kajunkruzin / Getty Images. 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. Where is a waterfall on this hike? Bring water since this is a prime area for humidity and hot summer days. 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. 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 hike is open from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. The Koko Crater Summit will be closed during the entire three weeks, but the tramway will be open on weekends and holidays. With panoramic views from Koko Head to Wai'anae, the summit of Diamond Head was an ideal site for the coastal defence of Oahu. This corner of the island is almost always cloudless, after all. We started our first trip of the year in February and wanted to share the latest travel deals. I will say, take lots of water and get your cardio on. Also, the botanical gardens inside the crater are worth a look. One option is taking an alternate route up or down from Koko Crater for a bit more of a challenge on the Koko Crater Arch Trail, which offers exciting rock formations and steep drop-offs. What to do after Hiking the Koko Head Crater Trail. Lanikai Pillbox: The Pillbox Hikeis one of my favorite hikes on Oahu. X, Yes it is safe. You can see Aina Haina, Sandys Beach, and a large portion of the south shore. Still, this hike is no joke. The Koko Head Trail, officially known as Koko Crater Tramway, is one of the best hikes on Oahu. If youre in one of those categories, please take your time and go extra slow on this trail, especially on the way back down. Go early to beat the crowd and the sun. That makes for a butt kicking climb. Diamond Head was created during the same series of eruptions that formed Koko and Punchbowl craters, among others. Up is harder physically, down is harder mentally (really worried we would fall!). I would highly recommend wearing good shoes and bringing lots of water. Good to know: The trail is has recently (June 2021) reopened after being closed for 2 years. It is a straight line up the trail to the summit. The Koko Head hike is a little bit like Hawaiis version of the infamous Manitou Incline in Colorado. But the views at the top were stunning! -There is a part of the trail where the tracks turn into a bridge with no bottom. We usually park on the side of the road by the tennis court. Its all ascending and steep and there is a section where Id advise taking the alternate route instead of going over the railway. Enjoy this 1.6-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu, Oahu. 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). Hiking down can be hard on your knees as well. It's not a 'hike' IMO and you DON'T need hiking shoes like some people here will tell you. to the top of Koko Head Crater. Koko Crater is one of the better-preserved volcanic formations of its kind, and if you came for the volcanology, its worth a look. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. No water point, pack light snacks and ice water. Oh man. Seriously. Beautiful views. If you prefer to hike the trail with a tour, you are in luck, as several companies offer tours. The views at the top of Koko Head trail are really amazing. 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. 2020 is a great year to visit Waikiki. As mentioned, the trailhead can be found about 100 yards past the parking lot on your left-hand side. The hiking trail to the summit is not ADA accessible, it is very steep and uneven in some areas. I'm not a hiker but in moderately decent shape. Some companies will provide transportation to and from the Waikiki area along with a tour guide. The Koko Crater installation was deactivated in 1966, and the U.S. Air Force handed it over to the city of Honolulu. There have been some accidents and injuries on the Koko Head Trail over the years, but no falling deaths. If you plan to hike before sunrise, you need to figure out parking arrangements and give yourself enough time to get there. There is ample parking, and the trail is always open. Ive seen this in news reports and also seen it happen in person many times. Local athletes use the trail as cardio training, and you will definitely feel the burn by the time you reach the top. In fact, its one of the best places to watch the sunset on the whole island of Oahu. This site is owned and operated by Vacation-Waikiki. This trail is named after Oahu's most widely known landmark, Diamond Head, a massive chunk of volcanic rock situated on the Southwestern coast of the island. However, the Koko HeadDistrict Park parking lot hours are 6:30 am till 11:00 pm. The views at the top are incredible. From the trail's destination at Makapu'u Head, one is rewarded with magnificent views of the windward coast and offshore islets, as well as the historic red-roofed . Before it was a trail, there used to be a railway. At this point, you might even see some tired people climbing up the stairs on all fours, or scooting slowly on their butts as they go back down. However, this fall we planned for it and worked out leading up to the trip. Plan on probably at least 30 minutes to reach the top, and then almost the same amount of time to go back down. I don't recommend either of those options for tourists. Views of Hawaii Kai from the top of Koko Head crater trail. Lost some weight just going here every week once a week for an afternoon hike after work. : It depends on your fitness level. I would recommend earlier. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. -Watch out for concrete parts of the trail. The views are fantastic, and its relatively easy and paved all the way. Usually there are lots of other hikers coming and going, so its easy to find the trailhead by following the other hikers. Most people rent a car in Oahu and drive to the Koko Crater trailhead. You can read mydisclaimerfor more information. The first peak of the trail can be reached about ten minutes into your hike. Its a great view, and youll no doubt want to stay awhile to relax and take pictures! Water, however, is an absolute must. 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! then a right on Anapalau Street. Ultimately, if youre willing to be a bit tired, almost anyone can complete the hike. Theres a big parking lot at Koko Head District Park and its free to use for this hike. We went for the sunset and it was beautiful. We took some amazing pics. Its taxing cardio-wise and can be tough on the legs, knees, and feet. 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. I can be a bit scary/dangerous. more. Shorts, a light long sleeve shirt, and sturdy shoes would be perfect. This can be tricky, as there is nothing between the ties and the ground below. Map of Koko Head hike location. We recommend going early in the morning, before 10:00 am or after 4:00 pm, to avoid the crowds. Top ways to experience Koko Crater Railway Trail, Hiking ShuttleMakapu'u Lighthouse Trail or Diamond Head, Family-Friendly Private Circle Island Tour of Oahu, Amazing Oahu Adventure Bundle: 6 Epic Self-Guided Audio Tours, Oahu South Shore GPS Driving Beaches and Hiking Tour, Full Day Tour to Discover the Journey of Obama in Hawaii, Doors-Off Oahu Circle Island Experience from Kapolei. We arrived at 4:45, parked on a residential street, and hiked into the park along with some locals. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. More Oahu Hiking Guides . Very crowded. Koko Head to remain closed during renovation project, only open to public on weekends, holidays Posted: Mar 24, 2021 / 12:24 PM HST Updated: Mar 25, 2021 / 11:34 AM HST HONOLULU (KHON2) A. These are not steps, there are areas where the steps are about 2ft apart and 20in in height. How long does it take? For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. I live next door to Koko Crater Trail and there are no waterfalls or jungle hikes. A day pack containing plenty of extra water, sunscreen, a small first aid kit a light jacket depending on weather is highly recommended. For this entire hike, youll be climbing a steep set of railway ties (stairs) going up the side of an extinct volcanic mountain known as Koko Crater. You'll also find a preserved historical Hawaiian village along the way, so feel free to . The most popular hike on Oahu is Diamond Head. Most people can get up and down in about an hour. We do not recommend hiking the Koko Head Trail with children as it is challenging. The sun sets right over Hawaii Kai, and there are usually no clouds to block it. The "bypass trail" to get past this requires you to use a rope to help yourself up the mountain. Amazing hike - not for the faint of heart. Be hydrated before going up. I will be the first to admit that there were certain areas I had to sit on my butt to get to the next stairs because the stairs are not well maintained in some areas. 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. Public restrooms. Our love for Hawaii draws us to the islands at least a few times a year. If you are apprehensive, just take it slow :), Bodies of Water Nature & Wildlife Areas, Points of Interest & Landmarks Scenic Drives. for their Hawaii vacation. Take your time and dont rush, because the stairs can be even more slippery and hazardous on the way back down. The colors at sunset are brilliant and theres a nice sea breeze as the temps start to cool off. Really nice hike, tough but worth it. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. The Diamond Head hike Hawaii is a must-do. 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