Waikane Trail
(Puu Kaaumakua)

Trailhead

Description: The Waikane Trail is one of the oldest hiking trails on Oahu. Graded for the U.S. Army's use well before the 1930s, the Waikane Trail became the "windward" component of the Schofield-Waikane Trail (which starts in Wahiawa). It ascends the back of Waikane Valley in the shadow of Puu Kaaumakua (elev. 2,681-ft) to a ridge saddle. The saddle, which is situated between the peaks of Puu Kaaumakua and Puu Kolele, separates Waikane Valley on the south and Kahana Valley to the north. From here, the trail continues into Kahana Valley and climbs steadily along a well-graded path to the Koolau crest. What to Expect: The trail starts off with a quiet, woodsy hike over a crumbling adz-strewn footpath. Because of the thick forest canopy, the trail tends to be quite shady and views are limited. However, spectacular views await at the saddle. The lower portion of this trail, from the abandoned Waikane Camp site to the saddle, overlaps the Waiahole Ditch Trail. At the saddle, however, the Waikane Trail splits off to the left (uphill) while the Waiahole Ditch Trail breaks away to the right (downhill) in the immediate direction of Puu Ohulehule. Be aware of the age of this trail. The decline of construction and maintenance activity in the area (e.g. Koolau Summit Trail, Waiahole Ditch) and the significant spread of private interests in Waikane Valley, trails of this area have been subject to decades of neglect and limited use. Vegetative overgrowth and serious erosion from landslides have extensively damaged the trail. Trailhead Location: There is no official sign marking the beginning of this trail. Generally, the trailhead is at the end of Waikane Valley Road. Continue beyond the asphalt road and locked vehicular gates. The trail begins to the right of a large, concrete flume with water flowing into U-shaped ditch. Accessing the Trail: Property/Access: Dangers/Other Considerations: This trail should only be attempted by strong hikers who have had significant experience with hiking the Koolau Mountains. This is because of the trail's crumbly footing, frequent landslide-damaged and narrow sections, and the thick forest canopy which can become quite confusing.	Waikane Camp Flume (at trailhead)
	Trail - Final Section (looking back)
	Junction with KST (trail from upper-left)
	Waikane Valley (view from saddle) Photo by Nathan Yuen
	Kahana Valley (view from terminus)