the eroded remains of an ancient shield volcano. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Looking back as the rest of the crew emerged from the spur trail.

WST

We topped out on the ridge line just shy of Pu’u Kanehoa to be met by stiff winds and spectacular views wherever we cast our wandering eyes. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

The only sheltered spot on the ridge line from the gusting winds that dropped the air temperature and discouraged some from continuing the hike. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Photo of our group before we dwindled down to a pair of hikers.

WST

Bill and Shirley decided to explore the sheltered trails at lower elevations. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Dropping down the side of the rock face. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Two dots on the ridge line. Photo by Shirley Gloriani.

WST

Lilyn making her way on the exposed ridge line buffeted by the strong winds. Nature’s air conditioning.

WST

Ready to plunge into the forested spot of the ridge line. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Breaking out of the forest and back onto the exposed ridge line.

Gorilla Heads

Meeting up with the first pair of obstacles. One small and one big. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn working her way up the smaller rock face.

Gorilla Heads

Climbing up the bigger head. Webbing optional. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn climbing up while trying not to lose her Chicago Cubs hat. No mean feat by itself in these windy conditions.

Gorilla Heads

Going down the backside. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Gorilla Heads

Lilyn looking for her next foothold or spot.

Gorilla Heads

Can you see the primate for the rocks? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Fence hopping. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Going up through the fence line that was interrupted by the rocky ridge line.

WST

Climbing up the fenced hill. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Lilyn overlooking the Gorilla Heads.

WST

We resumed our hilly climb to be briefly interrupted by several nasty patches of uluhe overgrowth before reaching the third highest peak.

Pu’u Kaua

Photo from the remarkably cleared 3,127′ summit.

WST

Leaving the summit and following the fence line where some spots of the trail were littered with non-potable water jugs and barrels.

WST

Enjoying the central plains view. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

We soon left the fence line behind us and started our program of rock climbing. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Lilyn angling her way down one of the rock climbs.

WST

Low center of gravity. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

High center of gravity.

WST

Lilyn contouring her way down the short and steep climb.

WST

Going down a short drop. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pohakea Pass

It was butterfly time as we made our way towards the imposing 80′ crumbly cliff. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pohakea Pass

Lilyn climbing up towards the base of the pass using ropes that have seen better days.

Pohakea Pass

Climbing straight up, always mindful of the chossy rocks. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Pohakea Pass

Like somebody said, pictures do not do this climb justice.

Pohakea Pass

We both passed the pass.

WST

Lilyn scrambling back up the ridge line, thinking all the hard stuff was behind us. Think again.

WST

So far, so good.

WST

Enjoying the windy views. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

Pushing up the last big hill. Promise?

WST

We had to jump the fence line multiple times to stay on trail. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

WST

The suffocating uluhe overgrowth and the seemingly never ending false peaks were exhausting and irritating. This was the hardest section according to the backseat hiker. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Heleakala

Looking at our original exit route which got tossed out due to lack of time. I also switched my music from headset to speaker to serve as a pseudo-navigational aid, as the overgrowth and multiple trails were a tad confusing. It also helped to drown out the broken record. I didn’t know record players could work in the mountains.

Palikea

Happy Easter from the 3,098′ ti leaf summit where I marked my sixth time finishing the WST.

Palehua

Crossing through forest land teeming with native fauna and flora.

Palehua

Keeping the feral ungulates out but the two legged primates in. Or something like that. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Palehua

Leaving the pine tree forest behind us as we enjoyed central and town views on our way out.

Palehua

Rolling through the Indiana Jones boulder tunnel. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Palehua

End of the trail for us but the beginning of the long ass road that winded down to Makakilo.

Palehua Road

Pounding the pavement as several cars passed us on the road, all failing to follow protocol.

All pau

Hit the road, Jack. And don’t you come back. No more, no more, no more, no more. Hit the road, Jack. And don’t you come back no more. A more lyrical interpretation of the greeting we received at the end of the road. Thanks to Bill and Shirley for picking us up and giving us cold carbonated beverages. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

GPS Tracks

Our 12 plus mile covered the hardest climbing section of the WST, made even more taxing by the annoying overgrowth. Post hike meal at McDonald’s where we locked our doors for peace of mind as we ate our cholesterol drenched food.

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

I joined Matt for a hike in his backyard today.

Trailhead

Nobody else showed up at the appointed time, so we pushed off into the farmlands.

Swing

Sometimes it’s the simple things in life that give you the most happiness. But this is not one of them. LOL.

Kunia

Going up the trail littered with forest detritus.

Honouliuli Contour Trail

Briefly setting foot on the graded trail …

Spur Ridge

… before heading up the spur ridge.

Scenic spot

Looking through the forest canopy across Wahiawa to the lagoon harbor and the iconic symbol of Hawaii.

Saddle

Battling the overgrowth as we descended to the low point on the ridge.

Uluhell

What hike in Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without the clawing and scratching staghorn ferns?

Destination

We could see the mountain for the overgrowth.

Two-Minute Mark

No turning back now.

Spur Ridge

A short scramble was all that separated us from …

Waianae Summit Trail (WST)

… the washed out area just shy of the summit of Kanehoa.

WST

Matt decided to keep me company on the way to Kolekole Pass.

WST

Looking back at missed opportunities.

WST

Did we miss the trail?

WST

Matt contouring his way around the ridge line.

WST

Looking back at the exposed grey rock edifice sticking out like a sore thumb amidst all the green overgrowth.

WST

Following the fence line. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

A-OK

No complaining back here.

WST

Fences for daze. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

WST

Passing showers, not enough to melt.

WST

Clouds on the left and windmills on the right. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Lualualei Valley

Looking back at the largest coastal plain that also has the tallest man made structures as well.

Pu’u Hapapa

Standing on the 2,883′ squared summit.

Washout

The quickest but highly not recommended way down to Wahiawa. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Hapapa Trail

I always particularly liked the panoramic vista that this approach offered when dropping down from Pu’u Hapapa. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Hapapa Trail

Matt making his way down the ridge.

Notch

Climbing down the shallower and smaller cut in the ridge. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Notch

Matt making his way down the deeper and bigger incision in the ridge.

The Gap

Feeling small, insignificant and full of wonder.

Hapapa Trail

Matt coming down the corridor of paperbark trees.

Hapapa Trail

Overlooking the ridges, valleys and coastline.

Meadows

Soaking in the views one last time. Photo by Matt Sorenson.

Kolekole Pass Stone

Dead tired. Don’t take it literally.

Instafamous

“You’re Matt? I follow you on IG!”

All pau

Our hike through the Waianae Mountains covered 5.4 miles through rugged terrain and raw scenery. Thanks again to Matt for showing me his “backyard.” Shout out to Mia for picking us up at the lowest point in the mountain range. Post hike meal at Popeye’s Chicken.

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.

Joining me on this hot and humid day to tackle my last segment of the Waianae Summit Trail (WST) were Chris and Thessa. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Take my picture

There were more bicycles on the road than cars this morning, due to the 112 mile Dick Evans Memorial Road Race.

Farm trail

Where are the farmers? Photo by Chris Chun.

Trailhead

Thessa and Chris in front of the trailhead that lead us into part of the Honouliuli Contour Trail.

Steep

We soon left the trail to begin our push up the steep ridge lined with strawberry guava trees. The carpet of leaves was particularly thick under our feet; fun sliding down, not so fun going up.

Steeper

The ridge is straight up with a couple weak switchbacks thrown in the middle. As we neared the top, the vegetation became thicker and wet.

Pu’u Kaua

Clear and hot day on the 3,127′ summit; with views of the Ko’olau Range, Central Oahu and the Leeward coast and valleys. We tried in vain to spot our friend, Jose on the KST, where he was hiking from Pupukea to Waiahole. Where were the trade winds when you need them? Photo by Chris Chun.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image towards the leeward valleys and Mount Ka’ala.

The fence

The grass was head high at the summit, when we finally pushed our way through, a familiar sight awaited us. The fence line.

Hopping the fence

The fence soon turned left and down a spur ridge. We hopped the fence to stay on the Waianae Summit Trail (WST).

All natural

No fence, just nature.

Rock climbing

This section until the pass contained the most rock climbing found on the WST. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

The fun begins

Making my way down. Photo by Chris Chun.

This way?

Thessa making her way down.

Like a goat

Chris making his way down. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

More rocks

It was like being at an outdoor rock jungle gym. All to ourselves.

Pohakea Tours

A helicopter flew right past us and continued below the ridgeline. I want to be on one of those aerial tours.

Which way?

We worked our way around the clump of trees to continue our hike.

The fun continues

Dropping into the saddle. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Clear?

Watch out for falling rocks.

Pohakea Pass

We meet again. Took a quick break at the base and inspected what we expected. 80′ of crumbly rock. Is that webbing?

Climbing up

Climbing up the pass, I found out the webbing that was oddly placed was of no help. Photo by Thessa Bugay

Hmmm

The webbing had snapped from the top anchor and fallen onto this rock. A dangerous false illusion of assistance when in fact the webbing was anchored to nothing. Guess it was free climbing for me. Should have joined the VRG.

Chris coming up

Once at the top, I let out an elated whoop. My WST journey was completed. I then secured my 100′ of webbing around the anchor rock and dropped it to Chris and Thessa.

Don’t use the red webbing!

As Chris made his way up the cliff, the old webbing came off the rock. Good riddance. Photo by Thessa Bugay.

Looking down

Sitting on the anchor rock. Photo by Chris Chun.

Thessa coming up

Thessa making it look easy.

Made it!

The top of the pass was extremely crumbly. Dirt crumbly. Nice to have a helping hand.

Leaving the pass

Leaving behind the hardest parts of the hike. Pu’u Kaua in the distance. Still had a lot of ground to cover.

Return of the fence

The fence line came back to greet us, like an old friend.

Steep climb up

Huffing and puffing our way to the top. Photo by Chris Chun.

Follow the ridge, not the fence

Climbing over another fence, meant to keep out goats and pigs. We are not farm animals!

Smoky mountains

Smoke coming from a ridge near Makakilo. Fire was over a week old.

Uluhe hell

The uluhe ferns were thick and tangled. Chris, like the true Spartan he is, bulldozed through the fern nightmare.

Heleakala

Looking at the ridge that connects Palikea to Heleakala out in Nanakuli.

Palikea

The ti leaf plants seem to have dwindled in numbers at the 3,098′ summit. Clear views of Nanakuli and Lualualei Valleys were available for our viewing pleasure.

Doorman

Thessa had wanted to check out the tree snails and happy face spiders at Palehua, but time was running short, so we made our way out of the Honouliuli Preserve. Chris, always the gentleman, opened the gate for Thessa. The fenced area contains a lot of native fauna and flora that are best guided with an experienced eye.

Boulder tunnel

Making our way under some very large boulders.

Are we there yet?

It was turning out to be another long day on the trail.

End of the trail!

Chris and Thessa walking down the stairs that leads to the communications site at the top of Palehua Road. Oh yes, the road. All five miles of paved goodness.

Where’s the fire?

As we were walking down, numerous fire trucks were traveling up and down the road. The smoldering brush fire had flared up again.

GPS Tracks

The 15 mile hike actually ended up roughly 11.5 miles under our feet. We lucked out and got a ride down the rest of the road. As we were driving down the road, a family of pigs were blocking the road and they didn’t take too kindly that they had to move off. One pig even gave chase after our truck. Lucky we weren’t walking on the road. Don’t think we were in any condition to outrun pigs. Post hike meal at Ruby Tuesday. No prime rib? Had to settle for steak and rock lobster. Times are hard. Awesome hike with great friends.

Waianae Journey

Click here for the larger image of my section hikes across the Waianae Summit Trail. Map by Marvin Chandra.