Hikes
Ka’au Crater Waterfall Loop
Ka'au Crater is hidden in the back of Pālolo Valley. It’s green, it’s lush, and usually raining. This makes for excellent waterfalls and lots of mud! There are several stream crossings while hidden beneath the canopy of trees and three waterfalls. You will need to scramble up the side of the third waterfall to reach the bottom of the crater. This is where we will make the loop back down. You’ll get beautiful views of Ka'au Crater and the Ko'olau mountain range.
This loop is approximately 5 miles and about 4-5 hours long. We rate this as hike moderate to hard.
Koko Crater Stairs and Rim
Koko Crater Stairs is not only a hike, but an intense cardio workout. Nicknamed, “Hawaiian Stairmaster.” We add the rim around the crater for more fun! We’ll start off by hiking up an old military tramway. The old rails are still there with some of the cross ties from the 1940’s. Most of the ties and steps have been repaired or replaced by a volunteer group called the Kokonut Koalition. We make our way to the Pu'u Mai summit of Kohelepelepe and down the east side of the crater rim. Then, head around to the west side of the rim until we can make our way back up to the summit. Don’t worry, we can take breaks before we descend on the stairs. It may sound like ‘just stairs” to you, but it’s a calorie burner and you’ll definitely need your water!
This loop is approximately 4 miles and about 3-4 hours. We rate this hike as moderate to hard.
Olomana Three Peaks
Olomana (Three Peaks) is a beautiful trail in the Kailua/Maunawili area on the windward side of the island. It’s a somewhat steep incline that’ll make you work for those views from the first peak, Mt. Olomana. The views are spectacular on a clear day. You can see the entire windward side from Rabbit Island to Chinaman’s Hat and the whole Ko'olau mountain range. We will make our way down and back up to the second peak, Pakui. Most will stop there, but if you’re game, we will get you to the third peak, Ahiki!
This is an in and out trail, approximately 5 miles, and about 4-5 hours. We rate this hike as moderate to hard.
Advanced Level Hikes
The hikes below are not for the average visiting hiker. You must know these trails or be with someone who is familiar with them. They should be knowledgeable about the area and know how to get in and out safely. If you are interested in any that you see, please let us know. It’s not a guarantee that we will take you on them until we know your ability and experience in Hawai'i hiking. Never hike alone.
