Mount Olomana

Mount Olomana, a short drive from Honolulu on the southeast corner of O'ahu, is a spectacular three peaked mountain that stands apart from the larger Koolau Ridge. Technically, Olomana is the name of the highest of the three peaks only, which is also the first peak along the Olomana Trail that links all three.

The second peak along the trail is Paku'i, better known as Olomana's "second peak," and the third is Ahiki, better known as (surprise) Olomana's "third peak." The striking peak has been called "Oahu's Matterhorn" by Stuart Ball in his book "The Hikers Guide to Oahu" while the translation of the Hawaiian name is roughly "divided hill." The first peak offers spectacular 360 degree views of the windward coast from Kailua to Makapuu while the third peak offers challenging rock scrambling. Looking south from the summit, you will see the Koolau Ridge which is comprised of the following peaks (left to right) Keahiakahoe, Kahuauli, Lanihuli, Konahuanui, Olympus, Lanipo, and Pu'u O Kona.

Legend has it that Olomana was a renowned warrior that was over 30 feet tall and ruled the lands from Makapu'u to Kualoa. The mountain was formed when the King of Oahu, Ahuapau, sent one of his foremost warriors, Palila, to confront Olomana. During the ensuing battle, Palila, gifted with supernatural powers, sliced Olomana in half with the top portion landing near the ocean while the bottom portion became Mount Olomana.

>Read more about hiking Mount Olomana, "Hawaii's version of the Matterhorn..."