O'ahu Exploration: Moleka Trail

This week's Tuesday Trail took us to Mount Tantalus.  Hidden at the top of this mountain in Honolulu are a multitude of little trails to choose from.  Previously we hiked Ualaka'a and Pu'u Ohia and enjoyed the shade and views those trails provided.  Moleka Trail is a two mile trail that is an offshoot of the popular Makiki Valley Trail.  There are two ways to start this trail.  We entered the trail off of Round Top Drive where a small parking area exists for hikers for either the Moleka Trail or the Manoa Cliffs Trail (hoping to check that one out soon).  

Moleka Trail was the perfect family friendly trail.  It isn't too strenuous or long so small children and beginning hikers will find it pleasant to walk along.  Bring your bug repellent and some water as the muggy air attracts mosquitos and makes you sweat profusely.  There are a few uphill climbs but they are very brief and stairs have been built into the muddy ground to assist in the climb.  The weather for us was sunny, and we were only really exposed to direct sunlight for a small patch of the trail, ninety percent of the trail is thick forest that provides shade.  

The shade was beautiful...densely packed bamboo that was green, lush, and magical---the scene of a fantasy movie could definitely be shot on location here.  

The view of west O'ahu, the airport, and downtown Honolulu is not the best view I've ever seen hiking, but it was still nice since it was a clear day.  Other than this one view, the rest of the views were mainly plants, my kids, and bamboo.  We maneuvered through a couple of mud patches along the way and only encountered one other couple hiking the trail.

For a glimpse into Hawaii nature at its best, a short walk along Moleka Trail is a must.  For those interested in a longer hike, you can continue onto the Makiki Valley Trail almost a mile in on the Moleka Trail.  Since we had previously done the Makiki Valley Trail, we decided to turn around and retrace our steps back to our car parked in the lot at the other entrance to Moleka Trail. Besides, we had a summer treat to get to!

 

Even though I no longer eat (or drink) anything dairy, I knew my boys would appreciate the uber deluxe milkshake from Volcano Shakes in Waikiki.  I figured a reward for all the hikes I make them accompany me on was long overdue.  Our Tuesday was a win for both me and them.  Hiking and shakes---perfect combo. Summer is here!