In Hawaii, climbing Diamond Head is the height of delight
GIVE THEM SUMMIT TO TALK ABOUT: Tourists take in a view of Waikiki Beach from the top of Diamond Head State Monument in Honolulu.
Melanie Stetson Freeman/Staff
Honolulu
As dawn turns to sunrise, hikers arrive at Diamond Head State Monument.
There鈥檚 a toddler sporting tiny Nike shoes, an older couple gently holding a railing, and even two dogs nestled in carriers worn by their owners. They鈥檙e all here to traverse the 0.8-mile trail leading to the summit of what many consider Hawaii鈥檚 most recognizable landmark.
Diamond Head is a volcanic tuff cone formed some 300,000 years ago during an eruption. Inside lies a crater that stretches more than half a mile wide. The hike, in fact, begins on the crater floor. From there, visitors follow a gradually inclining 鈥� and then steep 鈥� path up 560 feet. Some pause sporadically to catch their breath, take in the view, or snap the all-important selfie.
Why We Wrote This
Decades ago, Diamond Head was a coastal defense system, hence the tunnels, bunkers, and lookout stations carved into the volcanic crater. Today, it鈥檚 a National Natural Landmark beloved by hikers.
Decades ago, Diamond Head served as a coastal defense system, hence the tunnels, bunkers, and lookout stations carved into the volcanic crater. Today, it鈥檚 a National Natural Landmark.
Melissa McElroy and Crystal Croteau, visiting from Florida, are among those who rest partway up the trail as their dogs peek out of identical carriers. It was the first hike of their vacation.
鈥淲e don鈥檛 get elevation at home,鈥� Ms. McElroy says, acknowledging the challenging trek.
Gentle trade winds offer respite at the peak. Multiple languages drift through the air as triumphant visitors admire the panoramic view of Oahu.
鈥淐an you give me a hug?鈥� a father asks his young daughter. 鈥淵ou made it!鈥�
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