Introduction
The 1.6-mile out-and-back Koko Head hike is located near Honolulu, Oahu. It typically takes one hour and twenty-five minutes to complete and is graded as an arduous hike. A WWII tram with a top bunker serves as the trail. On the mauka side of Kalanianaole, the parking lot is approximately 100 yards from the start of the trail that we were about to climb. The Koko Crater Trail is approximately 1.6 miles long and is at an elevation of 1,200 feet. Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail Hike is another top spot to visit in Ohau with kids and family on vacation.
Koko Head Crater Hike
This climb involves climbing about 1,048 steps up the rim of the crater along an old railroad grade. There are great panoramic views from the top. You can hike the entire rim around this popular volcanic tuff cone. Other than a few other trails, the Koko Crater Arch Trail on Oahu’s east coast is a hidden gem. Kuliouou Ridge Trail is another fine trail near it to visit anytime with family to enjoy.
Koko Head Hike Difficulty
The Koko Head hike is typically rated as difficult or strenuous due to its steep incline, sun exposure, and irregular steps. Ascending the 1,048 railroad steps on the trail is tough on a hot day, even for an experienced hiker.
Koko Head Hike Hours
The Koko Head Trail is open at all times. The official hours of the park are from sunrise to sunset, though. The hike itself takes approximately one hour and twenty-five minutes, although it varies from thirty minutes to an hour, depending on your physical condition. There are a lot of hikers on the trail.
Koko Head Hike Parking
Hikers Park in the rear parking lot of Koko Head District Park, located at 423 Kaumakani Street, Honolulu, HI 96825, is where hikers park for the Koko Head Trail. The parking lot is close to the facilities, or you can drive further to another lot close to the trail. Weekday mornings are the best for the most enjoyable parking experience. Since the trail is very popular, parking is full in no time, so arrive early, especially on weekends.
Koko Head Hike Reservation
The park is open during park hours, from sunrise to sunset, and parking is at Koko Head Park. Reserving a space is not necessary to hike the Koko Crater Trail. However, do note that the trail is extremely popular, and there are many other hikers. Manoa Falls Trail is another top destination for hikers and peace seekers in Hawaii.
Koko Head Hike Address
The Koko Head hike can be located in Koko Head District Park. The location address where you will find it is 423 Kaumakani Street, Honolulu, Hawaii. To access the trailhead, when you approach the park entrance, go behind the baseball field. It is best to arrive without any delays.
Koko Head Hike Instructions
To get here from Waikiki, proceed southeast on Kalakaua Avenue, then turn left on Kapahulu Avenue. The hike is usually 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete.
Best Time to Hike Koko Head
The atmosphere is most conducive to hiking Koko Head during the morning hours, with a preference to reach the summit at sunrise. This is advised for various reasons. Hiking during the early morning hours will avoid the heat of the day and provide one with stunning views. Hiking between 4:00 AM is advised to reach the summit at dawn. Waimoku Falls is a bonus destination to visit in Hawaii, near the trail, to have fun and adventure.
Koko Head Crater Hike Time
The hike to Koko Head Crater is usually 30 minutes to 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Koko Head Hike Elevation
The elevation gain for the Koko Head hike varies slightly by source but is approximately 912 to 1,200 feet.
Koko Head Hike History
There is a history of an old railroad built by the US Army in 1942-1943 that is utilized for hiking at Koko Head. It transported goods and travellers. In 1966, the Air Force transferred administration, and the place was named Koko Head Regional Park.
Koko Head Hike Map
Koko Head Hike Sunset
With stunning vistas of the Honolulu coastline, a night hike to the summit of Koko Head is a favorite activity. The steep ascent in elevation makes climbing difficult, but the panoramic view of Kailua and the city of Honolulu from the summit is well worth it.
Koko Head Hike Hotels
There are several hotels around the Koko Head Crater Trail located in Honolulu. Some of them include the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, Waikiki Resort Hotel, The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Polynesian Hostel Beach, Waimanalo Beach Cottages, and the Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head.
Koko Head Hike Weather
Hiking at Koko Head is available throughout the year, but the weather is not the same. You can go anytime, normally, but in summer, it is too hot to hike during the day, so it is better to have a hike early in the morning or at sunset. In winter, you can hike at any time without any negative conditions.
Koko Head Trail Photos
Conclusion
In Hawaii, Oahu, the Koko Head Hike is a challenging but rewarding climb of an extinct volcano crater. The hike is an endurance test since it is almost 1,000 steep railway stairs. Although the hike is not very long in distance, the hike could be a challenge for beginners because of the steep slope. The hike is a favourite because of the great views once at the top. The biggest challenge of the hike is walking the steady climb on railroad ties, which demands physical endurance.
