Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail
A challenging 4.5-mile ridge hike on Oahu with steep ascents, ropes, and rewarding panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging 4.5-mile ridge hike on Oahu with steep ascents, ropes, and rewarding panoramic views.
"The Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail offers breathtaking panoramic views and a challenging, rewarding hike."
👟 Essential Hiking Shoes
Good traction is a must! The trail gets slippery, especially the finish.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging hike, especially during warmer parts of the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Oahu, including Honolulu's skyline and the Pacific Ocean.
Steep Ridge Ascent
Upper Ridge
A challenging climb with stairs, ropes, and roots offering an adventurous trek.
Lush Rainforest Path
Lower Trail
Wander through a beautiful, green landscape of koa and guava forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gated Community Access
Trail Conditions & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Essential Hiking Shoes
Good traction is a must! The trail gets slippery, especially the finish.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging hike, especially during warmer parts of the day.
🚫 Stay on the Trail
Protect the environment and your safety by sticking to marked paths.
☀️ Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Protect yourself from the sun and pesky insects during your trek.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Essential Hiking Shoes
Good traction is a must! The trail gets slippery, especially the finish.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on this challenging hike, especially during warmer parts of the day.
🚫 Stay on the Trail
Protect the environment and your safety by sticking to marked paths.
☀️ Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Protect yourself from the sun and pesky insects during your trek.
⚠️ Not for Beginners
The steep and technical final section requires some hiking experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail offers breathtaking panoramic views and a challenging, rewarding hike. While the initial part is pleasant, the steep and technical finish requires good footwear and caution, especially in wet conditions. It's a memorable experience for those prepared for its demands.
"This hike has some major potential but unfortunately it's pretty sketchy once you get to the top portion. Easy beginning and great views from the middle portion. Super steep up top, with some stairs and then ropes, but a few scary spots. We bailed right at the end, as some fog was rolling over and the footing was lacking. Any moisture and there would be absolutely no traction. Going up isn't too bad, coming down is pretty tricky and not for the faint of heart."
Andrew Chapman
"Not for beginners, says steady incline it was steep. Very steep. It was fun when I wasnt absolutely dying. Had to crawl on hands and knees at one point over a bunch of roots, once I got to the top of the root there were stair that were like 22 inches tall. Thought going down would be easier than going up but it was only faster, came down and almost popped my shocks and slid about a quarter the way down. Overall will be doing again 9/10."
Alexandria Hopkins
"Great hiking experience. Medium difficulty with a steep finish though. Usually sufficient parking available, you will receive a parking permission for free when entering the gated community. If the six standard parking spaces are full, then just proceed to the forest street and park on the side. Bring sufficient water and a snack to enjoy the view on the peak. Good shoes are a must as the finish part can be quite slippery even in dry days."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is located within a gated community. Inform the guard you are there for the hike to receive a day pass. Parking is usually available, but if the main spots are full, you can park on the side of Forest Street.
Yes, there are typically six standard parking spaces available. If these are full, street parking is an option within the neighborhood.
No permit is required, but you will receive a free day pass from the gate guard when you state you are hiking.
While possible, ride-sharing services may have difficulty navigating the gated community. It's best to confirm with the driver beforehand.
Driving is the most common method. Be prepared to interact with the gate guard for access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for the Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail itself. You will receive a complimentary day pass from the gated community's guard.
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat and potential afternoon rain.
No advance booking is necessary. Access is granted via a day pass from the gated community's guard.
It's best to visit during typical daylight hours. Informing the guard of your hiking intentions is key to gaining access.
If the designated parking spots are occupied, you can park on the side of Forest Street within the neighborhood.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike typically takes 3-4 hours round trip, covering about 4.5 to 5 miles with significant elevation gain.
It's considered moderate to difficult, with a steep and technical final section that includes stairs, ropes, and potentially slippery terrain.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with sun protection.
Yes, the upper portion of the trail can be sketchy, especially in wet conditions, with steep inclines and slippery footing.
Expect stunning panoramic views of Oahu's coastline, Honolulu's skyline, the Ko'olau Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean from the summit.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots. The lush forest and ridge lines along the trail also provide beautiful photographic moments.
Be cautious when taking photos, especially on the steeper and more technical sections. Prioritize your footing and safety.
Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the landscape. Midday can be harsh, but the panoramic views are still impressive.
Drone usage may be restricted in residential areas and natural reserves. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for the panoramic views. A sturdy camera or phone with good stabilization is recommended due to the uneven terrain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you are looking for a family-friendly hike on Oahu, there are many other excellent options that offer beautiful views without the extreme difficulty. Consider trails that are less exposed and have more manageable inclines. Always assess your children's hiking abilities and comfort levels before choosing a trail.
💪 Experienced Hikers & Adventurers
+1Experienced hikers should still exercise caution, especially on the descent, and be prepared for potentially slippery conditions. Bringing good traction footwear and plenty of water is essential. This trail is a great option for those looking to push their limits and experience some of Oahu's most dramatic ridge hiking.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1To get the best photos, aim for an early morning start to catch the soft, golden light and avoid harsh midday sun. Be mindful of your surroundings and prioritize safety when composing your shots, especially on the more challenging sections of the trail. A wide-angle lens will be your best friend here to capture the expansive vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail: From Gentle Start to Technical Finish
As you ascend, the trail becomes progressively steeper and more challenging. The middle portion offers rewarding views, but the final push to the summit is where the real adventure lies. Expect a series of steep stairs, some of which are quite tall, and sections where you'll need to use ropes for assistance. This technical aspect makes it a thrilling hike for those seeking a bit of a challenge.
+1It's crucial to be prepared for the demanding nature of the upper trail. Footing can be precarious, especially if the trail is wet. Reviews often mention the difficulty of descending, with some hikers experiencing slips. Therefore, sturdy footwear with excellent traction is non-negotiable for a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Importance of Footwear and Weather Preparedness
Beyond footwear, being mindful of the weather is critical. The trail is significantly more challenging and potentially dangerous when wet. Social media content and reviews frequently warn against attempting the hike during or immediately after rainfall. Fog can also roll in, reducing visibility and adding to the precariousness of the path.
+1Carrying sufficient water is another key aspect of preparedness. The hike involves a considerable elevation gain, and the tropical climate can be intense. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels and preventing heat-related issues. Bringing snacks is also a good idea to refuel while enjoying the stunning views from the summit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit