Koko Crater Trail
This hiking trail, which spans about 2 miles of Koko Crater in the Windward Coast region of Oahu and includes more than 1,000 stairs made from abandoned railroad ties, is the most popular attraction on the island. Hikers will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Diamond Head State Monument when they reach the trail’s peak. It is a moderately difficult 2.6-kilometer out-and-back path found near Honolulu, Hawaii that boasts a beautiful forest backdrop and is heavily traveled. The trail is heavily trafficked out and back and is rated as such. A majority of the trail is used for hiking, and it is accessible throughout the year.
Recent hikers have expressed concern that the Koko Crater Trail is steep and difficult to complete, and that those who are not in good physical condition should consider hiking somewhere else. Many others also emphasized the need of being prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen, and hiking shoes, among other things. On top of that, several people recommended going on a dry day because some parts of the route are slippery, especially when it’s wet. Others advised arriving early in order to avoid the crowds and the hottest temperatures. Trail hikers who are up for the trials of this trail will be rewarded with “amazing” vistas at the summit, according to the comments of other hikers.
Trek to the summit of Koko Head Crater, which offers excellent panoramic views of the east Honolulu shoreline, Hanauma Bay, and parts of the Big Island. This is a strenuous, no-shade climb that takes about an hour. The abandoned railroad ties that make up the 1,000+ step trekking route that runs along the west side of the crater to the summit of Koko Crater are a nice touch. Previously, during World War II, the military utilized them as part of an incline tram to deliver supplies to a lookout station at the summit of a mountain range. At about half-way up, there is a “bridge” section with no ground under approximately 50 rail steps, however there is a detour trail if you are afraid of heights.
This famous hiking track may be accessed from Koko Head, which is only a short drive from Diamond Head and Waikiki beaches. Bring plenty of water because this is a high-humidity location with long, scorching summer days. Visitors may also be interested in the Koko Crater Botanical Garden, which is located inside the crater and can be reached from within the crater. Visitors can approach the gardens by driving around the crater on the opposite side of the road.
