Kuliouou Ridge Trail Oahu
A challenging 4.4-mile hike on Oahu with steep ascents and rewarding panoramic summit views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Kuliouou Ridge Trail Oahu
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 4.4-mile hike on Oahu with steep ascents and rewarding panoramic summit views.
"It's a tiring hike but well worth it, with stunning views and a rewarding experience. "
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Good hiking shoes are essential for the rocky, root-filled terrain.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially on hot days, as you'll need it for the climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Kuliouou Ridge Summit
Breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and coastline await at the top. Worth every step!
The Stairway to Heaven
Upper Ridge Section
A challenging, steep section of stairs that tests your endurance before the final push to the summit.
Shaded Forest Path
Lower Ridge Trail
Enjoy a mostly shaded hike through lush greenery, offering a respite from the Hawaiian sun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Gear Up for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Good hiking shoes are essential for the rocky, root-filled terrain.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially on hot days, as you'll need it for the climb.
🅿️ Street Parking Only
Park on the street; no designated lot. Arrive early or be prepared to walk.
☀️ Sun Protection
The summit is exposed, so wear sunscreen and a hat.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Good hiking shoes are essential for the rocky, root-filled terrain.
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially on hot days, as you'll need it for the climb.
🅿️ Street Parking Only
Park on the street; no designated lot. Arrive early or be prepared to walk.
☀️ Sun Protection
The summit is exposed, so wear sunscreen and a hat.
💪 Be Prepared for Stairs
The final section features a challenging set of stairs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Kuliouou Ridge Trail is a highly recommended, albeit challenging, hike on Oahu. Visitors praise the stunning summit views and the rewarding experience after a strenuous climb. However, parking can be difficult, and the trail's steepness and rocky terrain require good physical condition and proper footwear.
"I did this hike on Sunday, and it was a great experience overall! First off, parking can be a bit tricky—there isn’t a designated parking lot for the hike. At the entrance, there’s a turnaround, and you’ll need to park on the street. It can get crowded, so I ended up parking on a nearby street and walking a bit more to get to the trailhead. Not a huge deal, though—just something to keep in mind if you can’t find parking right at the entrance.
Now, the hike itself. I started at noon on a beautiful sunny day, and it took me about an hour and a half to reach the top. It's a challenging hike with a lot of elevation gain, and the surface is rocky with tree roots all around. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes because they’ll really help with the climb. Also, bring plenty of water—especially on a hot day, because you’re climbing up, and you’ll need it. I ran out of water by the time I got to the top! I did see a few people resting along the way, especially on the last section, which is full of stairs.
That being said, it’s totally worth it. The view at the top is amazing! It was a bit foggy when I reached the summit, but I still enjoyed the scenery. I rested for about 25 minutes, had lunch, and snacked a bit before heading back down. Going down was much easier and took me about an hour and 15 minutes (I took my time for photos and videos).
Overall, this is an incredible hike, and I definitely recommend it. However, I wouldn’t suggest it for someone who’s not regularly active, as it can be tough, and you might feel sore the next day. That said, I saw kids as young as 4 or 5 doing the hike, so it’s definitely doable if you’re up for the challenge. It's a tiring hike but well worth it, with stunning views and a rewarding experience."
Cihan Akdere
"A fun and challenging hike."
Joaquin Diaz
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Gen 1: Nine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kuliouou Ridge Trail is located in the Kuliouou Forest Reserve on Oahu. Access is typically via residential streets. Parking is on the street near the trailhead, as there is no designated parking lot.
While the trailhead is accessible, parking can be challenging. It's advisable to use GPS to navigate to the general area and then look for street parking.
From Waikiki, you can drive or take a ride-share service. The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Public transportation to the immediate trailhead is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use a ride-share service for easier access.
The trail is located in a residential valley, with Diamond Head and Koko Head nearby, though not directly adjacent to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Kuliouou Ridge Trail is a public hiking trail and does not require tickets or an entrance fee.
As an outdoor public trail, Kuliouou Ridge Trail is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. It's best to hike during daylight hours for safety.
There is no admission fee to hike the Kuliouou Ridge Trail. It's a free public access trail.
Hiking at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, uneven terrain, and lack of lighting. Stick to daylight hours.
No permit is required for individuals or small groups to hike the Kuliouou Ridge Trail.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike typically takes 3 to 4 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit.
It's considered a hard hike due to its significant elevation gain and steep sections, including stairs.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, comfortable athletic clothing, and bring a hat and sunscreen.
There are no restrooms at the trailhead or along the Kuliouou Ridge Trail. Plan accordingly.
While challenging, some younger children have completed the hike. It depends on their fitness level and stamina.
The trail has an elevation gain of approximately 1,666 feet.
Much of the trail is shaded by trees, especially in the lower sections, but the summit is exposed.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
The trailhead is in a residential area. For dining options, you'll need to drive to nearby Honolulu neighborhoods like Kaimuki or Kapahulu, which offer a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring snacks and a packed lunch to enjoy at the summit.
Honolulu offers a diverse culinary scene, from local Hawaiian food and plate lunches to international cuisine like Vietnamese street food.
There are no designated picnic areas on the trail itself. The summit is the best spot for a break and a snack.
Popular areas include Chinatown for street food and local eateries, and neighborhoods like Kaimuki for trendy cafes and restaurants. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. The lush greenery along the trail also provides beautiful photo backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially in residential neighborhoods and forest reserves. Check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The summit is the primary viewpoint. There are also scenic spots along the trail, especially where the tree cover opens up.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep energy levels up. The shaded sections are a plus, but the exposed summit can be hot. Consider starting earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. The sense of accomplishment at the summit and the incredible views will be a memorable reward for the whole family.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider this hike as a great way to build endurance and leg strength. The varied terrain keeps it interesting, and the stunning summit views are a fantastic reward for your efforts.
Remember to fuel properly before and after, and stay hydrated throughout the hike. 📸 Photographers
+1 The best light for photography is typically during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, offering softer shadows and warmer tones. Beyond the summit, the lush, shaded forest sections of the trail also present opportunities for capturing the natural beauty of Oahu's flora.
While the trail itself is rugged, the views are the main draw for photographers. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the expansive scenery. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kuliouou Ridge Trail Experience
Many hikers describe the ascent as strenuous, with a considerable elevation gain of over 1,600 feet. Despite the difficulty, the trail is largely shaded, providing some relief from the Hawaiian sun.
The effort is widely considered worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, which overlook the coastline and the surrounding Koolau mountain range. +1Planning your hike is key. Parking is limited to street parking, so arriving early is advised. Bringing plenty of water is crucial, as the climb can be dehydrating, especially on warmer days. While challenging, the trail is popular with a range of fitness levels, and many find it a rewarding way to experience Oahu's natural beauty.
Navigating Parking and Access
This often means arriving early in the morning, especially on weekends, to secure a spot close to the trailhead. If you can't find parking directly at the entrance, be prepared to walk a bit from a nearby street. Some visitors have noted that the area can get quite crowded, reinforcing the advice to plan your visit strategically.
While the lack of a formal parking lot can be an inconvenience, it also contributes to the trail's more natural and less commercialized feel. It's a reminder to be respectful of the local residents when parking your vehicle.
What to Expect on the Trail
Despite the exertion, the trail offers a beautiful journey through a verdant valley. The shaded canopy provides a welcome respite, making the hike more comfortable, especially during the hotter parts of the day.
The sounds of nature and the gradual reveal of the landscape add to the immersive experience. Upon reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views. This is the prime spot for photos and a well-deserved break.
+1 The descent, while easier, still requires concentration due to the uneven terrain. Many hikers find the downhill journey takes slightly less time than the ascent. 
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