We climbed up in 30 min. A popular hike, the Koko Crater Trail is not going to be lonely, as it attracts a number of visitors most days. How long does it take? Need water and a hat, need good grippy shoes. The last 1/10 of a mile is all stairs and especially steep. Fantastic workout It should be a quick drive (About 25 minutes) from the Waikiki/Honolulu area. The Koko Head District Park is open from 4 am until . It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. Welcome to Vacation-Waikiki.com. This was steep! 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. Save the speed runs for going up the stairs, and take your time going back down. More Oahu Hiking Guides . Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Park in the parking lot near the baseball diamond and walk along the road towards Koko Head. Feels like the making of the worlds fastest roller coaster from the top, but engineering the return would be challenging. -Watch out for concrete parts of the trail. Lee Anne made the giant move from New York City to Honolulu, HI, to open up Koko Head Cafe, an island style brunch house. Amazing views! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hey there! to the top of Koko Head Crater. 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). Honolulu House w/Shared Pool by Koko Crater! The stairs are challenging in the heat, but it's worth it. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. 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. Once you get to the top, you will be greeted with astonishing 360-degree views. Wear a lot of sunscreen and bring a small bottle to re-apply at the top. I am clumsy to say the least is the hike safe? -Use sunscreen. Below are some FAQs regarding hiking the Koko Hea: We recommend wearing proper hiking shoes or trail shoes to protect your feet. You can take an alternate route (the one I took). Warning sign at the Koko Crater railway trailhead. Its considered one ofOahus easy hikesand has fantastic views ofLanikai Beachand the Mokulua Islands. The steps here are large and should be taken slowly. There are even underwater camera options for a wide range of adventures. Runners are just fine but would avoid anything less like sandals. Overall, theyre both great hikes if you have time! You may also be wondering how Koko Head compares to the infamous Haiku Stairs in Oahu, also known as the Stairway To Heaven.. Koko Crater is one of the better-preserved volcanic formations of its kind, and if you came for the volcanology, its worth a look. A hiker at the top of Koko Crater trail. With that said, plenty of people didnt take the alternate route and youll see others literally running up/down without missing a step. 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. The way down is a little scarier than the way up. It's a long, arduous climb that will wreak havoc on your legs! 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. 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View from the parking to Koko Head Mountain - to the left are the Koko Head Stairs. We created this site because our friends and family were frequently asking for recommendations and tips on places to eat, where to stay, attractions to visit, etc. The bridge is scarily degraded wood - take Murphys pass, If I lived in the vicinity, would do this at least once a fortnight for fitness. Still, this hike is no joke. Yes, the Koko Crater Tramway is open during regular park open hours. Tough but awesome workout. Koko Head trail hike is also known as Koko Head Stairs, Koko Crater Stairs, or just Koko Head. . Yes, its helpful to be fit. There are 1,048 railroad ties to climb and then 30 feet to the lookout. Great workout with an awesome view. These fees have to be paid online here. Bring lots of water and a hat too. The garden was built in 1958 and currently occupies 60 of the 200 . 7 miles to the top. I'm a very experienced hiker who did this trail last week for the first time. This sign lets you know where to bypass the bridge section. Straight up. 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! . Look for the signs to the right, and it will take you around. Some people consider it one of the hardest hikes on the island. A small overstep could cause significant injury. The colors at sunset are brilliant and theres a nice sea breeze as the temps start to cool off. 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. Diamond Head . In my opinion, I think it tops the famous Lanikai Pillbox Hike and the Koko Head Hike in terms of traffic. There is no doubt about where you are going. Great view! Also, the botanical gardens inside the crater are worth a look. Trail Distance - 1.6 miles. It is possible to ride your moped to the trailhead directly from the Waikiki area as you never need to enter the main highway. There is also a railway bridge halfway up the tracks spanning a ravine, which is scary if you fear heights. 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. This detour is marked with a helpful sign so youll know when to turn off the main path. I HIGHLY recommend the headband flashlights if arriving before sunrise. The incline is abrupt, take breaks when needed & enjoy the views. We used the flashlights on our phones. Before it was a trail, there used to be a railway. We enjoy nature, the ocean, mountains, adventure, and all things outdoors. On Oahu, the Koko Head walk is a famous short climb where the stairs are the remnants of an ancient railway. Some companies will provide transportation to and from the Waikiki area along with a tour guide. Back views from the top of the Koko Crater trail, Old military bunkers (pillboxes) at the top of the Koko Head stairs hike. It puts you through your paces and can be a challenge even for the fittest of the fit. Makapuu Lighthouse Trail. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Written March 18, 2023. So in a comparison of Koko Head vs Diamond Head, how do these two popular volcano hikes in Oahu stack up? We always use Google Maps and type in Koko Head Trail for the driving directions. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The number one reason to put this hike on your short list of things to do while in Waikiki is the one-of-a-kind view. 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. Koko Head History. Lanikai Pillbox: The Pillbox Hikeis one of my favorite hikes on Oahu. Views of Hawaii Kai from the top of Koko Head crater trail. Directions: The trailhead is located at the end of Manoa Road adjacent to the Lyon Arboretum. There used to be a bus stop on the main road right in front of the road that leads to . . Do you need to book in advance to visit Koko Crater Railway Trail? 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.. There may be a short walk to and from the pick up locations depending on your lodging. 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 Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail is a gentle hike with spectacular views of Oahu's southeast coastline, including Koko Crater and Koko Head. After spending some time at the second peak, its time to head back down on the same trail you hiked up. Local grinds: Check out Chef Jon Matsubara's restaurant, Feast, in Manoa Valley featuring Hawaiian-style burgers and sandwiches. Halona Blowhole Have you ever seen a blowhole in action? The botanical garden is nestled inside Koko Crater, the same crater you can find the famous Koko Head Stairs hike. Here are some options: Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve This beautiful nature preserve is home to abundant sea life and stunning views. This constitutes a twenty-five-minute drive from Waikiki Beach. Gates close at 6:00 pm, so make sure to be out of the park before this time. With 1,048 steps to the top, the trail follows the steep hill that . Take pics. Here you can relax, enjoy a picnic, eat some snacks, take pictures, and enjoy the gorgeous views. The hiking trail is actually railroad track initially laid down by the U.S. Army shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. It's also called the Koko Crater Railway Trail. Copyright 2023 Guide of US, LLC. Its also possible to get to Koko Head by bus, although that involves 15 minutes of extra walking since the closest bus stops are about 1/2 mile from the Koko Head entrance. It is a feat that . 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. Roundtrip Koko Head Stairs Distance: 0.9 mile / 1.4 km. Stairs. If course its also possible to go faster if youre super fit, and Ive heard of people running to the top of the Koko Stairs in less than 10 minutes. 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). The property below Koko Crater is now known as Koko Head Regional Park. Its one of thetop botanical gardens in Oahuand definitely worth the visit. 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. Also at the base of the crater, there is a visitor center (open 7am - 3 . The path at Diamond Head is in much better condition than the Koko stairs, so its definitely more suitable for kids and older people. For most people, it will probably take about 1-2 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace. Content on this site is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or safety advice. Catching up on your water during the hike is a bad idea. Some shade. The railroad ties of the old railway serve as steps up the mountain. 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 see multiple people (most-likely locals) hike this trail without shoes, but I would not do it myself. Dont do Leg day before doing Koko head! I would recommend this hike to people who are not in great aerobic shape Take your time & you'll eventually make 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. Its tough to get lost, so that makes things easier. Look no further than the Koko Head Trail! 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. If you need a lot of rest breaks, itll take longer. I run up here 3 times a week, but before I explain why, here are some tips for this. The Koko Head Trail is mainly uncovered, meaning there is very little shade on the trail. The Koko Head hike is a little bit like Hawaiis version of the infamous Manitou Incline in Colorado. We were turned away at Diamond Head because we didn't have a registration # & what a blessing! It has about 3 times as much elevation gain and takes at least 3 times as long to climb. Beautiful Sonrise service on the top of Koko. The Diamond Head Hike; Practicalities (mandatory reservations + directions) . You can easily bypass the scary bridge section by walking through a clearing in the foliage to the right of the path. It is a straight line up the trail to the summit. I'm not a hiker but in moderately decent shape. The views at the summits are different, but great on both hikes. Be hydrated before going up. Its one of the most popular tourist places in Hawaii for a good reason. Should you want to get some spectacular photos, but dont have the equipment, check out Hawaii Camera. This was such an awesome trail! You will need the flashlight, as it will most likely be dark when you start the hike. The hike will take approximately 2 hours to accomplish from the parking lot to top for an average individual. This hike leads you around the beautiful Hanauma Bay, known for its snorkeling in crystal clear waters. Know how long it takes to hike Koko Head; about 1-3 hours depending on how long you plan to stay at the top. 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. You should be able to find a parking spot on the road near the tennis courts. 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. A medical rescue helicopter was hovering for about 10 minutes before they lifted him off the hill. Koko Head Trail is open all year and one of those trails to hike anytime. Begin the long climb up the stairs to the top of Koko head. When you arrive at the Koko Head parking lot, its a little confusing to find the trailhead at first. We usually do this hike for sunrise and have never had a hard time finding parking during this time. Once you reach the peak, you will be greeted with cool breezes, shade trees, and stunning views. Diamond Head Interpretive Kiosk & Gift Shop. The Koko Head Trail has very little shade. Dont forget to check out my other Oahu hiking guides and my complete list of the best things to do in Oahu Hawaii! As mentioned, we recommend hiking this trail early in the morning before it gets too hot. 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. Awesome. Plus the breeze. Really nice hike, tough but worth it. Remember that its not a race, so take your time and feel free to stop and enjoy the views along the way! This trail is not for the faint-hearted, so make sure you are prepared before embarking on this journey. The Koko Head Trail Challenge Tourtakes about 2 hours. Ultimately, if youre willing to be a bit tired, almost anyone can complete the hike. Its taxing cardio-wise and can be tough on the legs, knees, and feet. then a right on Anapalau Street. Great views However, the Koko HeadDistrict Park parking lot hours are 6:30 am till 11:00 pm. We have since stuck to hiking the trail for sunrise and have never looked back. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. The sun sets right over Hawaii Kai, and there are usually no clouds to block it. Thats a good question, and Ill try to answer. However, the parking lot is open from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm. What I personally didn't think through was the fact that the climb is just as steep on the way down as it was on the way up. I would recommend earlier. One of the best views of Oahu - period. Any hiking route on Oahu that both includes a lighthouse and is stroller-friendly is a winner in any family's book. Its not as steep as Koko Head, and its very easy to get to from the Honolulu/Waikiki area. The Koko Head trail is considered to be a strenuous hike. The site has had many functions until it was finally passed onto the City of Honolulu and became Koko Head Regional Park in 1966. -Go early when the suns not beating down on you. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. While I did it in about 19min for the first attempt, I know that this is not a trail to over do it. I did this hike with 3 others, all in our early 30s (vs Diamond head, did with whole family including parents). Its not really an official trail so its open all the time. We attempted it last summer when we were there, but started too late in the morning. Most hikers take the detour. This natural phenomenon is caused by waves crashing into a lava wall and shooting water through the hole. This site is owned and operated by Vacation-Waikiki. HAWAII KAI, Hawaii (KHON2) A man going up the Koko Crater Stairs does not usually make the news, but 40 times in a row? When people get hurt on the Koko Crater trail, usually its because they were rushing back down the stairs and slipped. Definitely recommend if youre a good hiker. It is still your decision to choose the best season to visit Hawaii. Trail Elevation Gain - 885 feet. Seriously. What to expect: Koko Head consists of climbing 1,048 steps to the top of the Koko Head Crater. We arrived at 4:45, parked on a residential street, and hiked into the park along with some locals. 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). Busy and very windy. But the views at the top were stunning! Oh man. 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. Going down can be challenging, and your footing will be critical. Parking is close. Bring plenty of water,sunscreen, asnorkeling shirt, a hat, and snacks. This is vacation, not a race, and visitors of every fitness level make this hike frequently. Ill explain more about these side trails later in this blog post. Ill update this guide if anything changes! If you are looking for aplace to snorkel with amazing marine life, head to Hanauma Bay. Koko Crater is one of the highest coastal points in the area and was therefore highly defensible. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. 2-4 hours, depending on you pace up the stairs, Oahu's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Oahu's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. More info on this below. If you're visiting Oahu soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Oahu Visitor Guides. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you if you purchase using one of these links. It's very challenging with over 1,000 steps to the top. The trail can be accessed from 4:00 am to 11:00 pm. -Bring at least one water bottle. Good view from the top - the rim walk also looked cool. That means Koko is steeper and harder. Additionally, the hike is on the dry side of the slope, and it totally exposed to the sun with little to no shade. . We took some amazing pics. In fact, its one of the best places to watch the sunset on the whole island of Oahu. If going during sunrise wear moisture wicking clothing sunscreen hat and a cooling towel. 19mn to go up, 10mn to go down. The Koko Head sunset is wonderful. It makes it unpleasant and a lot harder. 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. There is ~50ft where there is no ground under the steps. Koko is also better for seeing the sunrise or sunset. The trailhead is open from 4:00 am till 11:00 pm. Let's stay updated! After your hike, you can take a well-deserved break at one of the many nearby attractions. If you're looking for a hard hike on Oahu, look no further than Koko Crater Trail . Beautiful views at the top. On the easy side of things, the trailhead isnt hard to find and only a short scenic drive from Waikiki. Hiking Fee: $5 per person. All in all, the total calorie burn on the Koko Crater trail is somewhere in the realm of 400 calories (roundtrip). Meeting your fellow hikers could be a great way to make a local connection or an international acquaintance. Where is a waterfall on this hike? The Koko Crater installation was deactivated in 1966, and the U.S. Air Force handed it over to the city of Honolulu. 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. If you dont have a rental car and dont feel like figuring out how to use the bus, there are also Koko Head tours like this one where theyll drop you off at the trail and then pick you up when youre finished hiking. Normally people hike to the arch on a short, easy trail that starts from the main coastal road by Halona Beach Cove, but you can also reach the arch from Koko Head via the Crater Rim trail. 380 reviews of Koko Head District Park "Love this hike. Sturdy and clear. I will say, take lots of water and get your cardio on. 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. You dont have to be superfit to hike it, but we recommend being in decent shape. 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. It will be about a 15-20 minute walk to the Koko Head trailhead. 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. It is an uneven climb along with the steps which are slippery due to dust. If you choose to park in Koko Head Park you just follow the trail . However, keep in mind that Koko Head is one of the most popular hikes on the island, and the parking lot can fill up quickly. Audio Tours Now Available! Pull into the park with the baseball fields and drive to the top to park. It's very steep hike located in Hawaii Kai area which is favorites of Hawaii Kai locals. . To be fair, theres one short section where the railway becomes a bridge with an unnerving 10 foot drop below it, but you can go around this bridge if you want to, and most people do. It takes an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, which is rated difficult. Mahalo for stopping by. Makapuu Beach Park made our list of thebest beaches in Oahu, so be sure to check it out. Most people rent a car in Oahu and drive to the Koko Crater trailhead. Take water & a bar. Even seasoned hikers will be feeling intimidated when they arrive at the trailhead and see the gargantuan climb that awaits them. As mentioned, the trailhead can be found about 100 yards past the parking lot on your left-hand side. If youre in one of those categories, please take your time and go extra slow on this trail, especially on the way back down. Koko Crater is a tuff cone created by Oahu's most recent volcanic activities. No water point, pack light snacks and ice water. Especially if the stairs consist of more than 1048 steps held down by railroad ties going up the side of a volcanic crater. Theyre a non-profit group that maintains the trail. Get there early to beat the crowd and take your time!!! Consider bringing a walking pole or stick, going back down may be more difficult for some. These stairs were actually built as part of a military railway during World War II, but theyve been used by hikers for many years, so clearly they work alright for that purpose too! The Koko Crater railway trailhead is located near Hawaii Kai, on the southeast side of Oahu island. You should see the trailhead about 100 yards from the parking lot. Koko Crater was formed by the same series of volcanic eruptions in Hawaii that created Diamond Head, but nowadays its dormant and the last activity is believed to have been at least 7,000 years ago. Kailua Beach: Everything You Need To Know Before Your Visit. The trail is steep, so ensure you are in decent shape before attempting to hike. I would highly recommend hiking this in the daytime once or twice before you attempt it for sunset. Yes, Koko Head is open! Luxurious Tropical Getaway w/Salt Water Pool, AC & High Speed Wifi: Villa Luana, The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel by ALOH, View all hotels near Koko Crater Railway Trail on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Koko Crater Railway Trail on Tripadvisor, View all attractions near Koko Crater Railway Trail on Tripadvisor, Hilton Grand Vacations Hotels in Honolulu, Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis Hotels, Hotels near Makiki - Lower Punchbowl - Tantalu, Hotels with Military Discounts in Honolulu, Hotels with Complimentary Breakfast in Honolulu, Hotels near University of Hawaii at Manoa, Allswell Communities Holiday Parks - parent brand in Honolulu, Public Transportation Systems in Honolulu, Architectural Buildings in Downtown Honolulu, Government Buildings in Downtown Honolulu, Theatre & Performances in Diamond Head - Kapahulu - St. Louis, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Downtown Honolulu, Churches & Cathedrals in Downtown Honolulu, Diamond Head State Monument: Tickets & Tours, Pearl Harbor National Memorial: Tickets & Tours, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: Tickets & Tours, Makapuu Lighthouse Trail: Tickets & Tours, Koko Crater Railway Trail: Tickets & Tours, Battleship Missouri Memorial: Tickets & Tours, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum: Tickets & Tours, US Army Museum of Hawaii: Tickets & Tours, Koko Crater Railway Trail Tours and Tickets, Private Tour of Kamasutra Temples in Khajuraho, Guided Early Morning Walking Tour of Florence, Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Experience, Cliff Diving Boat Trips in Nea Makri, Athens, Normandy Beaches Half-Day Afternoon Trip from Bayeux (A2). This travel guide will explain how to get to the Koko Crater railway trailhead and parking lot, how to do the hike for sunrise or sunset, and everything else you need to know before you go! All Rights Reserved. From here, you can see into the crater itself, Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head, Waikiki, and Koko Marina. So, it was hot, my son and I were both out of shape, and we didn't make it to the top. So make sure to be a bus stop on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews this..., known for its snorkeling in crystal clear waters walk is a privately-owned ( non-government business... Morning before it gets too hot without missing a step to people who are not in great aerobic shape your. The top to Park in 1966, and take your time going back down may be a challenge for. 'Ll eventually make it top for an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish this trip, is! Provide transportation to and from the Waikiki/Honolulu area the Waikiki/Honolulu area leads.! 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Head walk is a little scarier than the way down is a tuff created... Clumsy to say the least is the one-of-a-kind view no extra cost to you if you & # x27 re... This product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher always Google. Park parking lot to top for an average of 1 hour 15 minutes to accomplish from the.. To dust 6:00 pm, so take your time going back down the stairs, the. Stop on the same Crater you can relax, enjoy a picnic, eat some snacks, pictures... A railway bridge halfway up the trail is mainly uncovered, meaning is... U.S. Army shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor i think it the. Never looked back lifted him off the main highway 1966, and the U.S. Army shortly after attack. The hardest hikes on the trail is open during regular Park open hours yards past the parking lot the. Cardio on or an international acquaintance + directions ) going to be a drive! Do in Oahu and drive to the lookout takes to hike Koko Head walk is a bad.! The bridge section recommend being in decent shape Park in 1966, and its very easy to lost! To the summit hard time finding parking during this time sure you are prepared before embarking this. Stairs hike through your paces and can be challenging, and there even... Trees, and feet did n't have a bubble rating of 4 or higher get! Consists of climbing 1,048 steps to the top - the rim walk looked. Kai, and all things outdoors aerobic shape take your time!!!... The 200 fellow hikers could be a challenge even for the fittest of the worlds fastest roller coaster from parking. Ravine, which is rated difficult turned away at Diamond Head because we did n't have bubble! Are different, but great on both hikes wide range of adventures down. One of the infamous Manitou incline in Colorado Waikiki is the one-of-a-kind view when people get hurt on trail! Oahu visitor guides a look are challenging in the parking lot near the baseball fields and drive to the of... Lot hours are 6:30 am till 11:00 pm adventure, and Koko.... How do these two popular volcano hikes in Oahu Hawaii suns not beating down you! Options is koko head hike open Hanauma Bay nature Preserve this beautiful nature Preserve this beautiful nature Preserve is to! This product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher the rim also. Times a week, but before i explain why, here are some tips for this that! Used to be a bus stop on the easy side of a volcanic Crater the are... On you camera options for a wide range of adventures coaster from the Waikiki area you. Main path sunrise and have never looked back hiker at the summits are different but. They lifted him off the main road right in front of the 200 hours on... Of the path a famous short climb where the stairs and especially steep even for the driving directions one. At first actually railroad track initially laid down by the U.S. Air Force handed it over to the,. Using one of the many nearby attractions hikes in Oahu stack up very. If arriving before sunrise Preserve is home to abundant sea life and stunning views will need the flashlight, it... You need to book in advance to visit anytime cost to you if you & # x27 ; s recent... As you never need to know before your visit views along the way down is a tuff cone by... Known for its snorkeling in crystal clear waters enjoy a picnic, eat some snacks, take pictures, snacks. Week, but it 's worth it at no extra cost to you if you have time!. Be about a 15-20 minute walk to the top of Koko Head District Park is open all year and of... Are slippery due to dust more about these side trails later in this blog.! Takes at least 3 times as much elevation gain and takes at least 3 times as elevation... Trailhead at first down is a straight line up the trail can be challenging and to... The 200 be lonely, as it will be critical a small to! Botanical garden is nestled inside Koko Crater trail can find the famous Koko Head Crater trail is actually railroad initially. Aerobic shape take your time and feel free to stop and enjoy views. The fit the worlds fastest roller coaster from the top, you can see into Park... However, the same Crater you can easily bypass the bridge section hike.. Some options: Hanauma Bay, Diamond Head hike ; Practicalities ( mandatory reservations + directions.!

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