Bring the Kids: Kolekole Hike
Kolekole is a less heard of trail, but with some gorgeous views. It's also a great trail to bring small children on, being one of the easier hikes on the island. No one really knows about this one, and yet it became one of our favorite hikes to do with our kids.
Firstly, this hike is on Schofield Barracks, so if you do not have base access you will need to get a visitors pass. Secondly, this trail is only open on certain weekends, because the Army uses it for training. So you will need to check the U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii Facebook page to see whether it is open or not.
Once on base, you follow Trimble rd. to where it turns into Kolekole all the way. When I mean all the way, I mean even when it looks like you are entering restricted areas, you still aren't there. You will pass the range, you will pass some gated off areas, and then finally you will be surrounded by vegetation on a winding, narrow road. Follow that road until you come to the end of it, where you will see a small grassy parking area. You can park here or along the road. The trail starts in the grassy area - there is a sign.
The first part of the hike is probably the hardest part for kids, but only because the steps are so steep. My kids did fine climbing up them, and there is a rope "railing" to help you along the way. Just be careful of slipping if it is muddy. After that, it's no more than a nice walk through the woods! Be sure to follow the signs when you see them, because there are a few different branches - especially when you get to the fenced off radio tower in the clearing. There are many little lookout spots on the way, so be sure not to miss them! When you get to the large rock ledge (pictured below), take a little break to admire the view, but you aren't there yet! It looks like the end, but it isn't.
You'll walk through some tall grass (watch out for wild pigs!), until finally coming to an opening in the trees, where you will find a nice little bench waiting for you, and spectacular views. This is Pu'u Haupapa. (The adventurous can keep going up the mountain from this spot, but it is not a hike for kids. You have to actually climb with your hands on a narrow, steep trail - it's dangerous even for good hikers.) From the bench, if you are brave enough, you can go down onto the rocky ledge, but I wouldn't recommend letting the kids do it. If you aren't good with heights or get dizzy easily, maybe just stay up by the bench. :)
