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Koko Crater Stairs (Summit)
7430 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States
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An
Review №1

It is partially covered, so bring sunscreen and a hat ot start early! It is a pretty popular trail even now during covid. The steps are uneven and some are missing. Its relatively short, but brutal to beginners. I would not reccomend older folks who are looking for a stroll. There is a section where the railroad tracks are suspended, like a bridge right over a big gap. Frightening for people like me who are afraid of heights. Go slow and enjoy that 360 view up top. Theres a trail to the right at the top that takes you to a grate platform where you can sit and enjoy the view!

Al
Review №2

Stunning hike, beautiful views, but MAKE SURE to bring water. Go early or late, it gets very hot. Very hard on the legs - they will be sore for a few days after.At the top, you can spend some time looking out and around, and checking out the old military installations that were communications stations.

Jo
Review №3

Amazing experience! Beautiful views and for all levels of experience. Clean and surround by gentle local people. I went through a long path and finished at the koko crater botanical garden, I would recommend to do this only if you have previous experience l, right clothing and shoes and of course water and snacks.

Yi
Review №4

A nice challenge; someone did it with barefoot ; I did it with flip flop, so definitely achieve able ; bring enough iced water to enjoy at the peak.

Ev
Review №5

Very beautiful view. its worth the effort to get up here.

Za
Review №6

Good morning exercise...Love the view. This place is fun... and cant missed it once visit Hawaii...

Se
Review №7

Very challenging hike for those that dont hike frequently. The view is beautiful once you reach the summit.

Sa
Review №8

The climb is challenging but definitely worth while! Took me about 40 minutes to get to the top; however, I was going at a descently fast pace. The trail is literally straight up the mountain and follows an old miners track. At one point the track is about 15ft off the ground, so you gotta be very careful. Make sure you go all the way up and look at the other side of the mountain. I absolutely will be back here!

Fa
Review №9

You climbed up all those stairs. You made it. Youre on top of the world, and the view is totally worth it. Relax and take it all in. This is one of the best views on the island. If youre out of water at this point, dont worry. Theres a water dispenser with a thoughtful note indicating its filled daily by.. who knows? Also, for what its worth, the hike back down the track is MUCH easier. Just walk or jog down it. Dont waste your time doing that crab walk nonsense at a snails pace. Just trust yourself and walk right down it. Its not sketchy.

Ma
Review №10

Death at its finest. Lol. This was the most challenging hikes Ive ever done, but views are rewarding. Its a very steep incline over a short distance, not for out of shape people. Lots of people doing it and can take as many breaks as you want, but bring lots of water.

li
Review №11

Highly recommended! It’s just straight up the hill, on an old rail line. Wear comfortable shoes bring water and wear sunscreen.

Da
Review №12

An amazing hike. The view at sunrise was incredible. It was a kind of intense at some points but well worth it.

Jo
Review №13

This is a quick morning or evening activity, and its well worth the view. I would suggest wearing tennis shoes with good traction: one may find hiking boots too heavy, and the logs get pretty slippery when wet. Bring plenty of water and maybe a snack, as there is minimal shade along the way. About halfway up, the tracks become suspended about two meters above the ground (with unequal spacing between each other). While I decided to just follow the tracks here, again, rain might pose a slipping risk. I saw people hiking around this section with minimal additional effort. Up to you. There is no correct way to reach the summit. Also, note that there will be both upward and downward traffic, despite how narrow the tracks are; you may have to step aside, briefly, especially to let joggers get down safely. There is a tunnel at the top, so consider taking a flashlight with you.

Ag
Review №14

Its a wonderful place. Not an easy to do it, but you can do it! You must to do it!

To
Review №15

Nice climb at right before sunset. I think most people we saw made it up in 25-60 minutes. Great views. I recommend decent shoes you wont slide in.

나니
Review №16

This mountaineering course has a beautiful view and is very helpful for my health, but it is one of the most difficult courses.

A
Review №17

First time hiking Koko Head and it was a blast! The steps are hard if you have trouble on difficult hikes but is perfect for workouts and groups! The views are worth the 1,000 step trail.

Ra
Review №18

Tough climb. Bring water, go early. Views at the top are spectacular! A bit scary going up.

Ma
Review №19

Love the area, I had a great time bring good gripping shoes or boots and watch your step! Have fun!

as
Review №20

Wear some good shoes and bring some water. This stair case is steep, the view from the top is worth the effort however. There are some mountain goats that run up and down however for the more average of us allow 35-45 mins to climb up and about 25-35min to get down. Yes the stairs are so great its not much faster down.Whilst I saw some children on the climb I would suggest that this one is a little steep for children under 5 and its not the type where you want to carry your child.

Mi
Review №21

This is a fun and exciting trek! The views up top are amazing! Be careful going down.. it is easy to catch momentum and those stairs can get tricky with speed. Especially for the uncoordinated like me. ️

Ca
Review №22

Challenging incline to the hike but well worth the views from the top. There are many locals who use this as a workout routine in the morning, travelling up and down a few times over. Great views of east (Koko Crater ridgeline overlooking ocean) and south (Kaihuokapuaa and Hanauma Bay). Recommend a little extra time in the morning to make sure you beat the sunrise and get a decent spot for photos.

Ki
Review №23

Great hike! Harder than I thought (I managed to do it in flip flops though). Being at the top is the best because then you get that breeze blowing and it feels so dang good. I went during August and was pretty miserable. I imagine that had I gone during a different time then I would have enjoyed it more. Its almost as tricky going down as it is coming up due to how steep and sometimes unstable the foot placement is. There is also no drinking fountain or 7/11 at the top like I was picturing.

Se
Review №24

Super fun hike with an awesome view at the summit.Not an easy hike, but still doable for a beginner with some extra time

Ed
Review №25

My first attempt was a couple of years ago and I didnt make it to the top (didnt know it at the time, but I was fighting bronchitis). This time, I just took my time with plenty of rest breaks. Dont be intimidated by the people racing past you. Everyone gives encouragement. I made it to the top in an hour and down in 45 minutes. It was all I expected and more. Im 61 years old and by no means in great shape. I will definitely do it again next trip to Honolulu.

ci
Review №26

Love this trailhard levelDont forget keep your body hydrated

Cl
Review №27

Its a good leg workout. I hiked it today and took it one step at a time without breaks. Once on top, decided to run back down to climb back up again. The second climb up want as fun. My legs felt like a pair of noodles, but the feeling of accomplishment once I got to the top was awesome. Well try to hike it 3x in a row next time. Wish me luck!

Ri
Review №28

This is a MUST DO on your Hawaii vacation, it is so worth the journey; and an easy drive from Wakiki to Koko Marina.

Bo
Review №29

Awesome hike. Not for those who are afraid of heights and walking on railroad track bridge. There is a dicy section of that.

Ro
Review №30

I am a oldster along. Lots of encouragement from fellow hikers. The most beautiful view Ive ever seen. I never got winded. Pacing myself worked!

Ty
Review №31

I do this hike everytime I come to Oahu! It isn’t easy but it’s worth it!

al
Review №32

The climb is no joke, but the view is breath taking. It feels like stairway to heaven; once up there it feels like you are in heaven.

Br
Review №33

We went at sunset which was beautiful.. just make sure to bring food, water, and good shoes!

Si
Review №34

OMG. so difficult. Must Take enough water. Worth it. But VERY VERY Hard.Take your time. Take brakes. Be careful where you step. And be ready for an Awesome view at the end.It was my first time. And last.. Lol! This is only for Pro hikers.

Ja
Review №35

This one was tough. My 6 and 7 year olds made it to the top requiring plenty of breaks and roughly 1 hour and 8 mins to reach the top. Make sure to bring plenty of water, a snack for the top, and recommend you go for the morning or evening for this hike because there is limited shade. The view is breathtaking and worth the effort.

Ph
Review №36

Can we start a bar and grill at the top? #KokoheadBarasndGrill?

Br
Review №37

I highly recommend getting up early and going to the top before the sunrise. You wont regret it and then youll have the entire rest of the day

晓峰
Review №38

Amazing place to visit quite exhausting though. Stunning view on submit, which worth all the effort.

Ke
Review №39

Great time with family.

Zo
Review №40

Its a hard hike but totally worth the view! Your legs will most likely be jelly while youre going down! Be careful :)

Ro
Review №41

Tough workout but it is worth it, the view is amazing. I wouldnt recommend it for children. Dont forget some shoes (no flipflops or sandals), water and maybe a pineapple as a reward at the top.

Ly
Review №42

Was not an easy hike but worth it, honestly we only came because diamond head was closed, and we dont regret it at all the hike is higher and the view is so amazing at the top. Its tiring but so worth it. Just take your time, bring water, wear good shoes, and probably stretch before hand.

Ro
Review №43

Koko Crater is made for the athlete. It’s about 1000 feet from the ground to the summit. The railroad tie “stairway” goes up the side of an extinct volcano. I am not crazy about heights so this was a huge challenge for me but once I got going it was not to bad. There are some treacherous areas that you have to be careful around. TAKE WATER….Don’t be silly and get yourself dead by not taking WATER. While I was ascending to the summit I saw people climbing, walking, jogging, and even running the stairs. I have always wondered why no one has tried to make this place into some kind of Hawaii challenge event like the Iron man race.

Da
Review №44

For some its going to take effort going up, others not so much. The view is well worth the trek up the some odd thousand railroad ties.Make sure to take your stories and photos/pics... Because, youll have to climb it all over again.Bring drinks, preferably water and if youre sensitive to the heat do it in the morning or before sun down.There are no drink machines or restrooms at the top. Though, theres an awesome old trolley Depot at the top used to pull what Im assuming ammunition and other supplies to the top.

Z
Review №45

Good workout!! Its all steps to the top. Awesome sunset view. (See pictures)

Ju
Review №46

It is tiring. But possible to do it comfortably 1 hour each way. The view on the top is breathtaking.

Bo
Review №47

Great place! A must do in Oahu

Ed
Review №48

View at the top is breathtaking...but second half of the hike is a killer!

Ry
Review №49

A tough hike, but totally worth it! Absolutely gorgeous views

Er
Review №50

Holy crap this was a challenge. So hot. So tiring. So hard. But worth it at top. Views while climbing, and while at top after conquering the stairs were incredible! Id do it again.

Is
Review №51

Great hiking spot for beginners

De
Review №52

Cool spot with amazing views from the top. Wear good shoes because the wood beams from the track can be a bit sandy and slippery. The bus is an easy way to get to and from if your heading from Waikiki beach area.

Fe
Review №53

Make sure that you pack water and dress comfortably with light clothing. you will be tired about halfway through, honestly. if you are not active prior to visiting i highly suggest stretching prep yourself. its an uphill battle but the reward is so worth it once you make it to the top and the view is incredible

St
Review №54

Great hike with rewarding views.

Da
Review №55

Love this hike but it is very hard for beginners more of a workout then hike. Basically stair masters x1000

Ma
Review №56

Koko Crater the old fashioned way, climbing to the rim from the Botanical Gardens, then following the rim to the top; no easy-peasy stairs!

Jo
Review №57

Semi difficult climb, watch your step and take your time getting back down. The climb is worth the amazing view.

Mi
Review №58

Get there early to beat the rush and see the sunrise. And bring water, you need more than you think.

Mi
Review №59

With exception of walking up all thos steep stairs, the hike was amazing and the views are breathtaking.

St
Review №60

Amazing hike. Favorites by locals and tourists. Enjoy a masalada afterwards.

ma
Review №61

One of the best views on Oahu, but you earn it after this climb.

Za
Review №62

Love this hike.

Ch
Review №63

Wonderful experience!!! Go early in the morning to avoid high temperatures and see better views! Difficult hike but totally worth it!!

Mi
Review №64

Fun hike. Get to the top for great views but remember the way has almost no shade

M
Review №65

It was hard but so worth it!! Very beautiful at the top

Bl
Review №66

Both my wife and I are reasonably fit and did the Diamond Head trail with ease. However, on a scale of 1 - 10, Koko Head is an OMFG. It would not be so bad if the steps were even, but they are rough, so good shoes and a lot of patience are needed, especially when coming down (and crossing the bridge). Having said all this, I would not have missed this hike for anything. It is a one of a kind and a must do when in Honolulu.

Sc
Review №67

Hard hike straight up. Avoid hot part of the day and take in fluids

Br
Review №68

Very good hike. If you are in shape it is a very easy hike with minimal to no issues. If you are out of shape prepare for several stops to catch your breath and rest. Once at the top the views are beautiful. It only took me 12 minutes to get to the summit as I am an avid hiker. However it was taking most people around 30-45 minutes. Bring water as you will need it.

Te
Review №69

Great views at the top.

Fo
Review №70

This is an amazing hike to a spectacular view. The headache part is not for the faint of heart so bring good shoes and be prepared to walk lots of stairs at the end. Bring water and sunscreen

Jo
Review №71

I love this hike! Pretty much straight up all the way. Great workout, totally doing it again next time Im in the area!

Ch
Review №72

Great hike, but be prepared for a real workout. Also, wear shoes with good traction and arch support. The stairs are not well maintained (essentially rail road ties and loose soil).

To
Review №73

Be prepared. This is a tough hike, both up and down. Make sure to bring plenty of water. I suggest trail shoes or hiking boots. Some spots are slippery and the extra tread definitely helps.

Ja
Review №74

If youre in for a challenge with a big reward at the end Kokohead is a great hike. Dont be misled by the word stairs its an old railroad track nearly 2 miles up. Its very steep but the view from the top is awesome.

Er
Review №75

Great short yet intense workout, great panoramic views. Beware of loose gravel. Wear sunscreen or protective clothing. If you use inhalers, bring it. Bring some bandaids just in case. I have seen my share of injured hikers. Pace yourself. It gets steeper towards the top.(Once you pass the bridge). If you are reluctant about the bridge part, there is a side path that bypasses the entire bridge. Avoid on rainy days unless you have shoes with excellent traction, but you will be stepping in puddles/others will be splashing you as they pass by. Going down will be tricky and slippery. It gets dusty. Stretch your legs before and after. Stay hydrated. Enjoy the view. If this is your first time, be extra careful during the descent. Your knees will be unstable. Let the runners pass you.

Al
Review №76

Good exercise, great view, relatively short hike

Sh
Review №77

Did this hike 9 times in the month of July, the views and cardio cant be beat. Make sure you pace yourself the first time you go. Expect 25-35 minutes to the top if you are in moderately good shape. If you are in tip top shape you can bring it down a lot, some of our guys were clocking in the 13 minute range on their second try. Go early or late to beat the heat of the day, bring water and shoes with good grip. The trail is not maintained and has a few sketchy parts which adds to the challenge. Lots of people do this every day, some multiple times in one day.

Al
Review №78

The view is amazing but make sure you bring lots of water and snacks. The climb is intense and should not be attempted for those that are not up to it. Might be worth bringing a first aid kit as well.Alistair VigierHART LegalInvestor relations

M
Review №79

Go There Now

St
Review №80

Extremely hard hike. Not real long, but steep and challenging. Bring lots of water. Go early or go late to escape the worst of the heat. Views at the top are worth it. Youll be glad you did it.

Sh
Review №81

Short but intense hike. Very steep in places. Views are worth it but would not recommend if not in good shape.

T
Review №82

Great excersise. Great view are the top... Totally worth the effort.

Du
Review №83

Fantastic buttocks and thigh workout. Over a hundred floors if you want elevation hiking. And not to.mention a breataking view of Molokai, Maui, sunrise, sunset, Honolulu, Hawaii Kai, Diamonhead, Makapuu, and on! If you can, you must get the SUNSET!

Xa
Review №84

Great place for cardio and views. Very safe, children and animals frequent this trail on the daily.

Mu
Review №85

One of the best hikes that Ive ever made.The view on the top is absolutely breathtaking.

Sa
Review №86

Beautiful. Dont let the steps scare you. Wear a good pair of tennis shoes and bring some water. You can do it!

T.
Review №87

Such a great place with the best view. While I see around the place I am free in my mind. It feels like I am one withe the nature.

Mr
Review №88

Brutal climb in a good way! The view is amazing and just when you think youre at the top theres more lol. I was by myself at the time and there is a doorway that leads into the crater top so I wasnt confident taking a journey inside.If you do bring a flashlight!

Ra
Review №89

This was f-ing hard. But worth it once you get to the top and get a 360 view of the island. Not a good hike to do if you are super hung-over FYI!!!

Yu
Review №90

Beautiful view and place. Love it here.

Ma
Review №91

Simply one of the best hikes weve ever done while on holiday. The views from the top are amazing.

Review №92

Amazing views and easy hike up. The downside is the huge amount of tourists pouring up and down.

Pa
Review №93

Check you heart, very cool hike with all levels of athletic talent going up and down.

Ri
Review №94

Great place for a quick workout

Ni
Review №95

Tough to climb as the steps are uneven and quite steep. But the views are incredible once you get to the top. Allow 30 to 45 minutes going up. Although its not uncommon to see people running up and down. Several times.

Va
Review №96

One of the best views in Oahu, in my opinion. Get there​, however, is a true challenge. Amazing!

Em
Review №97

It was a hard sweating hike and if you not an athletic person please bring plenty of water and monitor your heart rate step to the side take plenty of break.... its a hard hike but its a awesome view once you reach the top....well worth the hike

Ar
Review №98

Short but intense climb! It really worth it, the view is awesome!! Make sure to take a lot of water.

De
Review №99

Painful hike to the top but the view at the top is worth it. The bridge portion is the scariest portion due to the gaps between the railroad ties that lead to a 10+ foot drop.

Er
Review №100

Great hike with awesome views. Moderately difficult to climb with railroad lumbar forming a stair case from the bottom to the top.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:7430 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825, United States
  • Site:http://honolulu.gov/
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Hiking area
Working hours
  • Monday:Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday:Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday:Open 24 hours
  • Thursday:Open 24 hours
  • Friday:Open 24 hours
  • Saturday:Open 24 hours
  • Sunday:Open 24 hours
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:No
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