Don’t Try This One Hike in Hawaii if You’re Afraid of Heights

What do you think is the most extreme hike in Hawaii? If you asked a local, they would probably say the Pu'u Manamana Trail on Oahu. This four-mile trek features narrow ridges, sheer cliffs, and treacherous rock scrambling sections, making it decidedly unsuitable for beginners. The infamous Ha'ikū Stairs, also on Oahu, are another top contender, featuring a steep staircase of thousands of steps that leads up a near-vertical mountain face. (It's crucial to note that it's illegal to climb the Ha'ikū Stairs, and several people have died doing so.)

However, if you want an extreme hike in Hawaii that's actually doable, the Puʻu Kōnāhuanui Ridge Trail is a great choice. This 8-mile adventure leads to Oahu's highest point and offers sweeping views of Honolulu and the Nu'uanu Valley. It can be scary for some because of the 3,000-foot elevation gain, but the reward is worth challenging your fears.

If you decide to embark on the Puʻu Kōnāhuanui Ridge Trail, it's important to know what you're getting yourself into. This rugged journey through the Round Top Forest Reserve typically takes about six hours out and back, traversing several trails and culminating at two mountain peaks, locally known as K1 and K2 (the "K" stands for Kōnāhuanui).

Don't let the trail's easy start deceive you. It's only partially maintained, and once you begin ascending the ridge, you'll have to navigate overgrown vegetation, steep drop-offs, mud, and other obstacles. But before we get there, let's back up a bit. The beginning features a relatively easy hike through dense (but not untamed) tropical vegetation. You'll walk through natural arches made entirely of tree roots, admire beautiful, brightly-colored flowers, and savor the fact that this secluded oasis lies just minutes from the busy Honolulu city center.

It's only up from here (literally). You have two options for the ascent: either climb up the ridge, which the hiker below is doing, or head up the side of the mountain. Choose wisely, as you'll have to come down the opposite way. If you're afraid of heights, I'd recommend taking the ridge up. It's considerably narrower than the mountainside, and looking over the edge is sure to make your palms sweat. Descending on the ridge would give you no choice but to focus on how high up you are, so save yourself the panic!

Some sections of the climb offer rope assistance, but regardless, you need plenty of hiking experience to attempt this trail. But once you reach the summit and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley and city of Honolulu below, you'll forget about all the scary parts. There's no denying this is one of the best hiking trails in Hawaii.

Visit AllTrails for more information about the Puʻu Kōnāhuanui Ridge Trail, including current trail conditions and help navigating forks in the path.

Have you ever hiked this challenging trail? What do you think is the most extreme hike in Hawaii? If you're feeling inspired to plan your own Hawaii trips, Only In Your State’s itinerary planner can help.