Koko Crater Stairs Hike

Let's tackle this popular cardio trail together!
This is a short yet challenging workout hike up the side of Koko Crater on an abandoned WW-II era tramway: 1,000+ steps. 1,000 feet in elevation gain. Out and back about 1.5 miles total.
You will be rewarded with a great view of Honolulu, Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay and Hawaii Kai. Attempting to summit is an accomplishment by itself!
There is very little shade. Bring plenty of WATER, sun protection and be very careful with your footing on slippery railroad ties, loose gravel, eroded stairs and spaces on the "bridge" section (a bypass available).
Hydrate well and climb at your own pace to enjoy this hike.

Recommended for the hike:

• Bring plenty of WATER and snacks to keep your energy going. There is very little shade and you will be sweating.
• Wear a pair of shoes with good traction.
• Hiking poles may help to protect your knees, especially coming down.
• Spikes may help on steep descents, especially in the wet condition.

HIKERS POLICY/DISCLAIMER (please read):

Respect the Host(s), fellow hikers and the 'aina.

New Friends in the 808, a Meetup Group (Group). and/or its Event Hosts, or Organizers, shall not be liable for any injury, loss or damage to persons and/or property, direct or indirect, arising out of any events of the Group. The assumption of risk, which is inherent in this type of outdoor activity, is implied on the part of each person participating in any Group hiked. Every person participating in any of these events assumes all risk and liability during the event.

All hikes, require advance registration (RSVP) before the hike's date, to allow the Host to make preparations. For intermediate/advanced hikes, the Host may: 1) contact members in advance; 2) close RSVP early, when necessary to limit the size of the hiking group; 3) refuse RSVPs to persons who may not be sufficiently strong to stay with the group; and 4) turn back any hiker, the Host feels can't complete the hike.

Adopted/modified from:

Mountain Club of Maryland / Hiker’s Policy
13740 Oster Farm Road
West Friendship, MD 21794
email: contact@mcomd.org

used with permission

SAFETY TIPS FOR HIKING:

1. Bring sufficient water. Do not drink stream water.
2. Stay on the trail.
3. Allow ample time to return before nightfall by figuring 1.5 miles per hour.
4. Bring proper equipment, as indicated by the host; including a first aid kit.
5. Wear proper shoes and clothing.
6. Hike in a group and keep track of those in your party.
7. You are responsible for your own safety.

(created 12/1/2019, updated on 1/27/2025)