If you're out of shape this hike is not for you. Trail is steep and sometimes dangerous. Bring water along as you'll be sweating by the time you finish.

I woke up this morning planning in going to Koko head. One thing i was not aware is that it takes 1 hour 1/2 by bus to get there. I was staying in Waikiki and was informed to take the number 22 bus which was 40 minutes delayed - quite a few people waiting for the same bus. So i gave up. i really wanted to go and I am just writing this review to give a tip for tourists wishing to go there. It is a long bus drive, plan accordingly and expect bus delays. it seems like the bus 22 doesn't run very often, i actually ended up walking along the bus route and only saw the bus a couple of times. Be aware that although the hike is not very long, better to get well organized about the transportation and your schedule.

I had the opportunity to work in Honolulu for about 8 months. While there, saw just about every corner of the island, but have to say, climbing this trail ("a natural stair stepper") was probably the most fun I had. Very strenuous workout as the inclination at some points is as much as 50 degrees and part of the trail is actually a railroad tressel over a 20 foot deep gorge on the side of the mountain. First time over was one of the scariest feelings ever, but when you do it, you have such a great feeling of accomplishment! The views at the top (where there is an abandoned lookout post [from WWII] are amazing...HOnolulu to the west, Hanuma bay to the south. Just phenomenal. BTW its free. Plenty of parking at the base of the trail. Usually a bunch of people on the trail so if you need some help, there's usually someone there. Just do it if you want a challenge and are physically active.

We done it around 6:30am before it got to hot and crowded which I would recommend. It gets busy around 8am. Most active people could do this (as long as you pace yourself well). It takes 30 - 45min up and about the same taking photos and 30min to get down. Athletes will get to the top in around 15 - 20 minutes. There are still a few World War 2 bunkers at the top. Also taking you photos on top of the bunkers are the best photos. The 20 - 30 metre bridge that you will cross has well placed rail sleepers for footing on your way up. On you way down just before the bridge take the dusty trail to the left which will be quicker and easier.

The views of alot of the southern and east coast is worth every single step!!!!!!!

It's $2.50 one way on the bus from Waikiki (which takes just over 1 hr) or around $40 by cab. Also if you complete the hike early in the morning you might be lucky enough to get a cab coming out of the Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve that might offer you to only pay for gas into Waikiki which happened to us. The bus stop for returning to Waikiki is on your right just after the locked gate you walk around. The bus departs from the main road 10 - 15 minutes before the hour from memory.

Take lots of water!