Mariner's Ridge

This hike was my favorite so far. The view from the top was incredible and I will for sure be doing this one again!!

Mariner's Ridge is a hike that leads up to the top of one of the peaks of the Koolau Mountains. The trail begins in a residential area in Hawaii Kai. Please be conscious of the fact that the trail head is in a neighborhood and you should try to be courteous and quiet, especially if going in the early hours of the morning. You will not be able to park right where the trail begins but rather utilize the neighborhood street parking. Please follow all the rules for that or you may end up with a parking ticket or towed. 

Trail Head

As you begin ascending the trail you will see that it is rather friendly. Its fairly smooth and although it ascends moderately, it is definitely doable with children. We took a group with us, 7 of which were children 11 or under. Just up the trail you will be able to look out and see a great view already. This hike has many, many great vantage points, which is part of the reason I enjoyed it so much. It is also rather short, clocking in at about 2.5 miles round trip. But do not be fooled. The moderate ascension more than makes up for its short distance. 

There will be several occasions where you come to clearing with great views. Take a minute to take it all in.

This is the first view we came to, which was not very long after we started. To the right there is a small path up to another spot where you can get an almost 360° view of the area.

Taking in the view

From here you continue along the trail which will be covered in pine needles for a while. You will go through some wooded areas here before coming to another small clearing.

The next portion of trail looks a little hidden. You can see how it goes into the brush. It then follows a trail up to the top. 

Trail leading to the top

I loved this view through the brush. 

After a while you will get to a section covered in pine needles. Super soft  pine needles. The entire area is covered in them. Bad thing is that they do make the path a little slippery, but not too bad. The trail wraps around until you come to a flat area that is seriously the perfect spot for a picnic. Next time we go I will pack a lunch and we will use that spot as a resting area.

They scaled the side instead of taking the path to the flat part. Cheaters! LOL

See how nice and flat it is?! Perfect for a picnic or a quick rest. 

 At this point you may be feeling like you are ready turn back, especially if you enjoy your rest at the "picnic" spot too long! But I promise you it is worth it to keep going. Its slightly more rugged as you continue, but the views from the top make your forget your tight legs and heavy breathing as soon as you get there. They are breathtakingly beautiful.

*Sigh* No words necessary

 You are literally right on the ridge line at this point. I am sure you could continue on if you are an advanced hiker, but that was the end of the road for us. But not before we got a few amazing family shots. You will be astounded how high you are!  You get a sense that you are on top of the world, and that you just conquered this majestic mountain. 
There is no feeling like it. 

Enjoy hiking! And let me know if you go!! :)