by 
Miner reporter John Hernandez at the Diamond Head State Monument in Hawaii.
When you think about Hawaii, one of the most recognized visual images you picture is Hawaii’s best-known land mark, Diamond Head. Many photos taken at Waikiki Beach have the iconic volcanic crater in the background. Diamond Head is located on the island of O’ahu and is now a state park known as Diamond Head (Lē’ahi) State Monument. Lē’ahi is the Hawaiian name for the crater. The 475 acres park has a picnic pavilion, picnic tables, food concession, restrooms, water fountains, scenic viewpoints, gift shop and a hiking trail.
The Diamond Head Summit Trail is a short trail, only a roundtrip hike of 1.6 miles but it is steep, climbing 565 feet in elevation. The trail was built in 1908 as part of the military’s defense plan for O’ahu’s coastline. As you hike the trail you will see bunkers and the fire control station at the summit where artillery fire could be directed for the batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger outside the crater.
During my stay in Hawaii, I decided to hike the trail and scheduled a trip to the crater one morning. The last time I had been at Diamond Head was in the 1970s at a music festival inside the crater which featured the band Santana and Cheech and Chong among others. This was before it was a state park. At that time, I was not aware of the hiking trail.
Steps on the Diamond Head Trail.
At the park, I bought a bottle of water and headed up the trail. I must admit, I was out of shape but I was determined to conquer the challenge and make it to the top. The trail begins with a paved concrete walkway for the first .2 miles. It then turns into natural tuff surface with many switchbacks along the interior of the crater walls. The trail surface is uneven and steep. Appropriate footwear is recommended as well as taking your time and being cautious along the trail. The park brochure says to allow yourself 1.5 to 2 hours for the hike.
At the top.
The ascent includes a steep stairway leading to a 225 feet long lighted tunnel. There are a number of steep stairways along the trail. Along the way there are sightseeing viewpoints to stop at and rest. I took advantage of those. You will pass the slower hikers and be passed by many others. I saw young nubile men and women jogging up and down the trail. Oh, to be young and in shape again. As you near the summit you will see a ramp on your left which is an easier walk to the top. On your right is a very steep stairway consisting of 99 steps. Accepting the challenge, I chose the stairway which I would pay for with extremely sore legs and knees for the next two days. The descent is much easier but you should still be cautious. I stumbled a few times and had to catch myself by grabbing on to the rail.
Amazing view of Honolulu.
Reaching the top was worth the pain. There are some incredible views of Honolulu, the shoreline including Waikiki and other areas of O’ahu. For the novice hiker, it can be tough climbing. It is an easy hike for the experienced hiker but will give them a good workout. I recommend that everyone take their time and enjoy the views, the people and the sunshine.
For more information on Diamond Head State Monument and the Summit Trail visit http://bit.ly/2uDP7rr.
John Hernandez lives in Oracle. He is retired and enjoys writing and traveling. He is active in the Oracle Historical Society. He covers numerous public events, researches historical features and writes business/artist profiles.
by by