HOW TO HIKE THE HAIKU STAIRS IN HAWAII

The Haiku Stairs, or “The Stairway to Heaven” as it is also known, are at the top of O’ahu tourists who love adventure hikes. It’s not surprising. The trail is officially closed, but every day, several hikers still climb the stairs to take in the incredible views of the island.

This post will answer all the questions you have about hiking the Haiku Stairs.

DISCLAIMER – The Government of Hawaii announced that the staircases will be removed for safety reasons.

Before you start…

What should you pack for your hike?

• Shoes that are sturdy
• Enough water. It is exhausting to walk up the stairs and the Haiku Stairs are also a tough hike.
• Light snacks
• Gloves: This may sound odd, but they are very useful for walking down the stairs and gripping railings.
• Stamina: You don’t have to be an athlete, but you should only take this hike if it feels right for you and if heights are not a problem.
• Mosquito repellent is necessary, especially on the way up and down the stairs. There are many mosquitos hiding in the bush.
• Smartphone – GPS and cell phone reception are available during the entire hike. This is very helpful in an emergency.

WHERE DO THE HAIKU STAIRS BEGIN?

In a village called Haiku, the way to the entrance of Haiku Stairs starts. Residents are not happy with the tourists who visit their village every day. The hikers, who enter private property to locate the start of the staircase are particularly annoying. This is understandable. If you are respectful and quiet, then no one will be upset.
Early morning is the best time to begin your hike. This has two advantages: firstly, the temperatures are low and secondly, most of the villagers are asleep.

Uber is an option to get you to the Haiku Preschool. You can also drive your car. You should avoid parking in front of fire hydrants or post boxes to avoid being towed. After a few homes, you will come across a large wire mesh fence that you must pass. If it is closed, you will need to climb through a bush then over a small hill. You can’t miss it!

HOW DO YOU FIND THE ENTRANCE TO THE HAIKU STAIRS?

A pathway leads through the forest behind the fence. The trees have colored bands that show the way through the bushes. While walking, always keep an eye on the ground. Sometimes there may be holes or glass shards (possibly from the village?). It is for this reason that I would not recommend doing the hike in the dark to see the sunrise. I think it’s too dangerous to do the hike in total darkness.

You will then pass another fence and a bamboo forest. It’s easier to climb this fence because it has large holes. The gravel road leads to the stairs and the guard at the entrance.

Is the guard allowed to stop me?

The guard is only there to keep hikers away and get an idea of the number of people on the trail. The police can stop you, and they will likely issue you a ticket as well. The police will pass the Haiku Stairs entrance at random intervals, to check on the situation.

You should therefore not follow the gravel road but rather walk around it and then into the bamboo forest. You have to climb and walk to the right all the way up to get around the guard. You can find your way by using the marker bands on the trees. You will soon be walking below an overpass and then the path leads downhill. You can see the car and fences of the guard from the top. Behind these are the Haiku Stairs.

Walking under the highway bridge…

The stairs begin behind the two fences…

3922 STAIRS to the top.

ARE THE HAIKU STAIRS IN HAWAII DANGEROUS?

You can do the hike if the weather is dry and you wear the right shoes. You’re taking a risk by doing this hike. Some railings are loose, or have even broken off. And some steps are unsteady. The stairs are also quite narrow, so you need to give way to people coming in the opposite direction.
This hike is not for those who are afraid of heights, as the stairs at certain points have a 90% slope and look like a ladder that has a steep drop behind you. You’ll only see the forest below you if you turn around!

How much time should I plan for the hike?

You will need between 2-3 hours for the 3922 steps and about 1-1.5 hours to go down, depending on your fitness and how many breaks are taken. We took several breaks at all the platforms, spent an hour at the top of the mountain and hiked for 5.5 hours. It would have taken us less time if we hadn’t got lost in the woods on the way back.

Do I have to take the same cumbersome way back?

Yes & No. You can skip the last roundabout and pass directly by him. We heard from other hikers that he is actually relaxed and friendly. You would also have to risk running into the police.
We decided to go back the same way: through the bamboo forests, under the highway bridge, and through the forest. To the wire mesh fence, and then back to the car.

MY RESUME AFTER HIKING UP THE HAIKU STAIRS IN HAWAII

IS IT WORTH RISKING YOUR LIFE?

It’s 100% YES for me! The views were breathtaking and it was one of our most adventurous hikes. The hike is doable, and the chances of you meeting the police are almost zero if you follow the directions.

We were so proud to have completed this hike. Haiku Stairs, Hawaii: Check!