| Access Routes - More Details |
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The following are the access trails which intercept the Koolau Summit Trail as it makes its way south. The difficulty of these feeder trails range from intermediate to extremely difficult. Starting with the most northern feeder trail... Kaunala / Pupukea-Summit graded - Above Pupukea (leeward Oahu) One of the two most favored northern entries, easy to access, short hike but a lot muddier than Laie Ridge, used to be extremely difficult due to the overgrowth (which has been cleared), possible entry from derelict Kahuku Trail (not recommended). Kawailoa Ridge graded - Above Haleiwa (leeward Oahu) Significant difficulty in getting to trailhead, serious access (landowner permission) issues, trail unmaintained. Peahinaia Ridge graded - Above Haleiwa (leeward Oahu) Significant difficulty getting to trailhead, serious access (landowner permission) issues, trail unmaintained and in extreme disrepair/overgrowth, length and difficulty may require overnight stay along trail. Malaekahana Ridge ungraded - Above Laie (windward Oahu) Long ungraded trail to start off a backpacking, esp. with graded Laie Ridge alternative nearby. Laie Ridge graded - Above Laie (windward Oahu) Possibly the most favored northern entry to KST, an all-day trail in length but relatively easy, ascent begins at sea level. Castle Trail: Waiahilahila Ridge Approach ungraded - Above Kaaawa (windward Oahu) Rollercoastering and climbing several sections can be very dangerous, physical exertion is high, dilapidated Castle Trail, ascent begins at sea level. Castle Trail: Hauula Uka Ridge Approach ungraded - Above Kaaawa (windward Oahu) Brutal in length and rollercoastering especially with a large backpack, physical exertion is high, dilapidated Castle Trail, ascent begins at sea level. Castle Trail: Punaluu Valley Approach graded - Above Kaaawa (windward Oahu) Extreme access issues (security guards will stop you), physical exertion is high, dilapidated Castle Trail, ascent begins near sea level. Poamoho Ridge graded - Above Wahiawa (leeward Oahu) Superb entry/exit, short and easy feeder trail to summit brings you right to/from the best stretch of views, however: a little difficult to access trailhead. Paoao Ridge ungraded - Between Kahana and Punaluu Valleys (windward Oahu) Extremely steep final section to climb/descend especially with a large backpack, tight spots through trees to climb through. Schofield-Waikane (Wahiawa/Wintera) Trail graded - Above Wahiawa (leeward Oahu) Trail of choice for departures, completely maintained grade, gentle climbs/descents, long but can be hiked at a quick pace, unfortunately long road walk (through military base) from trailhead to "civilian civilization". Waikane Saddle graded - Between Kahana and Waikane Valleys (windward Oahu) Unmaintained grade, blow-outs in some locations, extremely long road walk from trailhead to civilization (vehicular gate). Kipapa Ridge graded - Above Mililani (leeward Oahu) Serious disrepair, access issues to/from trailhead. |
| Property/Access - More Details |
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The following is a breakdown of land parcels this trail either crosses into, borders with, or remains in extremely close vicinity. Remember that a) trails often meander in and out of bordering land parcels - they are not perfect, and b) parcel boundaries, fee ownership, land leases, and policies of both toward hikers are subject to change. In any case, act as prudent, responsible hikers and heed the law of the land. Northern KST, Pupukea-Summit entrance and 1-mile stretch to south Fee Owner: United States of America Leasee: none TMK (zone): 58002003 (conservation) Northern KST, after 1-mile mark Fee Owner: United States of America Leasee: none TMK: 57004001 (conservation) Northern KST Fee Owner: United States of America Leasee: none TMK: 56008001 (conservation) Northern KST (west side), above Opaeula Stream Headwaters Fee Owner: Dole Food Co, Inc. (1116 Whitmore Ave; Wahiawa, HI 96786) Leasee: none TMK (zone): 63001002 (conservation) Northern KST (east side), north of Malaekahana Jct to Puu Kainapuaa 55-400 Kulanui St Fee Owner: Property Reserve Inc. (55-510 Kam Hwy; Laie, HI 96762) Leasee: none TMK (zone): 55007002 (conservation) Southern KST, leeward side of Kipapa Junction Fee Owner: Leasee: TMK (zone): 95004002 (conservation) Verified with City & County of Honolulu public records June 25, 2002. It is your responsibility to obtain permission from proper landowners. |