OH MY....THIS IS ONE HIKE I WILL NEVER FORGET!!
Olomana Trail, aka Three Peaks, is a 4.4 mile trail with a 1,738ft elevation gain located in Kailua. If you're a more experienced hiker and looking for a great hiking adventure in Hawaii, this is it!
The first peak, Mount Olomana, is about 1.5 miles up with steep drop-offs on both sides, and several rock climbing elements with ropes involved to make it to the top. The top of the first peak offers 360 degree views and will get your heart racing when looking out on top of the narrow ridge.
Getting There
Street parking along Auloa Road off of Pali Highway is the closest parking to the trailhead. Be sure to park completely off of the sidewalk and road to avoid being ticketed. It is a short walk to the trail head from the street parking.
During non-covid shutdowns, the trailhead starts off along The Royal Hawaiian golf course road and is marked by the Olomana Trail entrance sign. The stunning peaks and the Koolau Ridge can be viewed from below as you approach the trail head.
The Hiking Adventure
A group of hiking buddies and I ventured out to take on at least peak one of three peaks. Upon approaching the golf course entrance, our hiking group and one other group were turned away due to the covid closures. The friendly golf course employee informed us of another trail that bypassed the golf course entrance and lead back to the three peaks trail, he referred to this area as "zombie land".
Although a little skeptical, we ventured on with our crew and the group of fellow hikers....YOLO right?! To say we were off trail may be an understatement, but this off trailing experience is what makes this hike so unforgettable. Traveling across uneven terrains without a marked trail for a little over an hour, we came across some very eerie sights including abandoned homes, car parts, kids toys, cages (large and small) and various other items that appeared fairly new. We are still unsure of what this area was or is used for, and maybe it's better that way.
Safety in numbers we ventured on! At this point, we were all committed and there was no turning back. After climbing the side of a steep cliff of loose gravel and unstable rocks, we finally made it back on trail and could all breathe a little (okay maybe a large) sigh of relief. I've never been so excited to be on a narrow trail of level ground that would soon turn into a steep incline.
Back on track, the Olomano Trail offers a steep climb through rain forest terrains with tree coverings, and occasional lookouts with incredible views reminding us how high up we were.
As we approached the first peak, we came across six different rock scrambling portions that involved use of ropes and rock climbing to ascend and descend. To access the first peak, we climbed about a 15 foot vertical section of rocks before reaching the top. (This hike is not recommended for children or dogs!!)
The adrenaline rush when making it to the top and looking out at the 360 views is indescribable. At the top of the first peak is a narrow landing that only accommodates a few people at a time. After snapping a few pictures and videos, we decided we had enough adventure and climbing for the day, and we heading back down the peak. We all agreed that no matter the consequences we would be using the trail and golf course access to make our way back down the trail.
The route intended to be hiked was a much easier trail than our off trail excursion to say the least. I may tackle this hike again one day and try to reach the second peak, but for now there are more trails to explore!
This hike is for more experienced hikers in good shape, and is not recommended for kids or dogs. It is recommended that the last peak only be hiked by experienced hikers and appropriate equipment. If you are interested in more hikes on Oahu, you may be interested in our post: "Top Hikes On Oahu" (coming soon).
I highly recommend good hiking shoes and plenty of snacks and water for this hike.
Link to my favorite Solomon Hiking shoes here.
Link to my yellow Kavu sling bag here.
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