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Koko Crater Stairs (Summit)
4.9 ★★★★★ 896 Google reviews · Running trail in Honolulu, Hawaii · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Koko Crater Stairs (Summit)'s own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Steep but popular track of 1000+ steps up an old railway line to scenic summit vistas.
What runners say about Koko Crater Stairs (Summit)
“The panoramic scenery of the ocean, coastline, and surrounding landscape is simply stunning and makes every step worthwhile.”
Great hike! Would be lying to you if I didn't say it was very humbling. Took about 40 mins to get to the very top, with short breaks going up. The views at the top was amazing! Going down was much easier took about 15 mins, wasn't difficult but be weary of the steps so you don't twist an ankle.
A beautiful hike with rewarding views at the top. The trail includes 1,048 stairs, so a decent level of stamina is needed, but it’s not too long, about an hour and a half round trip. It can get a bit crowded, so arriving early is recommended. Definitely worth the effort for the scenery!
Koko Crater Stairs is an unforgettable hiking experience and one of those places that truly stays in your memory. At first glance, it may seem simple and not very special, but in reality, the climb is much more challenging than it looks.
Koko Crater Summit Trail is one of the best hikes in Hawaii! The climb is challenging but completely worth it for the breathtaking panoramic view from the top. You can see the beautiful coastline, the vast ocean, and the lush island all around—it’s truly stunning and unforgettable.
Trail conditions & character
“Absolutely stunning views climbing up to the top but once you get to the top the hike was absolutely worth it.”
“I do 3-5 HIIT classes every week, so the cardio portion was a breeze, however the steep inclines and steps really tested my legs.”
“It can also become slippery even after a light rain, which is very possible since the weather here can change quickly.”
“Had no issues parking in the car lot and there was a security watch for the vehicles.”
Plan your run at Koko Crater Stairs (Summit)
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, water — reported by runners
- Websitenoahlangphotography.com
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
Running trails near Honolulu
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Koko Crater Railway Trailhead
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Steep hike up an abandoned railroad track on Koko Crater, with dramatic ocean & city views.
Koko Head District Park
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Kaʻiwi Shoreline Trail
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Kuli‘ou‘ou Ridge Trailhead
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Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
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Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail
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