Koko Head Crater Trail

A relatively short hike, the Koko Crater Trail is only about 1.5 miles (from parking lot to the summit), but increases in elevation by 1,200 feet! This hike is challenging due to the sharp incline, but the views at the top are well worth the effort; you’ll get a breathtaking 360 degree view of east O’ahu. Koko Crater is a cinder conem, not to be confused with Koko Head, which is a much shorter cinder cone volcano that forms Hanauma Bay. On the inside of the crater you can find Koko Crater Botanical Gardens which has a great variety of dry land plants.

History

The railroad ties that make up the stairs for the trail were once part of an incline tram system during World War II, which was used to haul military personnel and supplies to the top of Koko Crater. This area was a part of the Koko Crater Air Force Station.

• Location: Hawaii Kai, Oahu
• Amenities: Parking
• Insider Tip: Many locals come here as a way to get an extremely good, quick cardio workout.
• Fun Fact: There are 1048 steps on this trail. The steps are made of old railway ties.
• What To Expect: From the parking lot in Koko Head District Park there is about a ¼ mile walk to the beginning of the trail. From there it’s all uphill. About halfway up is a bridge that crosses a ravine, it is a little intimidating, but it is safe. At the top of the trail you’ll find abandoned bunkers from whe