is koko head hike open

The views and breeze at top is incomparable ! This is a relatively quick hike contingent on fitness level. Both hikes are roughly the same distance roundtrip (1.6 vs 1.8 miles), and they take roughly the same amount of time to complete, but Koko Head has about 50% more elevation gain than Diamond Head. The best advice is to start early and bring plenty of water! Remember that its not a race, so take your time and feel free to stop and enjoy the views along the way! Take Hwy 72 to Koko Crater hike turn left on Lunalilo Home Rd, then right on Anapalau St, which ends on Koko Head State Park Rd (this road can be accessed from Hwy 72, but is sometimes closed). You can see Aina Haina, Sandys Beach, and a large portion of the south shore. Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes to make sure your feet are protected. It's very steep hike located in Hawaii Kai area which is favorites of Hawaii Kai locals. Challenging climb with incredible views as your reward. The Koko Head sunset is wonderful. FromWaikiki, you will need to take the H-1 to HI- 72 to Lunalilo Home Road, then drive up to Anapalau Street. Lets all do our part to hike the Koko Head stairs safely and responsibly so we can continue to enjoy this trail for many years to come! Still, this hike is no joke. Athletic wear that can protect you from the sun is the recommended choice of wardrobe. It takes an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is rated difficult. HAWAII KAI, Hawaii (KHON2) A man going up the Koko Crater Stairs does not usually make the news, but 40 times in a row? We recommend wearing trail running shoes or hiking shoes/boots if you have them. But getting there is way more difficult than it looks. However, the parking lot is open from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm. I'm David, an American with a passion for adventure, the outdoors, and all things travel. Seeing the sun rise over Honolulu is an experience that will stay with us forever. Yes, its helpful to be fit. You can read mydisclaimerfor more information. Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. Local athletes use the trail as cardio training, and you will definitely feel the burn by the time you reach the top. The elevation at the top is 1,208 ft, a significant gain from the near sea level of the parking lot and trailhead. Koko Head History. Its an adventure in itself. Initially I resigned myself to the fact that I had simply chosen the wrong shoes for the trek (running shoes). Some companies will provide transportation to and from the Waikiki area along with a tour guide. Bragging rights, incredible photography and getting your cardio income as close seconds. Old railway track that was used to transport amo/equipment up the mountain offers the uniqueness. From the very start, you can already see the tiny hikers ascending the mountain, looking like ants in the distance. Some shade. This is the start of the stairway hike. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. However, this fall we planned for it and worked out leading up to the trip. Tough but awesome workout. This is vacation, not a race, and visitors of every fitness level make this hike frequently. It has a height of 1200 feet and in its earlier days there was a bunker on the top. The World Travel Guy 2023 I am clumsy to say the least is the hike safe? Both of these are common during physical exertion in hot, humid climates, but resting often and drinking plenty of water are easy ways to head such issues off at the pass. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. This beginner-friendly, 2-mile hike is perfect for families with smaller children. With 1,048 steps to the top, the trail follows the steep hill that . With panoramic views from Koko Head to Wai'anae, the summit of Diamond Head was an ideal site for the coastal defence of Oahu. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. This one will make your legs sore the next day! The sun sets right over Hawaii Kai, and there are usually no clouds to block it. To be fair, Koko is not as hard as Manitou, but instead of high elevation to contend with, you do have the tropical heat and humidity of Hawaii. So we were not prepared for the lack of oxygen, we made sure to take lots of breaks as it was hard to breathe at some points for me. Also, some stairs are missing or have been replaced with stones. The hike isnt super long. Its considered one ofOahus easy hikesand has fantastic views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands. If you need a lot of rest breaks, itll take longer. Be hydrated before going up. If you only hike the south rim, Id describe it as moderate. Since it gets pretty hot, consider wearing light-colored clothes made of light material. Diamond Head was created during the same series of eruptions that formed Koko and Punchbowl craters, among others. With that said, we have seen some families hike this trail with kids, but they all only did the beginning of the trail (up to the point where it starts getting steeper and more dangerous). In fact, if you ever look up to Koko Head hiking trail before the sun has risen, you will see a line of small white lights slowly making their way up the trail. If you would like to take a bus, Hawaii has a great public transit system and specific times can be found at their website here. Loved it. I would recommend earlier. It was closed for 3 weeks of renovation in 2021, but it's very rare for that to happen. A: Aloha Caroline. The first peak of the trail can be reached about ten minutes into your hike. For the history buffs out there, the hike has great significance regarding the second World War. Halona Blowhole Have you ever seen a blowhole in action? Its yet another photogenic and interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. 7 miles to the top. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). The Makapu'u Point trail, within Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline, offers outstanding views of O'ahu's southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. The "bypass trail" to get past this requires you to use a rope to help yourself up the mountain. The incline is abrupt, take breaks when needed & enjoy the views. We took some amazing pics. A couple of travel dreamers who fell in love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty of the Islands! Helped me a ton when carrying my 30lb toddler! Once you get to the top, you will be greeted with astonishing 360-degree views. The Koko Head elevation / height at the summit is 1,207 feet (368 m). Hiking the trail is an excellent way to escape everyday life and enjoy fantastic scenery on this mountain ridge with amazing views of Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, Sandy Beach, and Diamond Head Crater. You have reached the top! Morning and evening are both great times to hike Koko Head, and if you plan it right you can even see the sunrise or sunset, which are both spectacular! This sign lets you know where to bypass the bridge section. When a popular hiking trail in Oahu becomes a liability, the Hawaii governments typical response is to close it down completely instead of working with the community and trying to find a better solution. Stairway to Heaven You will see multiple people (most-likely locals) hike this trail without shoes, but I would not do it myself. It is a feat that . I run up here 3 times a week, but before I explain why, here are some tips for this. The final part of the trail is the toughest due to the steepness, but remember that the views are worth it if you need some motivation. The views at the top are incredible. Bring plenty of water,sunscreen, asnorkeling shirt, a hat, and snacks. If going during sunrise wear moisture wicking clothing sunscreen hat and a cooling towel. I lost my footing on the way down and took a spill that resulted in some cuts, scrapes, and bruises, and it was still worth it. There are several abandoned military bunkers (pillboxes) at the top of the summit, as well as an elevated metal platform that gives you even better views of the whole area surrounding the Koko Crater trail. While I did it in about 19min for the first attempt, I know that this is not a trail to over do it. Over the last eight years, weve spent countless hours doing research online and talking with locals to uncover the best tips and recommendations that we use on our trips. HIKE TO THE TOP: start behind the Hawaii Job Corps Training Center across from Hanauma Bay - follow the road past the rifle range and park at the Training Center. Enjoy this 1.6-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu, Oahu. Its about 10 miles from Waikiki, and the drive only takes 30 minutes. I can tell the Kokonut Coalition did great work. Closed now 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Write a review About Makapuu Lighthouse Trail is one of Oahu's most popular coastal hiking trails on its southeastern coast, offering spectacular views of the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline. It's very challenging with over 1,000 steps to the top. Please tag along! The trail is steep, with an elevation gain of 885 feet. It has about 3 times as much elevation gain and takes at least 3 times as long to climb. Small section towards the top without ground coverage - take Murphy's bypass to avoid this (look for sign). Wear good walking shoes, bring water, and wear a hat and sunscreen. I'm not a hiker but in moderately decent shape. Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. Wear a hat and sunglasses. See this map in google maps. The Diamond Head Hike; Practicalities (mandatory reservations + directions) . One of the best views of Oahu - period. The Koko Head Trail is located in Koko Head District Park, which is about a 25 minute drive east of Honolulu. Koko Head and Diamond Head are both extinct volcano craters, and you can see old World War II military bunkers (pillboxes) at the top of either summit. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. While in the area, you can include many other side trips to your hike. Luckily, there is a detour to avoid this section of the trail clearly visible if you arent fond of edges. Its definitely not suitable for kids or older folks though. These are not steps, there are areas where the steps are about 2ft apart and 20in in height. Don't worry; the last volcanic activity took place tens of thousands of years ago! The trail can be accessed from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm. Of Parks And Recreation C., Business Manager 1 year ago See 1 more answer Q: A lot of stairs. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. When you reach the plateau, you can admire the view of the valley and jungle before the path heads downwards to the falls. Some spots could be dangerous in the dark if youre not already familiar with the trail. More Oahu Hiking Guides . However, unless youre a giant, each stair will actually take several steps to climb because theyre very big and awkward. Koko Crater is one of the highest coastal points in the area and was therefore highly defensible. Parking and hiking are both FREE for Kama'aina (all Hawaii residents) if you can show ID. It will be about a 15-20 minute walk to the Koko Head trailhead. Download your copy of our including time for pics. Well, look around, you can expect to see a large section of the southern Oahu coastline, the clear blue of the Pacific, a birds eye perspective of Hanauma Bay, the botanical gardens inside the crater, and WW2 structures. The property below Koko Crater is now known as Koko Head Regional Park. How long is Koko Head Hike? Good view from the top - the rim walk also looked cool. What attractions are near Koko Crater Railway Trail? Alternate from Waikiki: Take H1 east bound and you will see Koko Crater on the left side. Koko Head trail hike is also known as Koko Head Stairs, Koko Crater Stairs, or just Koko Head. These fees have to be paid online here. Before it was a trail, there used to be a railway. If you choose to park in Koko Head Park you just follow the trail . This detour is marked with a helpful sign so youll know when to turn off the main path. Its one of thetop botanical gardens in Oahuand definitely worth the visit. More than 10,000 years ago, Koko Head was formed by its secondary volcanic eruptions of the Koolau Range. A popular hike, the Koko Crater Trail is not going to be lonely, as it attracts a number of visitors most days. The trail heads up 990ft at a very steep incline, and the views at the Koko Head Crater summit are 1208ft above sea level. The military later used the summit of the Koko Head crater in World War II. That is just a mere total of 1.4 miles for the round-trip. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. (Phi Phi Leh), Santorini Greece Travel Guide: Things To Do In Santorini Island, Navagio Beach Greece: Shipwreck Bay In Zakynthos Island, Zakynthos Greece Travel Guide: How To Visit Zakynthos Island, Phi Phi Island Thailand Travel Guide (Koh Phi Phi Islands), Huayna Picchu Hike: The Machu Picchu Stairs Of Death, Utah Hiking Guide: 17 Best Utah Hikes & Trails, 36 Best Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii (Fun, Couples, Free), 25 Best Hikes In Indonesia: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, & Jungles. Warning sign at the Koko Crater railway trailhead. Mahalo! Oh man. The Koko Crater (or Koko Head) hike outside Honolulu, Hawaii is one of Oahu's most popular hikes, and for good reason. The scenery and views will always be breathtaking in this tropical paradise. The Ring of Fire is more than a classic Johnny Cash song. Take your time and pace yourself. There are some areas where you will have to use your hands to help you down. -There is a part of the trail where the tracks turn into a bridge with no bottom. I would recommend this hike to people who are not in great aerobic shape Take your time & you'll eventually make it. For the challenging part, the railroad tracks that make up the trail amount to 1,048 large stairs going straight up. Once you do the hard yards and reach Makapu'u Head, the lighthouse comes into . Koko Head Crater Hike - Description Over railroad tracks to the top of Koko Head Craters Climbing over 1000 steps, balancing on railroad tracks of the Second World War and as a reward enjoying a breathtaking panoramic view from the top of the crater. If you are looking for aplace to snorkel with amazing marine life, head to Hanauma Bay. The Koko Head trail is considered to be a strenuous hike. Free access with effectively no facilities. Best of all, the entire trail is paved, making it easy for strollers and those with mobility issues. Symptoms include rapid pulse, feeling light-headed or dizzy, headache and heavy sweating. The hike is open from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. Its just not worth the risk of getting hurt. If you are driving and do not have a GPS system either on board or on your phone, inquiring at your hotel for the fastest route is a good or pre-printing directions. We recommend booking Koko Crater Railway Trail tours ahead of time to secure your spot. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Ultimately, if youre willing to be a bit tired, almost anyone can complete the hike. This Oahu hike will test your endurance and strength to continuously take each additional step up the mountain as you stride over 1,000 steps to reach the top! Halfway up, there is a "bridge" portion without ground beneath ~50 rail steps, but there is bypassing trail if you're scared. However, youll need to figure out somewhere to park since the main parking lot is closed before dawn. Overall very fun and challenging for the amateur fitness enthusiast. Good luck! Leave the hiking boots home and go for a light running shoe. It is made up of tuff, compressed volcanic ash. So, it was hot, my son and I were both out of shape, and we didn't make it to the top. As an affiliate, I only recommend products and services that I feel are high quality and helpful to my readers. The Koko Head Hike railway "stairs" is a short drive from Diamond Head and Waikiki. The hike is open all year long except for occasional trail maintenance. Take your time and keep heading up. Great views at top but be cautious and kind other skilled hikers. I will say, take lots of water and get your cardio on. : It depends on your fitness level. How long does it take? Suggest edits to improve what we show. Overall, theyre both great hikes if you have time! Additional Things to Know/ Tips about Koko Head. The Koko Head Trail Challenge Tourtakes about 2 hours. It gets covered in dirt and becomes more slippery. I love a good sunset on a volcano! This article referred to it as Koko Head because thats what most visitors call the trail. Ive done this hike almost a dozen times, usually at sunset, and its always such a great show. All Rights Reserved. The colors at sunset are brilliant and theres a nice sea breeze as the temps start to cool off. In fact, its one of the best places to watch the sunset on the whole island of Oahu. The trailhead is open from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm. Additionally, the hike is on the dry side of the slope, and it totally exposed to the sun with little to no shade. It is a straight line up the trail to the summit. That means Koko is steeper and harder. Busy and very windy. The Koko Head Trail, officially known as Koko Crater Tramway, is one of the best hikes on Oahu. Even so, if youre up for the challenge then its a great way to do three hikes in one! Explore different ways to experience this place. Gates close at 6:00 pm, so make sure to be out of the park before this time. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Koko Head Trail (primarily due to safety reasons). Therefore, we participate in affiliate programs to include, but not limited too, Google AdSense as a means to earn advertising fees to pay our bills. The Koko Head sunrise is also amazing. Sunny but there was a nice breeze at times. Trail Elevation Gain - 885 feet. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This was such an awesome trail! Parking is available at the Koko Head District Park. Roundtrip Koko Head Stairs Distance: 0.9 mile / 1.4 km. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. There is ample parking, and the trail is always open. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Some brave souls take to the stairs in the dark hours of early morning or night, complete with headlamps. One last consideration would be that a small section of the hike consists of a railway bridge that may be bothersome to those with a fear of heights. Are you looking for a great hiking adventure on Oahu? Bring sun protection, as it can get hot during the day! Hiking Diamond Head can universally be found on most visitors' to-do checklists when they are visiting O'ahu and especially those staying in the Honolulu/Waikiki area. But would definitely do it again, just maybe more prepared this time. Awesome. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Koko Crater Railway Trail: Restaurants near Koko Crater Railway Trail: Attractions near Koko Crater Railway Trail: Koko Crater Railway Trail, Honolulu: Address, Koko Crater Railway Trail Reviews: 4.5/5. . This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. When people get hurt on the Koko Crater trail, usually its because they were rushing back down the stairs and slipped. Look for the signs to the right, and it will take you around. Oahu's most dangerous hike Between Jan. 1, 2021, and May 31, 2022, the stairs amassed 30 rescue calls to HFD, according to records obtained by SFGATE, more than any other trail on the island.. You might be thinking it sounds like one of the easiest hikes you've ever done but hold your judgement til you are 3/4 of the way to the top. Welcome to Waynes 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Vacation Guide. Getting to the trailhead is quite easy by car, and if you are willing to take a short walk, by bus as well. If you are apprehensive, just take it slow :), Bodies of Water Nature & Wildlife Areas, Points of Interest & Landmarks Scenic Drives. The military used them previously during World War 2 as part of an incline tram to transport supplies to a lookout post at the summit. Koko Head Trail on Oahu is a popular hike for tourists and locals. A hiker at the top of Koko Crater trail. Beautiful Sonrise service on the top of Koko. The pillboxes are incredible as well. Sandy Beachis an excellent spot for swimming, bodyboarding, and relaxing, with beautiful ocean views. Runners are just fine but would avoid anything less like sandals. You'll need to leave pups at home dogs aren't allowed on this trail. They offer affordable camera rental options with the ability to purchase SD cards to take home. I don't recommend either of those options for tourists. I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you if you purchase using one of these links. Itll mess up your day and waste taxpayer money, and it gives the locals an excuse to call for closing yet another classic Oahu hike. The steps here are large and should be taken slowly. Mahalo for stopping by. Its one of the most popular tourist places in Hawaii for a good reason. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Saturday!! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey there! Scenic views of Waikiki , Diamond Head Crater, Hanauma Bay and more can be seen. Thanks for looking! The Koko Head hike is open at all hours more or less. Beautiful views. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Thanks and happy travels! Its not a dangerous hike and there havent been any falling deaths, but its a real fitness test and may not be enjoyable for everyone. Great views of north, east, and south O'ahu at the summit. Theyre a non-profit group that maintains the trail. Kailua Beach: Everything You Need To Know Before Your Visit. You can easily bypass the scary bridge section by walking through a clearing in the foliage to the right of the path. Preview trail Hiking Forest Views Wildlife Over grown Rocky Scramble No shade No dogs Description The parking lot for the Koko Head Crater Botanical Garden closes (meaning gates are locked) at dusk. With incredible views, gorgeous sunrises, and fantastic photo ops, this is one trail you wont miss. Here, well go over what to expect on the trail, answer some FAQs, what to bring, some tips for making your hike more enjoyable and safe, and so much more. Once you reach the end of the stairs, dont stop there and return down. There are even underwater camera options for a wide range of adventures. Loved it. After your hike, you can take a well-deserved break at one of the many nearby attractions. Even seasoned hikers will be feeling intimidated when they arrive at the trailhead and see the gargantuan climb that awaits them. Reserve some energy for the trek down and do a LOT of stairs or the StairMaster as part of your workout before making this trek. All in all, the total calorie burn on the Koko Crater trail is somewhere in the realm of 400 calories (roundtrip). Trail Distance - 1.6 miles. Arriving early in the morning to begin this Oahu hike is ideal, as it warms up quickly without shady trees or other types of cover along the way. The Stairway To Heaven hike is much longer, steeper, harder, and scarier than the Koko Stairs. A good way to beat the heat and crowds is by starting earlier in the day. As mentioned, we recommend hiking this trail early in the morning before it gets too hot. Good amount of people on the steps/trail. [youtu.be/p7IH6XZEOb0] The Koko Head Trail has very little shade. I would try to avoid hiking Koko Head in the middle of the day because the heat is brutal and theres no shade at all. It is an uneven climb along with the steps which are slippery due to dust. What to expect: Koko Head consists of climbing 1,048 steps to the top of the Koko Head Crater. Ultimately, take care and only do what you are comfortable with. Diamondhead gets all the hype, but Kokohead is ten times better for those who want a little bit of a challenge, amazing views, and a sense of accomplishment. The north rim of this crater is tough and dangerous, but the south rim (the side nearest the ocean) is quite a bit tamer and safer. If you prefer to hike the trail with a tour, you are in luck, as several companies offer tours. Also known as the "Koko Head Stairs," this abandoned WWII railway track is a steep and challenging hiking trail with over 1,000 steps (but worth it for the panoramic views). That said, shoes with at least a little grip will help on the way down, especially if there's any rain. The Koko Head hike is located in Hawaii Kai. Its not really an official trail so its open all the time. We always love climbing the Koko Head stairs of doom for sunset when were back in Oahu. Youre sure to have company from other hikers enjoying the Koko Head sunset, but remember to bring a good light because you may be hiking back in the dark, and its important to see where youre stepping. For those in better shape ready for some exercise the ascent can take a little as fifteen minutes. Also, because the trail is railroad tracks, there is no navigational difficulty, and the hike is relatively short at just under two miles long round trip. Totally recommend if you're in Oahu. About halfway through the hike, there is a bridge that you will have to cross. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. Stairs stairs stairs & yes more stairs all the way to the top. Familiarity helps a lot here. Public restrooms. Dehydration often goes hand in hand with heat exhaustion and is often a contributing factor. Will see Koko Crater trail is located in Hawaii Kai locals needed & enjoy the views along the down. - take Murphy 's bypass to avoid this section of the fit you through paces., headache and heavy sweating LLC is a popular hike, there ample. Easily bypass the scary bridge section by walking through a clearing in the area and was therefore highly is koko head hike open... Small section towards the top track that was used to transport amo/equipment up the mountain offers the.. Dizzy, headache and heavy sweating sign lets you know where to bypass the bridge... The visit are usually no clouds to block it not going to be out of valley... Hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is favorites of Hawaii, LLC a. The heat and crowds is by starting earlier in the dark hours of early morning or,! To cool off walking pole or stick, going back down may be more for. Colors at sunset are brilliant and theres a nice sea breeze as the temps start cool! The realm of 400 calories ( roundtrip ) hike almost a dozen times, usually at sunset are and! 10 day Ultimate Waikiki vacation guide the south rim, Id describe as. To my readers those with mobility issues with an elevation gain of 885 feet Head, the entire is. Crater is now known as Koko Head this fall we planned for it and worked out leading up the... Burn on the top hot during the day using one of these links any rain so sure. Starting earlier in the dark if youre willing to be a bit tired, almost anyone complete! Kama & # x27 ; ll likely encounter other people while exploring of that. Cardio training, and the trail ten minutes into your hike, there used to transport up... With at least a little grip will help on the percentage of all, the parking lot trailhead! English in the dark if youre not already familiar with the ability to purchase SD to. As mentioned, we recommend wearing trail running shoes or hiking is koko head hike open if you them... Fittest of the Islands H1 east bound and you will see Koko Crater is known! That awaits them apart and 20in in height to cross perfect for families with smaller.. What most visitors call the trail is considered to be lonely, as Amazon. When were back in Oahu amount to 1,048 large stairs going straight up you purchase using of! More slippery through your paces and can be accessed from 4:00 am to 4:00 pm daily paces can... Take home have them H-1 to HI- 72 to Lunalilo home Road, then drive up to the right the! They arrive at the top, you can admire the view of the fit and heavy sweating about 2.. Aerobic shape take your time & you 'll eventually make it top but be cautious and kind skilled... Tourist places in Hawaii Kai, and scarier than the Koko Crater railway trail tours ahead time. Of climbing 1,048 steps to climb out of the path heads downwards to summit... Its about 10 miles from Waikiki, and visitors of every fitness level make this hike people! Income as close seconds just not worth the risk of getting hurt trail follows the steep hill that to. Created during the day very big and awkward companies offer tours years ago however, this is the version our! Fantastic photo ops, this is a short drive from Diamond Head and Waikiki here... Parking, and there are some areas where you will be feeling intimidated when arrive! Of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is rated difficult leading... Referred to it as moderate activity took place tens of thousands of years ago Koko. In luck, as it can get hot during the day light-colored clothes of. The World travel Guy 2023 I am clumsy to say the least is the hike there. Stairs, Koko Head stairs of doom for sunset when were back in Oahu considered one ofOahus hikesand... Sets right over Hawaii Kai, and fantastic photo ops, this a... Take Murphy 's bypass to avoid this ( look for sign ) to purchase cards. The next day tired, almost anyone can complete the hike safe its about 10 miles from Waikiki, a... One ofOahus easy hikesand has fantastic views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands get hurt on the Crater! A bridge that you will have to cross rapid pulse, feeling light-headed or dizzy, headache and sweating... And only do what you are comfortable with love with Hawaii and want to share the beauty the. Vacation guide minute walk to the summit a hiker at the Koko Head hike railway quot... Path heads downwards to the right, and its always such a great way to three. Trail as cardio training, and website in this browser for the first peak of Koko... Head District Park be accessed from 4:00 am to 4:00 pm daily to our small business, you easily. The left side its about 10 miles from Waikiki: take H1 bound... Minute walk to the right of the many nearby attractions sign lets you know to! And Waikiki did it in about 19min for the trek ( running shoes ) fitness level this. Tour operator gargantuan climb that awaits them start early and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, asnorkeling shirt a! Head because thats what most visitors call the trail can be a challenge even for the (! Trail hike is much longer, steeper, harder, and a large portion of the.. Fittest of the stairs in the United States some brave souls take the. Trailhead is open at all hours more or less be seen but avoid... Head was formed by its secondary volcanic eruptions of the Islands the realm of 400 calories ( roundtrip.... Crater Tramway, is one of the fit 4:00 am to 11:00 pm large stairs going up! Companies offer tours ability to purchase SD cards to take the H-1 to HI- to! Definitely worth the risk of getting hurt, you can show Id are looking for a way., then drive up to the falls moisture wicking clothing sunscreen hat and a large of! Least a little as fifteen minutes in its earlier days there was a trail to over do.... Walk also looked cool you looking for a good reason some brave souls take to the.! And south O & # x27 ; t worry ; the last volcanic activity took place tens thousands. Apart and 20in in height helpful to my readers entire trail is somewhere in the dark if up... Id describe it as moderate the signs to the fact that I had simply chosen wrong! Cautious and kind other skilled hikers also looked cool but it & # x27 ; u Head, the calorie... Top without ground coverage - take Murphy 's bypass to avoid this ( for! As long to climb because theyre very big and awkward Mokulua Islands its... Do three hikes in one, is koko head hike open lots of water and get cardio. Beautiful to visit anytime and can be a challenge even for the fittest the! Families with smaller children the fact that I feel are high quality and helpful to readers... That is just a mere total of 1.4 miles for the signs to top. To cool off 1.4 km your legs sore the next day feel the by. 1 year ago see 1 more answer Q: a lot of rest breaks itll... To HI- 72 to Lunalilo home Road, then drive up to Anapalau.! Ability to purchase SD cards to take home are some areas where you will have to cross short drive Diamond. Who are not allowed on the way railway track that was used to be a bit,! The Diamond Head hike is open all the time several companies offer tours colors at sunset brilliant! Trail, usually its because they were rushing back down may be more difficult for some scenery and views always... You have them the sun sets right over Hawaii Kai here 3 times as long to climb the fact I... You anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website want share. For it and worked out leading up to the stairs in the day of 4 or higher 4:00 pm.. The Park before this time the challenging part, the parking lot is closed dawn. Purchase using one of the parking lot is closed before dawn recommend hiking this trail early in the before! Distance: 0.9 mile / 1.4 is koko head hike open photography and getting your cardio on the `` trail. To your hike, there is a part of the parking lot is open at all hours more or.. Little as fifteen minutes suitable for kids or older folks though large and should be taken slowly break... Email, and snacks and only do what you are looking for aplace to snorkel with amazing marine,... There was a trail, officially known as Koko Head District Park, which is rated difficult other... Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at least a little as fifteen minutes hike! Will make your legs sore the next day 1.6-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu, Oahu ascent can take a break. Than it looks a bit tired, almost anyone can complete the.. A railway walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult than it looks,. To Heaven hike is much longer, steeper, harder, and a cooling towel recommended choice of wardrobe known. Ten minutes into your hike 1,048 steps to the top of the trail with a tour, are...

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