Oahu’s Haiku Stairs are a challenging, yet rewarding hike containing 3,922 vertical steps up the Ko’olau mountain range. You’ll gain over 2,000 feet in elevation with the total hike time varying upon skill-level, group-size, weather, and potential other factors – the average being about 2.5 hours up and 2 hours down.
In order to preserve the nature of the stairs, instructions on reaching the base will not be found here. If you happen to find it, have fun and be safe! It is important to note: there is usually a guard at the base, required to tell hikers they are trespassing and the hike is illegal. The guard cannot issue fines, but CAN call the cops, who may or may not be waiting for you after you finish the hike.
WHAT TO BRING:
1) Headlamp: Usually, I start this hike at 3 a.m. in order to avoid the neighborhood watch/cops and to get to the top before sunrise. Unless you’re a bat, bring a light.
2) Gloves: It’s the Ko’olau’s. Some areas on the Windward side see up to 100 inches of rain per year. You are essentially climbing a ladder the entire way up with very cold and slippery bars to hang onto. Is it the end of the world you don’t have gloves? No. Is it nice to have an added layer of security? Yes.
3) Proper hiking shoes: I wear trail running shoes, because they have the best grip IMO. I think hiking boots would be too heavy for this hike and slow you down. If you want extra protection, wear long socks.
4) Camelbak or equivalent with at least 1 gallon of water: The views are breathtaking, which means you need to consume even more water! Hydration backpacks are a necessity to hold all things you want to bring with you, like phone, keys, wallet, electrolytes, and the water you are going to need to drink. I promise you 1 gallon is necessary. Don’t be a solider. Drink your water.
5) Sun protection: Just because you start the hike at night, doesn’t mean you can forget about sun damage. Bring your sunscreen and a hat. Even though it’s probably raining more than shining, you need to come prepared. Plus, a hat can help in the event of rain.
6) Fuel: Your poor muscles are going to be aching and begging for some fuel by the time you reach the top. A light snack like protein bars can help energize you for the way down. Plus, bars are fairly compact and won’t add much weight to you on your journey.
7) Waterproof jacket: If you don’t want to feel the rain on your skin and don’t want to be freezing in the top bunker while you wait out the storm, a waterproof jacket will do the trick.
*UPDATE: As of July 2024, the city’s initiative to remove the stairs has been halted again. That being said, fines and arrests have increased. Fines are $1,000USD, and jail time can be up to 30 days. This hike is and has been illegal! Enter at your own risk.
This post was written in 2024, before the news of demolition. I am unsure of whether or not the stairs are even climbable at this point in time. If you want to experience the top without all the trespassing, you can enter via the Moanalua Valley Trail.
Feel free to reach out and ask any questions! I’ve completed this hike 7 times with an array of experiences.
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