Manana

Overview

Out of all the leeward Ko’olau ungraded ridge hikes, Manana is the king of roller coaster action. That doesn’t mean its without rewards, however. The hike ends with a long segment of wild and wonderful open ridge walking. From the summit you are treated to superb views of windward Oahu including Kaneohe Bay, the windward coast to Makapuu Pt. with Ka’alaea Valley directly below. On the way up it is possible to see Pearl Harbor, the Wahiawa Plain and the Waianae Range in the distance. Native plants – koa, naupaka, sandalwood. Native birds – apapane.

Directions

Proceed on foot to the back of the circle passing through an opening in the fence next to a gate. Hike up a one-lane paved road. Reach the Manana Trail a short distance beyond a water tank. Continue straight eventually arriving at a junction. Bear left and climb a small hump in the ridge (contouring around the hump to the right and dropping down leads to Waimano Pool). At a fork in the trail, bear left and descend. Break out into the open, traverse an eroded section followed by a wide grassy path through rolling hills. Endure many more ups and downs and enjoy a long stretch of open ridge walking in route to the summit.

Hazards

Some narrow spots