Kuliouou Takes Hikers Atop Koolau Summit

The hike up Kuli‘ou‘ou Ridge will surely kick your butt. It may be only 2.5-miles to the top, but it's an intense climb that will no doubt get your heart racing just a couple minutes into the hike. It's one of my favorite hikes on O‘ahu; one that meanders through several different terrains while rewarding hikers with a nice workout and, of course, a stunning view of the Windward side once you're at the top.

The shaded part of the trail is welcomed by hikers.

The hike to the ridge starts about 0.2 miles in, on the valley trail; just be sure to veer right when you see the ridge sign. The valley trail is nice, too, but I prefer the ridge trail, which begins with several slightly-inclined switchbacks through dry shrubberies. However, it gets much breezier once you reach the ironwood and Norfolk pines. 

About two-thirds up, hikers can rest or have lunch at a shaded picnic area. Be sure to fully digest your food, though, since the second half is where the hike really begins! The trail moderately inclines from there, with views of both valleys to each side, and just when you think you're almost to the top, the hike surprises you with a quick climb of 250 steps to the Ko‘olau summit.

We hike this a lot during the summer months when it's clear and not as windy or rainy. No one likes to hike in muddy conditions! I'd imagine hiking this when it's muddy would add an extra hour to the already 2.5-hour-long hike. Sometimes you'll see mountain bikers and hunters, but for the most part, the trail is fairly empty. 

The view of Waimānalo. In the far left corner, you'll see the Mokulua Islands.

I just learned that hikers can camp on this trail, which I'm assuming most do near the sheltered picnic area. You'd have to apply for a permit first (camping.ehawaii.gov/camping), but it may be worth it if you're looking for an escape from the city.

KULI‘OU‘OU RIDGE TRAIL / Directions: Kala‘au Pl, Kuliou‘ou HI 96825 (Map) / 5 miles roundtrip / Difficulty: Medium / Hike with a buddy, water, snacks, cell phone & flashlight / Amenities: Sheltered picnic tables / Park in neighborhood but please don't block driveways or mailboxes

Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87

Published by Bruce Fisher

Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.

Entry Filed under: Fun Stuff,Hiking/Adventure,Oahu

June 9th, 2012