Your Handy Guide to Haiku Stairs Oahu Trail
Are you ready for an adventure like no other? How about climbing 3,922 metal stairs up the stunning Ko’olau mountains in Oahu, Hawaii? This is the famous ‘Stairway To Heaven’ hike, also known as the Haiku Stairs. Trust me when I say this, it’s not just a hike; it’s an experience that will leave you amazed and exhilarated.
In this blog, I’ll tell you everything about the Haiku stairs right from its history, height & distance, weather conditions, and more. So let’s dive into it.
Table of Contents
The Call of Adventure
My journey with the ‘Stairway To Heaven’ began in 2015 when I first found out about it online. The charm of its beautiful views and learning about the unique experiences of different travelers is what honestly drew me in. And it was at that moment I knew I had to conquer this trail. Since then, I’ve hiked it quite a few times, and each time, it’s truly been a journey of pure adrenaline and awe.
A Glimpse into History
The Haiku stairs were originally built by the US Navy in 1942. They served as a secret communication link to transmit radio signals to the ships sailing in the Pacific Ocean during World War II.
The stairs were open for public use until 1987 when they were deemed as unsafe for use due to lack of repair. Nonetheless, you’ll often find residents of Oahu sharing their experiences of hiking up the Stairway.
And let me tell you, that the city of Honolulu came together and spent almost a million dollars in repairing the stairs with a plan to re-open it in the year 2002. However, the residents were still skeptical about its safety and stopped it from re-opening. And ever since then, the stairs have been closed for hiking or any other public purpose.
The Legal Conundrum
One of the most intriguing aspects of the ‘Stairway To Heaven’ hike is its legal status. Technically, the trail is closed to the public, and climbing it is considered illegal. The government’s concern for liability has led to its closure, but that hasn’t stopped thousands of thrill-seekers from embarking on this epic adventure. And this is what makes it interesting from here upon.
Many tourists still sneak past a guard appointed at the bottom of the stairs to experience the thrill of climbing the 2000-high cliff that sends chills down your spine.
The Thrill of the Climb
The hike begins in Haiku Valley, under the H3 highway, and winds its way up the side of Puʻukeahiakahoe mountain. Now, what’s important for you to know is that the initial climb is quite steep and strenuous. However, once you reach the first platform, the hike flattens out and here you can take some rest and enjoy the stunning views of Kaneohe Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Safety First
While the ‘Stairway To Heaven‘ hike is considered safe with proper precautions, it’s not without its risks. The stairs can be slippery, especially in wet conditions, so make sure to wear proper hiking shoes that hold a strong grip but are comfortable at the same time.
Along with this, also pack for a rain jacket as the weather here can get quite unpredictable and I’m sure you’d not want to hike all drenched in the rain. Additionally, staying hydrated and carrying enough water is crucial, as the hike can be physically demanding.
Last but not least, always (I mean always) carry an extra pair of hiking socks and a head torch. Now why a head torch? Well, this comes from my personal experience. There have been times when I’ve arrived late from a hiking trip, heading back amidst the dark. And this has always helped me. So I’d suggest you carry one too.
The Future of the Haiku Stairs
The future of the Haiku Stairs remains uncertain, with discussions ongoing about whether to preserve or remove the stairs. Despite its illegal status, the trail continues to attract adventurers from around the world, drawn by its unparalleled beauty and unique experience.
Exploring Legal Alternatives
For those seeking a legal alternative, the Moanalua Valley Trail offers a challenging ascent with stunning views. While not the same as the Haiku Stairs, it provides a legal route to the summit, allowing hikers to experience the beauty of the area without breaking any laws.
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Conclusion
The ‘Stairway To Heaven’ hike is not just a hike; it’s an adventure of a lifetime. Despite its legal complexities, the trail continues to attract a number of adventurers from all around the world with its stunning views and amazing experience. Whether you choose to get on this journey or explore legal alternatives, one thing is certain: the beauty of Hawaii’s landscape will leave you breathless.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
Q. Can you still climb the Haiku Stairs?
A. Currently it is illegal to hike the Haiku Stairs and it has been closed for some time.
Q. How many stairs are on Haiku Stairs?
A. The Haiku trail has a total of 3,922 stairs which take you to a height of 4,000 feet.
Q. How long does Stairway to Heaven hike take Oahu?
A. The Stairway to Heaven hike takes anywhere between 2-5 hours from both ways. Know that getting downwards might be much quicker but beware of the leg cramps at the end of the day
Q. How hard is the Stairway to Heaven hike?
A. The Stairway to Heaven is a moderately hard trail that gets quite steep at some points.
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