Strong winds scattered our original saddle plans today and blew us to another part of the mountains. Thanks to Chico for dropping and picking us up.

Hahaione

Mahalo to Kenny and Roger for shuttling us to our new starting point for today. What started out as a chilly morning quickly turned oppressively humid.

Hahaione

We went “exploring” and Alexis twisted her ankle on the return trip back. She slapped Scott’s compression sleeve on her stretched ligaments and was back on her feet.

Hahaione

Making our way to the fence line. The correct fence line.

Hahaione

Jeremy pulling himself up as we scrambled our way to the spur ridge line.

Hahaione

It was a huff and puff cardio climb towards the top.

Hahaione

We were within spitting distance of the summit. Then again, with the strong winds blowing, it might have ended up back in our faces.

Hahaione

Sitting life on the edge while overlooking the valley that used to be home to fishponds and sweet potatoes before contact with Europeans. Too risky standing.

Hahaione Summit

Group photo at the summit that was being actively cooled by extremely strong trade winds.

Hahaione Summit

The point of no return. Who will you listen to? Choose carefully.

Hahaione Pyramid

Descending down the direct way.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Back on solid footing with the background rock structure that bears a passing resemblance to a triangular shape.

KSRT

Our office view today.

KSRT

Climbing our way towards the second summit on the trail.

KSRT

Alexis and Kenny testing their handholds and footholds as they near the top.

KSRT

What’s for lunch? Red miso soup with rice and ontama. Thank you Chef Suzuki.

Mariner’s Ridge Summit

Group photo on Kaluanui Summit, the place that Kamehameha Schools would like you to forget, as they shut down the trail back in 2013.

KSRT

Our bellies full and with the wind at our back and in our faces, we resumed our hike.

KSRT

Scott and Roger catching up with the group as they were looking for Roger’s phone that had slipped out of his case on the trail. No need to use the phone insurance for a second time.

KSRT

Akira soaking in the views.

KSRT

Climbing down the cliff with … a printer cable? The things you find on hiking trails.

KSRT

Leaving the canopied trail behind us as we struck out on the exposed ridge line.

KSRT

Alexis and Roger framed by the power lines as they made their way down.

Tom-Tom Summit

Seeking scant shade at the terminus that was named after Tom McGuire and Tom Cadle who rediscovered the old Hawaiian trail that started in Waimanalo and crested to the ridge line and beyond.

KSRT

Roaming through “open country.”

KSRT

Some took the climbing path, others took the contour trail. They both ended at the same destination.

KSRT

Taking a break after an exhausting fight against gravity on the pine needle covered trail.

Kamiloiki Summit

Brief stop to take our group photo at the summit with expansive Windward views. No time to camp today.

KSRT

We could see the road at the end of the tunnel, so to speak.

KSRT

Descending down the rocky saddle bordered by thin and coarse vegetation.

KSRT

What goes down, must come up.

KSRT

The face of determination. Hats off to Kenny for slowly working on his fear of heights.

KSRT

Making our way towards the active communications tower that was once neighbors to the infamous Dead Man’s Cat Walk.

KSRT

Working our way around one of the abandoned radar towers that used to control the Nike missile batteries down in Bellows Air Force Station from 1961-1970.

KSRT

When you mistakenly go on the inside and bypass the canned recording, you get to climb over one of Charles Barnard’s invention.

All pau

Enjoying the scenic walk down the road back to our cars.

GPS Tracks

Our Plan B hike that also helped Scott fill in one of his holes on his journey to complete the KST covered 4.85 miles with windy weather and fun company. Post hike meal at Tex808 BBQ where we just missed the live music.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Alexis Catarina, Jeremy Cannone, Kenny Lui, Scott Peterson, Roger Schiffman and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

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

We did a leisurely stroll along the South side of the Ko’olau Mountains today. Thanks to Quan for dropping Barry, Marilyn and myself off at the bulging eye.

Makapu’u

Looking down at Makapu’u Beach and Sea Life Park.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Early hikers … Photo by Barry Lau.

Sunrise

… get to catch the earth’s rotation revealing the morning sun.

Makapu’u Puka

Individual and collective photos at the puka (hole) in the ridge.

KSRT

Climbing up the cliffside dominated by dry grass and rocks of assorted sizes and critters that will sting you if you put your hand down in the wrong place.

KSRT

Approaching the first hang gliding platform. Photo by Barry Lau.

KSRT

Somebody was waiting to get chucked off the hill.

KSRT

Leaving behind the communications tower and abandoned Nike air missile defense sites.

KSRT

Dipping down into the saddle with the Waimanalo coastline stretched out in front of us.

KSRT

Now isn’t this a much better break spot? Shaded and out of the sun.

KSRT

Resuming our traverse on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains with views of Koko Crater and Koko Head in the background.

Kamiloiki Summit

The views of the Waimanalo coastline were incrementally moving from our perspective.

Pine needle slide

All that was missing were the cardboard boxes.

KSRT

Proving grounds that went extinct in the Paleolithic era. I think lack of diet had something to do with it as well.

KSRT

Climbing our way up to the HECO powerline towers. Photo by Barry Lau.

Tom-Tom Summit

Barry and Marilyn at the terminus of the trail that was named after Tom McGuire and Tom Cadle that “discovered” the old trail used by Hawaiian runners in the past.

Bell’s Tower

Passing the crumbly rockface, nobody was answering the call of adventure. Maybe the call of nature.

KSRT

Barry enjoying the views from the edge.

KSRT

Marilyn climbing up the side of the cliff using the always reliable printer cable.

KSRT

Barry plunging into the forest.

Kaluanui Summit

Group photo at the 1,361′ summit that Kamehameha Schools shut down back in January of 2014. What a shame. It was one of the easiest trails to access the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

KSRT

Leaving behind Mariner’s Summit.

Hahaione Pyramid

Heading towards the triangular shaped rock where we heard voices, the very same voices that would prove to be of navigational use to the group.

KSRT

Are you lost? Do you need a hand?

KSRT

Our last scenic group photo taken by the camera whipped guy.

KSRT

Cardio training in the mountains.

Hahaione Junction

We ran into the Solemates group with their four legged friends having lunch at the top. Do you know Dale?

Hahaione Trail

Where are those cardboard boxes when you need them?

All pau

Exiting the heavily trafficked valley, sign notwithstanding. Photo by Barry Lau.

GPS Tracks

Our roughly seven mile hike through the mountains came with scenic views and good company. Post hike meal at Pieology where we were joined by Aida and Quan.

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

I closed out the year with a short hike with Aida, Allison, Ed and Sally on the East side of the island. Thanks to Aida for giving Allison and myself a ride to the trailhead.

Trailhead

We bypassed the heiau and found Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Contouring our way up to the ridge line. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Resting rock. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Heading up the dry ridge line. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Looking back at Koko Crater and Koko Head, which are interchangeable to most people. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Kamiloiki Ridge

The group continuing their slow and steady climb to the summit. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Resting tree. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Starting and stirring the imaginary fire pit. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kamiloiki Ridge

The crew reunited. Less resting and more hiking.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Going up the pine tree corridor. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kamiloiki Ridge

Sally hugging the tree, lest gravity roll her back down. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Kamiloiki Summit

We met up with Madeline and Jeremy at the summit. Small world.

Kamiloiki Summit

Group photo with the wide angle to make our bodies look slightly distorted.

Camp Awesome

Sally as the sacrificial lamb in the illegal fire pit. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

We left the summit to traverse on the spine of the Ko’olau Mountains. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Allison and Ed climbing down the exposed rock section. Photo by Sally Chow.

KSRT

Sliding down the slippery slope of pine needles. Should have brought our cardboard boxes. Photo by Ed Valdez.

KSRT

Breaking out onto the exposed ridge line with sweeping views of the Waimanalo coastline. Photo by Allison Banks.

KSRT

Looking back as the group climbs and contours their way around the numerous rock faces dotting the ridge line.

KSRT

Sally climbing down backwards. Photo by Ed Valdez.

KSRT

Aida and Allison contouring their way around a rock face. Photo by Ed Valdez.

KSRT

Looking back as the group crests over the top of a hump on the ridge line.

Tom-Tom Junction

Ed at the terminus to the trail that leads down into Waimanalo and roaming dogs. Photo by Sally Chow.

Tom-Tom Junction

Only the girls were happy. The boys were just don’t worry.

KSRT

Standing on a photogenic spot. Photo by Sally Chow.

KSRT

The group contouring around the photogenic spot.

KSRT

Always test the printer cable before using it to climb up. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Did you test the cable? Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Sitting on a photogenic spot. Photo by Sally Chow.

KSRT

Aida on the feathery ferned trail. At least it wasn’t those scratchy uluhe ferns. Photo by Ed Valdez.

KSRT

Climbing up the exposed ridge line to the summit. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Allison standing near the terminus for Mariners Windward. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Mariners Summit

Tight squeeze on the summit for our group photo. What happened to social distancing?

Mariners Ridge

Heading down the trail that Kamehameha Schools would like us to forget.

Mariners Ridge

We came across what was either a pseudo-Boy Scout Camp or homeless shelter.

Trail

Branching off the main trail as we descended down a spur ridge towards Hahaione Valley. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Trail

This trail just goes to prove that once one door closes, another opens. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Trail

In the thick of the woods trying to find our way out.

Trail

Out of the woods. Photo by Ed Valdez.

Trail

Contouring around the water tank that looked like it had a fresh coat of graffiti on it.

All pau

Walking downhill to our cars. Well, one had to walk uphill on behalf of the others. You can always have too much hiking. Photo by Ed Valdez.

GPS Tracks

Our end of the year hike covered 4.75 miles with good company. No fireworks or post hike meal today. Happy New Year to all my friends that have kept me company in the mountains and looking forward to new adventures next year.

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.

I did a solo stroll along the Southern spine of the Ko’olau Mountains today.

Trailhead

Switch backing my way up the side of the valley.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

Entering the forested area populated with pine trees.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

Stepping foot on the stairs that helps to retard erosion on the trail.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

One of many spider webs on the trail catching dew drops.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Lonely selfie at the 2,028′ eroded hill.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Turning onto the cloud soaked ridge trail where I had intended to hike all the way to Makapu’u.

Hahaione Pyramid

I didn’t see anybody walking like an Hawaiian.

Kaluanui Summit

It’s a crying shame that Kamehameha Schools shuttered this trail that was one of the easiest to reach the KST.

Tom-Tom Summit

Passing the Windward trail that drops down into Waimanalo, land of the roaming dogs.

Kamiloiki Summit

I met a faintly familiar face flying his drone at the summit.

KSRT

I took stock of my situation. I only had brought a liter of water and it was scorching hot weather so I decided to end my hike early and take the service road out. That being said, I took a long leisurely break before the communications tower and met Cinja, Krissy and Tess who were hiking the opposite way.

All pau

It was the end of the road for me. Literally.

GPS Tracks

My short traversal on the Ko’olau Mountain Range covered a little over seven miles. Thanks to Lilyn for picking me up. Post hike meal at Pieology where making your own pizza pie has gone on a diet. Cooled off with shave ice drizzled with Lychee and Lilikoi syrup from Uncle Clay’s House of Pure Aloha. I didn’t get to meet Unko.

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.

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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

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The girls climbing towards the notch of Olympus.

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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.

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

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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.

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The girls passing a small meadow on their way up.

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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

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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.

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Climbing our way out of hell.

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

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

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

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

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

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

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Tessa walking on the fence for a change.

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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Sweeping panoramic valley and ridge views.

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Passing a distant cousin of Waimalu Meadows.

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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.

Met up with Aida, Art, Chris, Janell, Katie, Lilyn and Tessa at the top of the neighborhood watch to begin our rainy day hike.

Kuli’ou’ou Trail

Starting off on the ten switchbacks that would eventually take us out of the valley. Photo by Katie Bingham.

Kuli’ou’ou Trail

Walking through the grove of pine trees with the needle droppings that carpeted the trail.

Picnic Shelter

Halfway break at the halfway house. Photo by Janell Tuttle.

Campsite

Nobody was home. All the hollering was for nothing.

Planet Fitness

Katie showing her best side at 40%.

Kuli’ou’ou Trail

Aida making her way up the puddle soaked steps. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Group photo at the eroded and wet hill, left to right: Chris, Katie, Lilyn, Art, myself, Tessa, Aida and Janell.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Leaving the 2,028′ summit for wetter pastures. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

A picture is worth a thousand rain drops.

Mary Poppins

I believe I can fly. Until my umbrella folds up. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

We contoured around Hahaione Pyramid until we climbed to the flat scenic spot that afforded muted views of the coastlines.

Mountain Yoga

That’s one big step for Lilyn, one last leap for the hiker. Photo by Tessa Bugay.

Mariner’s Summit

Climbing up the slippery rocks to the top of Kaluanui. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mariner’s Summit

Watching the group make their way up, while Art and Chris decided to take the contour path. What contour trail? Learn something new everyday.

Mariner’s Summit

Seeking what scant shelter we could find under the pine trees that filtered the rain water down to our soggy lunches. Are we having fun yet? Photo by Katie Bingham.

Mariner’s Windward Summit

Group photo at the terminus of the ridge that drops down into Waimanalo.

KSRT

Leaving the lonely summit.

KSRT

Plunging into the feathery soft patch of ferns. which was infinitely preferably than the usual clawing and scratching uluhe ferns.

KSRT

Katie and Janell climbing back onto the ridge line.

KSRT

Art living life on the edge.

KSRT

Tessa dropping down the contour. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Rito’s Tower

Looking down at the crumbly rock formation that some have done and others haven’t. Today was not the day to check off that list.

KSRT

Scenic spot overlooking the town of Waimanalo and the Tom-Tom summit. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

The others queuing up for their turn on the photogenic rock.

KSRT

Chris decided to get away from the crowds. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

KSRT

Taking pictures of the picture takers. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Tom-Tom Summit

A happy tree hugger. Are there any other kind? Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Making our way over the rolling and exposed rocky hills under the cover of rain.

KSRT

The group hiking up to the now abandoned proving grounds. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Kamiloiki Summit

Isn’t there a camp around here? Camp Awesome?

KSRT

Approaching the saddle as we passed through the stand of pine trees to make our descent down into the dip.

KSRT

The group climbing out of the depression. Photo by Aida Gordon.

KSRT

Approaching the abandoned Nike missile defense tower and the somewhat fenced communication tower.

Kamehame Road

Pounding the pavement as we made our way down to contour back to the ridge line. Photo by Aida Gordon

KSRT

Christmas is alive and well in the mountains.

KSRT

Passing the second hang gliding platform with the islands of Manana and Kaohikaipu in the background.

Booty Grab

What happens in the mountains, has apparently stayed in the mountains. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Panoramic view of the low lying coastal terrace.

KSRT

Katie making her way down the extremely rocky terrain.

Makapu’u Puka

Group photo at the hole in the ridge.

KSRT

Making our way through what I call the Stonehenge of Makapu’u, due to the numerous vertical and horizontal rock slabs on the edge of the cliff.

Makai Pier

Looking down at the long pier that are home to scientists, divers and fishermen.

KSRT

Chris making his way over the barren and rocky terrain. The only saving grace was that the rainy weather kept us cool on the exposed trail.

KSRT

Following the fence line down. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Blue Light Special

Making our way to the parking lot where one of our rides were waiting to pick us up. We didn’t want the other ride to pick us up. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

All pau

Our nearly eight mile hike ended with us running into fellow hiker, Nandor at the parking lot. Always great to run into a friendly and dry face. Thanks to Quan and Sally for picking us up. Post hike meal at Mama Pho’s, where hot soup does a cold body good. Not to mention a borrowed blanket.

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.

Chris and I did an abbreviated tour of the Ko’olau Mountains this weekend. Thank you Mother Nature.

Trail

Mahalo to Ferlino for dropping us off at the bulging eye to start our hike.

Sunrise

Looking back at the sun breaking over the horizon.

Christmas

The holiday spirit has worn out its welcome in the mountains.

Hang Ten

No hang gliding today. Photo by Chris Bautista.

LTE

Brushing past the fenced communications tower, failed to notice if we had five bars.

Saddle

Dropping down into the saddle, we noticed that the rope grinches absconded with the webbing that used to drape down the hill.

Rainbow

Looking out at the optical illusion arcing over Olomana.

Kamiloiki Summit

Stopping briefly in the shade and shadows of the pine trees.

Tom-Tom

Leaving the forested ridge line as we broke out into the open trail that was thankfully still being chilled by the trade winds.

Trail

Making our way over the crumbly and rocky section of the ridge line.

Trail

Back in the forest. Little too chilly now.

Mariner’s Summit

Lunch spot at the summit that KS/BE would like the public to forget.

Misty Mountains

Watching the clouds slowly swirl and drift over the Ko’olau Mountains.

Hahaione Pyramid

Pushing onto the triangular rock that becomes more defined depending on your point of view.

Picture Frame

Worth a thousand words?

Trail

Making our way to the strangely silent eroded hill.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

Patience has its virtue. We were rewarded with a couple hikers that eventually joined us at the top and were kind enough to take our picture.

Pu’u O Kona

Leaving the 2,200′ flat topped summit empty handed. No stellar Windward views today.

Trail

Making our way to the wet and windy 2,520′ knob of Hawaii Loa. Continuing the pattern of no views.

Wiliwilinui Summit

We spotted a solitary figure bearing gifts.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Four is company. Thanks to Ani and Cisco for bringing us food and water to our windy spot for the night.

Camp Wiliwilinui

Catching the breaking sunrise the next morning. Was this going to be a positive omen for our hike? Fat chance.

Trail

Making our way down the roped trail towards the power lines that straddle the valleys.

Big Hill

Dropping down the steep hill from the summit of Pu’u Kainawa’aunui.

Trail

Rutting our way on the trail. Eat your heart out MMR!

Ka’au Crater

Approaching the twin power lines that mark one of three tuff cones on the island.

Ka’au Crater

Enjoying the tasty pork jerky on the trail at one of the few views we got on the hike.

Mount Olympus

Climbing up to the denuded summit of Awaawaloa. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Thirsty?

The only question we had was it to slake the thirst of a hungry human or a machine?

Trail

Cloudy views from the contour trail before we rejoined the ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manoa Middle Summit

We both prayed for the sun to come out and play. Nobody was listening.

Trail

Hitting the hills.

Trail

The last push up to K2, where we were greeted with more rain. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Konahuanui Summit

Decisions. Decisions. Decisions. Weather patterns and bad feelings overrode the original plan to descend down to the Pali Lookout.

Piliwale

Making our way down the relatively easier Windward ridge.

Piliwale

Hiking into the void.

Piliwale

Webbing in all the wrong places. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Notch

Dropping down to the incision in the ridge line that marked the end of the steep descent.

Notch

Chris looking back at our slippery slide down.

Maunawili Trail

We made it down the whole ridge without seeing any of those infamous bees, guess it was too wet and windy for them. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Trail

Popping out of the trail before passing the power lines on our way out.

All pau

The end of the road for us as Chris changed into his dry clothes and I remained in my wet clothes, for lack of dry clothes. Mahalo to Lopaka for picking us up and giving me a ride in the bed of his truck, while Chris got to ride in the cab due to his slightly less offensive odors.

GPS Tracks

Our 13.5 mile hike in wintry (for Hawaii) conditions ended prematurely, but grateful for the good company. Post hike meal at Ferlino’s house where we enjoyed multiple servings of Anne’s ono oxtail soup. Thanks to Jasmin and Mia for rounding out the eating crew. Pile on that extra cilantro and green onions!

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.

A filled parking lot and somebody not waking up on time dictated a change of hiking venues today.

Trailhead

We joined the steady stream of hikers that were going up one of the more popular trails on the East side of the island.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

Going up one of multiple switchbacks as we climbed out of the valley.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

Makahiki in the mountains. Time to lose that seven pounds. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

Time to get away from nature and check ones messages and social media. I thought it was the other way around?

Full Metal Jacket

Do you mean to tell me that you cannot do one single pull up? I’ve been watching too many movies lately.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

Warming the bench and briefly enjoying the valley views. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Kuli’ou’ou Ridge Trail

Looking back at how far we had climbed up.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

We joined the slowly growing crowd at the 2,028′ eroded hill. The sweeping Windward and Leeward views never gets old from this vantage point.

Ko’olau Summit Ridge Trail (KSRT)

Time to leave the congested summit as we made our way on the exposed ridge line before …

KSRT

… being swallowed up into the iron wood forest.

KSRT

When the student becomes the teacher. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

KSRT

Skirting the pine needle covered hill side.

KSRT

Analyn on the flat topped hill with Hahaione Pyramid in the background.

KSRT

Climbing to the abandoned top of Kaluanui. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Mariner’s Summit

Group photo at the 1,361′ summit, which is one of the lowest summits on the Ko’olau Mountain Range.

KSRT

Who said there aren’t snakes in Hawaii?

KSRT

Passing through a patch of feathery fronds, infinitely preferred than traveling through the clawing and scratching uluhe ferns.

KSRT

We left the canopy cover as we descended down the flank of the exposed ridge.

KSRT

This scenic spot on the rocky ridge line once took up over two hours of countless photos on a previous trip. Hiking time that was traded for countless photographic memories.

Tom-Tom Trail

Looking down into the country town of Waimanalo and points beyond.

KSRT

Hand feeding the land shark that lives on the ridge.

KSRT

Crossing the open ridge line pocked with grassy fields as we beelined it to the tree line to gain shade from the sun.

KSRT

Pushing our way through the hairy California grass.

Kamiloiki Summit

The gap was not wide enough to allow the complete views in.

KSRT

We broke out of the covered ridge line and made our way to the saddle with views of Manana and Kaohikaipu islands.

KSRT

Birds eye view of the saddle as the sheer cliffs dropped down towards the coastline.

KSRT

Analyn climbing out of the saddle.

KSRT

We detoured around the communications tower, skipped what was left of deadman’s cat walk and left the road to regain the ridge line.

KSRT

Just hanging around. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

KSRT

We left the hang gliding platforms to continue our hike on the now tree less ridge line, perfect place to get toasted and tanned.

KSRT

Making our way along the rocky ridge before it dipped down to more rocks of assorted sizes. I call this area the Stonehenge of Makapu’u.

Makapu’u Puka

Hello from the other side.

KSRT

Looking down into Sea Life Park and the seabird sanctuaries offshore.

KSRT

We’re almost there!

All pau

Our hike ended after 7.7 miles on the mountains. Mahalo to Chris for picking us up. Post hike meal at Pieology where you can make a mountain out of a molehill if so desired.

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

I decided to give the KST thru hike another try; if I knew what the outcome was going to be, I would have stayed home in bed. Joining me were Chris and Matt; Anne and Clayton came along just for the first day.

Trailhead

Thanks to Daryl for dropping us off at the Makapu’u Lookout. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Trail

Making our way up the dry grassy rocky landscape. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Manana Island

Looking out towards the seabird sanctuary.

Trail

We soon caught up with another pair of hikers who let us pass them.

Pu’u Mai

Staring straight into the fringed female parts.

Sea Life Park

The sun shimmering across the blue-green water. It almost made up for missing the sunrise.

KSRT

Small kine climbing time. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Makapu’u Puka

Group photo left to right: Clayton, myself, Anne, Matt and Chris.

Makapu’u Puka

Hello from the other side. Drone photo by Matt Vidaurri.

KSRT

Time to pack away the drone and continue hiking on the rocky ridge line.

Makapu’u Cave

Chris chilling in the cave.

KSRT

Climbing our way up on the makai side of the cliffs. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Waimanalo

When you notice the geodetic marker for the first time, despite hiking over this area too many times too count.

To tee or not to tee

Not only hang gliders fly from here, but rocks as well.

Boost

Leaving behind the fenced communication tower.

KSRT

Dropping down into the saddle.

KSRT

Looking for some shady trees.

Kamiloiki Summit

It was an awesome day at the summit, no camping needed. Drone photo by Matt Vidaurri.

KSRT

Walking on the pine needle matted ridge line.

KSRT

Leaving our canopy cover for a stretch of exposed ridge line. Luckily the clouds were providing cover from the sweltering sun.

Caveman proving grounds

No unnecessary climbing today.

KSRT

Brushing our way through shoulder high buffalo grass. Scratch and itch.

Tom-Tom

Watching an isolated rain cloud sweep the Waimanalo coast.

Dorito’s Tower

Clayton and Matt checking out the rock tower reportedly first climbed by a hiker named Rito.

KSRT

Back in the forested ridge line.

Mariner’s Summit

It worked for me as a kid, how come it doesn’t work now? I want my money back. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Mariner’s Summit

Climbing down from the 1,361′ summit of Kaluanui. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Hahaione Pyramid

Contouring our way behind the roughly triangular shaped rock, depending on your point of perspective.

Scenic point

Talk story time.

Hahaione Junction

Club head + hiking stick = Golf club.

KSRT

Matt looking back at the stretch of mountains that we had just covered.

Kuli’ou’ou Summit

We parted company with Anne, Clayton and Matt at the 2,360′ summit due to cramping and work calling.

KSRT

Chris climbing up the severely eroded section after leaving the bustling summit.

Bear Claw Ridge

No time to go left or right, just straight ahead. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Scenic spot

Chris against the backdrop of the fluted flanks of the Ko’olau Mountains.

Pu’u O Kona Summit

Leaving the 2,200′ summit for cloudy views.

Hawaii Loa Summit

Nobody else here at the 2,520′ summit.

KSRT

Back on the cloudy ridge line.

KSRT

What happened to the partly sunny day forecasted by Guy Hagi? Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. I think it’s been more than twice.

Camp Wiliwilinui

We arrived at the 2,480′ summit to find that another couple had beaten us to call it home for the night. Luckily we were able to squeeze our two tents in with theirs. Thought we were in for a night of socializing, but they zippered up their tent as I guess our odor was particularly offensive. It could have been our manners.

KSRT

Day 2 – Rolled up our tents as our neighbors were still sleeping and we continued hiking in the clouds.

Ka’inawa’au Nui Summit

I guess we are in for another day of whiteout views.

KSRT

Dropping down the big hill to valley views of milkiness.

Ka’au Crater

Rocket ship ready to take off and leave the clouds behind. Wished we could have joined.

KSRT

Chris pointing to the cloud covered summit of Awaawaloa.

KSRT

Climbing my way up through the clouds to the 2,486′ summit. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Mount Olympus

The water is safe to drink up here.

Manoa Valley

Valley vistas improved significantly on the contour trail. Photo by Chris Bautista.

KSRT

Back on the cloudy again ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Manoa Middle Summit

We shared the summit with the HTMC trail clearing crew that had come up from Manoa Valley.

KSRT

The grassy meadows hiding the many false summits before we hit the crown jewels of the Ko’olau Mountains.

KSRT

Are we there yet? Photo by Chris Bautista.

K2

We crashed a wine and cheese party in progress. Came too late for the cheese. Just have to use our imagination.

Konahuanui Summit

Typical socked in summit day on the highest point of the Ko’olau Mountains.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Making my way down the mud wall. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

We slowly started to see the views again.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Leaving the clouds behind on the wind swept ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Following the webbing down the ridge line.

Chimney

Climbing down the chimney. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Pali Notches

Leaving the chimney behind us as we made our way towards the notches. Never say never. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Pali Notches

We spotted a familiar face on the second notch. Arnold!

Pali Lookout

Trying to blend in with the tourists. Photo by Arnold Yago.

Camp Pali

Mahalo to Arnold Yago, Daryl Cacatian and Nina Arca, Matt Vidaurri, Owen and Tricia Adams and Shirley Hamamura for bringing us refreshing beverages and hot food and keeping us company.

Pali Lookout

Day 3 – We woke up to the pitter patter of rain and gloomy weather that was hanging around the mountains. I know some of our friends thought we would have to call it on account of the weather and bail from our hike. But somebody said “we chance ‘em.” So off we went. Photo by Daryl Cacatian.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Contouring up the slippery rocks, we soon regained the ridge.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Rainbows are ones reward for hiking in the rain. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Nu’uanu Saddle

No swinging around the rain slicked rocks today, just careful climbing.

Donkey Kong

Making our way to the triple diked formation.

W

Clear on the Leeward side, cloudy on the Windward side.

Anvil

Chris dropping down from the anvil rock.

Nu’uanu Saddle

Lost and found on the mountain – one spike and one spike only.

Lanihuli Summit

Temporary views were granted to us at the 2,700′ elevation.

Kalihi Saddle

Descending down from the swirling heavens. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Chris standing on a knob overlooking the cloud filtered views of the Windward side.

Dirt Dragon

Riding the dirt dragon or what’s left of it.

Lanihuli Wall

Preparing to walk down the wall of uki grass.

Lanihuli Wall

Contouring around the can opener.

Lanihuli Wall

Making my way down the last tier of the wall. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Can Opener

Keeping a watchful eye on the sofa sized chunk of rock that looks ready to fall off the mountain.

Pimple

Carefully making my way around the crumbly rock, so I don’t do any popping. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Doorstop

Knock, knock. Who’s there? Hike. Hike who?

Bunny Ears

Rabbit. Rabbit. Rabbit. Oh never mind, it’s not the first day of the month.

Bunny Ears

Bunny earing myself coming down. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Approaching the power lines.

Witch’s Hat

No refreshing rest at the power lines as we continued up the backside of the hat.

Witch’s Hat

Making my way down from the hat. No trick or treat for me. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Uphill climb ahead of us. Photo by Chris Bautista.

#1 Rock Triangle

Climbing up the Windward side is the best side.

#2 Rock Triangle

Have rope, will climb.

Broken Wave

Getting my head out of the clouds. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Dirty Slide

Climbing back into the clouds. Can’t win. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Kalihi Saddle

Scrambling our way to the Bowman summit and our home for the night.

Camp Bowman

Day 4 – Waking up to long john feet. Always appetizing. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Camp Bowman

Getting ready for another cloudy and windy day in the mountains.

KSRT

The winds were pushing us around on the ridge line. Luckily it blew in from the Windward side. We would have been in trouble if it was blowing from the other side.

Tripler Summit

Rocket men and rocket ships in the clouds.

KSRT

Walking down the cloudy castle steps. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Relay station

Climbing past the no climbing relay station.

Stairway to Heaven

What happened to everybody? We had the place all to ourselves. I wonder why.

CCL Building

Trying to get warm in heaven. Photo by Chris Bautista

Moanalua Saddle

Leaving heaven as we went down the back stairs.

Moanalua Saddle

Chris using his kung fu grip going down the crumbly section.

Moanalua Saddle

Making my way around the increasingly eroded ridge of the saddle. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Dirt Triangle

Going down the Leeward side of the triangle offered us a temporary reprieve from the gusting winds.

Kulana’ahane Summit

Mahalo to Matt for meeting us with cold bentos and drinks in the middle of the saddle.

Moanalua Saddle

We soon said our goodbyes to Matt and resumed our hiking. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Moanalua Saddle

The winds and clouds were not giving us a break today.

Moanalua Saddle

Making my way down the constantly eroding ridge line. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Geo marker

Checking in with social media.

Tetanus Stairs

Descending down into hell.

Stairway to Hell

It was quite cold in this spot of the mountains. Time to quickly move on.

KSRT

If there were a speed limit on the ridge, laws would have been broken today. The law of balance. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Fenced meadows

Passing the fenced endemic plant section on our way to the summit of Aiea and home sweet home for the night. No dinner for me.

Aiea Summit

Day 5 – We woke up to more bad weather and my body in severe caloric deficit. Not to mention that my tent had somehow flipped upside down with me still in it. My stomach just quit on me again and my body soon followed.

Aiea Ridge Trail

After mulling it over for the better half of the day and with the weather and my stomach not getting any better, we left the summit to head back down to civilization. Sorry Chris. Photo by Chris Bautista.

Aiea Ridge Trail

At least the weather improved on our way back down, couldn’t say the same for my stomach. Photo by Chris Bautista

Aiea Ridge Trail

I was beaten like a rented mule. Dizzy and light headed, I had to frequently stop to right myself coming down the ridge. Photo by Chris Bautista

All pau

Thanks to Lopaka for meeting us at the end and bringing food and taking us back to our cars. Mahalo to Chris for keeping me company in the mountains and everybody else that supported us on the hike.

GPS Tracks

Our gastrointestinal interruptus hike covered 24.61 miles through the sometimes clear, cloudy, rainy and windy Ko’olau Mountains. While we did not get to “penish” to the end, glad for the company from beginning to the end. Big thanks to my wife for letting me try this again, I don’t think I’ll be back. Post hike meal in the parking lot, KFC is what’s for 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.