As appealing as the ocean is, it's really the interior of the island where the hidden adventure lies. The mountains and rainforests are full of sites and attractions that can only be found by hiking through the trees, along well-maintained trails that lead to hidden features and reveal hidden Hawaii. And a hike is not only a way to explore; it’s great for getting the heart rate up and can be a very challenging day of exercise. Some of the more difficult hikes can last for an entire day!
There really is no way to actually know the number of hikes on Oahu, but of all of the adventures, one of the more challenging, and probably the most rewarding, is the hike up Koko Head Crater. Found on Oahu’s South Shore, Koko Head is an extinct volcano that overlooks Hanauma Bay and the town of Hawaii Kai. The top of the hike offers spectacular views the island’s coastline, and reaching the summit is no easy feat.
Typically, when you think of a hike, you encounter a trailhead and an easy to follow path. Koko Head is not a typical hike, though it does begin with a trailhead and the path is easy to find. However, instead of winding through the rainforest, it ascends the slopes of the mountain, starting off with an easy slope and gradually becoming steeper and steeper, following the natural curve of the tuff cone volcano to the very top. What’s more, the trail consists of more than 1,000 railroad ties that were installed on the mountain during World War II. The railroad ties make up the entirety of the trail and act as a ladder all the way up, though they do not make the hike easy by any stretch of the imagination.
The trail comes in at just under 2 miles, and is sure to be the most challenging adventure you face while visiting Oahu. But don’t let the challenge scare you off. The view from the top is incredible and the feeling of accomplishment of defeating the trail will have you celebrating your victory.
Before setting out for a hike up Koko Head, be advised that you will need to bring plenty of water, and apply plenty of sunblock. There is no shade along the trail and hiding from the sun is impossible. This is a very challenging hike, but is well worth it, as long as you prepare appropriately.
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