Ka au Crater Ridge Trail

7.3 miles 2,211ft elevation Loop Trail Hard

The Ka’au Crater Ridge Trail is one of Oahu’s most challenging and rewarding hikes, featuring three waterfalls, a crater, and an epic ridgeline view. This strenuous hike is for experienced hikers looking for a mix of waterfalls, jungle terrain, steep climbs, and ridge walking with stunning panoramic views. This is a long, technical hike with steep sections, rope climbs, and muddy terrain. Not recommended for beginners due to exposure, elevation gain, and difficult navigation. Avoid after heavy rain, flash flooding and slippery conditions can make the hike dangerous. The trailhead is located in Palolo Valley, accessed via Waiʻomaʻo Street. The first part is a shaded, narrow trail through the forest with multiple stream crossings. Expect muddy terrain, and look out for pink ribbons marking the correct path. Mid-Hike: The Three Waterfalls. First Waterfall: A beautiful, wide cascade with a pool at the base. Second Waterfall: Taller and steeper, with ropes to help climb up the side. Third Waterfall: The highest, leading to the ridgeline ascent. Climbing beside the waterfalls is slippery and requires caution. Use ropes and tree roots for stability. After passing the third waterfall, the trail climbs steeply up the ridgeline. The summit of Ka’au Crater offers incredible views of the entire crater, Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the Pacific Ocean. Expect strong winds at the top, and be mindful of the narrow ridge. Descent & Return: The trail continues along the crater rim before descending steeply back into the valley. The descent is just as challenging as the climb, with rope sections and muddy slopes.

Tips for Hiking

Best Time: Early Morning. Start before 8 AM to avoid afternoon heat and potential rain.
Midday: Extremely hot on the exposed ridge.
Avoid hiking after heavy rain: Mud makes the ridges dangerous.
Flash Flood Warning: The waterfalls are beautiful, but flash floods can occur quickly, be cautious during rainy conditions.
Parking: Park along Waiʻomaʻo Street (residential area, be respectful & avoid blocking driveways!) Only street parking is available.
Trailhead: The trail begins at the end of Waiʻomaʻo Street, past the boarded-up house. Follow the pink ribbons to stay on the correct path.
Wear proper hiking boots: The trail is muddy and slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
Bring gloves: Useful for rope sections and tree grabs on the ridge.
Pack 2-3 liters of water: No refill points along the trail.
Use bug spray: Mosquitos are common in the jungle sections.
Start early: This is a long, difficult hike, avoid starting too late in the day.
Hike with a partner: Due to the exposure and technical climbs, solo hiking isn’t recommended.

Thoughts from my Hike

This trail was definitely challenging in parts. As always, wet/muddy in a lot of places. Quite a few ropes in places that really came in handy, and some steps, either man-made or cut into the slope, really helped out. Three beautiful waterfalls along the way as well as the stream you cross or follow. After you reach the third waterfall, you can backtrack to the beginning if you don't feel like doing the whole rim. At one point, before the final push to the top (the picture with the arrows on it), I almost turned back, but then I saw 2 folks halfway up, so I said "what the hell, go big or go home!"I'm glad I finished it. Stopped for two 10 minute lunches, several water breaks, and pictures. Most of trail descending was overgrown, trees overhead or downward slopes with either foot holds or roots in several spots. Overall, it took me 9 hours with stops. Bring plenty of water. I wore spikes which helped immensely.