Koko Crater

The basics

Originally used by the US military to transport supplies and equipment to the summit, the stairs comprise 1,048 railroad ties, though some have eroded over the years. Although the 1.4-mile (2.2-kilometer) round-trip trail starts gently, it gets steep, with a pitch of 50 degrees at some points. There’s also a railway bridge halfway up that hovers over a ravine, though a bypass is available. At the top, find graffiti-covered bunkers and some of the best views on Oahu. Some Oahu sightseeing tours will pass by Koko Crater. Guided hikes are also available.

Things to know before you go

• Because the trail is steep and can be difficult, it’s suitable for those with good fitness levels.
• Wear sturdy hiking shoes, put on sunscreen, and pack plenty of water. Bring headlamps if attempting the trail early or late.
• When taking breaks, step off to the side of the trail to let others pass. Hikers ascending have the right of way.
• Restrooms can be found at the trailhead parking lot.
• Although the Koko Crater Trail is sometimes referred to as the “Koko Head Stairs,” Koko Crater and Koko Head are two different mountains.

How to get there

The trailhead for Koko Crater is located on the north end of Koko Head Park Road, off of Kalanianaole Highway, around 13 miles (21 kilometers) away from Honolulu. Parking can be found near the baseball field in Koko Head District Park. Additional parking lots can be found elsewhere in the park.

When to get there

Given the lack of shade, it’s best to attempt the trail when it’s cool outside, in the early morning or evening. These are also the most popular times to hike the trail, especially over the summer. It can take 30 to 90 minutes to complete the hike, depending on how often you stop to rest. Some parts of the trek can be slippery, so it’s best to avoid it during or after it rains.

Koko Crater Botanical Garden

Nestled inside Koko Crater, the Koko Crater Botanical Garden spans 60 acres (24 hectares). In addition to native Hawaiian plants, it’s home to plants from Africa, Madagascar, and the Americas, dryland palms, cacti, succulents, and other unusual plants. Don’t miss the plumeria grove. It’s free to enter the botanical garden, which is open year-round, except on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

Ways to explore

The Koko Crater features a tough but worthwhile hike that’s best embarked on in the early morning hours to beat the heat and avoid crowds. Be wary if you plan to hike before dawn to watch the sunrise at the pinnacle, as the steep stairs and uneven terrain can be difficult to navigate in the dark, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

The hike itself only takes between 30 minutes to an hour, but you’ll want to be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as there are more than 1,000 stairs to climb. To enhance the experience, book a guided trek.

Accessibility

Not accessible

Age limits

Visitors who are hiking need to be physically ready to climb the stairs.

What to pack

Sunscreen, camera, water bottle

What to wear

Sturdy hiking shoes, sun hat, sunglasses

Not allowed

Pets, hiking on unmarked trails

Amenities

Restrooms, parking, water fountains

Address

From Honolulu, you can reach the Koko Crater by driving yourself, using public transit, or booking a tour that includes transportation.

Driving

From downtown Honolulu, get on the H-1 East and exit at 26B for Kalanianaole Highway (Route 72). From there, continue for 6 miles before turning left onto Lunalilo Home Road, then make a right onto Anapalau Street until you reach the trailhead.

Public transportation

From downtown Honolulu, take bus line 1, 1L, 23, 80, or PH6 via TheBus, and get off at the Lunalilo Home Road and Kaumakani Street stop. From there, it’s just a quick walk to the trailhead.

Best times to visit

The best time to visit the Koko Crater is early in the morning, before the weather heats up and the crowds arrive.

Best days to visit

Monday through Thursday are the best days of the week to visit Koko Crater, to avoid competing with lots of other travelers and hikers.

Best months to visit

Head to Hawaii in the summer for the best weather, with consistently warm, sunny days.

Special events

For families traveling around Easter, consider visiting during the Koko Head Eggstravaganza, which features a number of kid-friendly activities.