We actually got some ridge time today, albeit a very short one for Marilyn’s birthday hike today.

Service Road

Thanks to Ferlino and Lilia for dropping our group off at the side of the highway.

Service Road

What was that? The only thing more concerning than the morning showers was a plastic against metal sound. Apparently one of our drivers had mistaken the gate for the highway. Not my car, still my problem.

Powerlines Trail

Marilyn pushing against the overgrowth as we made our way up the moss slicked steps.

Powerlines Trail

Pushing our quads, glutes, hamstrings and calves on the short and stiff climb up the hill.

Powerlines Trail

Our guide explaining what lies in store for the group.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

Thankfully the rain was replaced by typical trade winds as we stepped foot on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains. I was this close to calling the hike off due to less than ideal conditions for tackling a portion of what some consider one of the hardest hikes on the island. Diamond Head excluded.

KSRT

The million dollar question. Will Edgar fly his drone to capture stunning scenic views on the hike today? Breezy winds say no.

Camp Centipede

Less talking, more hiking.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring around the knob to stay on trail.

Kalihi Saddle

We left the “sidewalk” parts behind us as the ridge narrowed somewhat on our approach to the conical shaped peak.

Kalihi Saddle

The three rules of falling. #1 – Don’t fall. #2 – If falling, fall to the Leeward side. #3 – Never fall on the Windward side.

Witch’s Hat

Have broomstick, will climb.

Witch’s Hat

Kenny conquering his fear of heights as he approaches the pinnacle of the peak.

Witch’s Hat

Edgar sitting pretty on top of the first of many colorfully named obstacles.

Witch’s Hat

What goes up must come down.

Witch’s Hat

Somebody needed to be coaxed down, just let perspiration, anxiety and gravity do the rest.

Kalihi Saddle

The witch and her hat, or is that the birthday girl and her hike?

Kalihi Saddle

We just go straight ahead?

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving Kenny behind us on Witch’s Hat as he promised to keep our seats warm.

Kalihi Saddle

A view best seen from afar, for some people that is.

Kalihi Saddle

Crawler’s Ledge exists outside of Kalalau Trail as well.

Kalihi Saddle

Everybody’s here at the scenic spot. Let the photoshoot commence!

Kalihi Saddle

Let me dislodge this loose rock before somebody gets hurt, like myself.

Kalihi Saddle

Marilyn’s first time on this section of the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

The views never fail to disappoint.

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of us have been here multiple times. Still never gets old.

Kalihi Saddle

Who had the best seat in the house? Perspective.

Kalihi Saddle

Flashbacks to the 22 pushup challenge.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira demonstrating his balancing skills.

Kalihi Saddle

Please keep your hands and arms inside the ride at all times and please do not fall off.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody was not paying attention and yelled my name in panic, violated the first rule of falling but followed the second rule.

Witch’s Hat

Elevator service was requested. Thanks to Chico for the assist. Just call us Otis and Schindler.

Witch’s Hat

Schindler scrambling his way up to the birthday party.

Witch’s Hat

Blowing out a candle is considered a form of witchcraft in some circles. We are on the right place. Happy Birthday Marilyn!

Witch’s Hat

Scrambling our way down the obstacle named by the OG hiker, Pete Clines.

Witch’s Hat

All safe and sound at the base, as another member in the also group observed the second rule of falling.

Kalihi Saddle

Multi-colored hikers on the trail as we made our way to Camp Centipede.

All pau

Our last group photo at the Powerlines before we headed back down and got picked up by Ferlino and Lilia. Mahalos!

GPS Tracks

Our short sample of a saddle hike covered less than two miles with fun friends and good times. Hats off to everybody for hiking and working together to have a safe and amazing experience. Post hike meal at Saito and Pho where the tasty food was offset by sterile service. They need to drop my name from their restaurant. lol. Happy Birthday again to Marilyn, the wicked witch of the West.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpEI1v98kM4

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our birthday hike.

Photos/Crew taken by Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Christy CM, Edgar Gamiao, Kenny Lui, Marilyn Bermudez, 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.

Somebody waited five years to finish this section. Good things come to those who wait.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Alex and Lilia for dropping Chico, Katie and myself off at our starting point today.

Pali Puka Trail

Inside or outside trail?

Pali Puka

Group photo in the hole in the cliff, that was witness to the Battle of Nu’uanu in 1795 that saw Kamehameha take over the island of Oahu.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Climbing up the short and slippery slope to regain the ridgeline.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the breaking sunrise over Olomana.

Incisor Rock

Time to put the spikes on to floss the slippery tooth.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Climbing up the crumbly ridgeline.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way down the constantly changing character as erosion takes its toll. What’s here today, gone tomorrow.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Approaching the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pausing on the grassy hill overlooking Nu’uanu Reservoir #4 which was built in 1910 for flood control and water supply for the surrounding areas.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Katie descending down the flank of the hill to regain the ridgeline.

W

Contouring and climbing our way on the triple diked obstacle.

W

Making our way down the sliver of rock and dirt that seems a tad more slender on each visit.

Anvil

Whipping winds were blowing dirt into any exposed open orifices. Anybody got Visine?

Anvil

Chico pulling himself up the constantly crumbling hill that is still more preferable than the original contour route IMO. To each their own.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Our group making our way up to the hill after the long climb.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back as we saw the three trail runners catching up to us.

KSRT

Making our way towards the summit known as Swirling Heavens.

Lanihuli Summit

Adriana, Stacy and Susana soon caught up with us at the 2,700′ top and decided to join us to the finish line. The more the merrier.

KSRT

Descending from the summit against the expansive backdrop of the Windward coastline.

KSRT

Chico putting his ScuttleButt to good use on the grassy hill.

Kalihi Saddle

Sliding our way down into what some hikers argue is one of the hardest sections of the KST. I would argue it’s Diamond Head, but then again the iconic tuff cone is not part of the mountain range system.

Dirt Dragon

The group riding the dusty creature that is near the brink of extinction.

Kalihi Saddle

Susana and the rest of the group balancing our way down the skinny and crumbly ridgeline that is seemingly held together with grass, uki and woody climbers.

Lanihuli Wall

Katie descending down the long drop on the flank of the ridgeline.

Lanihuli Wall

Waiting for the rest of the group to descend down the wall which is notorious for falling rocks, I can bear witness to that.

Lanihuli Wall

The girls contouring their way around the Can Opener.

Can Opener

Katie and Susana under the shadow of the Can Opener and what I like to call the “Bulging Fridge.” A sizeable rock that seems to jut out inch by inch every time I pay a visit to this spot. Or maybe I just have an active imagination.

Can Opener

Group photo at the scenic saddle spot.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way down the brittle ledge.

Kalihi Saddle

Katie making her way down the near vertical drop.

Pimple

It was too windy to pop the pimple today, despite a willing volunteer.

Doorstop

Climbing queue, as Adriana and Stacy wait their turn.

Doorstop

Stacy approaching the top of the wedge shaped obstacle.

Bunny Ears

Pete Clines the legendary hiker was the one that gave these “silly names” to these obstacles on Kalihi Saddle so as to make them less intimidating.

Bunny Ears

Katie striking a pose on the mushroom rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Living life on the edge. Or as skydivers would say, “If you’re not living life on the edge, you’re taking up too much space.”

Kalihi Saddle

Searching for the triangle shaped obstacle.

Shark Fin

Thar she is!

Powerlines

Victory dance at the finish line. Congratulations Katie on completing the KST!

Powerlines Trail

Descending down into Kalihi Valley, that are home to a colony of Australian rock wallabies, that escaped from the private zoo of Richard Trent in 1916. The last survey conducted in the 1990s pegged the marsupial population to number in the 70s.

Kalihi Valley

Never let your feet touch the ground.

All pau

Walking out to the highway where we were picked up by Alex and Lilia.

GPS Tracks

Our KST completion hike covered 2.97 miles through two saddles and unexpected company. Congratulations again to Katie for a finish that was long in the making. Post hike meal at Nalu Health Bar & Cafe where I was pleasantly surprised by the menu offerings.

Photos taken by Adriana Hunter, Chico Cantu, Katie Lockerton, Stacy Paquette, Susana Escobar and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

It was time to hit up the mountains one last time before our trip to Europe. Why not make it a saddle hike?

Route 63

Thanks to Aileen’s friend, Kenny and Tessa for dropping us off on the side of the highway named after King David Kalakaua’s sister.

Kalihi Valley

Making our way up the short and steep trail used by HECO workers to service the powerline poles at the top.

Kalihi Saddle

Trade winds greeted us at the top which was a welcome relief from the oppressive humidity that existed in the land of the wallabies.

Camp Centipede

Glad no predatory arthropods came out to greet us.

Camp Centipede

Duct tape can fix anything.

Kalihi Saddle

We contoured around the knob as we set foot on the trail.

Kalihi Saddle

Threading our way on the narrow ridge line bordered by thick overgrowth on the Leeward side and sheer drops on the Windward side.

Witch’s Hat

The group climbing up using a mixture of grass, branches and old suspect webbing.

Witch’s Hat

Val watching Aileen scramble her way up the conical shaped peak.

Witch’s Hat

The group climbing down from the other side.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling and scooting on the space deficient ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Andy was probably muttering “Den Gipfel erreichen.”

Kalihi Saddle

Val scrambling up the fractured rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira sprinting across one of many narrow stretches. No fear.

The Hump

Are we humping the mountain or is the mountain humping us? I think it’s the latter.

Kalihi Saddle

The group traversing over the rolling and restricted ridge line.

Tabletop

Andy trying to secure reservations or just a good handhold.

Tabletop

The rest of the group clambering over the oddly placed rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Hanging on by a very thin sliver of crumbly rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Val wasted no time on this narrow of narrow sections, not a good place to dawdle.

Rock Triangle #1

Climbing up on the Windward side of this rockface where I dislodged a good sized rock that plummeted down to the valley floor that gave somebody a panic attack.

Rock Triangle #1

Somebody was determined not to duplicate and pass on my anxiety inducing attacks.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Aileen making her way around the overhanging ledge.

Rock Triangle #2

The rest of the group waiting for their turn to go up the second rockface. Which begs the question, is it better to go first, middle or last?

Rock Triangle #2

Jeremy using his USMC background to climb this very surmountable obstacle.

Kalihi Saddle

Passing over the area where a broken webbing was one of two witnesses to a hiker that fell two years ago from this same spot. A story best told after everybody has left the area.

Broken Wave

Scrambling my way up the trail of raining rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

The group preparing to leave the ridge line and plunge into heavy overgrowth.

Dirty Slide

Can you see the hikers for the overgrowth? The passing rain shower didn’t help as well.

Kalihi Saddle

Everybody had to eat their Wheaties in order to make the exhausting climb up the flank to regain the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger contouring his way around the slippery slope.

Kalihi Saddle

No rest for the weary.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling our way up the dirt ribbon of a ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Somebody said this was the hardest part of the saddle. Could it be a former member of the military branch that was established in 1775?

Kalihi Saddle

We left behind the “technical” and “sketchy” sections of the saddle to continue our hike on typical KST ridge lines filled with multiple false peaks.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the cleared 2,740′ summit. Views all around. Lunchtime.

Ko’olau Summit RIdge Line (KSRT)

We left the saddle behind us as we resumed our hike on the dormant fragmented shield volcano. Yes dormant.

Tripler Summit

Our last summit photo with wrap around views of the Windward coastline.

Tripler Ridge

The group exiting the KST.

Tripler Ridge

Aileen “Jackson Chameleon Whisperer” Agustin discovered a rather plump looking invasive lizard which were originally imported from Africa in 1972 as stocks for a pet shop. Then they were intentionally set loose and the rest is history.

Tripler Ridge

The group preparing to descend down a spur ridge into the valley.

End of the Road Trail

The three horned male version of the invasive lizard that eats native insects, spiders, and snails.

All pau

We soon dropped off the ridge and plunged into head high ginger plants and California grass. The overgrown trail eventually became a rather cleared road where we met Kenny and the collective group walked out of the valley and back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our introductory saddle hike for some covered 6.43 miles, mileage may vary depending on whom you ask. Solid day with a great group that helped each other out on what many hikers consider as the “hardest” section of the KST to complete. Post hike meal venue was supposed to have been at Alley Restaurant, as somebody was pushing for their chocolate desserts. Excessive wait time forced us to consider Mexican. Closed. Chicken. No. We all then drove to Pearlridge Center to eat at Big City Diner where Aida, Kenny and Tessa joined us.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Andreas Wiegand, Jeremy Cannone, Roger Schiffman, Val Wang and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

The rain had gone away and so with it the excuses. That is how Jeremy, Roger and myself found ourselves in the mountains today.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks to Aida for dropping us off at the trailhead.

Powerlines

We walked up the service road and made the short climb to the saddle where the usually stiff winds were absent, only gentle trade winds to tickle us on our hike today.

Shark Fin

Climbing up the dorsal shaped rock whose edible counterpart is banned from restaurants that never advertise.

Kalihi Saddle

Jeremy and Roger walking on the edge of the pali (cliff). Or is this what living life on the edge looks like?

Kalihi Saddle

Working our way on the narrow ridge line as we briefly alternated between contouring into the bushes and back onto the “trail.”

Kalihi Saddle

Jeremy looking at each step with wide-eyed anticipation.

Bunny Ears

Climbing up the first of the not so soft long and triangular rocks.

Bunny Ears

Making our way down the “thinner” side of the obstacle.

Bunny Ears

Climbing our way to the only soft spots on the “ears,” the tops that were feathered by pine trees.

Doorstop

To trust or not to trust the webbing that has been exposed to the elements for 24/7 for God knows how long. Always bring your own stash.

Doorstop

Jeremy spotting Roger on his way down.

Pimple

Roger contouring the small bump of rocks while Jeremy climbing his way down.

Can Opener

One struggled while the other two easily walked their way up the shifting under footing. It’s all in the approach.

Can Opener

Group photo under the shadow of the bulging “fridge” rock that hopefully never opens its doors while hikers are around.

Kalihi Saddle

Is this a trail?

Lanihuli Wall

Jeremy scrambling up the lower tier.

Lanihuli Wall

Contouring our way around the crumbly ridge line.

Lanihuli Wall

The struggle is real. The face says it all.

Lanihuli Wall

Roger climbing his way back to the ridge line. The grounds that had been saturated by the heavy rains the week prior had made the climb especially taxing for all of us.

Dirt Dragon

There was nothing left to train.

Kalihi Saddle

Crumbly much?

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

All the hard parts were behind us. For this section.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the 2,700′ peak that lived up to its name, “swirling heavens.” Technically, the summit was a peak over. Old habits die hard.

KSRT

Working our way towards the other half of the saddle. The fun never stops.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Descending down the hill that was somewhat steep in parts.

W

Somebody was watching us. Specifically three kids who turned out to be Mason, Blake and Caden. Turns out they were deciding if they should push further. I guess if we fell, then they would’ve turned around.

Anvil

Roger carefully making his way down the more direct of two routes. The contour still exists, but we took the more direct approach. Got to beat the forecasted afternoon rain showers. What’s a couple more minutes?

W

Forced smile.

W

The boys perspective of us making our way on the saddle. Thanks!

W

Climbing and contouring our way on the triple diked obstacle.

W

We talked to the young boys a bit about the trail and they decided to push off for the summit of Lanihuli and return back to the Pali.

Anvil

Seems like they preferred the direct approach as well.

W

Leaving the 23rd letter of the alphabet behind us.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The forecasted rain showers showed up 15 minutes early. Even a broken clock is right twice a day.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Luckily the rain showers were more sprinkles and passing.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Backward and forward motion.

Incisor

Checking for cavities.

Incisor

Clean bill of health.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Roger still had the direct approach baked into his brain.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going up what I like to call the “runway.” And that ladies and gentlemen, ends our saddle tour for the day.

KSRT

Scrambling down the slick, rooted and rocky hill.

Pali Puka Trail

We soon left the Puka where the three boys soon caught up to us to head back down to the Lookout. They must have hustled to get back down that quick. To be young again.

All pau

Did we all have fun today?

GPS Tracks

Our blood, sweat and tears hike covered just a little over three miles with Roger who was now one step closer to finishing the KST and Jeremy who finally got a taste of the saddles. All in all, a good day with good company. Post hike meal at the original Lilihia Bakery that opened its doors in 1950. But, if you want prime rib at this location, you’re out of luck. Should’ve got the loco moco. Oxtail soup is not in their wheelhouse.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Jeremy Cannone, 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.

A friend came out of his hiking hibernation to start wrapping up loose ends on the KST. Slight exaggeration. Just slight.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks to Ferlino for dropping Akira, Chico, Ryan, Scott and myself off to the starting point where we met up with Aileen to round out today’s group.

Kalihi Valley

Walking up the service road used by the electric utility that had its genesis with King Kalakaua who had Iolani Palace wired for artificial illumination in 1886. By 1890, 797 homes in Honolulu had electricity. And in 1891, Hawaiian Electric was incorporated.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Hiking into the sun, better than into the rain. Don’t speak too soon.

Kalihi Saddle

Starting on the saddle route that was pioneered by Pete Clines and friends back in 2011.

Shark Fin

Is that Shark Fin? How many times have you done this?

Kalihi Saddle

Scott starting on an easy saddle or so he thought.

Shark Fin

Squeezing our way between the trees and the rocks as we contoured to the top.

Shark Fin

Aileen and Scott scrambling their way up the rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Stiff trade wind breezes kept us steady on the narrow ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira watching his step as he made his way on the trail. Medicine will be consumed after we are off the trail.

Kalihi Saddle

Up and over another small hill.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing, pulling, scooting, straddling and walking were all used during our traverse of the saddle.

Bunny Ears

Pete Clines was the hiker that gave these menacing pinnacles their “silly names.”

Bunny Ears

The group waiting in the climbing queue for their turn.

Bunny Ears

Climbing towards the top of the first “ear” feathered by pine trees.

Bunny Ears

Akira intently observing our climbing progress.

Bunny Ears

Climbing and contouring around the top of the second “ear.”

Bunny Ears

The group traversing between the two rock obstacles.

Doorstop

Scott ready to flex his guns going down the next obstacle. Better not be firing blanks.

Doorstop

Ryan climbing down with additional webbing for that additional peace of mind.

Doorstop

Akira taking his own route to climb down. That’s okay, I have long legs.

Pimple

Contouring the obstacle, but no popping today.

Pimple

The group working their way down and up out of the rock obstacles.

Can Opener

Chico climbing up the crumbly pile of rocks and dirt.

Can Opener

Ryan interrupted his lunch to provide a helping hand.

Can Opener

Group photo at the scenic spot with the bulging refrigerator above our heads.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring below the crumbly ridge line.

Lanihuli Wall

Climbing up the lower tier of the “wall.”

Lanihuli Wall

A passing rain shower briefly moisturized our epidermis and rain jackets.

Lanihuli Wall

Akira climbing his way up the grassy flank of the ridge line. Different perspective.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambled to the “end” of the ridge in the “wrong” direction.

Kalihi Saddle

The closest I will ever get to the top of the Can Opener, unless I want to push my threshold.

Kalihi Saddle

Resuming our crumbly climb towards the summit.

Kalihi Saddle

Native plants such as the uki and ‘ie’ie were our constant climbing companions in the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

Keep to your left. Your other left.

Dirt Dragon

Sitting on the shadow of its former self.

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving the eroded section for greener pastures.

Kalihi Saddle

Ryan testing the rocks before committing to the climb.

KSRT

The group beginning their slow and steady climb up the grassy slope against the backdrop of the Windward side.

KSRT

Traversing over a couple false peaks to get to to the true peak.

Lanihuli Summit

Sausage, eggs and rice are what’s cooking in the mountains. Priorities.

Lanihuli Summit

Mother Nature treated us to a clear scenic view at the 2,782′ summit.

Kapalama Trail

Dropping off the massive mountain as we began our descent down on the trail that was carved out of the forest in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Kapalama Trail

Looking back as the summit whose name that means swirling heavens receded in the distance. It seems that reaching the summit wasn’t a reality until circa 1996 not for lack of trying.

Kapalama Trail

Passing through a grove of pine trees, that were introduced to Hawaii in the early 19th century for economic, forestry and ornamental reasons.

Kapalama Trail

The trail skirting the boundaries of the Oahu Country Club and Nu’uanu whose close proximity to the town of Honolulu ensured that it would become home to many of the movers and shakers that shaped Hawaii into what it is today.

All pau

We rode the White Dragon at the end, which was more stable and comfortable. I don’t think it’s going away anytime soon. Thanks to Agnes for the unexpected pick up after her work shift ended. Now Ferlino can go pray for our souls. Some of us need it more than the others.

Post hike meal

We had our dinner at Kenko-ya where Japanese was not really Japanese per the Japanese. Our one step closer to the finish line hike covered 5.17 miles with a solid group.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Ryan Meyer, Scott Peterson, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

The birthday boy wanted a repeat of Kalihi Saddle for his hike. So we did it with a twist today.

Kalihi Valley

Thanks to Matt’s dad for dropping Akira, Amber, Matt, Roger, Tessa and myself where we possibly glimpsed a rare yellow striped macropod hopping through the valley.

Camp Centipede

Group photo where we stashed extra food and water for our return trip back down.

Kalihi Saddle

Scenic pisses. Not to be confused with golden showers.

Kalihi Saddle

Traversing on the narrow ridge line as we approached Witch’s Hat.

Witch’s Hat

Somebody was probably thinking “Didn’t we just do this two weeks ago?”

Witch’s Hat

Tessa climbing her way down against the backdrop of Windward Oahu.

Witch’s Hat

Scooting our way down the front side or back side. Depends on which way you’re going.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way up on exposed rocks on the eroded ridgeline. Or was it the other way around?

Kalihi Saddle

Amber looking back at the scenic spot of Witch’s Hat.

Hump

Climbing over the hill to get to the destination. Wishing each other happy hump day, to acknowledge that the hike can be challenging.

Wave

Hiking with the flow.

Kalihi Saddle

Watching our steps as we made our way along the uneven, narrow and crumbly ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger scrambling up past the tabletop rockface.

Rock Triangle #1

Rope inspection. Nothing to see here. Move along.

Rock Triangle #1

Akira pulling himself up to safe ground.

Rock Triangle #2

Clouds started to roll in that was accompanied by passing sprinkles.

Hot Wheel Tracks

The group making their way over the shelf of rock and dirt seemingly hanging precariously off the cliff.

Rock Triangle #2

Matt flashing the obligatory shaka in the mountains. Many theories abound as to the origin of the state’s official gesture; ranging from a train guard, to a shark bite and to immigrants. But most all agree that the shaka means the aloha spirit.

Broken Wave

The mountains seemed to be steaming as we made our way up the eroded runway of a ridge line.

Dirty Slide

Contouring our way on the uneven and overgrown flank of the mountain. The hardest part of the hike.

Dirty Slide

Why pull, when you can claw your way up the eroded top? Exactly!

Kalihi Saddle

Staying on the cloud free side of the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger making his way around the short stretch of exposed and eroded ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Falling rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

What goes up must come down. Truer words have never been spoken by Isaac Newton.

Kalihi Saddle

Getting back on the ridge line.

Broken Wave

Roger watching Amber make her way down the rain of rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Matt descending down to the section where a fellow hiker had fallen over a year ago, after the webbing had snapped on him.

Kalihi Saddle

More falling rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

Play Misty for Me. And now here’s a pretty one for lonely hikers on a cool, cool day. Creative license taken.

Rock Triangle #2

Matt climbing his way down. Somebody put shiny webbing on this rockface that can be seen from miles away. Slight exaggeration.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Roger leaving the rock fall prone area for safer ground. Relatively speaking.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Happy Birthday Akira-san! Many more smoky returns.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Amber going down the eroded shelf of dirt barely passing itself off as a ridge line.

Rock Triangle #2

An aerial perspective as Matt launched his drone.

Kalihi Saddle

Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a drone!

Rock Triangle #1

Looking for my next foothold as I made my way down.

Rock Triangle #1

Drone view of the group climbing down the rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Amber going over the new dirt dragon.

Kalihi Saddle

Waiting for the rest of the group as we soaked in the views on the postage stamp sized seats.

Tabletop

Leaving as we didn’t have reservations.

Wave

Going against the flow.

Hump

Climbing down an obstacle is infinitely less preferable than going up. You got to do what you got to do.

Witch’s Hat

It was too early for Halloween.

Witch’s Hat

Amber looking back at the steep climb we had just descended.

Witch’s Hat

Watching the rest of the group making their way down along with some stray rocks that made their way down as well.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking back to our starting point.

Camp Centipede

Lunch in the mountains. Beef and cheese sticks, musubi, ramen and spam and of course, steak and rice. All washed down with carbonated sodas and H20. Shall we continue?

Powerlines

Passing the powerlines as we pushed towards the direction of Lanihuli.

Shark Fin

Climbing and contouring our way around this particular rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

This side of the saddle is longer, but generally less steep and not as denuded as the other side. Just my opinion.

Kalihi Saddle

Making our way towards the peak of Lanihuli. Pipe dream.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira balancing on the thin ridge line. First rule of falling. Don’t fall. Second rule of falling. If you have to fall, fall on the Leeward side.

Bunny Ears

Standing on the magic mushroom rock. Natural high in the mountains.

Bunny Ears

The group climbing their way up the thin, weathered ribbon of rocks.

Bunny Ears

Making our way to the clump of pine trees on the peak of the first rockface.

Bunny Ears

Roger climbing up to another clump of pine trees on the second rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

I can see the Dirt Dragon! Look, but don’t touch.

Doorstop

Akira climbing his way down the eroded rockface. Hey, where is everybody else? The spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak. The rest of the group decided to call it a day. I had at least wanted to make it to the Dirt Dragon. But it was not in the cards. Well, the mountains will always be there.

Pimple

I climbed to the top and briefly stood up as the gusty winds buffeted me, so I lowered my center of gravity lest I become a pimple on the saddle myself.

Doorstop

Akira trying to fruitlessly secure the ropes against the strong winds that were fighting against his good intentions.

Doorstop

Making my way to the top.

Doorstop

It was time to turn around and go back home.

Doorstop

The group hiking to rejoin Tessa who had stayed on the last Bunny Ear due to leg cramps.

Bunny Ears

Scooting our way down the crumbly side of the rockface.

Bunny Ears

Tickling the Bunny Ears as we traversed between the two rockfaces.

Bunny Ears

The group climbing down the last Bunny Ear. Too late for Easter.

Kalihi Saddle

Hiking on the edge. Luckily, the islands have trade winds for the most part, which pushes us away from the sheer drops. Kona winds are not your friend in the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

Drone view of the group climbing down from Shark Fin.

Powerlines

Making our way down to the col in the saddle.

Powerlines

Last group photo of the day.

Powerlines

The drone has landed. No severed or cut fingers.

All pau

Amber and Matt playing on a natural teeter-totter in the woods. Mahalo to Matt’s dad for picking us up and taking us back to our cars!

GPS Tracks

Our back and forth hike covered less than four miles of focused climbing and scrambling all day. While we did not complete the intended goals, it was a fun day for all and there is always a next time. Kudos to the group for agreeing to my plan and coming down safely in one piece.

Max’s of Waipahu

Akira has a new love in his life now. Just look at that smile. Any more wider and his face would split open. Move over Tessa.

Max’s of Waipahu

Thanks to Agnes, Aileen, Cat, Dale, Edgar, Mari, Marilyn, and Mona for coming out to celebrate Akira’s birthday with good company and fun times.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Amber Fonte, Matt Vidaurri, Roger Schiffman, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We picked up where we had left off from last weekend. Staged our cars at Moanalua Valley and briefly talked to the police officers (popo) watching the valley 24/7 while somebody used the bathroom. The slang “popo” originated in Southern California when police officers on bicycles wore t-shirts with PO (police officer) printed on them. Riding in pairs, they would spell out po-po. Thanks to Cinja for giving us a ride before her hike. Amber was there just for the photo shoot.

Kalihi Saddle

Left the humid valley of yet to be seen wallabies and broke out on the exposed ridge cooled with abundant trade winds.

Kalihi Saddle

Skirting the narrow ridge bordered with bushes on one side and steep drops on the other side.

Witch’s Hat

Roger climbing up the back side.

Witch’s Hat

Tessa climbing up the conical shaped rockface.

Witch’s Hat

Looking ahead to the steep and unrelenting climb ahead of us.

Witch’s Hat

Akira downclimbing the front side of the hat.

Kalihi Saddle

Which rock is crumbly and which one is not? Playing Jenga in the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of the group cresting over one of many high points on the ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Keeping our center of gravity low as the winds pushed us around on the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira keeping his balance as he “rides” the wave on the ridge line.

Tabletop

Roger finding his own way.

Tabletop

Tessa climbing her way up the rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

Straddling the new dirt dragon. The other one is set to retire soon.

Rock Triangle

Climbing up on the exposed Windward side.

Rock Triangle

Roger providing photographic support.

Rock Triangle

Pulling myself up on the Leeward side of the rockface.

Rock Triangle

Roger climbing his way up.

Rock Triangle

Tessa’s turn to climb up the rockface.

Broken Wave

Akira coming up the uneven runway of loose and shifting dirt and rocks.

Dirty Slide

Everybody had to eat their Wheaties to make it up this one. It was probably the most physically exhausting in terms of upper body strength.

Dirty Slide

Akira standing on the crumbly edge. Not too far out, just far enough.

Kalihi Saddle

Roger scrambling over the bulging rock.

Kalihi Saddle

The group climbing up the thin strip of loose dirt that passed for a ridge line.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Soaking in the mountain views after our climb out of the saddle.

Bowman Summit

Group photo at the 2,740′ summit of Pu’u Kahuauli (Bowman).

Bowman Summit

Chef Suzuki cooking up his signature steak in the mountains. More butter and medium rare please.

Bowman Summit

Secondhand smoke. Psychoactive collateral damage?

KSRT

Traversing between summits, as we left Kahuauli (Bowman) and headed towards the summits of Kaho’omoe ‘ihikapulani (Tripler) and Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe (Stairway).

KSRT

Climbing up the hill as we left the defunct relay station behind us.

KSRT

Are we on Moanalua Middle Ridge? The ruts that serve as the paths of least resistance for water erosion and foot travel have taken its toll on the landscape.

Stairway to Heaven

This is where I asked AI to step in and construct what a hike past this point would look like given the current conditions surrounding this controversial and iconic symbol.

Stairway to Heaven

Roger had never stepped foot before on Haiku Stairs. Thanks to AI, he can now say he was on part of the 3,922 steps that make up the storied stairway.

Stairway to Heaven

AI showing us going down to the first platform behind the CCL building.

Stairway to Heaven

This is what one of the detached modules looks like according to AI.

Stairway to Heaven

AI rendering of our group on the last platform before the trail descends down into Moanalua Saddle.

Stairway to Heaven

I think there was a glitch in the AI as it showed me on the grassy slope instead of on the stairs. Still got some bugs to work out.

Stairway to Heaven

Roger can thank AI for showing him on both sides of the stairs.

Stairway to Heaven

This is what AI thinks Stairway to Heaven looks like. Close but no cigar.

Stairway to Heaven

AI will have to generate new deepfake photos when the stairs are finally relegated to the dustbin of history.

Stairway to Heaven

I asked for an AI rendering of heaven at the top. Nothing is perfect.

KSRT

Retracing our steps, as we hiked back to the summit of Bowman. Not going to lie, that was more exhausting than we had originally thought it was going to be.

Bowman Trail

We left the KSRT as we took the trail off the summit.

Bowman Trail

Passing through the extremely wet environment that dominated this particular patch in the mountains.

Bowman Trail

Finding our way as it was extremely overgrown at the top. Ribbons and faint paths helped us to get back on the trail.

Bowman Trail

Switch backing our way down the side of the mountain with ropes that have probably been there as long as the mountain itself. Slight exaggeration.

Bowman Trail

Can you see the face for the mountain?

Commando Shortcut

Going down the spur ridge pioneered by the hardy folks at HTMC.

Kalihi Valley

We followed the trail of bottles and sound of motor vehicles to find our way out of the tropical valley that borders northern Honolulu.

Likelike Highway

Broke out of the valley and took a rest on the highway that was first built in 1954 and fully open to the public in 1968.

Likelike Highway

Thanks to Agnes for picking us up on the side of the highway with drinks and snacks.

All pau

“You guys wasn’t the one that posted the picture?” “This morning?” “You guys went post a pic of the popo and stuff like that? Thats you guys eh?” “I get the picture right here.” It’s always nice to be recognized in public. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where the food order did not match the food delivery.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Akira Suzuki, Roger Schiffman, Tessa Bugay, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order. Congrats to Roger for making his first saddle look like a piece of cake and the rest of the group for the always fun company.

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 had woken up earlier in an attempt to traverse all three saddles of the KST but were stymied by blue lights that were blockading the entrance to the valley formerly owned by the Damon family. The three of us decided to go back home and sleep on it. Met up later in the morning at the Pali Lookout to do an abbreviated version of the planned hike.

Pali Puka Trail

It was a short huff and puff up the mountain that made sure we were wide awake and not slumbering along the trail.

Pali Puka

Akira at the rock window that was witness to the brutal battle of 1795 that secured the island of Oahu for King Kamehameha.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Scrambling up the steep rocky flank that had been slightly moistened by the passing morning rain showers.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hiking on the exposed ridge line. A breath of fresh air. Literally.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Trying to stay grounded while soon to get our head in the clouds.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We know which way the wind blows on this side.

Incisor Rock

Time to pay a visit to the dentist in the mountains.

Incisor Rock

Flossing the cracks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

This webbing was getting long in the tooth.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Narrow as narrow gets.

W

Approaching the obstacle some call Donkey Kong or the true Pali Notches.

W

Akira coming down the grassy slippery slope.

W

Threading our way through the 23rd letter of the English alphabet.

W

Our group photo at the top with barely room to spare.

W

What does an upside W mean for somebody in particular?

Anvil

Going up the fractured path as we watched out steps.

Anvil

Moss only grows on trees and not crumbly rocks.

Lanihuli Summit

Taking a break in the swirling heavens.

Kalihi Saddle

Going down the other side of the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa climbing her way down the ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Standing room only.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa climbing over the constantly eroding ridge line. Here today. Gone tomorrow.

Dirt Dragon

Straddling what is left of the receding physical manifestation of untamed nature.

Kalihi Saddle

Where’s my next foothold?

Lanihuli Wall

Perched on the side of the mountain.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira contouring his way back to the ridge line.

Can Opener

Group photo at the scenic spot with the saddle stretched out behind us.

Rotten Steps

Making my way down to the most visually striking of all the obstacles on this side of the saddle.

Rotten Steps

Tessa scrambling her way up to the next obstacle.

Pimple

The rest of the group contouring their way around the sliver of a rockface.

Doorstop

Going up the front whose character is always evolving over time.

Doorstop

Akira pulling himself up the eroded rockface.

Bunny Ears

It only feels fluffy at the top.

Bunny Ears

Akira climbing down and over the hump.

Kalihi Saddle

Sitting on the edge.

Bunny Ears

Tessa standing on the magic mushroom rock. Akira was looking for the magic marijuana plant.

Kalihi Saddle

We could soon see the powerlines for the trail and the lifeguard that was droning our hike.

Shark Fin

Climbing down the last major obstacle on the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

A drone view of Tessa and Akira traversing the narrow ridge line. I hope it was worth the $35 ticket.

Camp Centipede

Met up with Matt at his launching spot and also our lunch spot as well.

Camp Centipede

Chef Suzuki preparing his udon with beef garnished with green onion that was simmered in dashi broth. Nothing like hot food in the mountains.

Powerlines

Group photo at the col before heading down into the valley.

All pau

One was checking her spikes, the other one was posing for the camera and the last one was watering the plants. Hoped he washed his hands. Thanks to Matt for driving us back to our cars. Post hike meal at Kam Bowl Restaurant where the chicken papaya was sorely lacking in taste. Hard pass. The hike was not all that was planned, but everybody came down safely and had a good time. Not a bad way to spend the day.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Matt Vidaurri, 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.

Weather forecasts had predicted windy conditions this weekend to possibly paraphrase the saying “fools rush in where wise men fear to tread.” We all met up relatively on time, except for the “new CB.”

Moanalua Valley

The group crossing one of the seven storied bridges and cobblestone paths that at one time gave passage to the Damon family’s horse drawn carriages. Samuel Mills Damon was bequeathed over 6,000 acres of land (Moanalua Ahupua’a) in 1884 from Ke Ali’i Bernice Bishop, who was the last living member of the House of Kamehameha. The ahupua’a of Moanalua at one time encompassed the valleys of Moanalua and Halawa down to the edge of Pu’uloa (Pearl Harbor). Over time it has shrunk due to the US government’s condemnation of huge tracts of land for military bases, and the selling off of land for commercial and residential development. Moanalua Valley was also the original route for the H3 highway until court battles forced the State to construct in its present home, Halawa Valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Is this the way to Stairway to Heaven?

Kulana’ahane Trail

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of the hau trees, I will fear no evil, for high winds await me on the mountains.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Haig crossing one of over 28 stream crossings on the trail. Nobody was counting. Mathematically challenged.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Some of the guys clearing the trail. There is no scientific evidence that a certain complex plant made of major compounds makes people stronger, rather it has a reputation for decreasing athletic performance. Hence, the rock did not budge even one inch. Not even a centimeter.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Chico passing his stone. Pretty painful.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Have rock, will fix spike.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Leaving the valley floor as we climbed up the steep and short spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo at the windswept summit, left to right: Chris, Robin, Aileen, Haig, myself, Akira, Aida and Chico.

Moanalua Saddle

We left the summit to practice our balancing skills on a narrow ridge line with wind gusts pushing us around for good measure.

Moanalua Saddle

The group transitioning from bipedal to quadrupedal locomotion. Whatever will get us there.

Moanalua Saddle

Woman down! The first rule of falling is don’t fall. The second rule is if you have to fall, go in the direction of the Leeward side. The last rule is do not fall on the Windward side. Luckily, Robin followed the second rule. Haig came up from the rear and safely guided her back to the ridge, where she belonged.

Moanalua Saddle

Some of us went up the direct route.

Moanalua Saddle

Others chose the longer route and contoured around the rock face.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring and climbing our way up the Windward side. What was that about Rule #3?

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way to the most famous obstacle, the Dirt Triangle.

Dirt Triangle

Contouring around the grassy and slippery slope.

Dirt Triangle

Aida pulling herself up on the Leeward side. What was that about Rule #2?

Dirt Triangle

Robin’s turn to go up.

Dirt Triangle

That expression on your face when you know you’ve made it to the top. Priceless.

Moanalua Saddle

We don’t need no stinkin’ webbing!

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the exposed crumbly climb as we noticed rain showers in the valley. Wind + rain. What could go wrong?

Moanalua Saddle

Haig climbing to the top of the last “technical” section of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

It’s not well known is that Akira was the original Karate Kid until Hollywood decided Ralph Macchio looked more the part. Much like how David Carradine got the lead role in the TV show Kung Fu because Bruce Lee was too “asian.” A little known fact is that the iconic martial artist was not 100% Chinese, he was of Chinese and European ancestry.

Moanalua Saddle

We ran into an imported goat from the province of Pangasinan. This particular one was sure footed and fleet of foot.

Moanalua Saddle

Aileen climbing up one of the last eroded sections as the rain showers marched their way towards us.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Approaching one of the platforms that was used to suspend six antennas across Halawa Valley during WW2. Each antenna spanned 6,955′ and was suspended 1,968′ above the valley floor. Quite an engineering feat back in the day.

KSRT

Wondering if the grass is greener on the other side of the stairs.

KSRT

Hazing ritual.

KSRT

The rusted stairs soon ended and the rain showers finally made their appearance.

CCL Building

Haig on top of the building that will still be here after the stairs are long gone.

CCL Building

What every girl wants on her birthday. Chocolate? Flowers? Jewelry? Nope. A stick of butter. Happy Birthday Aida! While we took shelter from the cold and driving rain outside, muted mutterings about bailing began to circulate. Optimism still ran high with some in the group.

Stairway to Heaven

Dear hikers, can you hear the wind blow?
And did you know
Your stairway lies on the last gasps?

KSRT

The weather soon cleared and we all agreed to push to the next saddle. We still have enough daylight. Right?

KSRT

Dropping down the ridge to the defunct radar tower.

KSRT

Sit not stand.

KSRT

Akira climbing up for some elevation change.

KSRT

I am high high!

KSRT

Passing the transmission tower lines as we made our way up the rutted trail with panoramic Windward views to our back.

Tripler Summit

Brief break at the 2,760′ grassy peak. Is that the way down to the valley in the back of us?

KSRT

We left the summit and continued our hike on the ridge as the winds that we thought we left behind us returned with renewed gusts.

KSRT

Ferlino would climb it! I guess peer pressure only works so far.

Bowman Summit

Group photo with the obstructed Leeward background at the 2,740′ peak.

KSRT

The birthday girl about to drop down into the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Butt scooting our way down the crumbly ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Robin climbing over the bulging rock.

Kalihi Saddle

Bottleneck as everybody was taking their time to traverse …

Slippery Slope

… around this soft patch of dirt.

Dirty Slide

Just missing the lasso.

Dirty Slide

Chris shadowing Aida on her way down.

Dirty Slide

Maybe should change the name to Grassy Slide.

Broken Wave

Stay in your lane. Deja vu.

Broken Wave

Haig walking it down.

Free Fall

Aida climbing her way down the constantly changing character of the saddle.

Rock Triangle #1

Clear? NOT YET!

Rock Triangle #2

Robin navigating her way through the severely eroded section on the Leeward side.

Rock Triangle #2

Akira going over the edge.

Rock Triangle #2

I had my fill of rocks being rained down in my direction.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Going down on the denuded and eroded stretch. I had wanted to make Witch’s Hat before sundown. I also wanted to play in the NBA. Dashed dreams.

Kalihi Saddle

The city lights below us started turning on. Time to get our headlamps ready.

Rock Triangle #2

Climbing down the Windward side, my headlamp started to flash which meant it was slowly losing illumination. I could barely see going down but was assisted by the bright light of CB’s lamp down below.

Rock Triangle #2

CB guiding the rest of the group down.

Tabletop

Driving rain pelted us as we went down the jumbled slabs of rocks.

Kalihi Saddle

High winds and the darkness kept us on all fours most of the time on the ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

City lights on the left and trees on the right.

Kalihi Saddle

Are those people up there in the mountains?

Hump

Scooting our way over the irregular rounded rockface.

Kalihi Saddle

We could see the conical shaped rockface. We are close to the end!

Witch’s Hat

It would have been a lot easier for some if they had a broomstick to fly up instead of climbing up.

Witch’s Hat

Going down the backside.

Powerlines Trail

Getting out of the wind and off the ridge and down to the valley floor. What a relief!

All pau

A big shout out and hearty appreciation to Agnes and Tessa who waited for us way past their bedtime and brought us drinks and food. Props to the group for helping everybody come out safely in the dark and keeping it together.

GPS Tracks

Our unforgettable saddle hike covered 7.98 miles through high winds, rain and darkness with a solid group that was there for each other. The constant peppering of our faces with wind blown volcanic dirt left our ears fertile ground and bloodshot eyes.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Haig Van Roubian, Robin Farr, 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.

Took a couple interested people to see the saddles firsthand, as seeing is believing as they say.

Likelike Highway

Mahalo to Ferlino for dropping Aida, Aileen, Akira, Chris, Haig, Tessa, and myself off the highway named after the last heir to the Hawaiian throne prior to its overthrow in 1893.

HECO substation

Stretching prior to the hike to avoid leg cramps or just carry mustard.

Powerlines Trail

Pushing our way through the overgrown trail to the lowest point between the peaks of Bowman and Lanihuli.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Bathroom views.

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle.

MIA

Aida had to donate her gold earring to the mountains in return for safe passage.

Shark Fin

Making our way to the first obstacle banned in Chinese restaurants.

Shark Fin

Climbing and contouring our way around the top through a thicket of trees.

Kalihi Saddle

The Kona winds blowing today were not strong enough to push us off towards the Windward side versus the usual trade winds which blows towards the Leeward side.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing our way down on the thin strip of trail in the mountains.

Mushroom Rock

Everybody getting their photo opportunity.

Kalihi Saddle

The washer bringing up the rear with panoramic views of the Windward side. I never heard of the term washer before, must be an Armenian thing.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira thinking “high,high” was either referring to elevation change or mood change at this moment.

Bunny Ear

Traversing between the “silly names” of the pinnacles that Pete Clines gave to reference them on the saddle.

Doorstop

Chris standing on the top of the obstacle named after something that prevents a door from banging against the wall. Let’s not bang our heads going down, shall we.

Doorstop

Aida climbing her way down.

Doorstop

Akira keeping his head away from the rocks.

Pimple

The group contouring their way around the spit of a rock.

Pimple

Haig keeping high on the contour, referring to elevation and not mood change.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris guiding Aida on her climb down.

Kalihi Saddle

The rest of the group making their way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling to higher ground.

Pimple

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.

Pimple

Popped.

Pimple

Chris clearing the loose rocks at the top.

Pimple

360 degree view at the top.

Pimple

Photobombing Chris as he pops the pimple.

Can Opener

Making our way up to the lunch spot.

Can Opener

Group photo in the shadow of the “Fridge.”

Can Opener

Contouring our way around the “little hook” that would be quite nasty, if not downright suicidal to climb it.

Lanihuli Wall

Tessa and Haig climbing the lower tier.

Lanihuli Wall

The rest of the group moved out of harms way as an earlier dislodged rock narrowly missed Akira and would have given him a different type of high high.

Lanihuli Wall

Aida coming up the upper tier.

Kalihi Saddle

Akira watching the rest of the group making their climb up from his crumbly perch.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing up the “rotten” ridge loosely held together by native woody vines, perspiration and faith.

Dirt Dragon

This is after all, the Year of the Dragon. Take a seat Aida.

Kalihi Saddle

If there’s one constant on the saddles, it’s the crumbly character accentuated by constant erosion.

KSRT

Leaving the saddle behind us as we hiked into the clouds.

KSRT

Chris passing along nature’s Rorschach test. What do you see?

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the 2,700′ peak named “Swirling Heavens” in Hawaiian.

KSRT

Traversing the ridgeline as passing rain showers moisturized our epidermis.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going down the ridgeline as it seemingly keeps the clouds at bay on the Windward side.

Anvil

We decided to go down the more crumbly route instead of the standard contour route. WTF?

Anvil

Stay in your lane!

W

Standing on the 23rd letter of the alphabet.

W

Akira climbing down the fifteenth most used letter in the English language.

W

Haig contouring around the letter that was banned in Turkey from 1928 to 2013 due to the Kurdish population.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Moss don’t hit back.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Akira contouring around the steep flank of the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The rest of the group making their way down with what looks like more of a dentist’s nightmare than a letter in the background.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Losing elevation and gaining the muted views back.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Scooting on the narrow rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Standing on the narrow rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The rope guiding us down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Yawning is contagious in the mountains.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Aida climbing down to the toothy rock.

Incisor Rock

When climbing down is infinitely preferably to contouring down.

Incisor Rock

Spotting the rest of the group down.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Tessa going down the narrow stretch of rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Haig bridging the gap.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Hiking our way to the exit point off the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Descending down the flank of the ridge dotted with roots and loose rocks.

Pali Puka

Our last group photo before dropping down to the lookout.

Pali Puka Trail

Hiking down with the illuminated Pali Tunnels and cloud sheathed mountains in the background.

Pali Puka Trail

Night hikers marching down the trail. However, if you run across us, you don’t have to strip naked and lie prostrate before us. Unless that floats your boat.

All pau

Where did all the tourists go? Perhaps it was the haunted spirits of over 700 Hawaiian warriors that were either pushed or fell to their death in the Battle of Nu’uanu in 1795 that scared them away. Thanks to Haig for parking his unmolested car outside the gates.

GPS Tracks

Our introductory saddle hike covered roughly 3.27 miles with a fun group. Congratulations to Tessa for completing her fifth KST completion with this hike. Good job done by Akira and Haig on their first of many saddle hikes. Post hike meal at Tasty Korean BBQ where the soda carbonation was flat and the wait long. Should’ve waited for the other restaurant. Post hike ice cream dessert at Ferlino’s house courtesy of Haig.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Akira Suzuki, Chris Bautista, Haig Van Roubian, 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.