Do I need a permit to hike Koko Crater Railway Trail?

No, Koko Crater Railway Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Koko Crater Railway Trail?

Koko Crater Railway Trail is rated difficult. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Koko Crater Railway Trail?

Koko Crater Railway Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, fall, and winter. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Is Koko Crater Railway Trail suitable for kids?

Koko Crater Railway Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Hawaii trail conditions

DifficultOut and Back

Hawaii

Koko Crater Railway Trail

Honolulu, Hawaii

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Generated from trail data

A relentless straight-up climb on the abandoned ties of a WWII tramway built in 1942 to haul cargo and personnel to a summit radar station on Koko Crater (Kohelepelepe). The radar station was deactivated in 1947; the over-1,000-step incline is now one of Oʻahu's most popular workouts. A new summit viewing structure replaced the old radar-platform grate in 2023, and the route reopened in July 2025 after WWII bunker openings were sealed.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

Very steep, uneven railway ties including an elevated trestle sectionSealed WWII bunkers with fall hazards — stay on the tramwaySun exposure; frequent hiker rescues on this trail

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Mixed Surface

Official sources & verification

Verify before you go

Source of truth

Agency source page
The page our published rules and notes are derived from.

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Highlights

Over 1,000 railway-tie steps in a single sustained inclineWWII tramway and summit radar-station historySummit viewing platform (2023)Panoramic views over Hawaiʻi Kai and Hanauma Bay's ridge