It was time for another camping weekend in the mountains.

Pali Lookout

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

Pali Notches

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

Chimney

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

Mud Wall

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Konahuanui

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

Olomana

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

K2

Joy descending down from the two large testicles.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

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

Manoa Middle Summit

Panoramic views of Maunawili Valley and points beyond.

KSRT

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

Castle Trail

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

Awaawaloa

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

Ka’au Crater

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

Ka’au Crater

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

KSRT

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

Kainawa’aunui

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

Pu’u Lanipo

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

KSRT

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

Wiliwilinui Summit

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

Camp Wili

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

Camp Wili

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

Wiliwilinui Summit

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

KSRT

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

Wailupe Summit

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

KSRT

It’s always hump day in the mountains.

KSRT

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

Hawaii Loa Summit

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

KSRT

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

Kulepeamoa Summit

Never say never? Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

The hills have hills.

Kuli’ou’ou 2?

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

Just missing the tent. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

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

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

Did you see the arrow? What arrow?

Scenic point

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

KSRT

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

Hahaione Pyramid

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

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

Kaluanui Summit

Lunch in the shade. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

Tom-Tom Summit

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

Kamiloiki Summit

Planking at the shaded spot overlooking the Waimanalo coastline.

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

Dropping down into the depression. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Scrambling out of the saddle. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

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

Kamehame Road

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

Kamehame Road

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

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

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

Trailhead

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

Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

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

Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

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

Wiliwilinui Summit

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

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

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

KSRT

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

Lanipo Windward

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

Kainawa’aunui Summit

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

KSRT

Dropping down from the big hill to the valley views.

Ka’au Crater

HFD Chopper looking for tourists disguised as hikers in distress?

Ka’au Crater

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

KSRT

Climbing to the summit of Awaawaloa. Photo by Chris Bautista

Mount Olympus

Hydrating at the 2,486′ summit.

KSRT

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

KSRT

Looking out towards hazy views of the Waianae Mountain Range.

KSRT

Blue tour helicopter searching for views for their paying customers.

KSRT

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

Manoa Middle Summit

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

Traversing between the two summits. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Almost there.

Konahuanui Summit

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

K1

The things that you find in geocaches.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris with a commanding view below him.

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris coming down the Chimney.

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

Now it was time for our photo shoot.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Time to pack up our dresses and head back down.

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

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

Trailhead

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

Moanalua Valley

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

Kulana’ahane Summit

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Trying to discriminate against the loose rocks.

Dirt Triangle

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

Dirt Triangle

Why use one rope, when two will do?

Dirt Triangle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Couple more crumbly sections ahead of us.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

The classic spot to pose on the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Ben approaching the first landing.

Moanalua Saddle

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

CCL Building

Following the tetanus approved cable to the top.

Haiku Stairs

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

Stairway to Heaven

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

MMR Junction

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

Radar Station

Ben making his way down the cloud washed ridge.

Tripler Summit

Refreshing the cocaine addicted public since 1886.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

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

“‘Ie’ie

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

Bowman Summit

Let’s not take any wrong turns around here.

Kalihi Saddle

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

Kalihi Saddle

Ben descending the steep and crumbly ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring around the sliding dirt section.

Kalihi Saddle

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

Kalihi Saddle

Watch out below for the dirt and rock showers.

Kalihi Saddle

Passing the broken wave.

Kalihi Saddle

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

Kalihi Saddle

Ben making his way down the first rock triangle.

Kalihi Saddle

Pausing to check out the Windward views.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben climbing down the second rock triangle.

Kalihi Saddle

The summit of Lanihuli was strikingly clear.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at our descent from Bowman. Crazy fun.

Witch’s Hat

Too early for Halloween.

Witch’s Hat

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

Kalihi Saddle

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

Power Lines

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

Kalihi Saddle

Back in the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Wrap around view that never fails to disappoint.

Kalihi Saddle

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

Jackson Chameleon

The one that got away.

Sharks Fin

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

Kalihi Saddle

Ben making his way up to the first Bunny Ear.

Kalihi Saddle

Popping our way towards the pimple.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben dropping down the Door Stop.

Kalihi Saddle

Classic photo spot below the can opener.

Kalihi Saddle

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

Kalihi Saddle

Preparing to climb The Great Wall of Lanihuli.

Kalihi Saddle

Ben coming up from the first tier of the wall.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking cool on the mountains.

Kalihi Saddle

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

Kalihi Saddle

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

Swirling Heavens

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

Lanihuli Summit

Peeking over to the town side.

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Anvil

Ben looking laser focused on climbing his way up.

Donkey Kong

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

W

… And now we know our alphabet.

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

This rock looks safe to grab. Right?

Pu’u Suicido

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

Just a couple more humps before getting off the ridge.

Nu’uanu Valley

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

Invasive critter

The one that did not get away.

Nu’uanu Valley

Why is it taking so long to get down?

Pali Puka

Almost done for the day.

Nu’uanu Valley

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

Pali Lookout

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

Pali Lookout

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

Pali Lookout

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

Pali Lookout

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

Pali Notches

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

Pali Notches

You sure you guys won’t change your minds?

Chimney

Time to sweep the chimney.

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

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

Nu’uanu Saddle

Panoramic view of the Windward side.

Konahuanui Summit

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

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

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

Manoa Middle

So close, yet so far.

Castle Trail?

Exploring the swath of a trail that parallels the KSRT.

Mount Olympus

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

Ka’au Crater

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

KSRT

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

Lanipo

The trail that leads to my “Meru.”

KSRT

Approaching the power lines and relay station of Wiliwilinui.

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

Wiliwilinui Summit

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

Wiliwilinui Summit

This pooch had the right idea.

KSRT

Another day, another dollar, different hike.

Hawaii Loa Summit

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

Kulepeamoa Summit

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

Pu’u O Kona Summit

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

Art saying hello or waving goodbye?

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

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

KSRT

Passing the power lines on my way to Hahaione.

KSRT

Selfie at the scenic point.

Hahaione Pyramid

Not hiking like an Egyptian to the top today.

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

The trail that Kamehameha Schools would like hikers to forget.

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

Kamiloiki Summit

Nobody was home at Camp Awesome.

KSRT

The sun striking and illuminating Manana (Rabbit) Island.

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

KSRT

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

Makapu’u Puka

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

Makapu’u Lookout

I can see somebody’s van.

All pau

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

GPS Tracks

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

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

This is a story of one hike that split into two hikes. Ethan picked up Chris, Daryl and myself and drove to the end of the island to begin our journey across the mountain. The Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Pupukea

Day 1 – Saturday, May 27. We got off to a late start at a little past 8am, as three of us were sober and one was slightly hung over. The mountains are calling and we are coming. Photo by Kristina Eizenhofer.

Pupukea

Chris recycling a hiking stick from the forest grounds that would stay with him until the end. The very end.

For Sale

Mother Nature is slowly taking her real estate back. Photo by Daryl Cacatian

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

Ethan passing the picnic shelter.

Sign Junction

We soon left the road strewn with fallen rocks and trees for a trail strewn with overgrowth, roots, rocks and mud.

Black Junction

Preparing to plunge into the trail system carved out of the mountains by the Army and Civilian Conservation Corps back in the early 1900s. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Ko’olau Summit Trail

Walking through waist high uluhe ferns on the trail. Welcome to the jungle, probably the most overgrown section of the KST.

Pu’u Hina

Taking a short break amidst the whistling leaves of grass.

KST

We soon dropped off the ridge to contour on the Windward side.

Geocache

Hey, there’s a Tupperware party going on back here. Anybody?

KST

Enjoying a brief respite on the ridge from the claustrophobic and cloying vegetation, which snatched my water bottle and in return, gave up my sunglasses from an earlier hike.

Green Sign Junction

It was around noon when we reached the halfway point to Laie. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Breaking out into the more exposed section of the ridge and some sorely needed fresh air.

Malaekahana Junction

Covered with condensation and perspiration, we arrived at the gloved junction and dropped down to contour to the Leeward side. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Making our way up to the foxhole that marks the 2,240′ summit, only to discover that we had familiar company sitting at the top.

Laie Summit

Somebody was drinking beer at the top. Somebody didn’t need another beer. Group photo left to right: Ethan, Daryl, Arnold, myself and Chris.

KST

We left Arnold at the summit …

KST

… and soon bumped into the ubiquitous fence line and another familiar face – Rob Johnson.

KST

Daryl extricating himself from the ankle deep mud. A taste of what was to come.

KST

The cabin in the distance.

KST

Crossing our mud soaked toes that the cabin would be open.

Koloa Cabin

We got to the cabin around 4pm to find out that Rob’s group had already opened the cabin. The largest cabin on the KST was made smaller by nine hikers setting up home for the night. We took turns filling our water and rinsing the mud from our blackened shoes and feet.

Koloa Cabin

Some of us made our way up to the helipad to catch the evening entertainment that buzzed us on their way to Sacred Falls. Then we trickled back down to the cabin to cook our rice and chicken and beans and rice. Rice dominated the dinner table. Somebody was going to cut their toothbrush in half to save grams of weight, when somebody else pointed out that they still had to carry it back out. Light bulb time.

Koloa Cabin

Enjoying the golden hour as we settled in on our first night on the mountains. Earplugs muffled the noise pollution floating around the cabin while air mattresses eased our tired bodies.

Koloa Cabin

Day 2 – Sunday, May 28. Daryl enjoying the glowing sunrise from the helipad, while the rest of us made our bunks and breakfast. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Koloa Outhouse

When you got to go, you got to go. Never mind the smell. Pass the toilet paper. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Koloa Cabin

Rob’s group heading out to rappel Koloa Falls.

Koloa Cabin

We left the cabin around 8am to start slogging our way through the muddiest section of the KST. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Leaving the fence line and gates behind us as we contoured on the Leeward side of the trail.

KST

Punching through a stream of pungent mud that passed for a trail. No Spartan Mud Race this year.

KST

Crossing an open field to regain the ridge.

Smartwater Bottle Junction

Look long and hard at this bottle. Let’s not have another deja vu moment.

KST

Approaching the fenced Papali summit.

Papali Junction

Rain showers met us at the summit around 10am. No sign of the “King’s Slipper” from an earlier hike. Group photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

Rounding the fenced corner to find …

Please do not pet the dead animal

… our lechon lunch? Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

The fence line and gates served as a surrogate firebreak through the uluhell of ferns.

KST Junction

The rain went away shortly after we got to the signed junction around 11am. Time to put away our rain gear. Only to take it out later again. Life in the mountains. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

Misery aka knee deep mud loves company.

KST gate

Leaving the mud trail behind us.

KST

The views were fleeting due to the drifting clouds, but what views they were when we had them.

KST

Chris dropping into the fenced gully, whose streambed was remarkably dry given the wet weather we were experiencing.

KST

Hanging on the fence line, our constant companion in the mountains, as we contoured on the Windward side with muted valley views.

Fence meadows

Passing through stacks of fences and pallets that provided temporary shelter from the sweeping rain showers that came and went.

Boot Junction

We arrived at the iconic boot junction around noon. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

Looking out towards the Leeward side as we left the fence line for the ridge line.

KST

Walking on the Windward side of the ridge as we got treated to stunning views of the valleys. Never gets old.

Weather station

Checking the weather forecast. Sunny with splendid views. Guy Hagi was alive and well in the mountains.

KST

The group queuing around the gate to get off the ridge.

Cline Memorial

Greeting hikers since 1978. Built to honor an avid hiker who particularly loved this spot and whose life was tragically cut short by a car crash.

Poamoho Summit

Sweeping views of Punalu’u and Kahana Valleys.

Poamoho Boardwalk

Panoramic view of the recently installed boardwalk and Kahana Valley.

KST

Switch backing our way to the cabin.

KST

Panoramic view of the West side with the cabin, marsh and the WST in the backdrop.

Poamoho Cabin

We got to the vacant cabin around 230pm with a lot of time on our hands. Ethan called first dibs on a slowly leaking air mattress that somebody had left behind. We washed off the mud from our shoes, socks and feet.

Poamoho Cabin

Cabin life. Reading the gems of Darth Vader poems that were trying to pull us to the dark side. We filled up our water and fired up our stoves to cook our dinners. Hot food does a body good.

Poamoho Outhouse

Chris trying to be one with nature or nature was calling.

Poamoho Cabin

Day 3 – Monday Memorial Day, May 29. Sunrise from the cabin.

Poamoho Summit

Chris slippered to the summit to catch a solitary sunrise washing over him, while the rest of us ate our breakfast.

KST

We put on our still wet, but clean shoes and left the last four walled shelter we would see in the mountains.

KST

Daryl enjoying the scenic views of Kahana Valley while munching on the abundant thimble berries that populated the trail.

Pauao Junction

The long and overgrown Windward ridge that goes down into Kahana Valley.

KST

Watching our steps as we made our way down through the false holes and eroded sections of the trail.

KST

One can’t but be awed and impressed hiking through the most scenic stretch of the KST.

KST

The morning sun was hitting us particularly hard as we made contact with the fence again.

Fresh cut fans

Ethan harvesting fan umbrellas for the crew. Chris’s sickle did come in handy. Ethan would never mock his gardening tool again.

KST

Leaving the fence for the trail.

Schofield-Waikane Junction

We got to the junction with the Leeward trail that leads down to Wahiawa around 9am. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KST

When you fall off the ridge, get right back on, with a helping hand.

KST

The heat was somewhat diffused by overcast clouds, so we disposed of our fan umbrellas.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

It passed the sniff test. Now for the taste test? It wasn’t even 10am and it was too early to be drinking suspect beverages.

KST

The mass of hikers follow lives of bustling trails, while the minority of hikers enjoy lives of quiet trails. Besides bumping into Arnold and Rob’s group back at Laie, we would not see another soul until Kulana’ahane Summit.

KST

Chris rounding the bend in the trail. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KST

Walking across a relatively fresh landslide that had wiped out part of the constantly evolving trail system. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KST

Contouring on the Leeward side, that for the most part protected us from the elements.

KST

Back on the exposed windswept and cloud covered ridge line.

KST Junction

One does not always follow the fence on the KST, there are certain junctions that must be navigated or one will end up lost and burning precious time getting back on the right trail.

Metrosideros Rugosa

The largest known specimen of Lehua Papa provided scant cover from the rain showers sweeping the mountains.

KST

Following the fenced ridge line, where we soon dropped down and detoured into the tree of life pass.

Tree of Life

Looking at the powerful example of wind at work in the mountains. A horizontally growing sugi pine tree. The views weren’t that bad either. Until the clouds rolled in. Story of our lives in the mountains.

Selfie Stick Junction

Leaving the sprawling fence line behind us at 1230pm. It’s just a matter of time before the necessary eyesore continues its march on the KST, which also seems to be pushing the pigs ahead of the fence.

KST

Passing through the notch in the mountains.

Cryptomeria

Contrary to popular belief, there are several groves of these Japanese Sugi Pine Trees sprinkled throughout the mountains. Besides the ones at your local nursery.

KST

We skirted the pine trees and crossed the trickling stream to make our way up the hill.

Kipapa Summit

Can we just crash and camp here? It was only 1:30pm, so we decided to change the schedule and push on. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

Leaving the contours and switchbacks behind us. It was just straight up punishing hills and ridges ahead of us.

Waiahole Middle Junction

Passing the overgrown Windward ridge from hell that none of us would repeat again under any conditions.

KSRT

The scale of the mountainous terrain was more than equal to the physical exertion needed to traverse the hilly ridges.

Lost & Found

Where is my GoPro? Chris and Daryl backtracked to retrieve Daryl’s GoPro that he had left on an earlier spot on the ridge.

Waiawa Gap

Threading our way down into the heavily vegetated gap.

Waiawa Gap

Minding the buzzing bees in the notch.

Waiawa Gap

Pushing up the short but steep climb out of the notch.

Waiawa Gap

Enjoying the stunning scenery wrapped around us at a little past 4pm.

Waiawa Gap

Looking back at the rollercoaster of a ridge ride. More to come. Keep your feet on the trail and your hands in front of you.

KSRT

Enjoying the short stretch of flat and wide open ridge line. Mountain and ocean views included.

KSRT

Concentrating on wading through the waist high overgrowth on the trail as we had no views to distract us.

The Corner

Dropping down to our campsite around 6pm. Ethan had surged ahead to Manana for the night. We noticed a lot of pig rooting activity in the area and checked our water supply and decided not to replenish our water, despite having steripens in stock.

Camp Corner

Goodnight from Camp Corner. Pounding rain kept the grounds wet and air mattresses kept our bodies insulated from the damp grounds.

The Corner

Day 4 – Tuesday, May 30. It was wash day in the mountains. The smell of rain hung in the mountains.

KSRT

Leaving the soggy camp grounds in our squishy shoes a little past 8am.

KSRT

We got disoriented in the clouds and “explored” in the dew dropped tree lined ridge until we found the trail.

KSRT

Approaching the socked in summit of Manana to meet up with Ethan.

Manana Summit

We arrived at the 2,660′ summit around 9am to recover the water bottles that Chris had stashed earlier. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Pu’u Eleao

Dropping down from the rain kissed summit, we walked through the bowl shaped grassy meadows before getting back on the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Working our way back to the ridge line.

KSRT

The elevating mountainous views kept us grounded on the trail.

KSRT

Passing the constantly eroding and evolving ridge line.

Waimano Summit

Dropping down into the trail terminus around 1130am, experienced cloud blocked views of Waihee Valley, so we pushed on after taking a quick breather. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

KSRT

The crew silhouetted against the clouds going down the ridge line.

KSRT

Dropping off the ridge and into the mystical meadows a little past 1pm.

Waimalu Meadows

Chris fishing for water that was sprinkled with floating bugs. Double filtered. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Waimalu Meadows

Group photo at the edge of the mythical meadows.

Waimalu Meadows

Ethan heading up to the summit.

Waimalu Meadows

Leaving the meadow oasis in the middle of the mountain range was harder for some than others. Who can blame them? Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Whole Foods Market

Why eat gummy worms, when you can have the real thing?

KSRT

Back to our regular programming. The rollercoaster ridge.

KSRT

The sound of huffing and puffing was alive and well in the mountains.

KSRT

The clouds came back to keep us company.

KSRT

It was amazing to hear the cacophony of civilization drifting up to the mountains.

Powerlines

The best views for us after the grueling climbs was the power lines appearing from the clouds. Another couple humps and we could call it a day.

Aiea Summit

I felt every inch of the elevation gains and losses as we made it to the 2,805′ summit around 6pm. The hardest and hilliest section of the KST were behind us.

Aiea Summit

Can you pass the butane please? I need to cook my Rice and Chicken. Photo by Ethan Clavecillas.

Aiea Summit

Day 5 – Wednesday, May 31. Hiking stick doubling as a stretching stick for Chris.

KSRT

The gusting winds snatched my boonie hat and sunglasses from my head and sailed them into the great beyond. Daryl lent me his fitted cap to keep my big head warm in the chilly winds.

KSRT

Passing the plant protected enclosure on the way to Hell.

KSRT

It was hump day in the mountains.

KSRT

Rounding the corner to find welcoming Windward views.

KSRT

We dropped off the cloud soaked ridge and made our way towards the rusting stairs of Hell.

North Haiku Stairs

Panoramic view from Stairway to Hell.

North Haiku Stairs

Our stay in Hell was brief, as it was not as hot as we expected. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Following the flag towards Moanalua Saddle.

KSRT

Leaving Hell behind us as we made our way up the dilapidated and rusting stairs.

KSRT

Daryl making his way down the ridge with the backdrop of H3 behind him.

Geodetic Marker

The weathered marker has seen better days.

Red Hill Summit

Taking a shoefie at the summit around 1215. No stashed water from the search years ago was left, but the webbing that Ethan had stashed was still here.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the crumbly and eroded section.

Moanalua Saddle

Stumbling down the saddle, or at least that’s what somebody told me.

Moanalua Saddle

The mountain tops trying to pierce the cloud ceiling.

Moanalua Saddle

The clouds lifted to reveal the CCL building that has been drawing hikers to her since the mid-1950s.

Kulana’ahane Summit

We hit the summit a little past 2pm. I was spent and exhausted from not enough food and water from the past two days. My stomach had shut down. A couple we met at the summit, graciously offered their egg sandwich, which I couldn’t stomach so it was time to end the hike. Parting group photo by Chris Bautista.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Looking back at the guys contouring and climbing the Dirt Triangle.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Mahalo to Ethan for accompanying me down the valley to make sure that I made it down safe and sound. End of the road for us, sorry about that prime rib dinner and cutting the hike short. Thanks to Ben Hinders for picking us up on short notice. More importantly, thanks to my wife who let me take off to the mountains for this hike. I think she was more disappointed that I didn’t finish than I was! I still enjoyed my five days in the mountains with good company and great times. The company always matters more to me than the hikes.

Moanalua Saddle

Meanwhile, back in the mountains … Daryl making his way up the last chossy section. Photo by Chris Bautista

Moanalua Saddle

Chris climbing up the overgrown back stairs to the CCL building.

Moanalua Saddle

Enjoying a brief break with the stashed water and food. Photo by Chris Bautista

Moanalua Saddle

Daryl climbing the steep hill to heaven.

CCL Building

Nobody was around the WW2 building. They had the heavenly view all to themselves.

ET Call Home

Coming down from the Moanalua Middle Ridge Junction, they made their way down to stop briefly at the defunct radar station for a better view. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Camp Tripler

Home for the night. Face time gave way to battery time.

Tripler Summit

Day 6 – Thursday, June 1. Daryl greeting the morning sun. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Bowman Summit

It was a beautiful but windy day to saddle up again.

Kalihi Saddle

Contouring on the Leeward side of the crumbly ridge. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris untangling the webbing from the vegetation. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl about to do the dirty rope slide down. Photo by Chris Bautista

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting down past the broken wave. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl climbing his way down the first rock triangle. Photo by Chris Bautisa.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris standing above the second rock triangle. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Witch’s Hat

Standing on the narrow dike before the last main obstacle on the Bowman side. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Witch’s Hat

Daryl cresting the top of Witch’s Hat. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Camp Centipede

Don’t kick over any rocks, lest a creepy crawler goes up your leg. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Powerlines

Vienna Sausage break. Just missing the saimin.

Kalihi Saddle

Daryl walking on the narrow ridge fringed by abundant vegetation. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking ahead to the crown jewels of Kalihi Saddle.

Bunny Ears

Daryl making his way up. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Can Opener

The classic photo spot. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Lanihuli Wall

Daryl making the steady climb up the flank of the grassy ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Dirt Dragon

It was blowing hard on the saddle today. Just ask Chris’s hair.

Kalihi Saddle

To paraphrase Sir Edmund Hillary, “It is not the saddles we conquer but ourselves.” Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Almost there.

Lanihuli Summit

Taking a short break. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Anvil

Daryl making good use of all his gym time pulling himself up with the new webbing. Photo by Chris Bautista.

W

Playing Donkey Kong in the mountains. Well played. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Dropping in elevation, they shed the clouds and gained the views back.

Pu’u Suicido

Daryl contouring and climbing his way around the incisor rock. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pali Puka

Arnold, Ethan and Krissy climbed up to the puka to meet the guys. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chris and Daryl dropping back down to civilization and more importantly, hot food. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Pali Lookout

Chris and Daryl hitting the pavement around 5pm after a six day hiatus in the mountains. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Pali Lookout

Shout out to Agnes Bryant, Amber John, Arnold Yago, Becca Frager and Justin Brackett, Christine DC, Cynthia De Lafuente Wolarey, Dale Yoshizu, Darlina and Junanita Cacatian, Derek Potter, Ethan Clavecillas and Kristina Eizenhoefer, Harold Viloan, Kathlea Kay Evans, Lee Shreve, Mia Garrison, Nandor Szotak, Scott and Dalia Bowling, and Shirley Hamamura who turned out to show their support for Chris and Daryl and more importantly for bringing assorted foods and drinks.

Camp Pali

Talking story at the campsite that Derek Potter had found that was relatively protected from the wind and prying eyes. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Camp Pali

Day 7 – Friday, June 2. Early hikers roll up their camp early. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Pali Notches

Daryl climbing down the second notch. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Chimney

The wind was blowing hard in the morning and they had discovered the webbing had shifted to the far right. Chris shed his pack and climbed to retrieve the webbing for Daryl. After multiple attempts, the webbing was passed to Daryl and the hike continued. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

All the technical were sections behind them as they continued their climb to the highest peak on the Ko’olaus. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Awaawaloa Summit

A hippy hiker was their only company along with the cloudy views. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Ka’au Crater

Chris at the top of the crater trail. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KSRT

Enjoying a short break before the big climb up to Lanipo. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Looking back is always easier than moving forward, but not as rewarding.

KSRT

Passing the powerlines. Almost pau for the day.

Camp Wiliwilinui

They hit the summit around 5pm and promptly gorged on dinner for four. Buffet in the mountains.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Day 8 – Saturday, June 3. Chris greeting their last and rainy day on the mountains. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

KSRT

Around Wailupe, Chris fell off the ridge and was caught by a tree on the Leeward side. Don’t fall at all, but if one must, veer towards the Leeward side which is generally more forgiving in terms of trees and grade.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Enjoying the Waimanalo views at the 2,520′ top. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Passing through a sliver of a trail.

KSRT

Sliding down the eroded section of the trail towards Kuli’ou’ou, where they met a couple of hikers at the Bear Claw summit.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

The usually crowded summit was eerily empty. Chris decided to dry his tent further down at Hahaione summit.

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

Daryl at the abandoned lookout. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Tom-Tom Trail

Looking out towards Rabbit Island surrounded by the blue-green ocean. It was almost more tempting than the mountains.

KSRT

No photo shoots to delay their progress.

Kamiloiki Summit

Crashing Camp Awesome to enjoy the first beers of the day, courtesy of the Caveman aka Marcus Griego.

KSRT

Enjoying the view before setting off on the exposed and rocky section. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Dropping down the rocky ridge to find …

Makapu’u Puka

… Arnold and Mark waiting for them with a couple more beers. Alcohol and hiking go hand in hand, or was that foot to mouth? Photo by Arnold Yago.

KSRT

Nearing the end of a week long journey. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Makapu’u Lookout

A big thanks to Agnes Bryant, Arnold Yago, Christine DC, Derek Potter, Ethan Clavecillas and Kristina Eizenhoefer, Kath Pablo, Lee Shreve, Mae Christine Dizon, Mark Carinoso, Mia Garrison, Rocky Serrano, and Scott Bowling for coming out to see Chris and Daryl crossing the finish line and bringing assorted foods and drinks.

All pau

Celebratory congratulations to Chris Bautista, Daryl Cacatian and the walking stick for hiking the entire Ko’olau Mountains in eight days! Others have done this trek with and without company, with and without assistance; regardless of how it was done, an awesome accomplishment to all that have done it and will do it. Great job guys!!!!

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

Rain clouds forced us out of Kahana Valley to Plan B.

Trailhead

Chris, Dale and myself drove to the top of Wilhelmina Rise for our Plan B hike.

Mau’umae Trail

Walking up the corridor that was flanked by the Board of Water Supply and unfinished business.

Mau’umae Trail

Chris and Dale making their way down the open ridge. We can’t see the mountain for the clouds.

Mau’umae Trail

Never hike alone. Good advice from an inanimate object.

Mau’umae Trail

Chris and myself coming down one of several rocky sections. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Mau’umae Trail

Chris and Dale giving their quadriceps a workout.

Mau’umae Trail

City views. Just when we thought we left the rain behind us. It hit us like an old wet sock.

Mau’umae Trail

Chris and Dale headed towards the Captain Morgan tree stump.

Mau’umae Trail

Looking at the third waterfall spilling down from Ka’au Crater.

Mau’umae Trail

The last muddy push to the socked in summit.

Kainawa’au Summit

Group photo left to right: myself, Dale and Chris before the clouds snatched our view away.

KSRT

Chris and Dale hiking the short traverse on the Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail.

KSRT

Windward views on the left. Your right. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

KSRT

Chris and Dale approaching Lanipo Summit.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Time to hike a new ridge. Thanks to Troy for the beta on this trail.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Serious bushwhacking ahead. Where’s that machete when you need one?

Wiliwili Nui Ridge

So close, yet so far.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Faded ribbons marked the abandoned HTMC trail, which has completely surrendered back to nature.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Chris ducking under one of many fallen trees on the trail.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Offspring of the Kahana Valley dragon.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Sea of uluhell.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Looking back at the now clear Ko’olau Mountains. The cruel irony. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Waialae Nui Ridge

Rock of Chris. Chris on the Rock. Chris Rock. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Waialae Nui Ridge

The trail soon opened that lead us to a …

Waialae Nui Ridge

… water tank. Dead end. We were not part of the Millionaire’s Club.

Waialae Nui Ridge

We scooted and scrambled our way down the ridge through the brittle, rotten trees and loose rocks.

Waialae Nui Ridge

A little waterfall fed by the stream. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Waialae Nui Ridge

We threaded our way through the tree lined embankment, looking for a place to cross the stream.

Waialae Nui Ridge

The punishing cardio climb up the spur ridge towards the top to connect us back to Mau’umae Ridge Trail.

Mau’umae Trail

We were all tired and exhilarated upon reaching the top. Are we there yet?

Mau’umae Trail

Sun setting. Time to finish this hike. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Mau’umae Trail

Connected the ridges.

All pau

Heading back to our cars. I was glad the day and hike were almost over. What a day.

GPS Tracks

Our loop ridge hike covered 8.68 miles of bushwhacking and cardio hiking. Post hike meal at Big City Dinner. Well, at least for the two of us. One got lost and went home. Time to feed the dog.

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

Lanipo Windward ridge was last reportedly done by HTMC hiker Dick Davis in the 1940s when he lost all his fingernails going down. Ouch. I wanted to scout out the ridge for a possible future hike. Joining me today were Jose, Ryan and Thessa.

Trailhead

We parked at the top of Maunalani Circle and found two condoms on the ground. Used. At least somebody had safe sex.

Corridor

The beginning of the trail is sandwiched between a BWS tank and somebody’s private property.

Mau’umae ridge

It was a rainy day on the ridge. Can’t catch a sunny break.

Walking up

The Lanipo trail has been described as a rollercoaster hike. A light version of the Manana Trail. Up and down. Repeat until you get to the top.

Looking back

Click here for larger image.

Steve Becker bench

Group photo at the bench left to right: Jose, myself, Thessa and Ryan. Sound advice that was posted: Never hike alone, carry a cell phone, and leave your hike plan with someone.

Trail snacks

Strawberry guava trees fruiting along the trail.

What’s that?

Ryan and Thessa looking at some red flowers nestled amongst dead branches that caught their eye.

Dew drops

Something you only see in the morning or after a good rain. We had both.

Captain Morgan?

Where’s the rum? BYOB on the trails.

Shaka rainbow

It’s all about perspective. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

Waterfall

The third waterfall cascading down from Ka’au Crater.

Palolo valley

Looking out all the way to Diamond Head.

Baby fern

A fiddlehead.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Almost there

Ryan and Jose going up the last hill to the summit. The rollercoaster ride has ended. Please remain seated until the car comes to a complete stop.

Mount Olympus

The cloud deck was skipping and skimming the top of the Ko’olaus. Caught a rare glimpse of Olympus not capped in clouds.

Kainawa’aunui summit

A severe infestation of gnats or flies replaced the rain at the 2,520′ summit. Bring back the rain.

One less pollinator

A bumblebee chose this branch as its last resting spot.

What the?

Jose spotted this peculiar looking beetle that had some white stuff clinging to its body. Imperial bug trooper.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Cloudy summits ahead

The gnats or flies were feeding off the fruits and seeds of the ‘ie’ie woody climbers. I think we ended up feeding on some of them.

On the KSRT

Back on the rollercoaster. Photo by Ryan Leano.

Koolau Summit Ridge Trail

Keep your arms and legs on the Leeward side at all times.

Lanipo Windward

Approaching Lanipo summit and Windward ridge. Photo by Jose Luis Delaki.

True Lanipo

Socked in summit. What are we looking at?

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Scouting

Doesn’t look that bad. So far.

Lanipo Windward

Jose coming down the ridge.

Checking it out

Some pretty hairy sections further down. Warrants further scouting from the bottom of Aniani Nui Ridge that connects to the backside of Ahiki. Photo by Ryan Leano.

Looking back

Side view of Lanipo Windward Ridge. Steep and sketchy. I know other hikers have scouted it from top and bottom and decided it was too dangerous to complete. Something to chew on.

Cloudy ridge

Going down to the cluster of HECO power lines.

That’s my name

Little known fact is that Ryan works for HECO.

HECO power lines

Imagine working up here. Must be nice to get choppered into work, instead of taking the bus.

Panoramic view

Click here for the larger image.

Almost to the last summit

Ryan and Jose making their way up the last hump.

Wiliwilinui

Another socked in summit. Typical day on the Ko’olaus.

Communications relay site

Headed down the Wiliwilinui trail.

Steps

Familiar trail footing, slats buried into the hillsides to retard erosion.

Looking back at the Ko’olaus

Looking at the path we had traveled from Kainawa’aunui to Wiliwilinui on the Ko’olau Mountains.

Swingers

Made use of a popular swing at the bottom of the stepped trail. Look under the seat to find clues to other swings.

Easy trail

The rest of the trail down was a dirt road. Wide open. Nice change of pace.

Connector trail?

We passed the connector trail that descends down into Wailupe Valley. Another hike for another day.

One last view

The trail afforded us one last view of East Oahu ranging all the way to Koko Crater.

Hike pau?

Headed towards the trailhead gate.

Not yet

Going up an access trail which leads to several WW2 bunkers and gun turret emplacements formerly known as Battery Wilridge (Kirkpatrick) that were built in 1942.

Bunker #1

Thessa sliding down to the first bunker.

Exploring

This bunker could have been the control station. The holes seen in the recessed area were possibly data and power lines for a naval computer. Computer in 1942?

Bunker #2

The second bunker was much larger and possibly had a powder room that contained the magazine/conveyor belt that fed the shells to the guns.

Camouflage

We followed the powder room where it lead to this barbette, which once housed an 8″ gun turret that was removed from the carrier USS Lexington.

Looking down

This was one of two 8″ gun batteries. We could not locate the other. There are numerous tunnels that connect to other bunkers on this ridge, but most of them have been walled off by private owners that own some of them.

Rich mans bunker

One of the bunkers sitting next to somebody’s house that was converted into their private man cave. Tours? Release the hounds Mr. Smithers.

GPS Tracks

Our hike clocked in at 6.44 miles. Got to explore two new trails and scouted out a potential third one with a great group. Post hike meal at Big City Diner. Love Uncle Ray’s Poke.

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

Going up Hawaii Loa Ridge

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

Hawaii Loa Summit

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

Wailupe Middle Ridge

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

Wiliwilinui Ridge

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

Diamond Head

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

Mount Olympus

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

Panoramic view going toward Mount Olympus

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

Ka'au Crater

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

We're coming Zeus!

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

Olomana

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

Top of Mount Olympus

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

Panoramic view of Manoa Valley and Town

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

The long trail home

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

Need water!

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