KOKO HEAD CLIMB

Yesterday I had the adventure of climbing to the top of the KoKo Head crater.  It was an interesting trek up some 1200 or so steps...errrr railroad ties from a track laid during WWII to supply a radar station high atop the crater.  Now train tracks is only relevant in name because this train was pulled up the hill using a winch and a steel cable.   The winch and steel cable are gone, leaving only the iron rails and the railroad ties.   It takes about an hour to climb for the average person.  So, it took me an hour and a half. At this stage of my life, I like to sit, catch my breath, reflect upon the silly notion that this was a good idea and such.   The good news is that I made it to the top, intact.
The best thing was the view.  Amazing.   It was worth the climb, even with aching thighs the next day.

So, if you're going to go for this climb, a few thoughts.

1. Lots of stairs.  Not the even type either these are varying height and width so climbing each is a mini challenge.
2. Take the bypass around the bridge section.  You'll have to scramble on some rocks, but it's better than falling through the gaps in the ties.
3. Water.  Bring a good sized bottle.  If it's a hot day, bring a couple.
4. Shoes.   Leave your slippers at home.  You'll need something with tread.  Going up not so much...coming back down is another story.
5. Time.  This shouldn't be a race.  There are too many ways to hurry and get hurt.  And if you're on top of this, the only way back down with a broken leg is via very expensive helicopter.
6. Stop and enjoy the view on the way up and down.  I stopped at each power pole.  It set a series of goals that made getting to the top easier.
7. Bring a camera or a camera phone.  The views are pretty nifty.
8. Have fun.  Stop and say hello to folks going up when you're coming down.  Offer a bit of encouragement.   If you see that someone is low on water, offer some (another reason to bring two bottles).

Would I do it again?  Yep.

Mahalo