Outrageous Oahu : Koko Head Crater Trail

Perspective of the scale of Koko Head Crater - Google Maps 2016

After conquering Diamond head earlier in our trip we naively made the decision to attempt the Koko Head Crater Hike. Arriving at the carpark we laid eyes on Koko Crater for the first time. There was a direct path that lead straight up the side of the crater. This can be visualised using the image taken from google maps, on the left hand, a defined track can be identified. This tall and steep climb was very daunting. We prepared ourselves by filling up as much water as we could carry and started walking.

As we approached the base of the climb, we could hear loud gunshots from a firing range close by. We used this as mock motivation as we began ascending.

Questioning why we are actually doing this?? - B. O'Rourke 2016

As you can see the track was once an old railway line utilised as a means of transporting supplies for military bunkers in WWII. The steepness of the track required us to essentially squat lunge the entirety of the way. Many times we would stop and have a drink and contemplate if it was worth the enormous effort and physical strength, questioning our fitness to make it to the top, however we persevered and kept going. I looked back at my girlfriend several time who was struggling hard but in her strong nature, she persisted.

Relief, almost at the top - B. O'Rourke 2016

We climbed 1048 steep railway stairs to get to the top of Koko Crater. Intense to say the least, but well worth the stunning views. It took some time to recover at the top and take it all in but once rehydrated and rested we had a look around and were in absolute awe of the views and what we'd accomplished.

Looking East atop Koko Crater - B. O'Rourke 2016

Vast Pacific looking East - B. O'Rourke 2016

We left a picture of us in a wooden box at the top. May it stay there for as long as it can as a memory of us in such an amazing part of the world.

'Prayer box' - B. O'Rourke 2106

The descent just as steep posed its own challenges. It was slippery and easy to loose footing. We took the opportunity to take some perspective photos and enjoy the scenery from a different angle (and without the thought of impending doom).

'Holding on' steepness perspective - B. O'Rourke 2016

'Cliffhanger' steepness perspective - B. O'Rourke 2016

Once we completed the hike we took ourselves across to Hanauma Bay to quench our thirst and treat ourselves to a relaxing afternoon of swimming and lazing in the sunshine in another spectacular location.