Waiakeakua Ridge to Koolau Summit to Manoa Middle Loop – April 2012

Waiakeakua Stream is one of the most scenic valley hikes in Honolulu. Rumors of there being a ridge extension beyond the falls were validated, as we (Stephanie, Kay and I) continued up the ridgeline between the two stream forks of Upper Waiakeakua. We then intersected the Koolau Summit Trail, headed north towards Konahuanui and came down Manoa Middle Ridge (adjacent ridgeline) to loop back near our starting point. An amazing combination of summmit, ridge, valley, stream and waterfalls in one compact hike.

There are several entrances to Waiakeakua, but the most popular is probably access is from the Puu Pia Trailhead. Just before the incline to summit Puu Pia, there is a steep, indistinct downhill trail junction off to the right. Within 10 minutes after reaching the bottom of the steep trail, you’ll reach this stream crossing, which is next to a deep bathing pool (right).

Just adjacent the steps and above the bathing pool is the first waterfall. You may miss it, as the trail does not cross it.

There may or may not be pink and orange ribbons marking stream crossings, but the trail should be apparent until after the 3rd stream crossing, where you will either rock-hop or hike on the stream banks…

Until you encounter a compact series of step-pools and waterfalls (left)… We hiked along the right side of the stream, until reaching the 1st sizable waterfall (right). The 1st and 3rd step-pools are deep enough to swim in, but not for jumping… at least safely.

The falls can either be climbed up, but it appears the ropes have been significantly worn from extended use. Be careful if you choose to climb, as it is also extremely slippery. I used a safer bypass route, which contours around the left side of the falls, through the ginger just before the pool… There were orange ribbons marking the faint swath, but may not be apparent or present for others in the future… which leads you to the larger of the two sizable falls…

The 60 footer… Again, there is an old rope present which appears to have a secure anchor, though is fairly worn from use. If you choose to use it, try not to put your full weight on it unless you really have to. Rely on your footing, as slippery as it may be. Note, the photo on the left (and at the top) is a sequence photo, and NOT multiple hikers on the same rope. You should never have more than one person on a rope at the same time while hiking, unless absolutely necessary.

Once above the falls, we followed the stream for about 10 minutes until we reached a 25-30 foot waterfall (we also passed a 15 foot waterfall prior, which can be climbed directly up the middle or contoured). There were orange ribbons which contoured right, and above the waterfall (left). The ribbons continued up, next to a “downed” tree where we encountered several roped, muddy sections.

The trail, or swath, veered to the ridgeline which separate the two upper stream forks of Waiakeakua.

There were several large Koa Trees along the trail, of which one I climbed. The view of Honolulu from the canopy was spectacular. the view of the crew at the base of the tree was equally as amazing.

Near the top the gradient became considerably steep, but the crew was determined to receive a clear view of the windward side, which was just minutes away…

Summit!!!

As you may have noticed in the title, the adventure does not end here as we continued north along the Koolau Summit Trail…

…to the terminus and junction of the Manoa Middle Ridge… Where we rejoiced, snacked and popped several cans of ice-cold Boddingtons.

After appreciating the view for what felt like 30 minutes, it was time to head down the middle ridge. Looking back, we could see the wide swath on Waiakeakua Ridge. Crazy…

The middle ridge was fairly well kept and much more mildly graded, when compared to ridge we had just been on at Waiakeakua.

That is, until the ridge terminates through a steep grove of strawberry guava. Clear sailing from here on out! Though being the first time hiking with this group, it was with no doubt an epic adventure I will never forget. Mahalo nui loa for coming out Stephanie, Kay and Jason, and for being an awesome crew!

Waiakeakua Ridge to the Koolau Summit is an advanced trail, and includes several slick waterfall climbs. These climbs can be challenging for some, but being prepared with the appropriate footwear will help you significantly on these sections. I strongly recommend a combination of felt-bottomed and/or spiked footwear, for those who haven’t encountered such obstacles before. I personally find that cleated, felt-bottomed tabis work best for stream and waterfall hikes, but supplement them with crampon/microspikes for steep, muddy sections the trail. The route we took can take between ~5-7 hours, depending on the size of your group, as it will take more time for a larger group to advance past the waterfall sections.

Questions??? Just ask!! If not, stay safe out there and happy hiking!

To view this location on a Google Map also known as my “Adventure Map“, Click Here. To view the photo gallery, CLICK HERE. For more adventures of the Lost Trailblazers, either look at my other blogposts and “Adventures with the Lost Trailblazers” photo gallery. Thanks for visiting and come back again soon!