Long ridge trail up to the Ko'olau Summit that will test your endurance
DIFFICULTY | LENGTH | ELEVATION GAIN | ROUTE TYPE |
Difficult | ~11 mi (RT) / 7 – 9 hr | ~ 1600 ft | Out & Back |
Manana Ridge Trail is a lengthy hike along one of the ridges of the Ko’olau Mountain Range. This trail starts off wider and well-maintained but progressively gets narrower and more difficult as you get closer to the summit. Make sure you stay left when you come to a fork in the trail about a mile in, if you go right you’ll descend into the valley and end up at Waimano Falls, a fun hike in its own right.
Though not the most technically challenging, the shear length and it’s tendency to be overgrown on the latter sections make it a challenge suited for more experienced hikers. This hike will test your endurance. It also has a tendency to get muddy and has some steep drop-offs so it can be a little easier with drier weather (not to mention you’ll get better views without the clouds). Along the way you can expect views of the lush surrounding valleys and even far stretching views as distant as the Waianae Mountain Range on the Leeward Coast. If you can make it all the way to the summit you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the Windward Coast.
You can find street parking at the top of Komo Mai Dr, near where the trail begins. Be respectful though, it’s a quiet residential neighborhood.