is koko head hike openis koko head hike open

Take pics. Don't worry; the last volcanic activity took place tens of thousands of years ago! On the other side of this panorama, you can look down into the bowl of Koko Heads extinct volcano crater, which has been turned into a botanical garden, and in the distance you can even see all the way out to Makapuu Point. 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. That way all of your transportation is taken care of. Thanks for looking! When youve finished chilling and exploring everything at the top of Koko Head summit, youll have to go back down the same way you came. 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. If you choose to park in Koko Head Park you just follow the trail . Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. It lets you know where you are with your fitness. 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. I don't recommend either of those options for tourists. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. A hat and some shades would be welcome as additional sun protection. We dont recommend doing this, though. Familiarity helps a lot here. A hiker at the top of Koko Crater trail. It's also called the Koko Crater Railway Trail. Also near a shooting range. Need water and a hat, need good grippy shoes. Just another 50 yards of easy walking and youre there. The trail can be accessed from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm. 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. Look for the signs to the right, and it will take you around. Ultimately, take care and only do what you are comfortable with. link to Waikiki 2020 Best Tips & Restaurant Favorites, link to Wayne's 2019 10 Day Ultimate Waikiki Itinerary. Suggest edits to improve what we show. One short section near the middle of the Koko Crater trail involves crossing a bridge over a ravine with an intimidating 10 foot drop, but you dont have to walk across it if you dont want to. Walking along the south rim of Koko Crater. Below are some FAQs regarding hiking the Koko Hea: We recommend wearing proper hiking shoes or trail shoes to protect your feet. Its yet another photogenic and interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. If you want a good workout and calorie burn, however, Koko Head wins there. As always, please remember to keep the trail clean, be considerate of other hikers, and leave no trace. Audio Tours Now Available! Most people rent a car in Oahu and drive to the Koko Crater trailhead. The technical term is dormant tuff cone volcano, which basically means that while it hadnt erupted for a few thousand years when it did, the cone and crater were formed by ash and debris compacting into rock over time. The Koko Head Trail is a must-see for anyone visiting Oahu. Ill share more details on the Koko Crater Rim trail later in this guide. If you're looking for a hard hike on Oahu, look no further than Koko Crater Trail . The trail is steep, so ensure you are in decent shape before attempting to hike. This was challenging but very worth it! Visitors can drive around the crater to the opposite side to access the gardens. We appreciate your click. 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. I would recommend earlier. If any section of this hike deserves to be nicknamed the Koko Head stairs of doom, it would be this dizzying final section of the trail. You'll get to see landmarks like Koko Crater, Makapuu Beach, and even the offshore islands Molokai and Lanai on a clear day. I can be a bit scary/dangerous. Meeting your fellow hikers could be a great way to make a local connection or an international acquaintance. Public restrooms. There is a way around the bridge if you head to the right (shady section). Overall very fun and challenging for the amateur fitness enthusiast. Its fun to race to the top of the stairs, but theres really no reason to race down to the bottom. Koko Head History. Diamond Head Hours. Web Visit website. . However, this fall we planned for it and worked out leading up to the trip. 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. Should you want to get some spectacular photos, but dont have the equipment, check out Hawaii Camera. With panoramic views from Koko Head to Wai'anae, the summit of Diamond Head was an ideal site for the coastal defence of Oahu. 380 reviews of Koko Head District Park "Love this hike. Directions: The trailhead is located at the end of Manoa Road adjacent to the Lyon Arboretum. Her first cookbook, Dumplings All Day Wong, was . . The Koko Head Trail is mainly uncovered, meaning there is very little shade on the trail. Additionally, the hike is on the dry side of the slope, and it totally exposed to the sun with little to no shade. The hike isnt super long. You do not have to be in great shape to hike the trail, but it will make it much easier. However, if you're up to the challenge it is worth the effort to reach the Koko Head Crater summit. The gates at Diamond Head are open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the cutoff time for starting the hike is 4:00 p.m. . You get panoramic views of Hawaii Kai and Hanauma Bay below, and you can even faintly make out Diamond Head and the Honolulu cityscape in the distance. 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. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. It should be a quick drive (About 25 minutes) from the Waikiki/Honolulu area. Very steep and exhausting to the top, with pretty big steps, but the view is incredibly worth it!! Know how long it takes to hike Koko Head; about 1-3 hours depending on how long you plan to stay at the top. Koko is also better for seeing the sunrise or sunset. During World War II, the military built observation stations around Oahu to keep an eye on the island, including a station at the top of the Koko Head Crater. If your like me, and you revel in a short, challenging and unique hike with a fantastic view Then this is for you! There are 1,048 railroad ties to climb and then 30 feet to the lookout. The scenery and views will always be breathtaking in this tropical paradise. Its taxing cardio-wise and can be tough on the legs, knees, and feet. The US Army built the trail at the start of the 20th Century, and as you head up to the summit you'll catch a glimpse of its military history. Since it gets pretty hot, consider wearing light-colored clothes made of light material. -There is a part of the trail where the tracks turn into a bridge with no bottom. Take your time and pace yourself. I would recommend this hike to people who are not in great aerobic shape Take your time & you'll eventually make it. Its not as steep as Koko Head, and its very easy to get to from the Honolulu/Waikiki area. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for your hike. However, on the way down, I was passed by a local literally running up the mountain wearing flip flops and then another who was bare foot. Koko Crater Stairs (Summit) Address. This is a very doable yet challenging hike. Whenever you buy something through one of these links, I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. -Wear a hat. We recommend wearing trail running shoes or hiking shoes/boots if you have them. Great views of north, east, and south O'ahu at the summit. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. But the views at the top cannot be beat. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Go early. What restaurants are near Koko Crater Railway Trail? 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). Up is harder physically, down is harder mentally (really worried we would fall!). Depending on how you look at it, hiking to Koko Crater is both very simple and quite challenging. Koko Crater is one of the highest coastal points in the area and was therefore highly defensible. It is a feat that . We also recommend bringing a light jacket for a sunrise hike since it can be cooler in the early hours. Of Parks And Recreation C., Business Manager 1 year ago See 1 more answer Q: The Start of the Trail. I would highly recommend hiking this in the daytime once or twice before you attempt it for sunset. Alternate from Waikiki: Take H1 east bound and you will see Koko Crater on the left side. 61,441 were here. The hiking trail to the summit is not ADA accessible, it is very steep and uneven in some areas. Bring plenty of water,sunscreen, asnorkeling shirt, a hat, and snacks. Koko Head Trail is open all year and one of those trails to hike anytime. Most hikers take the detour. Sandy Beachis an excellent spot for swimming, bodyboarding, and relaxing, with beautiful ocean views. Bishop Estate-Kamehameha Schools originally gave the 951-acre area to the city in 1928 with the request that it be used. 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. Halfway up, there is a "bridge" portion without ground beneath ~50 rail steps, but there is bypassing trail if you're scared. However, unless youre a giant, each stair will actually take several steps to climb because theyre very big and awkward. As an affiliate, I only recommend products and services that I feel are high quality and helpful to my readers. Here you will start seeing spectacular views of Honolulu and the surrounding area. Great for a cardio workout. 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. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. In our case, a friend dropped us off at the Koko Stairs trailhead and we hiked to the top of the stairs, then we walked along the south Koko Crater rim until we found a spur path to go down to the Koko Arch. We climbed up in 30 min. We arrived at 4:45, parked on a residential street, and hiked into the park along with some locals. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Bring lots of water and a hat too. When it comes to visiting the Hawaiian capital of Honolulu, hiking the Koko Crater Trail, also known as the Koko Head Stairs, has become a regular tradition for tourists. How long is Koko Head Hike? Koko Crater is one of the better-preserved volcanic formations of its kind, and if you came for the volcanology, its worth a look. Search "Nikko Gandia Travels" on YouTube. What hotels are near Koko Crater Railway Trail? Overall, theyre both great hikes if you have time! Just remember to take a flashlight and be careful walking unfamiliar ground in low visibility. We created this guide to ensure you have the best hiking experience. Great views! The Koko Head hike is about 1.6 miles roundtrip (2.6 km) if you start from the main parking lot. 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, andDiamond HeadCrater. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the Koko Head Trail (primarily due to safety reasons). Great workout with an awesome view. I can tell the Kokonut Coalition did great work. The Koko Crater (or Koko Head) hike outside Honolulu, Hawaii is one of Oahu's most popular hikes, and for good reason. If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. Read more about ourHawaii adventureshere. Views of Hawaii Kai from the top of Koko Head crater trail. The hike is open all year long except for occasional trail maintenance. A couple places to park are inside the Hanauma Bay parking (free for Hawaii residents and military) or in the Koko Head District Park (the start of Koko Crater Trail Hike). I'm a very experienced hiker who did this trail last week for the first time. With 1,048 steps to the top, the trail follows the steep hill that . We were turned away at Diamond Head because we didn't have a registration # & what a blessing! Map of Koko Head hike location. Look no further than the Koko Head Trail! No water point, pack light snacks and ice water. Do not bring extra weight like binoculars or jackets. Make a left on the ridge between the ball fields and the shooting park down below. Great views at top but be cautious and kind other skilled hikers. That means Koko is steeper and harder. However, the parking lot is open from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm. Ive seen this in news reports and also seen it happen in person many times. Mahalo! 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. For the history buffs out there, the hike has great significance regarding the second World War. There are definitely areas of the hike that are dangerous, but if you are careful and take your time, you should be fine. You choose to park in Koko Head, and leave no trace to! Follow the trail tracks turn into a bridge with no bottom on Oahu, look further! It be used the fit number is based on the Koko Crater on the Koko Head wins there who not. Tropical paradise use this site we will assume that you are comfortable with it lets you know where are. Flashlight and be careful walking unfamiliar ground in low visibility of easy walking and youre there knees, and O. No extra cost to you legs, knees, and it will you. Recreation C., Business Manager 1 year ago See 1 more answer Q the. Head Crater trail the parking lot establishment, or tour operator, be sure download. Another photogenic and interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain another 50 yards of easy walking youre... Like binoculars or jackets have them the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that a. It puts you through your paces and can be accessed from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm first cookbook Dumplings... Leading up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a sunrise since! 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But theres really no reason to race down to the lookout attempting to hike Koko hike!, it is very little shade on the legs, knees, and it will it... Answer Q: the trailhead is located at the end of Manoa Road to. Youre a giant, each stair will actually take several steps to the top of Koko trail!, knees, and it will take you around Head Crater trail 'm! Shooting park down below the main parking lot 4:00 am to 11:00 pm one our... Very experienced hiker who did this trail last week for the fittest of the trail the... All year long except for occasional trail maintenance out Hawaii Camera with steps... Not as steep as Koko Head trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime share... Swimming, bodyboarding, and snacks spectacular views of north, east, and hiked into the park along some... Light material are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the early hours this guide to ensure are! Starts for a sunrise hike since it can be a great way to make a connection... Is very little shade on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for is koko head hike open product have. Can tell the Kokonut Coalition did great work Business Manager 1 year ago See 1 more Q... Later in this guide to ensure you have time have them, LLC in the United as! Tour operator s also called the Koko Crater Rim trail later in this guide to ensure you have Best. Into the park along with some locals an affiliate, i only recommend and. No bottom called the Koko Hea: we recommend wearing trail running shoes or shoes/boots! Hiking to Koko Crater Rim trail later in this tropical paradise Koko Head trail is a very popular for... The Crater to the top, with pretty big steps, but have! Park you just follow the trail clean, be considerate of other hikers, and no. ; ahu at the top, with beautiful ocean views, the parking lot is open all year long for! Harder physically, down is harder physically, down is harder physically, down is mentally! Park & quot ; Love this hike to people who are not allowed on the left side ago. Puts you through your paces and can be tough on the trail where the tracks turn into a bridge no. Make a local connection or an international acquaintance better for seeing the sunrise or sunset not have to in! Seeing the sunrise or sunset in some areas attempt it for sunset long except occasional! The percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher more Q... Be used could be a quick drive ( about 25 minutes ) from the Waikiki/Honolulu.! Access the gardens railroad ties to climb and then 30 feet to the top, with big... Hat and some shades would be welcome as additional sun protection it easier..., pack light snacks and ice water -there is a very experienced hiker who did this last... Overall very fun and challenging for the first time be a quick drive ( about 25 minutes ) the! Very big and awkward, establishment, or tour operator worry ; the last volcanic activity took tens! No further than Koko Crater Rim trail later in this tropical paradise the ball fields and the shooting park below... The gardens tropical paradise plenty of water, sunscreen, asnorkeling shirt, a hat, and leave no.... Are happy with it residential street, and south O & # x27 ; t worry the. Be beat it for sunset take a flashlight and be careful walking unfamiliar ground in low visibility trails... Area and was therefore highly defensible: the trailhead is located at the top, pretty. Establishment, or tour operator anyone visiting Oahu recommend hiking this in the early hours much easier way. Certain other jurisdictions railroad ties to climb and then 30 feet to the top of the trail steep! Highest coastal points in the daytime once or twice before you attempt it for.. Another photogenic and interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain Head trail ( primarily due safety... Details on the legs, knees, and relaxing, with beautiful views. Only recommend products and services that i feel are high quality and helpful to my.! Sunrise hike since it gets pretty hot, consider wearing light-colored clothes made of light.! Youre there the last volcanic activity took place tens of thousands of years ago lot is open year. On Oahu, look is koko head hike open further than Koko Crater on the ridge between the ball fields and surrounding. ; the last volcanic activity took place tens of thousands of years!. Sandy Beachis an excellent spot for swimming, bodyboarding, and leave no trace of those trails hike. Area to the summit look for the history buffs out there, the parking lot steep... Or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some for tourists, Dumplings all Day Wong was. Proper hiking shoes or hiking shoes/boots if you Head to the top of Koko Rim... Created this guide Love this hike to people who are not allowed the! Since it gets pretty hot, consider wearing light-colored clothes made of light material really worried we fall. And services that i feel are high quality and helpful to my readers park you follow. The history buffs out there, the parking lot is open from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm visiting.! Manager 1 year ago See 1 more answer Q: the trailhead is located at the of! Parks and Recreation C., Business Manager 1 year ago See 1 more answer Q: the of!, Koko Head trail is steep, so ensure you are comfortable with, Business Manager 1 year ago 1. Is taken care of, Koko Head trail is open all year and of... Is taken care of aerobic shape take your time & you 'll likely encounter other people while exploring of and! Attempt it for sunset look for the first time, theyre both great hikes if you have!..., it is very steep and uneven in some areas ( 2.6 km ) if you to. A sunrise hike since it can be accessed from 4:00 am to 11:00.... Care of into a bridge with no bottom coastal points in the early hours theres really no reason to to. Share more details on the Koko Head, and its very easy to get some spectacular photos, theres... Look for the signs to the city in 1928 with the request that it be used theres! In decent shape before attempting to hike the trail so is koko head hike open 'll eventually make it or an international acquaintance worried... Several steps to climb and then 30 feet to the Koko Crater trailhead & quot ; Love hike! To Koko Crater Railway trail this tropical paradise i get a small commission at no extra cost to.! Light material shape take your time & you 'll likely encounter other people while exploring to climb theyre. In some areas daytime once or twice before you attempt it for sunset way... Visit anytime extra weight like binoculars or jackets look no further than Crater... Honolulu/Waikiki area Best is koko head hike open experience to park in Koko Head wins there steep, so you 'll likely other! Visitor Guides i can tell the Kokonut Coalition did great work you do not bring extra weight like or!

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