Somebody was not ready to finish the KST today, but Roger was ready to take the open slot. You snooze, you lose.

Pali Lookout

Some drove, some carpooled and others got dropped off to start our hike this morning.

Pali Lookout

Quick, let’s take a group photo before the wind knocks the tripod over.

Pali Notches

Tackling the first of two man-made notches that were reputedly cut out of the mountains by Ka’iana of Kauai.

Pali Notches

The notches housed British canons that Kalanikupule, ruler of Oahu, had planned to use against the invading army of Kamehameha in 1795.

Pali Notches

Those original plans were thwarted when Kamehameha sent his scouts down from Konahuanui to take out the cannons.

Pali Notches

The last known sighting of Santa’s beard.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Checking out the Windward views and the planet’s rotation toward our heat furnace.

Sunrise

We didn’t have the erupting Kilauea vent to watch, but we had the spectacle of a fiery sunrise.

Nipple

Taking the direct route instead of the contour trail.

Nipple

Stacked and staggered.

Nipple

Akira climbing up the single rope that has replaced the previous web of ropes and webbing. Bravo to whoever did the replacement.

Chimney

Dragging my sushi belly up the slabs of rocks was especially taxing on this climb. Too much ono Japanese food from my recent vacation. Chico saw us off and turned around due to his wobbly equilibrium. We need Santa to show up on Christmas Day.

Chimney

CB testing his balance and his luck with the winds.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Scrambling up and around rocks of assorted sizes and stages of erosion.

Contour

Aileen making her way up the spot where Agnes Bryant fell roughly 300′ and lived to tell the tale on September 18, 2012 in the company of Laredo Muredo and Marvin Chandra. Something best to repeat after the section and not during the climb.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Pushing ahead on the steady climb up the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group contouring around the boulder, in the not so distant past, the boulder would have been directly climbed.

Mud Wall

Going up the steep wall that time and traffic have changed the climbing profile to make it more user friendly.

Konahuanui

Approaching the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range where a trail runner soon turned around after finding out the trail conditions were less than hospitable.

Konahuanui

Group photo at the 3,150′ summit. Typical conditions. No views.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Traversing between the cloud soaked Schweddy Balls.

K2

Nothing to see. Passing through.

KSRT

We dropped in elevation and left the two large testicles and the cloud canopy behind us.

KSRT

Hiking down the ridge line as the distinctive fluted flanks of the mountain popped into view.

Manoa Middle Summit

Group photo at the grassy clearing whose side trail leads down into Manoa Valley.

KSRT

Resuming our hike as we had places to go and people to meet.

KSRT

Climbing on the rocks, kicking tires and looking for that sedan model.

KSRT

Going up one of multiple hills to reach the summit of ‘Awa’awaloa or Mount Olympus.

Mount Olympus

Group photo at the stand-in summit that sits at an elevation of 2,486′.

Mount Olympus

The water droplets hanging in the clouds soon became heavy enough to fall on the mountains which forced our early departure from the sixth highest summit on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Ka’au Crater

We soon were looking over one of three tuff cones on the island, this particular one was tucked right against the mountain range and the crater was filled with a marsh that feeds the three waterfalls below it.

Ka’au Crater

Taking a breather after we climbed up the rutted trail and to the top of the ridge line.

KSRT

No rest for the weary. Another BFH was coming up. I’m pretty sure you can figure out what the acronym stands for.

KSRT

We definitely got our cardio workout for today. No question.

Pu’u Kainawa’aunui

Taking a well deserved break at the grassy summit.

Wiliwilinui Trail

Meanwhile, down in the gated community, the reception committee assembled while waiting for a certain individual that was working on her volcano reel. Luckily, there was an Uber hiker at work today.

True Lanipo

Giving up the pipe dream.

KSRT

Looking ahead to the last summit for today.

KSRT

Are we there yet?

Wiliwilinui Summit

Our arrival at the finish line where we waited for the rest of the group to make their way up to the top.

Wiliwilinui Summit

We spotted several mongoose at the top, descended from the original 72 invasive animals that were introduced to the islands in 1883 from Jamaica. They were introduced to control the rat problem that was plaguing the sugar industry. One small problem. Rats are active at night and mongoose are active during the day, and never the twain shall meet.

Wiliwilinui Summit

#25 – My traditional champagne dousing on the finisher. Congratulations to Roger on completing the last segment needed to finish the entire 52 miles of the Ko’olau Summit Trail that extends from Pupukea to Makapu’u.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Now they both have another thing in common, KST finishers.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Group photo at the 2,480′ summit along with the latest bag charm fad, Labubu.

Wiliwilinui Trail

Leaving the summit as we made our way down the 2.3 mile trail.

Wiliwilinui Trail

Something miraculous happened on the descent, as somebody seemed to have lost their fear of heights. Will wonders never cease. What’s next? The saddles?

All pau

We arrived at the parking lot, some changed, wiped and freshened up and then piled into the cars to take our leave.

GPS Tracks

Our memorable KST finish hike covered 7.58 miles with an awesome group and thanks to everybody that came out to help celebrate Roger’s finish. Post hike meal at Gyotaku, where the early bird specials only apply on weekdays. Congratulations again Roger on your KST finish!

Photos taken by Aida Gordon, Aileen Agustin, Allison Banks, Akira Suzuki, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Jeremy Cannone, Kenny Lui, Mari Saito, Marilyn Bermudez, Roger Schiffman, Susan Katz, 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.

It was our intention to hike the complete Southern section of the KST this weekend. But a couple pesky hinge joints had another say in the matter.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Hitoshi-san who dropped us off where the grounds were wet and the gusting winds noticeably absent but appreciated nonetheless.

Pali Trail

Tessa breaking out into the open with panoramic views of the Windward side.

Pali Notches

We surprised a couple of sunrise watchers who knew their limits.

Pali Notches

Akira climbing down into one of two man-made notches that were supposedly cut out of the mountain by King Kalanikupule of Oahu who was fortifying his defenses against the impending invasion from King Kamehameha from Hawai’i. Canons and warriors were housed in these two notches and trained on the anticipated landing areas. However, Kamehameha had sent his scouts up and over the peaks of Konahuanui and surprised the canon forces and disabled them. The OG hikers.

Nipple

This is the way.

Chimney

Navigating the spiderweb of ropes and webbing as I climbed my way up.

Chimney

Do you need elevator service? Just call me Otis.

Chimney

I love you Kenji! Let’s not make this a sequel to Brokeback Mountain.

Chimney

Even somebody’s backpack needed elevator service.

Contour

I have something to say …

Contour

… a certain angel fell 300′ from this spot almost 12 years ago. Don’t tell me that! She survived to hike another day.

Nu’uanu Saddle

This rope looks a little long in the tooth.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Enjoying the views while we could before the higher elevation and clouds swallowed them up.

Mud Wall

Climbing up the slippery slope.

Konahuanui

Group photo at the socked in summit of the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

K2

Looking for that geodetic marker that sticky hands apparently lifted from the second of the large testicles. Hanging slightly to the left.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Sliding off the Schweddy Balls as we dropped in elevation and started to get the views back.

KSRT

High high lost in the meadows and the views.

Manoa Middle Summit

Taking a break at the grassy summit where we met a solitary hiker who had come up from the valley to check out the views. She was not disappointed.

KSRT

We left the summit and the three specks that we had saw from a distance soon took on recognizable shapes in the form of Darren, Bernice and Baron. They had come up from Waiakeakua Falls and were going down Manoa Middle.

Castle Trail

Contouring on the uluhe infested trail as we hugged the ridge line above us.

Sedan Rock

We didn’t stop for a test drive.

Castle Trail

The trail soon intersected with the Wa’ahila Ridge Trail which we followed to the summit of ‘Awa’awaloa (Mount Olympus).

KSRT

Leaving the summit where circumstances forced us to change camp location.

KSRT

Approaching the HECO Powerlines that ring the marsh filled crater.

Ka’au Crater

The horse tail was home for the night.

Ka’au Crater

Setting up our home sweet home.

Ka’au Crater

Who let the dog out?

Ka’au Crater

Kenji? I’m Jake, Enrique’s neighbor. Small world.

Ka’au Crater

Sizzling steak flamed in butter is what’s for dinner.

Ka’au Crater

The end product. Half a steak sandwich, steak with fried rice and curried shrimp rice. Thanks Chef Suzuki. Just missing the cold carbonated drinks.

Ka’au Crater

Mother Nature painting a cloudy sunset sky.

Ka’au Crater

What happens in the Ko’olau Mountains, stays in the Ko’olau Mountains. High high.

Ka’au Crater

G’night from the KST.

Ka’au Crater

Sunday
Hey there, hi there, ho there
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

Ka’au Crater

Morning miso soup. Akadashi.

Ka’au Crater

G’morning from the KST.

Ka’au Crater

Scrambling up the rutted trail.

KSRT

I think he’s pointing in the wrong direction. OMG. The cult thing is getting to me.

KSRT

Looking in the direction of the hardest hike on the island.

KSRT

Climbing up the Big Hill.

KSRT

Soaking in the views aka taking a rest from the cardio climb.

KSRT

Akira living off the land.

Pu’u Kainawa’anui

We made it to the grassy summit as we looked back at the twin peaks of Konahuanui.

KSRT

Crossing over the ridge line that was populated with crimson lehua blossoms.

True Lanipo

Group photo on the 2,650′ summit and also home to my pipe dream.

KSRT

Half a sunglass is better than no sunglass at all.

KSRT

Going down the ridgeline dominated by the HECO powerline poles.

KSRT

A lineman you will not make.

KSRT

Those lazy bums can walk over to meet us. Who you calling lazy bums? Oh, you can hear us. Color her embarrassed.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Many thanks to Aileen, Aya, Jen, Lilyn, Val and William for hiking up the trail to meet us and bring cold drinks and snacks with them.

Wiliwilinui Summit

The three second rule doesn’t apply in the mountains for some folks.

Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

Going down the stepped trail.

Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail

Kenji, I want to tell you something. Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me.

All pau

Is this like brushing your teeth? Two minutes? Mahalo to Aileen and Val for giving us rides.

GPS Tracks

Our abbreviated weekend hike covered 7.63 miles that was also Akira’s first camping trip in Hawaii. Post hike meal at Chubbies Burgers, stick with the canned soda and the Fruity Pebbles should stay in the cereal bowl.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Tessa Bugay, 16″ Horsecock Club and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

Met up with Aileen and Tesssa to do a quick hop and pop over the mountains.

Maunawili

Where’s the goat whisperer when you need him?

Maunawili

Somebody was running fashionably late aka Hawaiian time, so we enjoyed the breaking sunrise over Olomana.

Maunawili

We soon left the future lots of affordable homes and began our hike. But first, let’s stay hydrated as demonstrated by Tessa.

Piliwale Ridge

Stepping foot on the ridge pioneered by Silver Piliwale, a legendary hiker who hiked from Pupukea to Moanalua in five days to celebrate his 72nd birthday.

Piliwale Ridge

Climbing up towards the notch.

Notch

360 degree group photo at the natural cut in the ridge. We saw rain showers headed our way and after some deliberation, decided to press on.

Piliwale Ridge

Dropping down into the notch.

Piliwale Ridge

Hello from the other side.

Piliwale Ridge

Scrambling up some rocks.

Piliwale Ridge

Aileen climbing up the crack between a tree and a rock.

Piliwale Ridge

Scrambling up more rocks.

Piliwale Ridge

Aileen pulling herself up.

Piliwale Ridge

Somebody left a rope behind which made this climb easier. How nice of them.

Piliwale Ridge

Tessa climbing up and over the rock.

Piliwale Ridge

Going up the honest cardio climb, no switch backs on this ridge.

Piliwale Ridge

Tessa pushing to the junction.

Piliwale Junction

Group photo at the 3,050′ elevation mark.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

What goes up, must come down.

Mud Wall

Going down the slippery slope.

KSRT

Tessa silhouetted on a prominent bump on the ridge line with panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

KSRT

Dropping off the boulder and back on the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The ridge became steeper, narrower and a tad more “technical.”

Contour

Aileen coming around the rockface that always gives me pause, as this is where a fallen angel fell 300′ and lived to hike another day.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Talk to the hand or use the hand. Whichever you prefer.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way down to the last major climb on this ridge line.

Chimney

It was like going down a spiderweb of ropes. Best to be mindful of how you go down, otherwise one might get hung up like some hapless prey.

Chimney

The “friendly” slanted angle of the climb.

Chimney

Swinging Tessa to a safe spot. Ouch.

Chimney

The “less friendly” vertical angle of the climb.

Nipple

360 degree group photo on the bump of a rock.

Nipple

Aileen coming down from the rocky perch.

Pali Notches

Ropes? We don’t need no stinking ropes. Paraphrasing the classic line from the 1948 movie “The Treasure of the Sierra Madre.”

Pali Notches

Tessa climbing up from the man-made notch that once housed cannons that were installed by King Kalanikupule to defend Oahu against the armies of King Kamehameha. However, Kamehameha found out about these cannons and sent his scouts to descend from the top, perhaps the same route we had just come down from, to disable the cannons.

Pali Notches

What is Amber doing up here at Pali Notches? I think she wanted to add more death threats on Tik Tok to her files. She’s an addict.

Pali Notches Trail

Headed down to mingle with the tourists.

Pali Notches Trail

Tessa biting her gloved fingers in mock horror. Or is that for real?

Pali Notches Trail

Making our way down to the site of the historic 1795 battle that saw the defeat of Oahu’s army, where the remaining warriors were either pushed off the cliff or jumped to their deaths.

Pali Lookout

Playing tourists.

All pau

Thanks to Amber for picking us up and trying to take us to hike Olomana. Sorry, that’s your favorite mountain and not ours. Back to our cars please.

GPS Tracks

Our short day in the mountains covered a little over two miles with a fun crew. Post hike meal at Big City Diner, not to be confused with TGIF.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, 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 winds were forecasted to be blowing hard this weekend. What shall we do? Let’s go climb the chimney and finish off somebody’s saddle boot camp, as they put it.

Aloha ‘Aina

Somebody woke up late, so others took the extra time on their hands to pursue recreational activities.

Pali Lookout

Thanks to Lilia and Quan for dropping Aileen, Art, Chico, Chris, Jen, Mona, Tessa, and myself off at the windy scenic lookout.

Nu’uanu Pali

Are we here to pick or to hike?

Nu’uanu Pali

Making our way up the rooted hill in the tree line.

Pali Notches

Jen climbing down the first of two man-made notches. Believe it or not.

Pali Notches

The winds were blowing stiff and hard through the mountain pass. Strong enough to snatch a cap off your head and twist you on the rope.

Pali Notches

Tessa climbing down to the notch where British canons were emplaced by the warriors of King Kalanikupule who were defending Oahu from the invading army of King Kamehameha that had sailed from the Big Island.

Pali Notches

The group making their way to descend the second and biggest notch.

Pali Notches

I resisted the urge to lean back for the gram.

Pali Notches

In 1795, King Kamehameha’s warriors climbed down from the peak of Konahuanui and surprised and disabled the canons set in these notches.

Pali Notches

We soon noticed two young kids had joined us at the top of the second notch waiting their turn.

Nipple

The group climbing up the needle of basaltic rock.

Nipple

Mona making her way up.

Chimney

The two kids contoured around the nipple to avoid our logjam, one shed his shoes and then they both scampered up the chimney.

Chimney

Viewpoint from the Nipple.

Chimney

Try, try again.

Chimney

With a little help from my friends.

Chimney

Aileen enjoying the moment. Then again, I’m not good at reading people’s body language.

Chimney

Getting my upper body workout today. Going to cancel my 24 hour membership when I get home.

Chimney

Chris providing pointers on climbing up the rockface.

Chimney

No assistance required at this time.

Chimney

Did you push the elevator button to the top?

Chimney

Changing up my vantage point. My butt was getting sore.

Chimney

Deja vu.

Chimney

Do you feel Chris breathing down your neck?

Chimney

The last haul.

Chimney

Art was his own elevator service.

Contour

Chico recording the action as it unfolds on his GoPro for posterity’s sake.

Contour

Chris going up the near vertical climb.

Contour

Climbing queue.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The group contouring and climbing over some boulders.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Chico stretching his thigh muscles coming down. Maybe even his back muscles as well.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Walking the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

To climb or contour the boulder?

Nu’uanu Saddle

Somebody climbed the boulder to finish their “saddle boot camp.” Certificate is in the mail. Postage due.

Mud Wall

Waiting our turn to go up the mud wall or as of late, the mud steps.

Pali Lookout

Looking down at the yellow bird of HFD rescue a tourist from themselves.

Piliwale Junction

Tessa arriving at the junction for the Windward ridge that was named after a legendary hiker named Silver Piliwale.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Hiking to what I was sure would be a cloud soaked summit.

Konahuanui

I was gladly proven wrong as we took our group photo at the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

KSRT

Traversing between the two large testicles.

K2

No pillow. No problem.

K2

A mixture of shake and peace signs at the second highest summit.

KSRT

Somebody left a spanking brand new webbing to use. What a thoughtful individual.

KSRT

Chris against the dramatic backdrop of the fluted ridges of the mountains.

KSRT

The group going through one of the multiple meadows that dot the ridge line.

KSRT

Mona going down an old and tired rope.

KSRT

Chico going off trail in a patch of uluhe ferns.

KSRT

Making our way to our last summit of the day. A far cry and throw from the original planned one.

Manoa Middle

Arthritic gang signs at the summit?

Manoa Middle

We had our last lunch break before heading down to the valley. Fresh salad pickings were had for the plucking and the five second rule doesn’t apply in the mountains, well for certain individuals at least.

Manoa Middle Trail

The lush valley being swept with passing showers on our way down.

Manoa Middle Trail

Passing through a stretch of invasive strawberry guava trees. Tasty trail snacks.

Manoa Middle Trail

Descending through a forest of some of the fastest growing plants on Earth.

Manoa Middle Trail

Climbing down the steepest section of the trail.

Manoa Valley

Scrambling up the short and steep hill.

Manoa Valley

Walking our way out on the trail studded with roots, rocks and mud. I was so over it.

All pau

The license plate has been blurred to protect the guilty. Thanks to Chris and Quan for giving us rides back to Kaneohe.

GPS Tracks

Our saddle hike covered 4.35 miles with windy conditions tempered by scenic views with a fun group. Congratulations to Aileen for finishing all three saddles on the KST. Post hike meal at Chico’s house where Lilia made us chili mac and the fixings and dessert.

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Art Young, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Jen Odence, Mona Guillermo, 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.

Met up with Ferlino, Justin and Tessa to check out a spur ridge this weekend.

Maunawili

Are we hiking or visiting a petting zoo?

Maunawili

Views for sale, starting at $895,000. This must be the affordable area of the island.

Maunawili

Who let the dogs out? The hunters. Age old question finally answered.

Maunawili

Crossing the demo trail as we gained the Windward ridge.

Piliwale Ridge

Making our way up the ridge that was pioneered by legendary HTMC hiker Silver Piliwale, hence the name of the ridge.

Piliwale Ridge

Photo shoot at the notch.

Piliwale Ridge

The ridge became progressively steeper as we advanced on the ridge.

Piliwale Ridge

The ridge was laced with black webbing up to what was deemed the steepest parts by the people that installed them.

Piliwale Ridge

Rolling clouds soon saturated the area and soaked the grounds and screened out the views.

Piliwale Junction

We met two other hikers who were deciding if they were going to continue down the slippery slope, we suggested going down the other slippery slope that we had just come up from.

Mud Wall

Going down the mud wall whose bottom anchor tree has since been uprooted.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Ferlino contouring around the rock that was blocking the ridge.

KSRT

Dropping elevation where we soon left the clouds behind us.

Konahuanui Windward

Descending down a short and steep hill as we branched off from the main ridge line.

Konahuanui Windward

Tessa taking the slack out of the webbing for the rest of the group.

Konahuanui Windward

The dense patch of woody climbers masked the razor thin ridge below us with sheer drops on both sides.

Konahuanui Windward

It was exhausting having to push, pull, climb and contort our way through the densely packed branches.

Konahuanui Windward

Struggling through the dense and tangled woody climbers seemed like hours but was actually mere minutes.

Konahuanui Windward

Out of the frying pan and into the fire. The entire ridge underfoot seemed none too solid as we slowly climbed our way down.

Konahuanui Windward

Our forward progress was halted by the assessment that further down climbing on this unstable ridge would be foolhardy.

Konahuanui Windward

Tessa dislodging rocks with every movement as she climbed her way down.

Konahuanui Windward

Looking at the Chimney from a different angle.

Konahuanui Windward

Justin looking for a second opinion. I don’t get scared, but this scared me.

Konahuanui Windward

Climbing back up the rotten ridge.

Konahuanui Windward

We made slightly better time through the woody climbers by following the “path” that we had made coming down.

KSRT

Ferllino back on the relatively stable saddle.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Justin charging down the crumbly ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking back at the crumbly, steep and exposed ridge. The best option would be to come back and do it from the bottom. Another hike for another day.

Contour

Trying a more direct route.

Contour

Justin contouring the contour.

Chimney

Climbing down the rockface on frayed webbing and core-shot ropes. When 50′ is not 100′.

Chimney

Bugs eye view.

Nipple

Watching other hikers in the distance on the notches.

Nipple

The group on the spire shaped rockface.

Pali Notches

Climbing up the bigger notch.

Pali Notches

No leaning back for the gram.

Pali Notches

Race to the top. Winner winner Thai dinner.

Pali Notches

Making my way to the smaller notch.

All pau

Our lookout is better than your lookout.

GPS Tracks

Our exhilarating hike clocked in at only two miles? We lived to hike another day. Great exploratory hike with new and old faces. Mahalo to Aida and Quan for picking us up at the Pali Lookout and bringing frozen carbonated beverages with them. Post hike meal at Chao Phya Thai restaurant where the food was not hot enough for the Thai boy. At least half of him.

Photos taken by Justin Nambounmy, 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.

Met up with Enrique to tackle a good chunk of the Ko’olau Mountain Range today. Thanks to Andy for dropping us off.

Pali Lookout

Scrambling up the short, steep and rooted hill. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Pali Lookout

Looking down at the bloody historic site where Kamehameha conquered the island of Oahu during the Battle of Nu’uanu which claimed over 400 lives. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Pali Notches

I’m still waiting for my engineer friend to explain how canons were hauled up here.

Pali Notches

Enrique climbing down the second of the man-made notches in the ridge line.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way out of the notches and heading towards the cloud soaked mountains. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Nipple

Enrique climbing up to the best seat in the house.

Chimney

Going up the somewhat steep rockface with the wind at my back. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Chimney

Enrique scrambling up after the first scattering of rain showers blew past us.

Contour

Contouring with trepidation in light of past events. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Contour

Hiking with angels.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Walking on all fours is not backward evolution.

Mud Wall

Stepping up the wall. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Piliwale Junction

Enrique passing the junction for the Windward ridge that goes down towards Maunawili.

Konahuanui Summit

Throw a dart in any direction and we would have ended up with the same socked in view at the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We continued our traverse to the second peak or K2 and coughed. Left or right?

KSRT

Hiking in the clouds helped to lower our water consumption especially when somebody mistook one liter for five liters. The beer didn’t help.

Manoa Middle Summit

The clouds cleared up at our third summit, opening up the mountain views.

KSRT

Contouring on the Castle trail with vast valley views.

KSRT

Back on the ridge line as we made our way to the used car lot.

KSRT

Meeting up with the rutted and unmaintained section of the Wa’ahila trail. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Awaawaloa

We met three hikers at the summit of Mount Olympus who also took our picture, our first interaction with other people on the trail.

KSRT

The howling winds helped to push us down from the summit.

KSRT

Hiking on the wind blasted spine of the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Ka’au Crater

Ran into two other hikers from the opposing direction after we took our group photo at one of three tuff cones on the island. Bonus points if you can name the other two.

KSRT

Approaching the big hill that puts the other Cardiac Hill to shame.

KSRT

Looking out towards the hardest hike on the island before tackling our big climb. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Kainawa’au Summit

Shoefie at the 2,520′ top. No hashtags. Taking a break from our faces.

True Lanipo Summit

Descending from the 2,621′ peak seems to be back on the table. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

KSRT

Threading our way in between the HECO power lines.

Wiliwilinui Summit

We surprised a solitary hiker at the 2,480′ top who also took our photo. No exchanges were necessary.

KSRT

Continuing our roller coaster hike as we went down one hill and up another hill, false peak after false peak. We passed the summit of Wailupe minus the sign and the fluttering buddhist flags.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Waimanalo views from the 2,520′ knob.

KSRT

Making our way towards the 2,200′ flat topped peak of Pu’u O Kona after we passed the summit of Kulepeamoa, where we were too tired to flap our chicken wings.

KSRT

Going over the scalloped eroded section where we met a couple who were pitching their tent at the famous IG photo spot for the night.

KSRT

Coming down in a cloud of dust. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Our last summit group photo where we met two other hikers who had just ascended the 2,028′ eroded hill.

Kuli’ou’ou Trail

Walking down the sometimes slippery steps installed to retard trail erosion. I should’ve kept count.

Kuli’ou’ou Trail

I think this doorway needs to be plumbed. Photo by Enrique Chavez.

All pau

A sole trail runner passed us on the way down to the valley floor.

GPS Tracks

Our journey across a good stretch of the Ko’olau Mountain Range covered almost ten miles. Post hike meal at Outback Steakhouse where the prime rib was so rare, a good vet could bring it back to life. Not my quote.

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.

Try and try again. That is how we found ourselves back at the same trailhead but going in a different direction than last weekend. The right direction.

Wiliwilinui Trail

Met up with Art, Marilyn and Rhonda in the Waialae Iki Subdivision. Rhonda eventually decided to go her own direction and pace.

Wiliwilinui Trail

The mountain tops were clear. A complete and welcome change from last week. Photo by Art Young.

Wiliwilinui Trail

One step at a time. Photo by Art Young.

Wiliwilinui Trail

She can chew gum and walk at the same as well. Photo by Art Young.

Wiliwilinui Summit

Clear views at the top but the winds were cranking. Blowing hard enough to deafening decibels.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Waiting at the helipad for the chopper to deliver our manapua and frozen cokes. Photo by Marilyn Bermudez.

KSRT

Weaving in and out of the poles is more fun than going in a straight line.

KSRT

Heading to the summit of True Lanipo or maybe not. Photo by Art Young.

Pu’u Kainawa’anui

Mr. Summit visually explaining that this is not the summit of True Lanipo.

KSRT

Scooting our way down the big hill.

KSRT

Valley views for miles.

Pu’u Palikea

I heard that a lot of couples pop the question at this scenic spot. Photo by Art Young.

Ka’au Crater

Looking into the crater that was formed by the Hawaiian demigod Maui who tried to unite the islands with his fishing hook but the line snapped and the hook landed into what we see today.

KSRT

Heading towards the notch that marks the climb towards Mount Olympus.

KSRT

I don’t know which was harder, battling the gusting winds or climbing up the hill. Photo by Art Young.

Awaawaloa

Group photo at the close enough summit.

KSRT

Transitioning from the eroded and rutted trail to the slightly better maintained trail.

Castle Trail

Stepping foot on part of the trail complex that was built in the early 1900’s by William Castle and friends. Photo by Art Young.

Castle Trail

Contouring below the ridgeline with valley and city views around us.

KSRT

Back on the windy ridge line. Photo by Art Young.

Manoa Middle Summit

We met up with Chris and CJ who had hiked up from Manoa Valley and took a break at the flat topped summit. Photo by Marilyn Bermudez.

KSRT

Heading towards the crown jewels of the Ko’olau Mountains. Photo by Art Young.

KSRT

Cardio climbing through the mountains. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Keep on pushing. Rest at the summit.

K2

Marilyn standing on one of the large testicles.

Konahuanui Summit

Happy Birthday Arthur from the highest peak on the Ko’olau Mountain Range. Many more happy returns.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Leaving the 3,150′ summit as we dropped down into the saddle. Photo by Art Young.

Mud Wall

Chris and CJ making their way down the wall. Photo by Art Young.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The birthday boy in the mountains. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Contouring around the big boulder that sits smack dab in the middle of the ridge. Photo by Art Young.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The ridge soon became exposed and steeper. Photo by Art Young.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Marilyn climbing her way down the crumbly pile of rocks.

Nu’uanu Saddle

This spot always gives me pause as this is where a fellow hiker, Agnes Bryant fell 300′ to the valley floor and survived! Somebody was truly looking out for her on that day. Photo by Art Young.

Contour

Art staying high on his climb down the crumbly rockface. Photo by Marilyn Bermudez.

Chimney

I had to re-route the ropes going down the Chimney, as they had been blown over to the Leeward side. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Chimney

The winds were howling with a capital H. The winds were no joke today.

Nipple

Looking out towards the skinny spire of a rock. Photo by CJ Mendiola.

Nipple

Trying not to get blown off the ridge as we made our way down.

Pali Notches

We bumped into another fellow hiker, Steve Lin who was out stretching his legs this windy day.

Pali Notches

The group climbing up the smaller notch of the two that were built by King Kalanikupule’s warriors to defend the island of Oahu from King Kamehameha in the Battle of Nu’uanu back in 1795.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making our way down to the Pali Lookout. Our lookout is better than your lookout.

Pali Lookout

Where’s the frozen cokes? Getting spoiled. Thanks to Jim and Rhonda for picking us up and taking us back to our cars. Photo by Rhonda Hutchinson.

GPS Tracks

Our windy as heck birthday hike covered over seven miles with adventurous friends. Post hike meal at Mama Pho’s where Cat, Edgar, Jasmin, Narissa and Quan joined us for Bart’s birthday dinner.

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 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.

To begin this story, I have to rewind the clock back six days as Chris asked me to chronicle his KST one shot from South to North. Bear with me as I wasn’t with him until the last day. LOL.

Makapu’u Puka

Day 1 Sunday, November 8, 2020 – Tessa dropped Chris off at Makapu’u to start his journey across the Ko’olau Mountain Range. Nothing like a cold bottle of caffeinated cola to start ones day.

Sunrise

Catching the sun rising over the bulging eye.

Kamehame

Chris and his shadow to keep him company on the hike. It also pays to talk to oneself on the hike as well.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Safety tip: Always wear a hard hat while hiking to avoid being conked on the head by those falling pine cones.

Kamiloiki Summit

Enjoying the views of the Waimanalo coastline.

Tom-Tom Summit

Don’t worry, keep hiking.

Mariner’s Summit

Chris left the hard hat behind for other hikers that are a little bit more safety conscious.

Hahaione

Taking a picture as it will last longer.

Lost & Found

Chris found Quan’s cap that was lost on an earlier hike.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Setting up tent at the helipad. Home for the night.

Sunset

Capturing the sun as it goes down over the communications tower.

KSRT

Day 2 Monday, November 9, 2020 – Dropping in between the valley.

Sedan Rock

Contoured and met back up with the ridge line.

K2 Summit

No views at one of the testicles. Hold and cough.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Coming down the cloud soaked ridge line.

Chimney

Taking a break from selfies and taking a shoefie instead.

Chimney

Looking back at the hardest obstacle on this saddle as Chris made his way down past the notches and down to the lookout.

Camp Pali

Lilyn, Quan, Tessa and myself met up with Chris after work to give him food, drinks and company. Quan got her cap back as well. We left before the night marchers came out. Sleep tight.

Pali Puka

Day 3 Tuesday, November 10, 2020 – Looking for those views.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Going up the crumbly saddle as the clouds rolled in from the ocean.

W

Chris about to contour and climb the donkey kong obstacle.

KSRT

Climbing out of the saddle and onto more solid footing.

Lanihuli Summit

Clear views at the 2,700′ summit.

Kalihi Saddle

Taking another break from the selfies as Chris gets ready to ride the dirt dragon.

Lanihuli Wall

Testing out the new webbing.

Can Opener

Chris at the iconic photo spot, right before he got stuck going up the Doorstop. Elevator services were offline.

Doorstop

Looking back at the steepness that is Lanihuli Wall. Best appreciated in person from far away.

Bunny Ears

Coming off the pair of hills and heading towards Shark Fin. Getting hungry for Chinese food.

Powerlines

Dropping down towards the middle of the saddle as Chris pushed on. No rest for the weary.

Witch’s Hat

Looking back at the conical rock face.

Rock Triangle

Heading towards the hardest of the rock triangles. But first, Chris had to flash a shaka.

Kalihi Saddle

Heading towards the summit of Bowman after polishing off the saddle.

Tripler Summit

To camp or not to camp? Too early.

Stairway to Heaven

Only one soul in heaven today.

Food Pantry

When the rats are more thirsty than you.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris going down the stairs that time forgot.

Dirt Triangle

Somebody made use of the yellow rope that was sitting up there.

Camp Kulana’ahane

Chris pitched his tent on the summit with sweeping views of Halawa Valley and points beyond.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Day 4 Wednesday, November 11, 2020 – Catching the morning valley views.

Red Hill Summit

Still no closure after five years. Sad for the family.

Stairway to Hell

Never enter Hell without your tetanus shot.

REI Outlet

The selection was quite sparse. They need to stock up.

North Haiku Stairs

No views. Just shaka views.

KSRT

Rounding the bend around the fenced plant enclosure.

Aiea Summit

The man and his sign.

KSRT

Catching the Windward views.

KSRT

Rolling hills ahead.

Waimalu Meadows

The winds were blowing something fierce and snatched Chris’s phone out of his hands and flung it a good distance. Lucky it landed on the spongy ground and not off the cliff.

Waimano Summit

Home for the night with views overlooking Waihee Valley.

KSRT

Day 5 Thursday, November 12, 2020 – Looking back at the fluted flanks of the Ko’olau Mountains.

Eleao Meadows

Fence by fence, they will take over the mountains.

Manana Summit

End of trail? Not for Chris.

Corner

Last chance for H20.

KSRT

Approaching Waiawa Gap.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping into the gap.

Waiawa Gap

Climbing out of the gap.

Waiahole Windward

Reminiscing about the ridge from bushwhacking hell.

Kipapa Summit

Where the KSRT becomes the KST. Tomato. Tomatoe.

Tree of Life

Windy as usual. Stay here long enough and you too will become bent over.

KST

Keep the country country.

KST

Soaking in the spectacular Northern views.

Schofield Waikane Junction

To camp or not to camp? There were still a couple hours of daylight left. Press on.

KST

The rare Ko’olau Goose is getting long in the tooth and shorn of feathers.

Pauao Junction

Chasing the sun.

KST

The notch that dynamite built.

Poamoho Cabin

Home for the night.

Poamoho Cabin

Watching the sunset.

Poamoho Cabin

Day 6 Friday, November 13, 2020 – The morning sun streaming through the windows provided the wake up call in the mountains.

Poamoho Summit

Enjoying one of the best views on the island.

Cline Memorial

How many more miles do I have left?

KST

Going my way?

KST

Lobelia in bloom.

KST

Lobelia along the fence line.

Da Boot Junction

Surprising that the boot has held up this long.

KST

Lobelia in the meadows.

KST

The fence line following the convoluted topography of the KST.

KST

Lobelia overload.

Rabbit Hole

Slogging through more mud pits.

KST

Following the fence line to Papali.

Papali Junction

Running into Charlie at the summit. Small world.

KST

They don’t call this section the muddiest for nothing.

KST

Native loulu palm trees interrupting the ridge line.

KST

Sunbather or sacrificial lamb?

KST

Let’s get in one more mud bath, shall we?

Koloa Cabin

Open for business, despite the rumors.

Koloa Cabin

What’s for dinner? Oxtail soup? Prime rib, crab legs and asparagus? Salmon and Poke? Let’s get back to reality. Filipino sardines and rice it is.

Laie Trail

Day 7 Saturday, November 14, 2020 – Tessa and I met up at the trailhead to hike the six mile trail to the summit to meet Chris and continue with him to the finish line.

Koloa Cabin

Last day to be in the mountains!

Laie Trail

Tessa told me to wait at the summit for her, as she had to fertilize the mountains.

Laie Trail

Going up the humid, overgrown and wet trail. The joys of hiking.

KST

Chris leaving the cabin for the summit.

Laie Trail

The woman of the mountains.

KST

The man of the hour.

Laie Summit

Group photo in the foxhole. Chris got his requested Coke and snacks. Much needed nourishment after seven days in the mountains.

KST

Leaving the 2,240′ summit for the most overgrown section on the KST. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Making our way on the trail as the windmills pinwheeled in the background.

Maleakahana Junction

The glove that Chris left many years ago to replace the green sign that used to mark the spot.

KST

Winding our way through the lush landscape. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Halfway there and time for our lunch break.

KST

Tessa disappearing into the uluhell overgrowth.

KST

Tessa pulling Chris’s leg and then some.

KST

Pushing up the last hill through the strawberry guava corridor.

Puu Hina

Group photo at the summit overlooking the North Shore.

KST

Heading down to the finish line.

Black Junction

My traditional champagne dousing of the finisher. This time Chris got two for the price of one. Major congratulations to Chris Bautista for his second KST one shot (first documented both ways, North-South and South-North) and his sixth overall finish of the KST. #beastmode.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

We didn’t expect to see this individual when we popped out of the trail.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

You have cold beer in your backpack? Chris’s best buddy.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

Swinging my way down the road. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

Greet and scare. Aida, Lilyn and Quan were waiting in the bushes to surprise us. It worked for some.

All pau

Group photo left to right: Lilyn, Quan, Chris, myself, Tessa, Arnold and Aida. It was high time for somebody to take a shower as well.

Post hike meal

Dale also came up to congratulate Chris on his accomplishment. Thanks to the gang for bringing us cold drinks, pizza and chicken. Mahalo to Quan for making Chris a Corona lei. That beer didn’t help him catch any chickens. Also found out that chickens will eat their own kind. Fried to boot. Thanks to Lilyn for driving us to the showers and back to our cars in Laie.

Post hike meal Round 2

Chris, Tessa and myself then drove to Waianae for the WST one shot turned KST one shot party as well at Bill and Shirley’s house. One shot for the one shot team. Chris could finally dig in to oxtail soup, prime rib, crab legs, grilled asparagus, poke and mashed potatoes. Thanks to Shirley for giving me the only Coke in the house. Mahalo to Analyn for the oxtail soup to go order. Fun times with Analyn and Chris, Liezl and Micah, Mia, Matt, Mike and Amber.

GPS Tracks

Chris’s traversal from Makapu’u to Pupukea covered over 52 miles in seven days. Amazing accomplishment Chris! Props to you my friend.

GPS Tracks

Tessa and I hiked 12.8 miles in nine hours through some of the worst overgrowth this side of the KST. Fun times all around with good friends during and after the hike. Thanks to all that came out to support Chris. Mahalo!

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.

The current global pandemic had scuttled my plans to hike the Mount Blanc Trail in Europe, so that’s how I found myself with Anne and Tessa on the fragmented remnants of the Ko’olau Shield Volcano in Hawaii.

Makapu’u Lighthouse

Day 1 Saturday – Thanks to Aida for dropping us off as we hiked up the dark and deserted road.

Makapu’u Lighthouse

All hands on the tower that has the largest lens of any lighthouse in the United States. Walking back down the paved road, we met another hiker who surprised us coming up the trail and I fell in the ditch while texting. An auspicious start to our hike.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Going up the rocky trail that was kept in navigational perspective by the shimmering coastal lights and our headlamps.

Makapu’u Puka

Pit stop at the prominent hole in the ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Shaka sunrise

Anne greeting our first sunrise of the hike. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Hang gliding platform

I believe I can fly. I mean, hike. No drugs allowed on this hike.

KSRT

Going through the fenced enclosures.

KSRT

Leaving the communication towers and former Nike air missile defence site behind us.

KSRT

The girls dipping into the saddle under the withering sun.

KSRT

The ironwood forest granted us temporary shade as we made our way out of the saddle. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Breaking out onto the exposed trail.

Kamiloiki Summit

Sweeping views of the Waimanalo coastline and inviting blue-green waters greeted us at the top. No stop at Camp Awesome today.

KSRT

Making our way through the hardscrabble terrain of this section that is usually scorching hot and the least favorite section of the KST for me, but thankfully it was overcast and relatively cool today.

KSRT

Walking through the feathery ferned forest that always makes me forget that I’m hiking on the KST for some reason. We barely crossed paths with two other female hikers going the opposite way as well. I think they were avoiding us.

Mariner’s Summit

Did my cap shrink or my head get bigger? My money is on the latter.

Kaluanui Summit

Group photo at the abandoned summit with views of the Southern spine of the Ko’olau’s, Olomana and other points of interest.

Mariner’s Summit

Climbing down from the 1,361′ top.

Hahaione Pyramid

We saw three hikers milling around the 1,594′ triangular peak. We declined to join them for the sake of social distancing.

Hahaione Powerlines

Mahalo to Janell for stashing water on the trail.

Between a rock and a hard place

Tessa trying to squeeze her way through on the trail. Photo by Anne Fai.

Pictures Plus

A picture is worth a thousand words. In her case, make it 10,000 words. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Are we there yet?

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Group photo at the usually bustling 2,028′ summit. Where is everybody? Has the zombie apocalypse finally happened? Something close to it. COVID-19, the apologetic apocalypse.

KSRT

Climbing our way up the severely eroded hill. Ropes included.

KSRT

Approaching the oft photographed spot that was lacking a tent and a hiker. Any volunteers? Where is yawyaw#2 when you need her? Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

We passed Pu’u O Kona with a slight pause to take in the cloud covered views before resuming our traverse on the numerous small hills that populated the ridge line.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Taking in another cloud obfuscated view at the barren 2,520′ knob.

KSRT

Approaching the communications tower that signaled the end of our day. We passed the 1,597′ summit and dropped down a bit to reach our camp site.

Camp Wiliwilinui

We reached the heli-pad around 1530. Kudos to Aida, Ed, Sally and Somphet for hiking to our campsite to bring food and drinks that was much appreciated.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Our door dash drivers departing down the mountain.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Good night from our temporary home in the mountains. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Day 2 – Sunday. We woke up to a slightly chilly and cloud soaked morning. Cooked up breakfast, broke down camp and pushed off around 0715 on the trail.

Kainawa’aunui Summit

Brief stop at the 2,520′ terminus of the roller coasting ridge. Glad we were not going on that ride today. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Anne scooting her way down the big hill. Sometimes it’s better to go with the flow of gravity rather than resist relativity. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Preparing to transition from standing to scooting. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Catching fleeting valley views before the clouds snatched them away. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

The day was turning out to be rather nice as the clouds were melting back into the sky.

KSRT

Tessa pushing her way through chest high overgrowth on the trail. It’s all a matter of perspective. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Looking ahead to the powerline towers that ring one of three tuff cones on this island.

KSRT

After bringing somebody back on the trail as she either wanted to fetch water or go home, we all made our way down the rutted trail.

Ka’au Crater

Peering into the marshy crater that is sandwiched in between civilization and the base of the Ko’olau Mountains. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Ka’au Crater

Snack break at the top of the rim. In fact, this is the hike where I first met yawyaw #1. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

The mountains are calling and we answered. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

The girls climbing towards the notch of Olympus.

KSRT

Anne climbing her way up the steep hill to have an audience with Zeus. Sorry, wrong mythology. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Awaawaloa Summit

Group photo by Tessa Bugay at the 2,486′ top.

Wa’ahila Ridge Trail

Walking down the severely rutted trail that would give Moanalua Middle Ridge and Ka’au Crater a run for their money.

KSRT

Making our way on the uluhe smothered trail that afforded grand views of Manoa Valley and points beyond.

KSRT

Threading our way around the stand of pine trees blockading the ridge line.

Manoa Middle Summit

Tessa on the terminus of the ridge that drops down into Manoa Valley. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

The girls passing a small meadow on their way up.

KSRT

Mesmerized by the fluted flanks of the Ko’olau Mountains that was colored in different shades of green. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Climbing false peak after false peak. The suspense just drags in the mountains.

K2 Summit

We bumped into Bill, Chris and Shirley who had just come up from the Pali and were on their way down to Manoa Middle. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Butt grab

Some mountain traditions must be maintained.

KSRT

Traversing between the two large, hairy testicles.

Konahuanui Summit

Uncommonly clear day on the highest peak that soars to 3,150′ on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

Piliwale Junction

Passing the spot where the Windward ridge drops down into Maunawili Valley.

Mud Wall

Going down the slippery slope. Right after this, the mountains grabbed a souvenir from my head and sent it down the side of the ridge. Not wanting to give up my sun protection, I scrambled down and recovered my cap.

Nu’uanu Saddle

No rock climbing today.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The girls climbing down the ridge that looks steeper than it actually is. Rear view hiking.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We contoured the rock face that had sent a friend falling 300′ down into the trees and survived over eight years ago.

Chimney

Tessa oscillated on her way down as the bigger pack threw her balance off.

Nu’uanu Saddle

The girls decided to contour the nipple instead of going up and over. Taking the scenic route.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We delayed our arrival at the lookout due to unwanted visitors at the bottom.

Camp Pali

Thanks to Aida, Art, Lilyn and Quan for bringing us vittles and all the fixings. It was much appreciated. Lilyn also brought a portable shower which Tessa promptly drained all the water while still lathered in shampoo, so Quan had to finish her off with a jug of water. Teamwork. Team KAT + Q.

Camp Pali

Goodnight and don’t let the night marchers bite. Photo by Anne Fai.

Trash Day

Day 3 – Monday. Mahalo to Quan for bringing us breakfast fresh out of a fast food eatery. We greeted a city and county employee on our way to the trail. Lost in translation. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Tessa coming up the pine needle carpeted trail.

Depend

Somebody was having a bad case of incontinence due to her internal or external bladder leaking. Photo by Anne Fai.

Pali Puka

Trying to capture the whole hole. Framing and perspective somehow got lost in the process. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Welcome to the jungle, we got fun and games. All day.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Looking ahead to our destination in the heavens. Photo by Anne Fai.

Nu’uanu Saddle

My right hand had swelled up to fatty proportions, due to a bee sting the day before, as I must have brushed against a flower in pollination. This allowed me to grab more of the rocks, albeit a little lopsided. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Anne scrambling her way up.

W

Making our way to the 23rd letter in the alphabet. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Deviled egg

Tessa literally sucked in her smashed boiled egg. Killing two birds with one inhaler. Photo by Anne Fai.

Donkey Kong

The girls dropping and contouring their way down the side of the letter shaped obstacle.

W

Anne and Tessa finally climbing down after looking for a non-existent contour.

Anvil

Preparing to drop down on the moveable rock. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Anvil

Anne hugging the side of the cliff as the trail was barely wide enough to hold our feet.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Huffing and puffing our way up the last steep section on this side of the saddle.

KSRT

The girls making their way to the heavenly summit that was surprisingly clear of any swirling.

Lanihuli Summit

Group photo at the 2,700′ hill with sweeping mountain and coastal views.

KSRT

Leaving the summit after our lunch break. Somebody almost took the trail down to Alewa Heights. Thoughts of bailing must have been still swirling in her head.

Kalihi Saddle

Following the ridge line as it curved down. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

The girls carefully climbing their way down.

Dirt Dragon

Petting what’s left of the dragon. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

The girls scooting their way down the crumbly mess.

Kalihi Saddle

The saddle’s so windy, I got to wear shades. Borrowed shades. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

The girls coming down through the thicket of woody climbers.

Lanihuli Wall

Descending down the near vertical flank of the ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Lanihuli Wall

The other descent option, the suicidal climb down the can opener. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Lanihuli Wall

Following the white rope on our way down the ridge’s flank as we contoured our way back to the ridge line under the ominous rock jutting out from the can opener. One day it’s going to pop and I hope nobody is around.

Kalihi Saddle

Less texting, more hiking. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Anne scooting down the unstable pile of rocks, as it literally shed rocks each time one of us crossed over.

Kalihi Saddle

Popping the pimple on my way up. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Anne contouring around the sliver of a rock pile.

Doorstop

Working for Allstate. You’re in good hands. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Bunny Ears

Standing on one ear.

Bunny Ears

Sitting on the other one. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Leaving the bunny ears behind us as we didn’t find any rabbit’s foot either on the trail.

Kalihi Saddle

Anne heading out to Shark Fin. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Powerlines

We were not going to make heaven today after all.

Camp Centipede

Many thanks to Art and Ben who delivered Filipino sardines, haole cooked rice and drinks. No centipedes crawling around today. My hand had puffed out to maximum tightness, Anne gave me some Benadryl to reduce the swelling. Tessa said if my swelling didn’t go down soon, I should go see a doctor. Do doctors still make house calls? In the mountains?

Camp Centipede

Our camp site overlooking the home of the wallabies. We went to sleep as strong winds and rain tested our tents. One would fail. Somebody was praying that rain storms would lash the mountains so hard that she could go home. Thankfully her request was not answered. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Centipede

Day 4 – Tuesday. We not only woke up to the sun breaking through the clouds but daylight breaking through my tent. At least my swelling had gone down. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Centipede

The clouds didn’t look too inviting as they rolled through the saddle, so we stayed put until more favorable weather conditions manifested itself. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Centipede

Shout out to Lilyn and Quan who swung by our camp site to loan me her tent. Back in business.

Kalihi Saddle

And just like that; the sun came out to play, so we pushed off around 0900.

Witch’s Hat

Anne climbing down the conical shaped rock that is perhaps closely related to the witch’s toes.

Kalihi Saddle

Slowly making our way across the crumbly ridge line.

Rock Triangle

Anne climbing her way up the Leeward side before working her way up the rock face. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Broken Wave

Looking back at the narrow and eroded ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kalihi Saddle

Anne was either practicing her ninja skills or spider skills. Either way, she needs more work. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Dirty Slide

Pulling myself up the slippery slope. Some would argue this is the hardest obstacle on this side of the saddle. The jury is still out on that as well. Photo by Anne Fai.

Dirty Slide

All the hard parts were behind us now as we just had to climb up to the 2,740′ summit of Kahuauli.

KSRT

No stops at the overgrown summit of Bowman or the flat and open 2,760′ summit of Tripler before running across the defunct radar tower.

Stairway to Heaven

We topped out at Pu’u Keahi a Kahoe before traversing the short muddy trail to heaven, which was lacking the usual live souls. Photo by Anne Fai.

Stairway to Heaven

The skies soon cleared and we were treated to heavenly views at the 2,480′ summit. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Stairway to Heaven

Thanks to Allison and Laredo for stashing water and snacks for us. The rats had helped themselves to some of the tasty vittles. More for them, less for us.

Moanalua Saddle

Coming down the dilapidated stairs that time forgot.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way down what some would argue is the more eroded of the three main saddles. The jury’s still out on that one too. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Moanalua Saddle

Anne spotting Tessa as she climbed down the crumbly and steep section.

Moanalua Saddle

Hugging the rocks as we climbed down, some more tightly than the others.

Dirt Triangle

Anne contouring her way down the ridge line.

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving all the main obstacles behind us. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa coming down one crumbly rock at a time.

Moanalua Saddle

Going up and over the last hump for the day. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Kulana’ahane

We reached the summit around 1630, set up camp and watched the setting sun torch the tips of the mountains. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Kulana’ahane

Catching the fiery sunset and making noodles for dinner. Just another day in the mountains.

Camp Kulana’ahane

Going to bed as the city lights in the background provided our night lights. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Kulana’ahane

Day 5 – Wednesday. We cooked our breakfast, broke down camp and pushed off around 0800 on the trail.

Moanalua Saddle

Making our way up the relatively easier side of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

Tessa climbing out of the saddle. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

We passed Red Hill Summit and crossed over the H3 as it sliced through Halawa Valley below us. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Going down the rusted stairs that took us to hell. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Following the broken stairs to hell as we got a slice of heavenly views on our way. It was a good contrast. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Stairway to Hell

Group view at the more scenic stairway. No arguments. Hands down.

KSRT

Climbing our way out of hell.

KSRT

Dropping down and contouring our way around the fenced plant enclosure. I still have yet to see the protected plants.

KSRT

Looking into the wind blasted and cloud tinted valley views. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Getting back on the ridge line. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Anne reaching the 2,805′ summit at high noon with surprisingly clear views. Despite having more than enough time on our hands, we called it a day. It would turn out to be good timing in the end.

Camp Aiea

Set up camp and picked up our supplies that Aida, Ed, Sally and Somphet had brought up earlier in the week. Much appreciation for the assistance guys.

Camp Aiea

We had a lot of time on our hands and feet due to our early arrival. Who brought the playing cards? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Day 6 – Thursday. We broke down camp and with our packs a little heavier, hit the trail at a little past 0700.

KSRT

Putting our heads down as we started the major cardio section of the Ko’olau Mountains. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Hills after hills. Our mountain workout.

Waimalu Summit

We paused to take our group photo on the flat grassy plateau that was largely devoid of trees, just a lot of wind.

Waimalu Meadows

Going down the spongy spur ridge as we dropped below the cloud cover.

Waimalu Meadows

The largest grassy meadows on the Ko’olau Range. Often called mythical and magical. Both doesn’t do it justice.

Waimalu Meadows

Looking at the windswept meadows with the palm trees tucked into its nooks and crannies.

Waimalu Meadows

Anne getting back on the ridge line.

Waimalu Meadows

One last look before the clouds swallowed her back up.

KSRT

The clouds came back to keep us cool and under cover.

KSRT

Descending down into the saddle to meet a familiar face and a frozen coke.

Waimano Summit

Group photo at the 2,160′ summit that looks into Waihe’e Valley. Art had hiked up to meet us and join our hike to the end. Unfortunately, he sprained his ankle on his way up and had to turn around. We made the best of the situation and cannabalized his supplies. Including a can of spam. Something that yawyaw #1 would regret.

KSRT

Slow scramble out of the saddle. It’s hard to get back in the groove when you’ve been sitting in one spot too long.

KSRT

We passed the landmark landslide as we continued our traverse on the ridge line.

KSRT

Looking back at the clouds streaming over the mountains from Windward to Leeward.

KSRT

Tessa walking on the fence for a change.

KSRT

Following the sometimes confusing spur ridge to the meadows. Photo by Anne Fai.

Eleao Meadows

Anne passing the red haired stepchild of Waimalu Meadows at the 2,654′ top.

Camp Manana

Having dinner at the typical socked in summit. We just had to look at each other for the views.

Camp Manana

It was a tight fit, but we shoehorned our three tents onto the 2,660′ knob. One was more sheltered than the others. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Day 7 – Friday. We woke up with no centipede surprises, ate breakfast, broke down camp and hit the now clear trail around 0745.

KSRT

Passing by the distinctive moss encrused ohia tree. Photo by Anne Fai.

KSRT

Coming down the tricky turn. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

The Corner

Descending down into the land of creek and clouds. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

The Corner

Brushing our teeth and filtering water for our hydration needs. Water was for the most part clear and while not running, was not exactly stagnant. Good enough for our purposes.

KSRT

Anne ducking under the moss encrusted tree tunnel. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KSRT

Walking into a postcard. The views on this side are just too pretty for words and not enough justice for pictures.

KSRT

Approaching the gap.

Waiawa Gap

Losing elevation, that we will soon have to gain back. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waiawa Gap

Anne found a hat to keep the glove company. Photo by Anne Fai.

Waiawa Gap

Dropping down the grassy and spongy flank of the ridge that was dotted with native palm trees.

Waiawa Gap

What? We not stopping here! Get bees flying all over the place!

Waiawa Gap

Let’s make like a bee and buzz off!

Waiawa Gap

Climbing our way out of the gap.

KSRT

Choosy moms choose Jif. Nom nom, mama make me mama saimin. Dumpster diving for “rubbish rice.”

KSRT

Sweeping panoramic valley and ridge views.

KSRT

Passing a distant cousin of Waimalu Meadows.

KSRT

We soon caught the only rain showers on our entire hike through the mountains. Thankfully Mother Nature kept it a short visit at 30 minutes.

Kipapa Summit

No flying geese were spotted at the 2,786′ socked in summit. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Anne coming down the hill.

KST

Walking across the ridgeline against the backdrop of Waiahole, Waikane and Kahana valleys. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Rusty

Dropping down into the former site of the Kipapa Cabin, now our campsite for the night.

Camp Rusty

Good night and don’t let the rusty metal bite. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Camp Rusty

Day 8 – Saturday. Leaving our last camp site that we would need to use a tent. Looking forward to communal living in the cabins. I also woke up to a swollen left hand, guess the bees wanted to make it a complete pair.

Waiahole

Walking through a mixture of ferns and clidemia undergrowth that was shaded by the stand of sugi pine trees.

KST

Standing on the notch with the Waianae Mountain Range in the background. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Selfie Stick Junction

It works better with a phone. Just saying.

Tree of Life

Approaching the back of the meadows that are home to horizontal and vertical sugi pine trees.

Tree of Life

Taking photographic advantage of the uncommonly clear meadows.

KST

Pulling our way up the ridge line. And then there was the disagreement on where to get off to get back on the trail. Let’s take the hard way.

KST

Holding hands and singing kumbaya on the trail. Just don’t let go.

KST

Views of Kahana Valley.

KST

Views of a dirty hiker. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Crossing the well-trodden landslide.

KST

Traversing what is arguably the most scenic stretch of the KST. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Waikane-Waiahole Junction

The easily missed metal stake that marks the junction.

KST

Making our way on the ridge line.

Schofield-Waikane Junction

Lunch break at the original terminus of the KST.

Do not feed the animals

Rare sighting of the Ko’olau goose and common sighting of the fence line.

KST

Enjoying a relatively wide section of the trail.

Pauao Junction

No views of Kahana and Punaluu valleys for us today.

Happy dance

The gate. The gate. We’re home!

KST

No dancing. Just take our picture. Photo by Anne Fai.

KST

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) used dynamite to carve these trails from the steep cliffs back in the 1930s. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Poamoho Cabin

We got to the cabin around 1415 and the party of Analyn, Bill and Shirley arrived shortly after using two legged drive to come up the five mile road.

Log entry

Leaving our comments in the storied cabin books.

Poamoho Cabin

Girls just want to have fun.

Poamoho Cabin

Somebody was smacking their lips over Foodland’s salt’n’vinegar chicken wings. Served up with surprisingly tasty instant mashed potatoes with gravy. Somebody needs to learn to drink in moderation.

Camp Poamoho

Hear that? Count your lucky stars that you can’t. Somebody was snoring so loud they would have put a drunken sailor to shame. Even hearing the rats fight outside was infinitely more preferable.

Poamoho Cabin

Day 9 – Sunday. We cleaned up the cabin, harvested some taro and headed out at a little past 0800.

Poamoho Cabin

The vegetable farmer showing how she carries her heavy load. That’s using your head. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Anne following the fence to the summit.

Poamoho Summit

It’s hard to believe, but back in 1941, the US Army proposed paving the entire trail to the summit. Luckily it never materialized as the summit would have been overrun with people crowding one of the best scenic spots on the island. Too late. You should be here!

KST

We said goodbye to our friends as they went back down the Poamoho trail, as we continued on the Ko’olau Summit Trail.

KST

Coming up the trail to the fence. Go right to stay on trail. Go left to explore. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Meandering through the mountains with majestic views all around us. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

No, I don’t want to shake your hand. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Sometimes it feels like we are cattle being fenced in the pastures.

Boot Junction

Kicking it up.

KST

We crossed the spongy meadow to reconnect to the fence on the other side.

KST

Climbing down the ravine that spills out into a waterfall.

KST

Mud. Our constant cloying companion on the Northern KST.

KST Junction

Going down the rabbit hole. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

If I push this one, my f*cking feet go inside too! My knee. My ankle. Kenji, I’m really stuck! I no more energy. Wait, my shoe is right there! I need to take off my bag. The running commentary was hilarious.

Papali Junction

Taking a well deserved break after almost a half hour of sole sucking mud.

KST

Back on the trail.

KST

When the overgrowth almost swallows you on the trail.

KST

Showing off our mud dipped shoes. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Sitting on the scenic rock. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Life Alert

My back sore. My knees sore. How am I going to answer nature’s calls?

KST

Tessa climbing out of the hole that signaled we were close to the cabin.

KST

The fence. The fence. We’re home!

Koloa Cabin

We arrived at the open cabin around 1530 and cooked up chicken gumbo and mashed potatoes for our dinner. Somebody spilled the gravy.

Log entry

Same message, different cabin. We went too sleep early again or tried too as some of us didn’t have earplugs.

Koloa Cabin

Day 10 – Monday. Waking up to our last day in the mountains. We made a big bowl of combined saimin, cleaned the cabin and left around 0800.

KST

Tessa swinging over the fence line go get back on the muddy trail.

Koloa Cabin Mud Run

I think I was the only participant in the mud race. I guess I won. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Walking on the uluhe carpeted trail.

KST

Leaving the fence behind and something else. What could it be? Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Lost & Found

Anne realized she had left her phone somewhere back on the trail, so she backtracked a bit and luckily found it.

KST

Crossing the bowl shaped depression to regain the ridge line.

KST

Following the trail as it wound its way through the mountains. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Laie Summit

Looking for views from the 2,240′ foxhole.

KST

We resumed our hike on the most overgrown section of the KST.

KST

The overgrowth was only up to our knees at the start. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

Traversing the countless switchbacks through the mountains.

Malaekahana Junction

Somebody almost missed the junction. Need to slow down and smell the glove. Photo by Tessa Bugay

KST

Looking at the windmills pinwheeling in the distance.

KST

Halfway there! Time for lunch. Photo by Tessa Bugay

KST

You want some of mama’s saimin?

KST

Plunging back into the overgrowth that was a mixture of uluhe ferns, strawberry guava trees and other plants that constantly tried to keep us at bay.

KST

Breaking out into the much needed fresh air.

KST

Are we there yet?

NSFW

I needed to go potty, but since the girls surged ahead with the wipes, I had to use my potty mouth instead. Diarrhea of the mouth.

Pu’u Hina

Finally empty and relieved, it was all smiles at the 1,896′ summit. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

KST

The girls coming down the summit. Almost home.

Black Junction

A big thanks to Janell and Quan for meeting us with celebratory drinks that came in different flavors.

Black Junction

Our journey across the Ko’olau Mountain Range had come to its conclusion. Thanks again to Team KAT and our friends that supported us on our hike, we couldn’t have done it without you!

Black Junction

Trying to douse ourselves and each other with champagne was harder than it looked.

Black Junction

We collected our liquid leftovers and took a final group photo before heading down. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Pupukea

Taking the trail back to civilization.

Pupukea

Making our way down the graded footpath that was strewn with fallen tree branches of assorted sizes.

Paalaa Uka Pupukea Road

Somebody just couldn’t wait to get out of their hiking shoes as we also crossed paths with a lot of mountain bikers.

All pau

Thanks to Katie and Richard for picking up three ripe hikers and two hitchhikers up, if somebody could just figure out how to open the doors and also to Dale that looked out for any furry rodents so that we wouldn’t get bitten.

GPS Tracks

Our hike across the entire Ko’olau Mountain Range covered the distance of two marathons, a little over 52 miles. It was quite the mountain marathon. Priceless memories with good friends.

Post hike meal

Agnes, Aida, Art, Bill, Chris, Dale, Janell, Jenn, Katie, Lilyn, Quan, Richard and family and Shirley joined us at Haleiwa Joe’s, the one in Haleiwa and not Kaneohe, for our first civilized meal in 10 days. Thanks to Jenn for the fragrant leis that worked hard to mask our pungent odors and to Lilyn for our one shot patron for the one shot hike.

Post hike meal

Mahalo to Dale, Quan and the waitress for our hefty cut of cow dinners. Thanks again to our friends for coming out and their support! It was quite the adventure and experience.

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.