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.

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

Moanalua Valley

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

Kamananui Valley Road Trail

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

Kamananui Valley Road Trail

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

Kulana’ahane Trail

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

Kulana’ahane Trail

One of multiple stream crossings.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Short and sweet cardio climb up the spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

The group clinging on the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Regaining the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Dirt Triangle

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

Dirt Triangle

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

Dirt Triangle

Deborah pulling herself up, one step at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing over small rocks to get to bigger rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Slow and steady will get you across the finish line.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

CCL Building

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

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

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

KSRT

Leaving the defunct radar station in the clouds and rain.

KSRT

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

Kaho’omoe’ihikapulani

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

Tripler Ridge

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

Tripler Ridge

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

Moanalua Valley

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

Moanalua Valley

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

All pau

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

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

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

The plan was to end at Tripler but weather and other factors would have the final say in our destination today.

Aiea Loop Trail

Thanks to Roger for dropping us off at the “mysterious” park to start our before the chickens wake up hike.

Aiea Loop Trail

Stopping at the bench that was installed by Thomas Yoza and his biking buddies that overlooks Kalauao Valley.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Scott standing under the sign that he installed. Still waiting on the summit sign.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Looking out at the illuminated H3 highway, the most expensive interstate highway ever built per mile. Hawaii #1.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Hump day in the mountain. Add rain. Joy.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Contouring around the base of the power-line tower.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the typical socked in 2,805′ summit.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Striking out on the wind and rain soaked ridge line.

KSRT

Are we going forward or backwards?

KSRT

Hard blowing rain and wind outside the native tree enclosure. Are we having fun yet?

KSRT

Catching a break in the clouds as we started coming down the ridge. Enjoy it while it lasts.

KSRT

The clouds started to saturate the area as we got closer to the bottom.

Stairway to Hell

Scott finally found it. No views. When the weather does cooperate, the scenery is just leaps and bounds from the other side.

KSRT

We sought temporary refuge in the bunker from the wind and rain that was slowly draining our body heat. Somebody had finally cleaned up all the tents, sleeping bags and other detritus that occupied the bunker since the days of 2015 when they were searching for the lost hiker, Daylenn Pua.

KSRT

The condition of these stairs stands in stark contrast to the other side.

KSRT

Steps are missing, rails are slowly disintegrating into rust and being reclaimed by Mother Nature.

KSRT

Climbing out of Hell.

KSRT

Neither wind nor rain nor heat nor mud nor overgrowth stays these hikers from the completion of their hikes.

KSRT

Pausing at the top of the hill where the weather had finally toppled the geodetic pole marker.

KSRT

One good point that with all this bad weather flying around, the bees won’t be bothering us on the trail.

Red Hill Summit

Rain, rain go away. Come again another day. Nursery rhymes don’t seem to work in the mountains.

KSRT

Chico getting himself out of the hole he fell in.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down the “easier” side of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Chico lost five points for using the rope.

Moanalua Saddle

The constant erosion keeps changing the “character” of the KST.

Moanalua Saddle

Sliding down the slippery slope thanks to the rain.

Moanalua Saddle

The rain started to dissipate as we dropped in elevation down the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Scott dirt surfing his way down.

Moanalua Saddle

Akira lowering himself down with the trickling Moanalua Falls in the background.

Moanalua Saddle

Somebody could see us. Must be an iphone.

Moanalua Saddle

Scott standing on the scenic rock.

Moanalua Saddle

Roger! Somebody was missing the “Oh” part. Aida and Roger had hiked up from the valley to meet us at the summit and continue towards Tripler. Plans would change.

Moanalua Saddle

Almost there.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Thanks to Akira for the hot rice soup, does a cold body good.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo as we decided to cut our hike short due to weather and mobility problems and hike down into the valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Making our way down the short, slippery slope.

Moanalua Falls

The trickle had turned into a white ribbon of water cascading down the multi-tiered falls.

Moanalua Valley

Hitting the valley floor and crossing one of 28 stream crossings. I don’t think anybody was counting.

All pau

The last of seven bridges before we exited the trail. I counted.

GPS Tracks

Our not so favorable weather for today’s hike covered 12 miles with a fun group. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where I had another bowl of hot soup to warm up my cold body.

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Roger Schiffman, 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.

We took a hike in the mountains today, not as far as we expected, but it was still a hike in the mountains.

Trailhead

The barricade that failed to properly communicate and convey what exactly is closed. DLNR posted on May 9, 2024 that Moanalua Middle Ridge will be closed for a minimum period of 90 days during the ongoing dismantlement of Haiku Stairs. Luckily, we were not going that rutted route which should be shut down for a longer period of time to let it “heal.”

Kulana’ahane Junction

Walking on the trail that was partially submerged at the stream crossings and the rapid movement and volume of water in the stream that was communicated in the dead of night. We soon reached the junction that would lead us deep into the valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going under the thicket of hau tree branches blanketed by darkness.

Godek-Jaskulski Trail

Hiking up the steep loop trail pioneered by Chuck Godek and Erwin Jaskulski.

Red Hill Trail

We soon intersected with the Red Hill Trail which continued the steep lung busting climb.

Red Hill Trail

Centipedes or caterpillars. My money is on the latter.

Red Hill Summit

Reaching the summit as we broke through the cover of the jungle and darkness.

Red Hill Summit

Group photo before we headed down the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Sandra crossing the eroded and exposed section that is no longer hindered by the “tricky branch.”

Moanalua Saddle

Akira climbing down the pile of rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Making my way down the constantly eroding character of the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Sandra at the start of the “long slide” with the sunrise trying to break in the background.

Moanalua Saddle

Traversing over the undulating and often narrow ridge line.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Approaching the lowest point of the saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

The rocks had been saturated by the heavy rains from the past couple of days and we decided that the slippery slope was best left for another day.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Slurping down a hot cup of udon noodles with beef does a stomach good. Thanks Chef Suzuki.

Kulana’ahane Summit

It was time to leave the mountains.

Moanalua Falls

The 460′ plus falls that only makes it appearance during heavy periods of atmospheric water vapor.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Sitting cross legged is crucial to maintaining mobility. Doing it above a small waterfall has no proven medical benefits.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going over one of 28 stream crossings.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Polar Bear Plunge – Hawaii version.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Walking in mud with black and white shoes. Just take my word for it.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Are we there yet?

All pau

Crossing over the last of seven bridges that afford safe passage from the swollen stream. Our aborted hike still had us covering 9.95 miles, which was still a respectable workout. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant. Lemon Crunch to go.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Sandra Walter, and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We did a saddle too far, for some today.

Moanalua Valley

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

Kamananui Valley Trail

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

Kamananui Valley Trail

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

Kamananui Valley Trail

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

Kulana’ahane Trail

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

Kulana’ahane Trail

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

Kulana’ahane Trail

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

Kulana’ahane Trail

Heading deeper into the back of the valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

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

Kulana’ahane Trail

Allison warming up for the saddle.

Kulana’ahane Summit

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

Kulana’ahane Summit

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

Kulana’ahane Summit

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

Kulana’ahane Summit

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

Moanalua Saddle

The first few steps are always the hardest.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes and Matt coming up the Windward side.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up one crumbly rock at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Matt bringing up the rear.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes walking down the wide runway.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing on the Leeward side of the dirt triangle.

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes making her way up the near vertical section.

Moanalua Saddle

Eye in the sky.

Moanalua Saddle

The face you make when you reach the top.

Moanalua Saddle

Drone view from afar.

Moanalua Saddle

Drone view up close.

Moanalua Saddle

Matt pulling himself up.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the “cliff” section.

Moanalua Saddle

So close, yet so “far.”

Moanalua Saddle

Matt starting his climb up the “cliff” section.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the stream that feeds Moanalua Falls.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Going up the saddle stairs.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Agnes about to make her way through the tree tunnel.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up to the cloud shrouded CCL Building.

CCL Building

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

CCL Building

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

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

Making memories in the mountains.

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

Oh-oh-oh-oh-whoa.

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

In a house on the ridge,

Haiku Stairs

there’s a view that sings.

Haiku Stairs

Sometimes the handshakers are misgiven about the stairs.

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

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

Haiku Stairs

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

All pau

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

Postscript

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

Postscript

The stairs at twilight.

Postscript

Sun setting behind the mountains and the stairs itself.

Postscript

View of Kaneohe Bay at night.

Postscript

The Hoist House under natural and artificial illumination.

Postscript

Good night from the mountains.

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

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

Somebody told me to go to hell. I told them to go to hell. So we all went to hell today.

Aiea Loop Trail

Thanks to Chico for dropping Akira, Roger, Val and myself off at the park that is home to a healing heiau (temple) that was possibly constructed in the 16th century and surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees that were planted in the 1920s.

Aiea Loop Trail

Leaving the loop trail as we connected to the ridge trail.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Catching the sunrise bursting over the Ko’olau Mountains.

Pu’u Kawipoo

Panoramic view from the 2,441′ flat peak.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Pushing to the summit that was less than a mile away, as the mynah bird flies.

Aiea Ridge Trail

This is not the summit, let’s push on.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Climbing and contouring our way around the HECO powerline tower.

Aiea Summit

Group photo at the 2,805′ top with expansive Windward views.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We pushed off the summit and stepped foot on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains.

KSRT

The winds were something fierce as they plucked my cap off my head and sent it soaring into the mountains. My donation.

KSRT

Contouring around the fenced native plant enclosure. I have yet to catch a glimpse.

KSRT

We could see heaven but not hell. Yet.

KSRT

Climbing up the last hill before our final destination.

North Haiku Stairs

Approaching the windswept meadows that is home to what many people commonly call “Stairway to Hell.”

North Haiku Stairs

Going down the stairs that time has “forgotten.”

North Haiku Stairs

We decided to go down just a short stretch and not all the way to the bottom as originally planned.

North Haiku Stairs

Climbing our way down the stairs that are falling apart, literally. The stairs do not go completely down to the base of the cliff as the opposite stairs does, due to a steep cliff that prevented further construction and progress of the stairs.

North Haiku Stairs

Best seat in the mountains.

North Haiku Stairs

Akira climbing back up through the stairs that are slowly being reclaimed by Mother Nature.

Stairway to Hell

Meanwhile, over yonder a couple saw us climbing up the dilapidated stairs from their vantage point.

North Haiku Stairs

Val climbing back up the near vertical section whose supports are being slowly exposed to the elements, further hastening the erosion of

North Haiku Stairs

Roger exchanging unstable and rotten footing for terra firma.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Seeking temporary refuge from the gusting winds that definitely brought our body temperature down a degree or two.

KSRT

Following the decaying stairs that lead us out of the hike that is best served cold.

KSRT

Roger crossing over one of the platforms that housed A-frames that supported one of six antennas suspended across the valley for military communication use in WW2.

KSRT

Climbing our way out of hell.

KSRT

Val coming up the last section of the rusted stairs that will soon disintegrate into oxidized dust.

KSRT

Descending down the hill as we approached the junction to the Halawa Trail.

KSRT

Running into Amber and Orion who was also told to go to hell. They went all the way to the bottom of hell.

H-3

Looking down at the most expensive interstate highway ever built, at a cost of roughly $80 million per mile.

Red Hill Summit

Taking a break at the grassy area with the laminated flyer regarding Daylenn “Moke” Pua who went missing on February 26, 2015. Extensive searches that canvassed the area by foot and air were conducted with no luck. I believe it was his disappearance that was the catalyst for the formation of Oahu Search and Rescue (OSAR), an all volunteer group that assists with the search for missing hikers and educating the public at large about safe hiking practices.

Moanalua Saddle

Roger directly dealing with the troublesome tree that has tripped many a hiker.

Moanalua Saddle

Going down the “easy” side of the saddle. Easy being relative. Christian hymns optional.

Moanalua Saddle

Scrambling down one of many eroded spots on the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing down the constantly changing character of the mountains. Tree here today. Tree gone tomorrow.

Moanalua Saddle

The group sliding their way down the steep hill cushioned by ferns and packed with loose dirt.

Moanalua Saddle

Roger standing on the photo opportunity rock.

Moanalua Saddle

Why contour when you can climb? Exactly.

Moanalua Saddle

Almost there!

Kulana’ahane Summit

Our last group photo before we descended down into the valley. Talks of continuing to heaven were blown away by the strong winds.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Going down the short and steep spur ridge.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Val crossing the last of 28 stream crossings in the valley.

Moanalua Valley

Going over the last of seven bridges that were connected to the cobblestone carriage road that once served as a path for the horse and carriages that the Damon family used at the turn of the century.

All pau

Mahalo to Aida, Aileen and Tessa who met us in the community park. It worked out in the end as they were originally supposed to have joined us on the hike. Instead, they came bearing gifts in the form of soda floats.

GPS Tracks

Our windy as hell hike covered 12.3 miles with good company. Post hike meal at Teishoku where the eye was bigger than the stomach for some and the Japanese pronunciation of the French expression resulted in uncontrollable laughter from some. Ice cream for dessert for some as others didn’t care.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, 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.

I decided to do a solo outing today and see how far my legs would take me in the mountains.

Kulana’ahane Junction

The darkness in the valley gave my legs added fleetness as I made it to the sign in under 30 minutes.

Red Hill Summit

Making my way to the 2,237′ top after being rained on for the most part of the ridge climb. Luckily, the rain paused as I summited. Thank heavens for small favors.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Looking back at the Western half of the ridge line that I had just came down.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Quick selfie in the middle of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Contouring around the most famous obstacle on the saddle, the Dirt Triangle. I had startled two feral pigs in the bushes earlier on the ridgeline. First time I have ever seen pigs on the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking down at the original Naval Radio Station that was built in 1942 from one of the antenna anchor sites, the bomb proof building is now known as the Omega Station after the US Coast Guard took it over in 1975 until it was decommissioned in 1997.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the ladder that connects to the lesser known Stairway to Heaven.

CCL Building

I had the top all to myself. I saw a couple hikers descending down the 3,922 metal steps that are now slated to be dismantled as the city could not find a common ground between the various parties involved to save the stairs.

Moanalua Middle Ridge

The rain followed me down the scarred ridge, where slats installed by Ted Calvero and friends have helped to retard the erosion.

MMR

Checking out the Manono tree which has survived largely due to the efforts of Ted Calvero and friends. Before their timely intervention, the tree was being used to pull and lower hikers down and it was slowly being strangled and eroded to death.

MMR

Slippery slope.

MMR

This is the picture of over trafficking by hikers on the ridge line. Believe it or not, most of the ridge was actually flat with vegetation on top at one time. Now it’s a wasteland of deeply rutted trenches that scar the topography. And it’s only going to get worse as the stampede to see the Stairway to Heaven intensifies as news of its impending removal circulates among the international community.

MMR

Looking into Moanalua Valley, the original site of the planned H-3 highway until a court ruled in 1977 that the area was a National Historic Landmark and exempt from any construction.

Kulana’ahane Junction

Dropping off the ridge and crossing the parched stream bed as I made my way back out on the Kamananui Valley Trail.

All pau

I met up with Tessa in the park who was my ride if I had continued my mountain traverse, but she was nice enough to drop off a cold carbonated beverage and freshly baked goods for my consumption. Mahalo!

GPS Tracks

My solitary day in the mountains covered 10.7 miles that was covered with a mixed bag of inclement and sunny weather. Not a bad way to spend the day.

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 surf was up over at Waimea Bay for the Eddie and the saddles were a go for Aileen, Art, Tessa and myself over in Moanalua Valley.

Kulana’ahane Junction

We soon caught up with a group that had pushed off earlier than us from the bathrooms. They were headed to the hike du jour – Stairway to Heaven via Middle Ridge. Or so they thought.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Our paths crossed again on the valley trail. “You guys going the right way?” “We know the way. Thanks Unko.” A few minutes later. “The trail is to the left.” Looks at their phone. “We are supposed to be to the right.” Face palm.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Examining part of the wreckage that was scattered from a Thunderbolt fighter plane that crashed into the valley back in 1948. The pilot parachuted out and was picked up on Moanalua golf course.

Moanalua Valley

Leaving the maintained for the unmaintained. Always an experience.

Moanalua Valley

Going up the short puff of the steep spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Group photo at the top with Haiku Valley and H3 behind us.

Moanalua Saddle

The group making their way up the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Approaching the first crumbly climb.

Moanalua Saddle

Anchor assistance.

Moanalua Saddle

The report of the trail death was an exaggeration.

Moanalua Saddle

Why go Leeward, when you can go Windward?

Dirt Triangle

Approaching the most famous obstacle on this side of the saddle.

Dirt Triangle

Contouring our way around the face side.

Dirt Triangle

Aileen climbing her way to the top of the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Art bringing up the rear.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the pile of rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Erosion constantly changes the character and “face” of the mountains. It’s almost like having Alzheimer’s. It’s always a new day in the mountains.

Moanalua Saddle

Going straight up the eroded cliff. No detouring.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa gaining the top of the crumbly climb.

Moanalua Saddle

The biggest little climb.

Moanalua Saddle

Will the real dirt dragon please sit down?

Moanalua Saddle

All the “sketchy” parts were behind us. Just straight forward ridge hiking until we reach heaven.

Moanalua Saddle

Art in between platforms.

Moanalua Saddle

There’s a lady who’s sure, all that glitters is gold, and she’s buying a stairway to heaven.

CCL Building

The inside was remarkably free of rubbish, save for somebody’s tent.

Haiku Stairs

Looking down at the stairs whose fate seems to lie in the hands of money and politics.

Stairway to Heaven

A bystander took our group photo in exchange for some sunscreen. Not off my face.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the summit of Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe.

KSRT

Look ma, no hands!

Tripler Summit

We bumped into members of the HTMC at the 2,760′ grassy knob.

KSRT

Leaving the powerline towers behind us as we traversed the ridge line.

Bowman Summit

No stopping at the 2,740′ summit.

Kalihi Saddle

Descending down the sliver of a crumbly ridge.

Kalihi Saddle

Aileen sliding her way over the rock and clinging to the rope at the same time. Multi-tasking at its finest.

Kalihi Saddle

Tessa looking for the proper footing to cross over.

Kalihi Saddle

We set up a human double anchor so that Aileen could safely do the walk of faith.

Dirty Slide

The climb down was more a mixture of dirt and dry grass.

Dirty Slide

Contouring our way back to the ridge line.

Broken Wave

Goofy footing my way down. No crowds here. Zero points.

Broken Wave

Falling rock zone.

Broken Wave

Now somebody can chalk up a broken stake in addition to the broken wave.

Broken Wave

Tessa making short work of the down climb.

Kalihi Saddle

Art making his way down the “twister” of a climb.

Rock Triangle

Tessa going down the first rock triangle.

Rock Triangle

Hey, how about a spot? Hold on! I’m checking my FB status. Priorities.

Hot Wheel Tracks

We scooted over the narrow “bridge” while …

Hot Wheel Tracks

… Sugar Daddy in Training just skipped over with a song in his heart. I guess he’s not in training anymore.

Hot Wheel Tracks

Arresting Art’s fall at the expense of my hand.

Kalihi Saddle

Scooting our way down the saddle.

Rock Triangle

Checking out the Windward drop.

Rock Triangle

Aileen coming down the rockface whose Windward holds have eroded over time.

Kalihi Saddle

More scooting. Theme of the day.

Kalihi Saddle

One step at a time.

Kalihi Saddle

Let’s not make it three for three. Broken tree.

Tabletop

Contorting and climbing our way down.

Kalihi Saddle

Looking back at the group descending down the saddle.

Kalihi Saddle

Going up the wave crest.

Kalihi Saddle

The ridge slightly widened and then narrowed again. Just like a funnel.

Kalihi Saddle

Approaching the scenic point.

Witchs Hat

Making our way down to the last obstacle for the day.

Witchs Hat

The sun was setting as we made our way to the conical shaped rockface.

Witchs Hat

Golden hour.

Witchs Hat

Get busy hiking or get busy walking in the dark.

Witchs Hat

Tessa climbing her way up.

Witchs Hat

Tick tock. Daylight time was running out.

Witchs Hat

Making our way down the backside, Tessa had a bowl of snap, crackle and pop. Not talking about the cereal either.

Kalihi Saddle

All roads eventually lead to home.

Powerlines Trail

Going down the last rope climb with proper illumination.

Powerlines Trail

Approaching the lighted HECO substation as we made our way down to the service road.

All pau

You look familiar? We came out to find a cop pulling special duty on the side of the town bound highway which was closed for construction. Mahalo to El for picking us up despite the detours and taking us back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle traverse covered roughly 7.6 miles over crumbly ridges, great scenery and with good company. Post hike meal at the only eatery still open. McDonald’s! All food tastes great in the mountains, that doesn’t necessarily hold true at sea level.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Art Young, 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.

I put together this hike to help somebody tackle this particular saddle, but they ended up staying home instead. The show must still go on; so met up with Art and Aya at Moanalua park in the early morning.

Kamananui Valley Trail

Art and Aya crossing one of seven bridges that span the trail. Chris was running fashionably late. Surprised?

Moanalua Valley

Chris catching up with us on the trail. Speedy Gonzales.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Ducking and weaving our way through the hala grove.

Moanalua Falls

Looking at the dry falls to our right as we made our way up the short and steep spur ridge.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Segregated group photo by gender. I guess the all gender movement hasn’t migrated to the photographic world.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris climbing up the first crumbly rock section. Many more to come.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail

Why climb, when you can contour on the Windward side.

KSRT

What’s going on here?

Moanalua Saddle

Aya and Art regaining solid ground on the ridge line.

Dirt Triangle

Traversing our way to the most famous obstacle on the saddle.

Dirt Triangle

Aya pulling herself up.

Dirt Triangle

Art making short work of the crumbly obstacle.

Moanalua Saddle

Aya at the top of the dirt triangle and enjoying the views.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris going up another crumbly pile of rocks.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back to the other side of hell. The flip side of heaven.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris scrambling up the hot mess of rocks that passes for a crumbly ridge.

Moanalua Saddle

Almost there.

Moanalua Saddle

I don’t need no string on a twig to climb this!

Moanalua Saddle

Panoramic view of the saddle overlooking H3 freeway below us in Haiku Valley.

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing up the stairs that Mother Nature is slowly reclaiming.

Moanalua Saddle

Looking back at the backdrop of the Waianae Mountain Range as we made our way up the dilapidated stairs.

Moanalua Saddle

The stairs soon petered out to be replaced by a cable that lead us to the top.

Moanalua Saddle

Are we in heaven yet?

Stairway to Heaven

Danny, Quan, Roseann and Tessa had taken the stair shortcut to meet us at the top.

Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe

Wishing Art and Chris both belated happy birthday wishes in heaven. How long will it take before somebody recognizes the guy in the shades being hand fed and sitting on top of the building?

CCL Building

Come out and join the crowd!

CCL Building

Group photo left to right: Roseann (stuffing her face), Aya, Chris B, Art, Yuki, Chris F, Quan, Danny, Tessa and myself.

Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe

Some eat with forks, others use their fingers. To each their own.

KSRT

We soon took our leave of the summit as Danny and Tessa went back down the stairs and Chris F and Yuki went back down the ridge.

KSRT

Pointing to our exit destination.

KSRT

Roseann enjoying the views.

KSRT

Making our way down to the landmark defunct radio tower.

KSRT

Some preferred to get “shocked” …

KSRT

… while others chose to remain grounded.

KSRT

Chris in between poles.

KSRT

The group climbing up to the grassy knoll.

Tripler Summit

Group photo left to right at the 2,760′ summit: Art, Roseann, myself, Quan, Aya and Chris.

Tripler Summit

Wait! Let me apply my facial before we leave. Does it contain serum or semen?

KSRT

The group traversing to the last summit before the descent down into the saddle.

Bowman Summit

Taking a quick bite and naps before our “serious” hiking starts.

KSRT

Leaving the summit for harder pastures ahead.

Kalihi Saddle

The group coming down the grassy slope.

Stepping Stone

This rock was made for sitting.

Slippery Slope

Somebody needed additional traction and decided to put it on the crumbly side of an exposed cliff with a huge drop. Well, maybe not that huge.

Dirty Slide

I need a helping hand! Or was that a pair of good hands?

Dirty Slide

That was fun! Let’s do it again! Just pass the wipes.

Broken Wave

Going with the flow of the falling rocks.

Broken Wave

Aya climbing her way down one crumbly rock at a time.

Kalihi Saddle

Climbing and contouring down the side of the crumbly ridge line.

Kalihi Saddle

Quan making her way down the tricky climb.

Rock Triangle #1

Roseann going down the hardest climb on this side of the saddle.

Rock Triangle #1

Quan climbing her way down the near vertical section of the rock face.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris watching the rest of the group making their way down.

Rock Triangle #1

Roseann watching Art with her open mouth, I mean eagle eyes.

Hot Wheels Track

Chris giving YawYaw#1 a helping hand to cross a particularly narrow section.

Kalihi Saddle

Quan keeping her center of gravity low by scooting down the narrow and uneven ridge line.

Rock Triangle #2

Climbing our way down on the exposed Windward side.

Rock Triangle #2

Don’t rain any rocks on my parade!

Tightrope

Applying downward pressure to my forward movement, as I didn’t want to experience any downward movement.

Table Top

Art and Roseann climbing their way down the jumbled rock pile.

Standing Wave

Before one can walk, one must learn to crawl first.

Kalihi Saddle

Walking and scooting our way on the narrow strip of rock and dirt bordered on one side by shrubbery and the other side by an exposed drop to the highway.

Scenic Point

Aya striking a pose.

The Hump

Is today Wednesday or Sunday?

Kalihi Saddle

Chris climbing his way down the ridge line.

Witchs Hat

Quan striking a pose before the final up climb.

Witchs Hat

Roseann making her way up the conical shaped rock face.

Witchs Hat

The last tricky down climb.

Witchs Hat

Watch out for snapped webbing!

Camp Centipede

Our last group photo before hiking down into the valley.

Powerlines

Reflecting.

Powerlines Trail

Who brought a headlamp?

All pau

Thanks to Richie and Tessa for meeting and picking us up at the gate. Good job to Aya and Quan for popping their cherry saddles on our 7.59 mile traverse through crumbly terrain, spectacular scenery and good company.

Post hike meal at Zippy’s, one of the few places that was nearby and still open for business at this time of the night. You know service standards are slipping when you send back your lukewarm oxtail soup to get it heated and it comes back at the same temperature. Somebody was too hungry to care and would have slurped down the soup even if it was ice cold. The joys and pangs of hunger.

Photos taken by Art Young, Aya Asanuma, Chris Bautista, Quan Haberstroh, Roseann Fai, 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.

Took four virgins to Hell today. Not for a sacrificial offering, but for scenic purposes. Thanks to Sakura for dropping Asami, Aya, Dana, Shari and myself off at the beginning of the Aiea Loop Trail.

Aiea Loop Trail

Not even ten minutes into the hike and we discovered somebody had made a campfire in the middle of the trail. The things that make you shake your head.

Aiea Ridge Trail

We turned off the loop trail and decided to have a break. Have a kit kat. Oops. Make it have a reese’s sticks. Owned by the same company, so no matter.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Passing the landslide area that is not even recognizable anymore as such, as Mother Nature has slowly covered it with a carpet of uluhe ferns.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Traversing the long ungraded ridge trail where somebody fell off the side and got back up with a little help from her friends.

Pu’u Kawipo’o

Somebody was happy and still warm at the last major false peak before the actual summit.

Aiea Ridge Trail

The peace sign or the f*ck you sign at the base of the powerlines tower. Depending on your cultural interpretation.

Aiea Ridge Trail

Contouring around the powerlines as we made our way to the top.

Aiea Summit

Looking for the sign at the socked-in 2,805′ summit.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Hiking into the clouds and wind. Mother Nature’s air conditioning was on full blast.

KSRT

Contouring our way around the fenced habitat for endemic fauna and flora.

KSRT

The group coming down one of many hills.

Stairway to Hell

Who said hell was hot? The gusting winds and rolling rain lowered the temperature close to freezing. Well, from the perspective of somebody born and raised in these islands.

Stairway to Hell

Trying to maintain a semblance of a group photo at the top of the dilipidated stairways that goes nowhere.

Stairway to Hell

Asami trying to keep warm. A mostly futile exercise.

Stairway to Hell

Why didn’t we have our lunch in here?

Stairway to Hell

Going down the stairs that time forgot.

Stairway to Hell

Sections of the stairs are either missing rails, steps or just completely gone.

Stairway to Hell

It’s just a matter of time before the stairs will dissolve and disappear. Rust to rust, dust to dust.

KSRT

Umm, can we get a picture of the green and red ‘ama’u fronds without any humans? Thank you.

Red Hill Summit

We all agreed to avoid the originally planned exit from Red hill and continue down towards Kulana’ahane and avoid the relentless rolling hills that Red Hill is known for.

Moanalua Saddle

Traversing the eroded section. Having a solid balance will keep one from taking the express route down to the valley.

Moanalua Saddle

Scrambling down the rocks, one at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

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

Moanalua Saddle

Climbing down the eroded rockface with a weathered webbing anchored to a shallow rooted tree. Safety first.

Moanalua Saddle

Going down the overgrown dirt corridor.

Moanalua Saddle

The group coming down and over the last major steep section on the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Quick photo on the rock before the winds knocked me off.

Moanalua Saddle

Passing an unplucked lehua flower. We still got rained on.

Moanalua Saddle

Hiking on the crumbly edge of the saddle with “hurricane weather” that robbed us of our body heat and surrendered it to the surrounding atmosphere.

Moanalua Saddle

The rest of the group hiking over the last hump before the summit.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Last group photo of the day before we got off the summit and left the howling winds behind us.

Kulana’ahane Trail

Making our way down the spur ridge to the floor of Moanalua Valley.

Kulana’ahane Trail

The girls making their way across #13 of #28 stream crossings, dry and wet. Yes, I counted.

All pau

Making our way out of the trail and finishing our almost twelve mile hike for the day. Washed our muddy shoes and tired feet at the bathrooms and walked back to our cars. Post hike meal at Alley Restaurant where everybody had their steaming hot oxtail soup with white rice. Easy peasy for the waiter.

Photos taken by Asami Waseline, Aya Asanuma 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.