Hiking Dead Man's Catwalk

This hike involves trespassing on private and government owned land. The facilities on the hill are used by the Federal Aviation Administration and telecom companies. If you are caught on the trail, the consequences could be serious. But with no risk, there is no reward.

The trail starts at the end of Kamehameha Drive. If driving to the start point, aim for 1398 Kamehame Dr., parking somewhere close to the gate. Be respectful while heading to the trail or parking. A sign on the gate details that the trail is closed, and that being found on the trail will be considered trespassing. If there is not a guard (there usually isn't), hop the fence and begin uphill.

The first landmark you will hit will be a fenced off concrete ruined building, covered in graffiti. The trail will wrap around the mountain, continuing until you reach another fence. The barbed wire on the top of the fence is old, broken, and easy to climb. If you are uncomfortable climbing over barbed wire, you can grab the fence and follow it through the plants to the left, swinging around the fence when it ends.

You will then come across a pull off with amazing views of both sides of the ridge. Continue forward until the road forks. To the right is a collection of medium sized buildings. Cautiously follow the road to the left, as there can be people moving between the buildings to the right. Some concrete buildings and a radio tower will be fenced off on your right. Shortly after you will see a break in the brush on the right side of the road.

Climb up the path made in the brush. The path is mud covering volcanic rock. Move slowly, as the mud can be slippery and a fall on volcanic rock is not pleasant. You should run into some makeshift stairs, and a short climb later you will be on flat, clear ground overlooking the north east side of Oahu.

You may be able to see people on the catwalk to your north west. When you are done taking pictures from this vantage point, head back down to the road and continue north. You will pass another old building on your right, and the road will end in a fork, with the route forward blocked by a fence. The road to the right is a short walk to another great photographic vantage point, and from that location you can easily see the catwalk.

This station is an FAA radar station, and should be treated with respect. There is no way to get to the catwalk without crossing through it. The recommended option is to head back to the fence and follow the fence to the left through the jungle.

Be careful and listen for activity as you walk along the fence, as you can are visible in certain sections. There are several locations where the fence is broken, and the facility can be entered.

You will need to cross the station grounds to the north east corner. There will be some stairs you can climb to get to the top of a hill, and then you should be able to see the catwalk. You will need to make your way down the hill (no stairs) toward the catwalk. It is blocked off by a fence that juts out over the edge of the cliff. Make your way around the fence, slowly and safely, and you will be at the catwalk. Watch your step, it is a long way down...

Return the way you came, remember to remain alert for guards as you approach the starting fence. Be respectful of the community, the wildlife and the structures.