While the crystalline turquoise waters and fine white sand beaches of the Hawaiian Islands invite you in, it is the majestic mountains that keep you coming back for more. And though we love admiring the towering mountains of Hawaii from afar, there’s little better than getting up close and personal with these surreal summits. Unfortunately, only brave and experienced hikers will ever get to enjoy the tallest point on Oahu: Mount Kaala, Why? Because it’s only accessible via a strenuous day hike that is not for novice hikers or anyone with a fear of heights.

Measuring in at 4,035 feet above sea level, Mount Ka’ala is part of the Waianae Range, an eroded shield volcano on the west side of the island. The lush, verdant mountain’s flat-top profile is a familiar sight for many island residents, but few have ventured to its summit.

Dj High/AllTrails

Though the FAA maintains an active tracking station at the summit — which is closed to the general public and secured by the U.S. Army — the only way to access the peak for yourself is with a strenuous hike along the Mount Ka’ala Trail.

Caleb Fairey/AllTrails

The trail begins on the island’s west side and starts off on a simple access road before leading into a dense forest, past a small stream and waterfall, across ridgelines…

Chris O/AllTrails

…and even through an enchanting bog. Hikers will work up a sweat quickly, and it won’t go away for the duration of your hike.

Caleb Fairey/AllTrails

Understandably rated as difficult, the trail gains thousands of feet of elevation over 7.1 miles and features a steep climb nearly the entire way — including several near-vertical climbs like this one.

Kentaro Nishimura/AllTrails Pro tip: if you chose to tackle the Mount Ka’ala Trail, bring gloves and chalk. This is as much rock climbing as it is hiking.

If you have the experience and endurance to reach the summit, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Oahu and the vast Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget your camera — you’ll want to make sure you have proof of your epic success!

Justine Cates/AllTrails

At this elevation, rain is common and you’ll want to make sure you hike prepared: wear shoes with good traction, bring gloves for climbing, and have your bag stocked with plenty of water and snacks. A first aid kit is also a good idea.

Amanda Vasile/AllTrails

Though certainly enticing for us mere mortals, the Mount Kaala Trail is a beast and should only be attempted by those with plenty of endurance and serious hiking experience.

Oxana Balakina/AllTrails

Whether or not you ever plan to tackle the intense hike that is the Mount Kaala Summit Trail is up to you, but I think we can all agree that these photographs are stunning.

Oxana Balakina/AllTrails

Have you ever hiked Mount Kaala? Is it on your bucket list or do you just admire the photographs from afar? While Mount Kaala might be the tallest peak on Oahu, the highest mountain in all of Hawaii is Mauna Kea, and you can drive to the summit along the Mauna Kea Access Road.

Dj High/AllTrails

Caleb Fairey/AllTrails

Chris O/AllTrails

Kentaro Nishimura/AllTrails

Pro tip: if you chose to tackle the Mount Ka’ala Trail, bring gloves and chalk. This is as much rock climbing as it is hiking.

Justine Cates/AllTrails

Amanda Vasile/AllTrails

Oxana Balakina/AllTrails

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Address: Mt. Ka’ala, Hawaii 96792, USA