Residents of the windward side and all drivers over the Pali Highway are familiar with Olomana, the three-peaked mountain which rises in solitary splendor between Waimanalo and Maunawili. Long-time readers of this column will remember that I described a climb of its highest peak in my article of February 2004. Related below is a recent hike around part of the base of Olomana’s third peak, the lowest, but the most difficult and dangerous to climb (seen on the right in the above photo). The trip is about 6 miles long, and gains a total of about 1,000 feet in altitude in several separate stretches.

Because it does not ascend the mountain, the trail is not dangerous, but it is steep and narrow in places, and strenuous enough so that it would preclude young children—although a hardy 12-year-old made the trip with us and had a great time. Unfortunately, the route is difficult to follow and requires local knowledge. Do this hike with one of the local clubs that has leaders familiar with the several intersecting trails and roads.

The hike begins near the start of the Maunawili Ditch Trail in Waimanalo, following an old dirt road until it branches off to climb an eroded ridge. Along the way are good views of Olomana.

Olomana’s three peaks, with the third peak on the left

After about 40 minutes on the ridge, a trail enters the forest, heading toward the third peak. Our destination is the base of the mountain where it joins the ridge coming in from the left in the photo below.

Ridge leading to the third peak

The route now follows a rocky trail across several gulches,

before breaking onto a long, open ridge.

Youngest hiker and his dad near the ridge top

From here there is a fine view of peak three.

In another view, it appears to be a green version of Switzerland’s Matterhorn.

Oahu's Matterhorn

Switzerland’s Matterhorn    [Photo by Loren Anthony]

One final push to the top, and we reach our lunch spot.

Hiker uses vegetation to pull herself up the ridge

Lunch overlooking Maunawili Valley and the Koolau ridgeline

As we munch on sandwiches, Spam musubees and bentos, we enjoy fabulous views.

Keolu Hills, near Kailua

Overlooking Waimanalo, with Rabbit Island and Makapuu Head in the distance

During the lunch break, one club member decide to explore the climb to the top of peak 3.

Hiker at the base of Olomana 3

After checking out a fixed rope [below], he decided he could not rely on it for security, and abandoned his attempt.

Finally, we start the long climb down.

After traversing several ridges and gulches, we intersect the Old Government Road in Maunawili Valley, and return to our starting point.

Comments

TonyC — Saturday, December 15, 2007

Great article on this hike. I am new to this area and appreciate new activities to try. I emailed this article to a friend who will be visiting and would like to try his legs out on this hike. Thank you.

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