Diamond Head Trail

The Diamond head trail, considered moderate, is 1,6 miles long (about 2,6 km), and takes one to three hours. It climbs 560 feet (about 170 meters).
This trail is probably the most popular of all trails in Hawaii. It was built in 1908 as part of Oahu’s coastal defense system.

There are refreshments and toilets near the parking lot, and several signs with information about the trail and the park.

One of several signs with information about the trail and the park.

Information about the climb. Note that smoking, littering and other antisocial behavour is not allowed.

The very first part of the trail, but this flat pavement is very short.

The path soon changes and winds back and forth up the side of the crater.

The path is not suitable for prams or strollers.

There are several signs like these along the trail.

The first set of steps.

There are 74 steps that lead to a tunnel.

The 225 feet long tunnel is dimly lighted and very narrow. One needs to squeeze past approaching traffic.

Near the end of the tunnel is a viewing platform and a chance to catch your breathe. Leila, Annette and Erik on the right.

This platform, located before you get to the next tunnel, was for winches and cables to lift material to the top.

At the end of the tunnel is a 99 step staircase that leads to the lowest part of the fire control station on the top.

A two story steel staircase at the end of a short tunnel after the 99 step staircase.

The steel staircase leads you to the third level of the fire control station with a good view towards Honolulu.

The last 54 steps that lead to the very top.

View towards the Diamond Head crater and Koko Head.

View towards Honolulu.

View towards Waikiki

Waikiki

View towards the mountains in the north showing housing is built on ridges leading down to Honolulu.

Diamond lighthouse on the coast toward the left.

Leading up to the highest outlook.

The highest outlook.

The 82 step metal staircase that brings you down to the level of the last tunnel, instead of the spiral staircase and the 99 step stairs.

View into the crater from the lookout at the rim.

On the way down – many were still on the way up.

View back to the top of Diamond Head – with many visitors.

On the way down.

You can rest in the park when you get back to the parking lot. Start early. The lot was nearly full when we arrived at 0800 and there was a long queue when we left.