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I say this hike is pretty similar to Wiliwilinui ridge trail hike. Although the sign says it's 2 miles long one way, my Iphone recorded at over 6 miles total when we were done. Ok, someone is way off. It took us little over 3 hours with rest in between for the entire hike. We're just ordinary person so you could probably do it faster if you're fit and athletic. My food supplies were two bottled water and a small snack. Before you get to the top, you will go through variety of pathways like dry, slippery, windy, etc. When you see stairs, you are almost there except there are quite bit of stairs you have to climb. The view covers from part of Waimanalo to Hawaii Kai. I must say that enjoying the incredible view with your own eyes is way better than the photo or video. It's just not the same. There's no restroom and street or neighborhood parking only. Come early like 7am so that you don't have to do a mini hike before the real hike.
Gorgeous views and friendly hikers. Challenging uphill battles but so rewarding when the top is reached
Yes! Do it. This is a moderately hard hike if it is wet and muddy. If it rained the last few days, I'd skip if you have newbie hikers in your group. The stairs at the last 15 min can be extremely slippery. There are some thick roots and pine needles on the trail. I'd wear some grippy shoes. When you get to the fork make a right! Plenty of places to stop and rest. The trail is so shaded, so even if you go in the mid day heat it's not too horrible. We did the hike in four hours, we also had two six year olds and two dogs. I'm sure you could easily do this hike in 3 hours round trip. Do take plenty of water and go early in the morning I'd recommend before 9am. The neighborhood is quiet, so please be respectful while finding a parking spot and don't block any driveways. Enjoy my friends!
The walk to the top is enjoyable with steep inclines. However, be warned that there are numerous stairs towards the end of the trail. Despite this, the view at the top is well worth the effort. What I found fascinating was the change in the ecosystem as we climbed higher. The trail started in a rocky and damp forest, but transitioned to a pleasant walk through pine leaves and then lush greenery. The beginning of the trail provided ample shade and a refreshing breeze. The 4.7 mile round trip trail offered enough challenge to make it enjoyable, and the numerous angles provided beautiful views. The trailhead is straightforward to locate, but it is located in a residential area, so you can park in the street. Compared to the Wiliwilinui Ridge hike, this trail is less risky and offers easier parking. Remember to bring suitable trail shoes, snacks, water, a hat, and determination to push through the uphill climb. I don't have strong knees when going downhill so I bring a walking stick to lessen the impact. Its my top choice for a hike on Oahu so far.
Located in Kuliouou, about off Kala'au Pl (see photos). You go past Kuliouou Park and then take a right on Kala'au Pl. You probably will end up parking on Kala'au Pl depending on how crowded it is. It takes about 2 - 3 hours depending on how fast you are. You can take dogs, however, small dogs might have some difficulty coming down the stairs at the top. There are about 220 step. When it rains you might want to wait about 3 days before you go because it can be muddy and slippery. The view of the East side of the island as well as Waimanalo, Kailua, and Kaneohe is pretty impressive as you can see from everyone else's photos. We come here pretty often. Good for kids as well. Longer than Komi Crater. Much shorter and less challenging than Olomana (3 Peaks).
Do you love hikes? Do you enjoy stairs? Is going out in nature your thing? It's definitely not my usual go to physical activity but Yelp GF loves hiking. Yelp GF text messaged me that we're going hiking and I was kidnapped. No information was given to me so I didn't know what to expect. I'm glad because this hike was a challenge. Just when I thought we were done the first time, I was wrong. That was just around the half way mark going up. When I thought we were done again, I was wrong and there was this endless stairway that appeared. At that point I didn't want to assume when we were done anymore and I just kept going. When we finally reached the top, we were rewarded with some beautiful views of Oahu. I had to take a breather before taking photos and enjoying the view from the top. The hike down was a lot easier than going up for me but took longer because Yelp GF tweaked an ankle. Was the hike worth it? YES! It felt so good to reach the top and the million dollar view was totally worth it. Some things I would recommend is bringing water and applying sunscreen. Also, wear comfortable and appropriate shoes. We saw another group going up on the way down not in shoes and they told us they totally regretted it. They underestimated the hike and wasn't prepared. I only brought a small bottle of water with me and I was extremely thirsty after the hike. Normally I don't drink a lot of water in general but this hike I was thirsty. Great hike and I'm so happy I was kidnapped to conquer it.
This is an epic hike in town that is my go to when out of town friends visit. The trek is definitely worth every step and don't forget to pack extra water and snack for the top!
One of my top three hikes of all time anywhere. Check AllTrails for current conditions. ARRIVE EARLY for parking anywhere near the trailhead. Like before 8am. Be respectful and don't block driveways or box people in. This hike is an amazing experience. With that said, there are millions of words on the topic already, so the rest of this review is devoted to the relatively less covered area of pedantic lecturing. Please stick to the main area at the peak. There's a side trail going to a slightly higher peak and this is how the mountain gets eroded, and curious suckers end up either dead or flailing down the side of a mountain. Please remember where you are and show some respect. Selfies look bad ass when you're in lotus position perched on the edge of a cliff, but literally thousands before you have already been there/done that and the Internet doesn't need more of this garbage. Also, ear buds are a wonderful thing. No one wants to hear your music banging up the trail and disturbing wildlife and the otherwise peaceful serenity of nature which is why people are here. Check yourself please. Finally, I suck at this and frankly didn't do a good job AT ALL, but if you wanted to be a saint you could brush your boots with a stiff brush, and spray them with 70% isopropyl rubbing before and after the hike to prevent cross-contamination of deadly fungal Rapid 'Ōhi'a Death (ROD) disease. There's a boot brush on the trail but it's worn out and useless.
This was a moderate level hike. It has everything you want in a hike- nice nature, lots of shade, interesting terrain, beautiful photo spots and after cruising on a steady pace the hike pushes you and exerts your workout with 4 sets of stairs. This was a surprise as I didn't read about the hike ahead of time and the party I was with set there are "some"stairs at the end. We'll, this was a bit more then some lol! I like to have a push during a hike so this was nice. It took us 1.5 hours in and 1.5 hours out totaling 3 hours for 4.7 miles. There are rest spots in between and when you get to the benches that marks the start of the stairs. When you get about 10 min into your hike there are signs pointing to a Valley Trail and this one the Ridge trail. This is a perfect trail to bring people visiting Hawaii and It's my new favorite whenever I'm given the choice on which hike I'll pick this one.
Was scared by how long the hike was, but it didn't end up being that bad. Overall hike took around a little over 4 hours with a very generous break at the summit. This is definitely more of an endurance kind of hike both physically and mentally rather than a super hard hike. Very diverse hike with many different terrains. The trail path could be confusing sometimes but nothing you couldn't figure out as you go along and there are some signs that guide you up. Lots of shade and wind at the bottom, but not a lot of views going up until near the top. Careful of where you step because you can slip. There are many steps leading up to the summit and everytime you think you're done there's more. Going down for me was a lot scarier than going up because of how steep some of the paths are. Overall, I absolutely love this hike, it was very fun going up. Would highly recommend to anyone who feels comfortable walking for a long time time on an incline because the view up top is definitely worth it!
This may be my favorite hike in Honolulu! The views from the top are incredible! You can see Diamond head and Lanikai islands . It is in a neighborhood and parking can be hard to find. I arrived around 8am on a Sunday and had to park 2-3 blocks away but I could see most parking spots were taken when I left. The first hour or so is a gentle climb up but the last 20-30 minutes of the hike is steeper. Plan on the hike taking 3 -3.5 hour's depending on how much time you spend at the top. It's about 5 miles roundtrip and my phone told me that I climbed around 120 stories
This review is long overdue. Kuliouou is one of my favorite hikes because it's the best bang for your buck in terms of effort to get to a spectacular view from the top of the ridge and a lot of it is shaded. It usually takes me around 3 hours round trip. Parking can be rough because it's all residential, so I pretty much only go if I take off work on a weekday, am willing to walk a good distance to the trail, or are prepared to go elsewhere instead. At the initial fork at the sign, you go right for the ridge trail (left is the valley trail). The trail is well-traveled and easy to follow. The first half or so of the hike up is switchbacks. There are shortcuts, but do not take them, as it causes unwanted erosion. You go in and out of 2 ironwood forests and eventually reach a picnic table where the uphill climb ramps up a bit. Be careful of the tree roots here, as they can be a bit slippery and are much more so when wet. When you reach another bench, you know that the stairs are coming. Depending on how you count them, I would say there are about 6.5 sets of stairs, but it always seems like there's 1 or 2 more than you thought there were lol. Then you reach the nice, large viewing plateau at the top! Enjoy, and then go back the way you came to exit.
Love this ridge trail for a good workout with amazing views from the summit and as you climb up to it. As ridge trails go it less narrow and a good one to start with in the Hawai'i Kai area. A good part of the trail zig zags up the mountain until you reach the picnic table. At this point we take a break, have a snack drink more water in preparation for the more difficult climb. Soon you reach the series of steps on the ridge that climb on and on up the mountain into the clouds at times. After the never ending steps you reach the summit. If cloudy wait and the clouds open up to stunning views of other side of island. This hike is well worth the journey. Make sure to have plenty of water and snacks. We use poles, they are really useful in coming back down to help save your knees. There is only street parking so be prepared to walk up road to trailhead. If raining better to go a different day. read more
1 year ago
This trail was very challenging, but the view worth every minute walking. It took us about 4 hours to go up and down because we were taking a lot of time. Really close to the top it became slippery, but besides that the walk is great. Parking can be an issue because there are not official parking, but going there early ensure you a spot. read more
GREAT hike! If you hustle, you can make it up in about an hour but I would recommend giving yourself between 3-4 hours round trip so you can stop along the way and enjoy the view at the top. Do not go off the trail! There is a lot of restoration happening and it's awesome, just be considerate of all the hard work people are putting in. No restrooms along the way, lots of switchbacks at the beginning, then the end will really challenge you (in a great way) with some nice stairs. Just take it one step at a time and don't give up! As always, pack plenty of water and snacks. TIPS & TRICKS: * There is lots of street parking, just be considerate of the people whose homes you park in front of and give them space to get in and out of their driveway. * Take photos along the way at the clearings and lookouts!! It is worth the view at the top! read more
I say this hike is pretty similar to Wiliwilinui ridge trail hike. Although the sign says it's 2 miles long one way, my Iphone recorded at over 6 miles total when we were done. Ok, someone is way off. It took us little over 3 hours with rest in between for the entire hike. We're just ordinary person so you could probably do it faster if you're fit and athletic. My food supplies were two bottled water and a small snack. Before you get to the top, you will go through variety of pathways like dry, slippery, windy, etc. When you see stairs, you are almost there except there are quite bit of stairs you have to climb. The view covers from part of Waimanalo to Hawaii Kai. I must say that enjoying the incredible view with your own eyes is way better than the photo or video. It's just not the same. There's no restroom and street or neighborhood parking only. Come early like 7am so that you don't have to do a mini hike before the real hike. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Gorgeous views and friendly hikers. Challenging uphill battles but so rewarding when the top is reached read more
1 year ago
8 months ago
Yes! Do it. This is a moderately hard hike if it is wet and muddy. If it rained the last few days, I'd skip if you have newbie hikers in your group. The stairs at the last 15 min can be extremely slippery. There are some thick roots and pine needles on the trail. I'd wear some grippy shoes. When you get to the fork make a right! Plenty of places to stop and rest. The trail is so shaded, so even if you go in the mid day heat it's not too horrible. We did the hike in four hours, we also had two six year olds and two dogs. I'm sure you could easily do this hike in 3 hours round trip. Do take plenty of water and go early in the morning I'd recommend before 9am. The neighborhood is quiet, so please be respectful while finding a parking spot and don't block any driveways. Enjoy my friends! read more
The walk to the top is enjoyable with steep inclines. However, be warned that there are numerous stairs towards the end of the trail. Despite this, the view at the top is well worth the effort. What I found fascinating was the change in the ecosystem as we climbed higher. The trail started in a rocky and damp forest, but transitioned to a pleasant walk through pine leaves and then lush greenery. The beginning of the trail provided ample shade and a refreshing breeze. The 4.7 mile round trip trail offered enough challenge to make it enjoyable, and the numerous angles provided beautiful views. The trailhead is straightforward to locate, but it is located in a residential area, so you can park in the street. Compared to the Wiliwilinui Ridge hike, this trail is less risky and offers easier parking. Remember to bring suitable trail shoes, snacks, water, a hat, and determination to push through the uphill climb. I don't have strong knees when going downhill so I bring a walking stick to lessen the impact. Its my top choice for a hike on Oahu so far. read more
Located in Kuliouou, about off Kala'au Pl (see photos). You go past Kuliouou Park and then take a right on Kala'au Pl. You probably will end up parking on Kala'au Pl depending on how crowded it is. It takes about 2 - 3 hours depending on how fast you are. You can take dogs, however, small dogs might have some difficulty coming down the stairs at the top. There are about 220 step. When it rains you might want to wait about 3 days before you go because it can be muddy and slippery. The view of the East side of the island as well as Waimanalo, Kailua, and Kaneohe is pretty impressive as you can see from everyone else's photos. We come here pretty often. Good for kids as well. Longer than Komi Crater. Much shorter and less challenging than Olomana (3 Peaks). read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Do you love hikes? Do you enjoy stairs? Is going out in nature your thing? It's definitely not my usual go to physical activity but Yelp GF loves hiking. Yelp GF text messaged me that we're going hiking and I was kidnapped. No information was given to me so I didn't know what to expect. I'm glad because this hike was a challenge. Just when I thought we were done the first time, I was wrong. That was just around the half way mark going up. When I thought we were done again, I was wrong and there was this endless stairway that appeared. At that point I didn't want to assume when we were done anymore and I just kept going. When we finally reached the top, we were rewarded with some beautiful views of Oahu. I had to take a breather before taking photos and enjoying the view from the top. The hike down was a lot easier than going up for me but took longer because Yelp GF tweaked an ankle. Was the hike worth it? YES! It felt so good to reach the top and the million dollar view was totally worth it. Some things I would recommend is bringing water and applying sunscreen. Also, wear comfortable and appropriate shoes. We saw another group going up on the way down not in shoes and they told us they totally regretted it. They underestimated the hike and wasn't prepared. I only brought a small bottle of water with me and I was extremely thirsty after the hike. Normally I don't drink a lot of water in general but this hike I was thirsty. Great hike and I'm so happy I was kidnapped to conquer it. read more
2 years ago
This is an epic hike in town that is my go to when out of town friends visit. The trek is definitely worth every step and don't forget to pack extra water and snack for the top! read more
One of my top three hikes of all time anywhere. Check AllTrails for current conditions. ARRIVE EARLY for parking anywhere near the trailhead. Like before 8am. Be respectful and don't block driveways or box people in. This hike is an amazing experience. With that said, there are millions of words on the topic already, so the rest of this review is devoted to the relatively less covered area of pedantic lecturing. Please stick to the main area at the peak. There's a side trail going to a slightly higher peak and this is how the mountain gets eroded, and curious suckers end up either dead or flailing down the side of a mountain. Please remember where you are and show some respect. Selfies look bad ass when you're in lotus position perched on the edge of a cliff, but literally thousands before you have already been there/done that and the Internet doesn't need more of this garbage. Also, ear buds are a wonderful thing. No one wants to hear your music banging up the trail and disturbing wildlife and the otherwise peaceful serenity of nature which is why people are here. Check yourself please. Finally, I suck at this and frankly didn't do a good job AT ALL, but if you wanted to be a saint you could brush your boots with a stiff brush, and spray them with 70% isopropyl rubbing before and after the hike to prevent cross-contamination of deadly fungal Rapid 'Ōhi'a Death (ROD) disease. There's a boot brush on the trail but it's worn out and useless. read more
4 years ago
This was a moderate level hike. It has everything you want in a hike- nice nature, lots of shade, interesting terrain, beautiful photo spots and after cruising on a steady pace the hike pushes you and exerts your workout with 4 sets of stairs. This was a surprise as I didn't read about the hike ahead of time and the party I was with set there are "some"stairs at the end. We'll, this was a bit more then some lol! I like to have a push during a hike so this was nice. It took us 1.5 hours in and 1.5 hours out totaling 3 hours for 4.7 miles. There are rest spots in between and when you get to the benches that marks the start of the stairs. When you get about 10 min into your hike there are signs pointing to a Valley Trail and this one the Ridge trail. This is a perfect trail to bring people visiting Hawaii and It's my new favorite whenever I'm given the choice on which hike I'll pick this one. read more
Was scared by how long the hike was, but it didn't end up being that bad. Overall hike took around a little over 4 hours with a very generous break at the summit. This is definitely more of an endurance kind of hike both physically and mentally rather than a super hard hike. Very diverse hike with many different terrains. The trail path could be confusing sometimes but nothing you couldn't figure out as you go along and there are some signs that guide you up. Lots of shade and wind at the bottom, but not a lot of views going up until near the top. Careful of where you step because you can slip. There are many steps leading up to the summit and everytime you think you're done there's more. Going down for me was a lot scarier than going up because of how steep some of the paths are. Overall, I absolutely love this hike, it was very fun going up. Would highly recommend to anyone who feels comfortable walking for a long time time on an incline because the view up top is definitely worth it! read more
This may be my favorite hike in Honolulu! The views from the top are incredible! You can see Diamond head and Lanikai islands . It is in a neighborhood and parking can be hard to find. I arrived around 8am on a Sunday and had to park 2-3 blocks away but I could see most parking spots were taken when I left. The first hour or so is a gentle climb up but the last 20-30 minutes of the hike is steeper. Plan on the hike taking 3 -3.5 hour's depending on how much time you spend at the top. It's about 5 miles roundtrip and my phone told me that I climbed around 120 stories read more
5 years ago
This review is long overdue. Kuliouou is one of my favorite hikes because it's the best bang for your buck in terms of effort to get to a spectacular view from the top of the ridge and a lot of it is shaded. It usually takes me around 3 hours round trip. Parking can be rough because it's all residential, so I pretty much only go if I take off work on a weekday, am willing to walk a good distance to the trail, or are prepared to go elsewhere instead. At the initial fork at the sign, you go right for the ridge trail (left is the valley trail). The trail is well-traveled and easy to follow. The first half or so of the hike up is switchbacks. There are shortcuts, but do not take them, as it causes unwanted erosion. You go in and out of 2 ironwood forests and eventually reach a picnic table where the uphill climb ramps up a bit. Be careful of the tree roots here, as they can be a bit slippery and are much more so when wet. When you reach another bench, you know that the stairs are coming. Depending on how you count them, I would say there are about 6.5 sets of stairs, but it always seems like there's 1 or 2 more than you thought there were lol. Then you reach the nice, large viewing plateau at the top! Enjoy, and then go back the way you came to exit. read more
OUR FAVORITE HIKE ON OAHU. After 7 years we returned to Oahu in September of '21, and rehiking this trail was at the top of my list. This time around, besides hiking the Kuliouou trail, we also did five other hikes -- Digging Hill (aka Pu'u Ma'eli'eli Trail); Maunawili Falls via Pali Highway; Ka'ena Point via the southern entrance; Manoa Cliffs loop; and Koko Crater. And despite Kuliouou being the only hike that we had previously hiked, Kuliouou still stood out as our favorite hike against all these new hikes. Some things that we love about it: It is shaded most of the way (but still quite warm). Magnificent views at the top, but we enjoyed the variation the forest hiking on the way up. There is not any bushwhacking, nor is there any slippery mud to contend with, nor were there any mosquitoes. It is a big workout, esp. when one adds the parking distance (we had to park a half mile away from trailhead, which made our total hike 6 miles with nearly 2000 feet in elevation gain) -- we enjoy hikes that are big workouts. We were glad we brought sandwiches and plenty of water; wish I had packed a cold can of beer to have with my sammy while enjoying the views at the top. :) read more
"5 more minutes", he said. "Almost there, for real this time!", she said. Very popular phrases you constantly hear for the next two hours.... I definitely have a love-hate relationship with this trail: one minute I'm feeling good, ready to conquer the hike, and then the next minute, I just want to tumble back down the mountain, no looking back. It's a loooong hike so please please be physically and mentally prepared to hike this. On average, it took about 2 hours going up. The difficulty level is probably moderate: I've seen a ton of dogs and couple of kids but no promises they won't be complaining wondering if they're almost there yet. Some parts can be slippery so make sure you have a good footing on the ground or someone to assist you. 90% of the hike is shaded but once you get closer to the top, you're practically exposed to the sun so slather on your sunscreen! And to make things more fun, you have about 3-4 sets of stairs to conquer before you finally get to the top!....yay. I like to call them mini Koko Head stairs Just push through because the view is amazing! Especially if you go on a nice day. Fair warning, it can get pretty windy up there so expect loose dirt flying everywhere (make sure you shower real good when you get home!) We spent about an hour at the top before deciding to go back down and taking more pics by the stairs. Going down feels a little quicker but it can get slippery because of the steepness so make sure to use the trees to help you down! Now would I do this again? Definitely! Anytime soon? Probably not, my legs still need to rest but I encourage others to try it out for a challenge! read more
3 years ago
Just wanted to share how much happiness and positive energy hiking brings into my life. There's something magical about being outdoors. Cheers to hiking adventures and the wonderful memories they bring! This hike is very safe and very well maintained. Have plenty of water and good hiking shoes. Some parts are a little slippery (especially if it raining) due to many tree roots. Don't be scared to push yourself at the end....and climb the stairs to the end. Views are amazing! #HikingAdventures #NatureLover" read more
2 years ago
Nice, moderate-difficulty hike. The toughest part was towards the end, but we all agreed it was worth that last push. There is a hut with benches about halfway through the hike, and it also marks where the hike gets significantly steeper. It was not as muddy as we thought it was going to be, but some parts were still slippery. If my tiny legs can make it, so can yours! Overall the best hike I've done on this island, highly recommend! read more
This is one of the most diverse hikes Ive ever been on. It reminds me of the Maui Waihee Ridge trail. You have rainforest, ridge, flatland, neighborhood walk...its got a lot of challenges. If you enjoy feeling like you are going uphill forever, then this is the hike for you. Until you get to the end where you are rewarded with the most beautiful view of the Windward side of O`ahu you are headed up up up...sometimes there are stairs that are chest high (Im 57"). Of course with going up up up, you are gonna eventually have to go down down down - if you have knee issues, bring your brace and a hiking pole. all kidding aside - this is a great hike but one you need to have some level of fitness for. I loved the plants that were along the trail - Mickey Mouse plants, hapu`u, palapalai, `ie`ie, ohi`a....and the breeze was magical. Give yourself a few hours to just enjoy the sights along the way. read more
Moderate hike and a good choice if you're time constrained (assuming good fitness level). Took about 2 hours up and back moving at a consistent pace with a few water breaks. A few things to know about this trail - - most of the trail is shaded, it only get sun exposed when you get closer to the summit - it gets cold and very windy past the half way point. If you come on an overcast day I'd suggest wearing a shirt and not just sports bra/crop top - really sandy on the summit. More of a take a few photos and leave kinda place. If you're thinking about doing a picnic here reconsider. Not a top choice for me given the lack of view going up and windy condition. read more
4 years ago
I haven't hiked a lot on this island but I came across this hike on all trails and I would say it was one of my favorites given that the landscape changes as you hike up the mountain. It only took me a little over 2 hours round trip. I highly suggest this hike. The best part is that it was pretty much in the shade so you aren't really exposed in to the sun. read more
Amazing hike! I would say it's intermediate/difficult at best, yet it's worth the effort. The change in scenery and the views are truly breathtaking. The trail is mostly shaded by trees so you are not expose to the sun until you get closer to the top. read more
3 years ago
Hiked the valley (easy hike) and then hiked the ascent to the top of the ridge. The ridge hike is no joke. Very technical, lots of rocks, roots, switchbacks, and stairs toward the end. The view (and breeze) is worth it though. Parking along road. read more
Hiked this a bunch of times. Figured it would be safe after all the heavy rains. It is 4.9 miles and took us 3 hrs 45 min with several breaks. Actual moving time was 1 hr 58 min. . Because of all the rains, we were able to see and hear several waterfalls on the valley to the west. The trail was muddy as expected but well maintained. At the summit we were surprised to a clear sweeping view of Waimanalo. I expected it to be socked in. Parking is always hard here, walked at least 0.5 miles to the start. I started my watch from the car so it must be shorter than 4.9 miles. read more
Growing up on the east side of the island I was fortunate to be surrounded by great hiking trails. However, it took me awhile to get to know the hiking trails that were just down the road from my house. Kuli'ou'ou Ridge Trail is nestled deep in the valley where parking may be a bit scarce but I advise heading down early so it won't be a problme. What I love about hiking on O'ahu in general is that once you start hiking you begin to feel like the city is a far off place. The trail is probably an intermediate level with a flat area with picnic tables, a swing, and ample shade so you can relax and have lunch before finishing up the hike. I highly suggest bringing snacks or a whole lunch. I'd also probably carve out at least four hours to comfortably trek this hike and allow for breaks and pictures at the top. I'm pretty sure before I started I stopped at Safeway and got their lunch box meal. It was pretty sweet and itwas the perfect amount of food to keep me going! Once I started the more strenuous part towards the top I was ready to be done despite my fear of heights. The steps seemed to take forever but I appreciated how well maintained they were as well. Another thing to note is you get to see some really pretty native flowers along this part of the trail. It was a delightful sight towards the end. Once I got to the top I could see why people do this hike. I mean, other than the fact that it is a great workout, the view was incredible. It was the first time I ever saw my hometown of Hawai'i Kai AND my Dad's hometown of Waimanalo all in one beautiful sweeping view. I was too scared to get close to the ledge and pose for a cool photo but I believe the photos I did get were just as beautiful! I would definitely hike this trail again and make a whole trip out of it! Summer time of course and I'd probably start the hike around 7 or 8 am to then finish off and perhaps head to the beach!! Also remember to bring lots of water! read more
3 years ago
Best hike hands down. It's like a story where you pass through different scenes. There's a pine forest section, a more rain forest like area, and a stunning final view. There was a period where it felt like we were in the clouds. Bring water and a snack and stop for amazing photos! read more
I absolutely love this hike!! My favorite hike on Oahu because it had the right intensity, challenge and a combination of all sorts of hiking fun. Parking was not easy, but lucky for me I scored a spot right in front of the trailhead today. Those who parked down the road would have to hike to the trailhead before the hike even starts. I feel bad for the resident in the area also. Their streets are constantly congested with cars. This hike started with lots of switchbacks in the beginning. I took a few shortcuts to cut the switchback short, but those shortcuts are easier only for the hike up instead of the hike down because of the steepness. If you slip, you will have to hang on to anything from sliding down. The elevation got even more steep midway hike. Pay attention to the orange ribbons tied to the trees to stay on course. The last half hour of the hike was full of steps. The view opened up at some spots so even though climbing those steps suck, the awesome view motivated me to keep going. I made it up to the top in about 1.5 hours and then another hour plus coming down. The view was truly spectacular! It was so worth it! I took my time to enjoy the foliage, trees, birds and butterflies coming down the ridge. Hiking down could be pretty hard on the knees so sometimes I had to pivot my legs from left to right almost like a skiing motion. I had to end up running down due to gravity pull at some steep spots. What a great day! read more
6 years ago
A relatively well traveled trail that is a good challenge for a pretty novice hiker like me. Parking is limited so try to go during a week day and be respectful of the homeowners :) The trail is pretty well marked and a nice slow start. The changing landscapes are super beautiful and getting to see the valley from all the different points in the ridge was awesome. Definitely take it slow and steady if you're a more beginner hiker like myself and bring a lot of water, as this isn't a really short one. It was a bit overcast when we hiked it, but the trail wasn't too muddy, but it can get a bit more slippery at the steeper; be especially careful going down so you don't almost eat sh*t like me hahaha. The trade winds are especially on this hike and the crisp air towards the top reminds me of fall up in the north east. A well beloved trail for good reason. Hope to tackle this one again read more
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More info about Kuliouou Ridge Trail
Kalaau Pl
Honolulu, HI 96821
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https://hawaiitrails.hawaii.gov/trails/#/trail/kuliouou-ridge-trail/205
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