Fifty Hikes at 50: #30 - Diamond Head

Diamond Head

Le'ahi, or Diamond Head, is one of the most recognized landmarks on the Hawaii Islands. Sitting at the end of Waikiki, Le'ahi was formed 300,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption, getting its "Diamond Head" name from the calcite crystals on the slopes of its crater.

I arrived for a short stay mid-afternoon, and with little time to get a hike in, chose a route from the hotel, along Waikiki, to the Diamond Head summit - a 9 mile out and back. My challenge was time, as the park closed at 6:00, with the last hikers allowed in at 4:30.

The area around Waikiki is alive with activity and beauty. This is "Duke" country. Duke Kahanamoku, Gold Medalist Olympian, is revered in Hawaii, and his story is a good one. Swimmer, surfer, life-saver - Duke is a modern day hero.

Heading out along Waikiki toward Diamond Head

Duke Kahanamoku

There are a number of statues along the way paying homage to Hawaiian culture and it's interesting to read the stories and learn the history behind them.

Makua and Kila - A children's story honoring Hawaiian values of family and the ocean

Once through the resort area, there are still a few miles to go before Diamond Head. While there is a beautiful view of Diamond Head from the resort area, the access road is on the back side of the crater, adding time and miles to to the hike.

Entrance to Diamond Head Park

Through the Crater Wall

Diamond Head - the Far Crater Wall

At this stage, it has been 3.5 miles to get to the trail head. Now, a .8 mile climb to the summit.

Begin ascent

Initial stage of trail

Working way up...

Through final tunnel

Up a long line of stairs

Spiral Ladder to Observation Area

Looking back on Entrance Tunnel (middle of photo)

The distance and climbing made for a great workout. When I arrived at the summit, a stronger than normal breeze blew, and it felt good to cool off and enjoy the views.