This is a fine trail, leading from sea level to the summit of the Waianae Mountains on the north shore of Oahu. It is about 8 miles round trip and gains about 2,000 feet in altitude. To reach the trail requires crossing private property, which the landowner allows the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club to do on its organized, group hikes. However the owner does not grant permission to individuals, therefore I will not be providing any directions to the trailhead in this column. For information on joining the HTMC, please see the box at the end of this column.
The hike begins with a walk across agricultural fields, heading toward the Waianae Mountains.
Heading toward the mountains. The flat-topped mountain is Ka`ala, Oahu’s highest point.
After about a mile, the route begins to rise, and the north shore coast comes into view.
Continuing uphill, the trail follows a long stretch of eroded hillside.
After the eroded hill, the trail enters the Mokuleia Forest Reserve.
A pleasant contour through a eucalyptus grove fills the air with the crisp smell of their leaves.
A large Banyan root resembles a python climbing the tree
An orange tree provides refreshment along the trail
Hikers cross a small stream in a heavily vegetated gulch
Rare native lobelia plants are a treat for plant lovers
Strolling along the ridge line
We catch a glimpse of the coast, now a long way off
Finally, we arrive at our destination, joining other members of the club who have camped out overnight.
After lunch, it’s time to start the return trip. Once more we enter the eucalyptus grove.
We spot a strange-looking tree,
and go back down the eroded hillside
We catch a final view of the Waianae ridges,
before heading back to the plains of the north shore.
NEXT MONTH: HAMAMA FALLS
| The best way to hike the trails on Oahu is with the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club and the Sierra Club. Both have permission to hike many routes not open to the general public. Neither one requires membership to join most hikes, although non-members pay a small fee, and they restrict certain hikes to members only. For info on membership and hiking schedules, see the following web sites. HTMC & Sierra Club. |
