Nanakuli Exploration: Pu'u Heleakala
If you are looking for a hike offering you a break from the Eastside forest and city scape views---you will love this steady inclined hike located at the back of a small neighborhood in Nanakuli (meaning "look at knee", "knee inspection", or "pretend to be deaf"...wildly different interpretations!) on O'ahu's westside. The pictures let you know that the terrain is hot and dry at this time of year (mid August). I would love to revisit this trail again in cooler, winter months when every peak and valley is lush and green. As it was, this trail was still enjoyable due to the immediate and consistent views of the Pacific Ocean. Within five minutes of steady uphill rock climbing, when we turned around, we already had picture perfect views of the stunning blue ocean.
The dry air, rocky terrain, and brown brush reminded me of a mainland desert landscape. We were quickly reminded that we were indeed in the 808 state with spray painted tags at one of two old bunkers we saw.
There aren't many structural or natural landmarks along this plain Jane trail, but as you continue up and towards the mountains, the sight of the Hawaiian Pyramid in the distance becomes clear. Much like the childhood game of picturing shapes in the clouds, seeing a Pyramid in the side of a mountain may make you wonder if the afternoon sun is playing tricks with your mind.
If you look closely at the peak directly above my outstretched arms, you will make out a definitive pyramid. That triangle in the distance was our goal and since we were hiking without kids...we made it---hot, sweaty, and dust covered. I would do this hike again just for the difference in views it offers. I also enjoyed the perspective of O'ahu from up here, the island always feel so big when you are up in the hills and mountains looking down. When facing the mountain, to your left are views of another hike (Pu'u O' Hulu) and to the right, Nanakuli High School. Ocean and mountain views are all I need for a successful hike.
This trail was very clear once we got up to the ridge line, but we did not ever encounter anyone along the trail. Clearly others have hiked this trail with some frequency to keep such a clearcut path, but on a weekday morning you will most likely have this place all to yourself. That worked for us. Enjoying the calm and quiet of this westside trail was just what I needed after maneuvering through the beginning of the new school year for both my boys.
As we headed back down the trail we discovered an alternate trail down to our car. This alternate path proved easier and included the second bunker of the day. This old bunker was pretty dirty and filled with trash so we didn't stay too long to explore or take pictures. A quick snap or two and we were on our way to Kapolei to have an early lunch at Kalapawai Deli---home of the best Italian Sub (minus cheese for me).
Pyramid Hike and a Submarine Sandwich, perfect kids are in school combo.
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