Makiki Tantalizer

Explore the Makiki-Tantalus trail complex on this selected combination of maze-like trails. At the numerous junctions, carefully follow the coordinator’s instructions and trail marker ribbons, in order to navigate your way back to the start. In between, expect an aerobic workout!

A $5 donation is requested for each non-member, age 18 or over.

Cumulative Elevation Gain: 2,100 ft.

Trail Conditions: Getting lost, mud, mosquitoes.

Trail Features: Views of Nu’uanu valley, Kane’ohe and Konahuanui

Trail Route: Loop.

Native Plants: Koa, ‘Ohi’a Lehua, ‘Ie’ie vines

Moku & Ahupua’a: Kona & Honolulu.

Hawaiian Name Meaning: Makiki is probably named after a type of stone used as weights for octopus lures.

Historic Information:
Tantalus is a mythological Greek hero who revealed the secrets of the gods and in turn was punished in the afterlife by having his food and water ever receding out of reach, making his situation the template for a goal never to be fulfilled. Early 20th century Oahu College (now Punahou School) students on several outings failed to find a route to Pu’u ‘Ohi’a, thus decided to call the peak Tantalus in reflection of their thwarted attempts to reach it.

* The club takes no responsibility and disclaims any liability for the contents of hike descriptions including any inaccuracies, omissions, errors, misleading statements, incompleteness, or incorrect information (click here to read our full disclaimer).