So yesterday, my bff and I went on a rather daunting hike, Kuli’ou’ou Ridge. It starts off easily enough, set under the shade of the multiple trees, it’s nice being out of the sun… multiple switchbacks which makes for a slow incline to start, but once you reach the picnic tables (yes there’s a roofed picnic area) the hike goes from fancy free to the seventh level of hell.

The remainder of the hike is a massive incline up the mountain side, mostly stairs. You’re above the level of the trees, at this point most of the greenery is shrubs offering no respite from the blazing sun. At this point you’re high enough to walk through and sometimes above a few clouds.

But, if you can tough it out (it’s about 2.25 miles to the top) the view is spectacular and absolutely worth the hike.

The view from the top. Waimanalo side.

The Hawaii Kai side.

Absolutely stunning, and absolutely worth it. Just a few words of advice though, if you decide to do this hike, I suggest starting relatively early, that way when you’ve reached the second half (aka the seventh level of hell) it won’t be too hot under the blazing Hawaiian sun. Also, I recommend bringing water, and lots of it. While you’re doing the first half, although you’ll be protected front he sun under the shade of the lovely trees, it does get quite muggy, and humid, which leads to muddy bits and mosquitos. I recommend good shoes and mosquito repellent. Also, sunscreen.

It should also be mentioned that it is a hunting area. You should check the mailbox at the start of the trail to see if there are any hunters in the area as a precaution. I usually tend to hike during the week, so I haven’t had to share the trail with any of them, however there were a handful of hunters that checked in over the weekend. There are two trails, a valley and a ridge trail, and I think that most of the hunters stick to the valley trail as I’ve never seen any wildlife or game of any kind on the ridge hike.

Until next time my lovelies! Stay classy!