Kamiloiki Ridge to Makapuu Lookout (July 2, 2011)

Our Na Pali Coast / Kalalau camping trip is in less than two weeks, and most of our crew has been strength and endurance training (with the exception of Jenelyn Castillo). Thus, today was “Make Jen C. carry a full-pack” day. hehe. Lost Trailblazers, Jen C., Justin Ugalino and I, met up in Hawaii Kai and decided to do the Kamiloiki Ridge Trail to Makapuu Lookout since none of us had done this route before, and we’ve heard wasn’t too difficult. We parked one car near the end of Makakuena Pl. (start) and another at the upper parking lot of Makapuu Lookout… the same parking lot as the Makapuu Crag for rock climbing.

The trail starts on the west side of Pahua Heiau.

Walk through the Haole Koa and dried california grass where there should be flags marking a distinct trail to the top of the ridge.

Once on the ridge, you will immediately be treated to gorgeous views of Koko Crater and Kuapa Fishpond… (Justin appreciating the scenery above).

Jen taking a break from carrying her 22lb pack. Me screwing around on a small boulder overhang.

The elevation change is somewhat slow, but the exposed ridge has little canopy/shade until the upper part of the ridge.

There you will encounter forest of Ironwood trees, amongst other tall-growing non-native trees.

You will remain in shade until you reach the summit, where you will again be treated to a spectacular view, this time of the Koolaus, Olomana and Waimanalo.

And of course, time to pop open a Boddingtons Pub Ale (Note my sizable pack, lol)! Please exercise caution while consuming alcohol on hikes or any other physical activity. Alcohol can dehydrate you and affect your balance, as well as exhibit poor decision making.

Now on the Koolau Summit Trail (KST), we started heading towards Makapuu.

Jenelyn and Justin having some fun on the hang gliding / paragliding launch-platform. Me foolin’ around in a puka, further down the ridge trail.

Jenelyn and Justin above Makapuu. Rabbit Island (Manana Island) in the background.

Since we started so late on the trail (~130pm) and were carrying heavy packs, we finished just before sunset. If you decide to do this trail, make sure to start earlier and carry plenty of water as it somewhat long and has little shade. However, it is not a difficult trail and may be moderate or intermediate trail to regular hikers. There is are far too many 360 degree views, so make sure not to get too distracted while on the trail… there are quite a few narrow areas with loose gravel, where one could slip easily.

Kamehame Ridge, which joins up with the same part of the KST near the hang gliding / paragliding launch, is also a nice and convenient place to watch the moonrise… however I do not suggest this unless you have experience with hiking at night. If you do decide to go, make sure to take warm clothes and a headlamp, amongst your other necessary hiking gear.

To view this location on a Google Map also known as my “Adventure Map“, Click Here. For more adventures of the Lost Trailblazers, either look at my other blogposts and “Adventures with the Lost Trailblazers” photo gallery.