Views of downtown at the first switchback on the Pu'u Ohia Trail.
The first trails have relatively little altitude gain and meander through bamboo and cloud forests.
The bamboo rattles in the wind.
The maintained trail ends at the Pali Overlook. The trail to K2 begins through the brush to the right of the signs and is for experienced hikers only.
Elevation gains quickly, and ropes are frequently used on the muddy flanks.
Many wild orchids and other rare native plants can be seen on the ridge trail.
The summit is frequently shrouded in clouds.
Hikers will frequently be scrambling up steep, slippery mud slopes.
The ridge has precipitous drops on either side.
The views into the surrounding valleys come and go.
Views from the summit are hit or miss. Wait around long enough and you may catch a glimpse of the windward side of the island.
Summit views of Manoa Valley and Honolulu.