Koko Crater Railway Trail Honolulu
Conquer over 1,000 steep railroad tie steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Oahu's coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Koko Crater Railway Trail Honolulu
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer over 1,000 steep railroad tie steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Oahu's coast.
"This hike is so worth it! It's over 1000 steps so definitely a stair-master workout but the view at the top is stunning."
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water! It gets incredibly hot with no shade.
👟 Grippy Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. The railroad ties can be slippery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 1,048 Steps
The entire ascent
An intense climb up old railroad ties, offering a unique and challenging workout with rewarding views.
Panoramic Summit Views
Top of Koko Crater
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Hanauma Bay, Waikiki, and the surrounding coastline.
Abandoned Military Bunkers
Summit area
Explore remnants of the past, but exercise extreme caution and respect closure signs.
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Crater: Essential Prep
Safety First: Trail Status & Bunkers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water! It gets incredibly hot with no shade.
👟 Grippy Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. The railroad ties can be slippery.
🌅 Sunrise Spectacle
Catching the sunrise from the top is magical and worth the early start.
🦵 Take Your Time
It's a tough climb. Stop to rest as needed; the views are worth it.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring ample water! It gets incredibly hot with no shade.
👟 Grippy Footwear Essential
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes. The railroad ties can be slippery.
🌅 Sunrise Spectacle
Catching the sunrise from the top is magical and worth the early start.
🦵 Take Your Time
It's a tough climb. Stop to rest as needed; the views are worth it.
⚠️ Descend with Care
Going down can be harder on knees. Take it slow and switch your lead foot.
🚫 Avoid Midday Sun
The trail is fully exposed and gets dangerously hot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This hike is a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, offering stunning panoramic views from its summit. While the 1,000+ steep steps are a serious workout, most visitors find the effort well worth it for the breathtaking scenery and sense of accomplishment. It's crucial to be prepared with water and proper footwear, and to tackle it during cooler parts of the day.
"This hike is so worth it! It’s over 1000 steps so definitely a stair-master workout but the view at the top is stunning. Take it slow and bring lots of water. It took us less than half an hour to get to the top and about 10-15 minutes getting down and we spent about an hour admiring the views at the top.
We did it right before sunset which I highly recommend as the heat is much more bearable at this time compared to earlier"
Amber L
"I love coming and doing this hike every time I visit Hawaii. Its not too challenging if you go at your own pace. I would highly recommend brining water. You will be thirsty when you get to the top, but the views are so worth it!!"
Majury A
"Warning: REALLY HARD. Anyone who says otherwise is misleading. No shade available in the hot sun. Your legs will be absolutely gassed from the 1000+ steps up and 1000 steps down. 3 different people (one in ROTC so great shape) had to be helicoptered out while we did the hike.
This isn’t like doing a stair master, each step is technical. And then the trek down can be a bit dangerous since your legs are noodles.
Was with some competitive fitness instructors, marathoners, etc and while it wasn’t “hard” for them it was not easy. This is a difficult and challenging hike.
With out of the way, it is also a very cool and unique hike. Climbing the stairs/rail line is different and offers a cool and challenging environment. The payoff at the top is incredible views of the crater and the sense of accomplishment having just bested the rail line.
Definitely would do again, but this is for people who are in shape."
B M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at 7604 Koko Head Park Rd, Honolulu, HI. Parking is available at the Koko Head District Park. If coming from Ko Olina, expect traffic, so leave extra early, especially on weekdays.
Yes, there is a parking lot at Koko Head District Park near the trailhead. It can fill up, especially on weekends and during peak hours.
While public transport options exist, they can be time-consuming. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for easier access.
Driving is the most convenient. It takes about 20-30 minutes without traffic. Consider ride-sharing if you don't have a car.
Yes, the park and trailhead are accessible by car. The trail itself is a hike, not a drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required for the Koko Crater Railway Trail. It is a free public hike.
The trail is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's highly recommended to start well before sunset to avoid hiking in the dark.
No, there is no entrance fee to access Koko Crater Park or hike the trail.
Reservations are not required for the Koko Crater Railway Trail.
It's strongly advised against hiking at night due to the steep, uneven terrain and lack of lighting.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level and how long you spend at the summit. +1
Yes, it's considered a very difficult hike due to the 1,048 steep steps. It's often compared to a challenging stair-master workout. +1
Wear comfortable athletic clothing and sturdy, grippy shoes. Avoid sandals or open-toed shoes.
Restrooms are available at Koko Head District Park near the trailhead. There are no facilities on the trail itself.
It's generally not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the steepness and uneven steps.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views of the coastline and ocean. The railroad tracks themselves also make for dramatic photos. +1
Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh due to the direct sun.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near sensitive military structures. Always check local regulations before flying.
Expect sweeping landscape shots, dramatic inclines of the railway tracks, and stunning ocean vistas. +1
Be mindful of your surroundings and the steep steps. Avoid taking photos while actively climbing or descending difficult sections.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your family is very active and experienced with challenging hikes, and your children are older and accustomed to strenuous activity, you might consider it. However, be prepared for frequent breaks and ensure everyone has ample water. Prioritizing safety and choosing a hike that matches your children's abilities is key for a positive family experience.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider timing your ascent to push your limits, perhaps aiming for a personal best time. The descent also offers an opportunity to test your leg strength and control. Remember to listen to your body and stay hydrated, even during intense efforts. The sense of accomplishment after conquering this challenging trail is immense.
📸 Photographers
Be prepared for the hike itself to capture the unique character of the trail. The play of light and shadow on the old ties can be particularly striking. Remember to prioritize safety while shooting; avoid precarious positions, especially on the steeper sections or near any gaps.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Koko Crater Railway Trail: A Stairway to Heaven (or Sore Legs)
Many visitors find the climb to be physically demanding, with some steps requiring a higher stride than usual, making it a true test of endurance. The descent can be particularly tough on the knees, especially for those with pre-existing joint issues.
It's crucial to be well-prepared. Go early to avoid the intense midday heat and the largest crowds. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy, grippy footwear. While some may attempt it for sunrise or sunset, be aware of the diminishing light and potential for increased difficulty in navigation.
Safety and Trail Conditions
+1 While the trail itself remains open, visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution and respect any posted signs or closures related to these structures. The trail's construction from railroad ties means there are gaps between steps, and in some sections, there are even larger gaps where the tracks are missing. While alternative paths often exist around these gaps, it's important to be aware of your footing.
Given the strenuous nature and potential hazards, it's advisable to hike with a companion and to inform someone of your plans. If you experience any discomfort or injury, do not hesitate to seek assistance. While some reviews mention people being helicoptered out, this is a rare occurrence, but it underscores the importance of respecting your physical limits.
Koko Crater vs. Diamond Head: A Comparison
In contrast, Koko Crater is a much more demanding ascent. It's essentially a continuous, steep climb up railroad ties, often referred to as the 'stairmaster from hell.' There is no shade, and the terrain is significantly more challenging, requiring a higher level of fitness.
For those with bad knees or seeking a less intense experience, Diamond Head is the clear choice. Koko Crater is best suited for individuals in good physical condition looking for a serious workout and a unique, challenging hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit