Pu'u Heleakala, not to be mistaken with Haleakala of Maui, is a remnant of a caldera of the Waianae volcanoes. The shield building of this volcano took place about 3.5 to 2.9 million years ago.
After many years of erosion this is what's left standing, in between the valley of Lualualei and Nanakuli. Due to its location on the lee side of the island it seldom gets much rain. Brush fires are therefore a frequent occurrence, especially during the dry and windy seasons.
This is a relatively unknown hike amongst both locals and tourists alike. During the Covid-19 pandemic we had the entire mountain to ourselves. The hike to the top of Pu'u Heleakala starts along a firebreak road which crosses foreign grass punctuated by burnt kiawe and haole koa. From here, a lone bunker which has seen most of its days, marks the start of the ridge hike.
This route primarily runs along the spine of the ridge, so one cannot get lost. The first section is not as steep, with a few gentle roller coaster hills that pass a few geodetic markers and a set of utility poles. These man-made structures assured that one was on the right track.
Soon there will be a highly eroded section of dikes and boulders, on which one will have to scramble up. From afar it may look a little daunting but when you are on it, there are many footholds and handholds. For some this is a fun part of the hike; providing a bit of a challenge.
The next section feels like forever in the heat as one heads towards the 1312 elevation point. The path is rocky with many loose dirt sections and the going is a consistent up and up. Here you will find many 'a'ali'i (Dodonaea viscosa). Hawaiians consider this plant as medicinal.
Along this part of the ridge the air is cooler as the wind picks up; blowing from the top of the Waianae range towards the sea. On a good day, there is a slight mist from the rain clouds generated over the Waianae range; bringing a cool respite from a normally very hot hike.
Once you reach the 1312 elevation, there is still yet two false peaks to finally reach the top! The plateau at the top does not provide a clear view as it is obstructed by tall grass and silver oak trees. There are also signs of camping activities in this ares as we found a few items left behind.
Walk past the flat towards the opposite side and the view will open up to a nice clear line of sight showing the Hawaiian Pyramid, the back of Lualualei valley and the Waianae range. This is a great place to take a break with water and lots of photos.
On our way down, the setting sun lights up the side of the mountain; giving it a warm and bright reddish glow.
I was reminded of the old Hawaiian story of the demigod Maui, who lassoed the sun in order to keep it from setting so that it would give enough time for his mother's kapa cloth to dry. In retrospect, this place is aptly named Heleakala because this place is also a perfect spot to watch the sun set.
