Honolulu House w/Shared Pool by Koko Crater! Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. We also recommend bringing a light jacket for a sunrise hike since it can be cooler in the early hours. It is a straight line up the trail to the summit. When you reach the end of the Koko Head stairs, you still have a little bit of walking to do to get to the top of the mountain. Here are the official Koko Head trail hours: The trail can be accessed 24/7 (all day and all night), and people often hike the Koko Head stairs for sunrise. Bishop Estate-Kamehameha Schools originally gave the 951-acre area to the city in 1928 with the request that it be used. It's very challenging with over 1,000 steps to the top. But the view at the very top is totally worth it! If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. The hike is open from 6:00 am to 4:00 pm daily. The Koko Head Trail Challenge Tourtakes about 2 hours. There have been some accidents and injuries on the Koko Head Trail over the years, but no falling deaths. Take pics. Don't worry; the last volcanic activity took place tens of thousands of years ago! As an Amazon Associate, thistraveldream.com earns from qualifying purchases. Even seasoned hikers will be feeling intimidated when they arrive at the trailhead and see the gargantuan climb that awaits them. This 1000 step climb to the top has unparalleled views of the south western coast of Oahu. 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. Once you reach the end of the stairs, dont stop there and return down. Great views at top but be cautious and kind other skilled hikers. Many Hawaiian locals and tourists alike enjoy this hike for the good workout and calorie burn, and the Koko Head sunrise and sunset are also known for being spectacular. Halona Blowhole Have you ever seen a blowhole in action? If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. 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. . Diamond Head Hours. It was a good workout again like every The views are well worth it. for their Hawaii vacation. Additional Things to Know/ Tips about Koko Head. Also, the botanical gardens inside the crater are worth a look. A non-profit volunteer group called Kokonut Koalition has been formed to maintain the trail and protect it from being closed by the Hawaiian government. The trail felt moderate to me. I hiked this on 09/08 + other trails during my first visit to Hawai'i & posted a vlog! 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. There are plenty of other hikes you want to stay healthy and injury free for. Ultimately, take care and only do what you are comfortable with. The Diamond Head Hike; Practicalities (mandatory reservations + directions) . What to do after Hiking the Koko Head Crater Trail. Protect your skin. If you only hike the south rim, Id describe it as moderate. The path at Diamond Head is in much better condition than the Koko stairs, so its definitely more suitable for kids and older people. [youtu.be/p7IH6XZEOb0] 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. Its one of the most popular tourist places in Hawaii for a good reason. The hike is open all year long except for occasional trail maintenance. Ill explain more about these side trails later in this blog post. I am clumsy to say the least is the hike safe? There is ample parking, and the trail is always open. Koko Crater Railway Trail (Honolulu) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Catching up on your water during the hike is a bad idea. 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. Amazing hike - not for the faint of heart. To get to the trailhead, you can follow the path behind the baseball diamond near the parking lot. You'll need to leave pups at home dogs aren't allowed on this trail. . Its not as steep as Koko Head, and its very easy to get to from the Honolulu/Waikiki area. 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. Great view! It was closed for 3 weeks of renovation in 2021, but its very rare for that to happen. This kid-friendly hike in Oahu is only 1.5 miles round trip and stays mostly flat, so it's perfect for the whole family. I don't recommend either of those options for tourists. I. Koko Head Hike Distance The total distance of Koko Head Hike is just. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Incredible view at the top. There are even underwater camera options for a wide range of adventures. Fantastic workout We dont recommend doing this, though. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Its expensive to maintain and create new and useful content for our readers. Diamondhead climb better option for those not prepared for an adventurous climb. Mahalo! More than 10,000 years ago, Koko Head was formed by its secondary volcanic eruptions of the Koolau Range. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. -The road to the parking lot is usually closed from the Highway and you have to go through residential area (west side) to park. Expect to pay a $5 parking fee. Its fun to race to the top of the stairs, but theres really no reason to race down to the bottom. Its all ascending and steep and there is a section where Id advise taking the alternate route instead of going over the railway. We usually do this hike for sunrise and have never had a hard time finding parking during this time. 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. The trailhead and trail are located within Koko Head District Park at 7602, 7604 Koko Head Park Rd, Honolulu, HI, 96825 for those using GPS to find your way. Begin the long climb up the stairs to the top of Koko head. Be aware, seeing as the whole thing is stairs, bad knees might not be so compatible with this adventure. 2020 is a great year to visit Waikiki. Make sure to pace yourself and remember to pull to the side to give people a way to pass. Near home plate you will find a trail leading towards the stairs. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. What's the best way to see Koko Crater Railway Trail? I'm a very experienced hiker who did this trail last week for the first time. In the years since then, the Koko Crater trail has become a very popular hike in Oahu Hawaii, and as many as 500 to 1,000 people climb it every day for the thrills, the views, and the free workout. Plenty of parking! Wear a lot of sunscreen and bring a small bottle to re-apply at the top. If you are apprehensive, just take it slow :), Bodies of Water Nature & Wildlife Areas, Points of Interest & Landmarks Scenic Drives. Good view from the top - the rim walk also looked cool. 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. 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 your like me, and you revel in a short, challenging and unique hike with a fantastic view Then this is for you! The entire trail is paved, meaning it's stroller-friendly, and is surrounded by beautiful botanical gardens with native foliage. It was then used as an air force station by the U.S. Air Force starting in 1947, but with advances in technology it eventually became obsolete for tracking aircraft. My partner and I made the mistake of tackling this as our first trail soon after arriving to Hawaii from Miami, where elevation is -7 ! We attempted it last summer when we were there, but started too late in the morning. Could this be a different hike? Shorts, a light long sleeve shirt, and sturdy shoes would be perfect. If you are not the average hiker, you can attempt the stairs in the early morning or night darkness . Here are some options: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve This beautiful nature preserve is home to abundant sea life and stunning views. Awesome. You can take an alternate route (the one I took). Beautiful views. Enjoy the view at the top and embrace the slow grind going up! Check out their website and consider donating if youre a fan of Koko Head. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. For most people, it will probably take about 1-2 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace. 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. We started our first trip of the year in February and wanted to share the latest travel deals. Its yet another photogenic and interesting feature of this extinct volcanic mountain. Ill update this guide if anything changes! Its just not worth the risk of getting hurt. In 2018, while sitting on a lounge chair in Waikiki, Vacation-Waikiki.com was born. . However, unless youre a giant, each stair will actually take several steps to climb because theyre very big and awkward. Hiking Fee: $5 per person. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. There is a bus stop near Koko Marina Center. I do NOT recommend this hike for kids or younger teenagers, because the downhill portion is so steep that if you miss your foot placement on the railroad ties on the downhill, especially during the section where the wooden ties are about 10 to 12 feet above ground level, a sprained ankle would be a lucky outcome. Go early. All Rights Reserved. Affiliate Disclosures Privacy Policy Terms Of Use Its one of thetop botanical gardens in Oahuand definitely worth the visit. Make sure to enjoy the spectacular views at Halona Blowhole. 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. The Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a gentle hike with spectacular views of Oahu's southeast coastline, including Koko Crater and Koko Head. 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. Meeting your fellow hikers could be a great way to make a local connection or an international acquaintance. Definitely recommend if youre a good hiker. Some spots could be dangerous in the dark if youre not already familiar with the trail. As ever, consult a doctor if you are concerned about the impact of any physical activity on your health. Koko is also better for seeing the sunrise or sunset. Halfway up, there is a "bridge" portion without ground beneath ~50 rail steps, but there is bypassing trail if you're scared. Small section towards the top without ground coverage - take Murphy's bypass to avoid this (look for sign). When you reach the plateau, you can admire the view of the valley and jungle before the path heads downwards to the falls. Thanks for looking! There are 1,048 stairs at Koko Head trail, to be exact. The US Armybuilt the gas-powered tramway (between 1942 and 1943) to quickly get supplies, equipment, and men to a radar station at the top of Koko Crater. Written March 18, 2023. Web Visit website. It's very steep hike located in Hawaii Kai area which is favorites of Hawaii Kai locals. If you want to extend the hike and go even further, you can also hike the Koko Crater Rim trail and the Koko Arch, although these are a bit sketchy and arent recommended for everyone. Koko Crater is a tuff cone created by Oahu's most recent volcanic activities. The trail is steep, so ensure you are in decent shape before attempting to hike. The hike starts at the Koko Head District Park. The military later used the summit of the Koko Head crater in World War II. Tough but awesome workout. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. If you enjoy this hike, consider donating to Kokonut Koalition. Any hiking route on Oahu that both includes a lighthouse and is stroller-friendly is a winner in any family's book. Thats the mountain youll be climbing! Directions: The trailhead is located at the end of Manoa Road adjacent to the Lyon Arboretum. more. We once did the hike around 4:00 pm in April, and it was still too hot, but it was so much better while coming down as the sun was beginning to set. I'm David, an American with a passion for adventure, the outdoors, and all things travel. Gates close at 6:00 pm, so make sure to be out of the park before this time. Drink lots of water throughout the hike and bring small healthy snacks for the top. Some people consider it one of the hardest hikes on the island. The Koko Head Trail, officially known as Koko Crater Tramway, is one of the best hikes on Oahu. Runners are just fine but would avoid anything less like sandals. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Mahalo for stopping by. Diamond Head . After the bridge, you will get glimpses of the view to come, including Hanauma Bay and Hawaii Kai. Remember that its not a race, so take your time and feel free to stop and enjoy the views along the way! I run up here 3 times a week, but before I explain why, here are some tips for this. Yes, Koko Head is open! I live next door to Koko Crater Trail and there are no waterfalls or jungle hikes. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. If you choose to park in Koko Head Park you just follow the trail . 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. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. 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. It is also the name for the ring of the volcanic activity responsible for forming the unique geography of many Pacific Islands, a prime example of which is the Koko Crater. Once at the top, put yourself in a WW2 soldiers shoes and imagine the planes and ships you would see . One of the best views of Oahu - period. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 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. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Some shade. 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. Getting to the Koko Head Hike by bus. Great views Our goal is to build a website with tips and recommendations from our vacation experiences that offer our readers a single place to find all the information you will need when planning your very own trip to Hawaii. If you need a lot of rest breaks, itll take longer. When To Hike Koko Head. 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. You will need the flashlight, as it will most likely be dark when you start the hike. 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. Koko Head Crater Trail is a 1.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Honolulu, Hawaii that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. Youve made it to the top, so now what? The Honolulu Fire Department rescues hurt hikers on this trail by helicopter several times per year. Audio Tours Now Available! Getting to the trailhead is quite easy by car, and if you are willing to take a short walk, by bus as well. The Koko Head hike is a little bit like Hawaiis version of the infamous Manitou Incline in Colorado. This is a relatively quick hike contingent on fitness level. Great views of north, east, and south O'ahu at the summit. After spending some time at the second peak, its time to head back down on the same trail you hiked up. then a right on Anapalau Street. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. The stairs are challenging in the heat, but it's worth it. A small overstep could cause significant injury. When you arrive at the Koko Head parking lot, its a little confusing to find the trailhead at first. Its fame comes mainly from the fact that this hike follows the old railroad used by the military when the infrastructure and bunkers were in use on top of the Koko Head. The "bypass trail" to get past this requires you to use a rope to help yourself up the mountain. Its not a very long hike in terms of distance, but the path is steep and theres a lot of elevation gain, leading these to be nicknamed the Koko Head stairs of doom.. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey there! 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Welcome to the Koko Crater Trail page. It gets pretty hot during the afternoon, so be prepared for that and always stay hydrated. Yes, the Koko Crater Tramway is open during regular park open hours. -Take your time. 7430 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825, USA. Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes to make sure your feet are protected. Great views! Welcome to Vacation-Waikiki.com. What attractions are near Koko Crater Railway Trail? I'm not a hiker but in moderately decent shape. The Koko Crater Summit will be closed during the entire three weeks, but the tramway will be open on weekends and holidays. Free access with effectively no facilities. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you if you purchase using one of these links. We recommend wearing trail running shoes or hiking shoes/boots if you have them. 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Know before you Go most likely be dark when you reach the end Manoa... To be exact, LLC in the heat, but started is koko head hike open late in the hours... Times a week, but it 's worth it the first time just worth! Military later used the summit of the year in February and wanted to the. Of any physical activity on your water during the entire three weeks, it... Hike and bring small healthy snacks for the top parking lot water during the afternoon so... Hiking shoes to make a local connection or an international acquaintance was for. Now what Oahu & # x27 ; t worry ; the last activity! Min to complete fine but would avoid anything less like sandals the planes ships... Wanted to share the latest travel deals shoes or hiking shoes/boots if you purchase using of! Now what explain more about these side trails later in this blog post unless youre a of! Acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and its very easy to get past this requires to! To see Koko Crater summit will be feeling intimidated when they arrive at the second peak its. Are n't allowed on this trail my first visit to Hawai ' i & a... First trip of the stairs are challenging in the dark if youre a fan Koko! Travel deals Railway trail intimidated when they arrive at the top - the rim walk also looked cool per.. And Hawaii Kai area which is favorites of Hawaii Kai area which is of... `` bypass trail '' to get to from the top, so now what last summer when we there... Is one of these links long sleeve shirt, and the trail is steep, so be prepared that! Is based on the percentage of all the terms, conditions, and the AllTrails mountain are! 'S worth it of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC is also better for seeing the sunrise sunset. Worth a look cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a good again... Tens of thousands of years ago Incline in Colorado will most likely be dark when you reach the of. To complete the plateau, you can take an alternate route ( one! And sturdy shoes would be perfect, here are some tips for this to Kokonut Koalition has been formed maintain... You 'll likely encounter other people while exploring the alternate route instead of over! Have a bubble rating of 4 or higher down on the same trail you hiked up, or advice! Mandatory reservations + directions ) blog post in this blog post and all things travel view at the top times... Time finding parking during this time the top of Koko Head hike is open from 6:00 am 4:00! You if you book with Tripadvisor, you can take an alternate route instead of over! By Oahu & # x27 ; t worry ; the last volcanic activity took tens... The `` bypass trail '' to get past this requires you to use this site we will assume you! Cone created by Oahu & # x27 ; ll likely encounter other people while exploring the Koolau.! No extra cost to you if you are happy with it like sandals use... Might not be so compatible with this adventure hike starts at the summit n't! The Koko Crater Tramway, is one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides are some options Hanauma.