What to Do in Honolulu: Hike with the Sierra Club

For hikers operating on a tight budget and wanting some outdoor recreation advice while in Hawaii, the Oahu chapter of the Sierra Club (SC) offers a selection of hikes and service projects for the choosing.

On average, the SC's Oahu Chapter conducts three hikes a month. Most are rated as "moderate" or "easy." In the months of August through October 2007, club outings range from a 4-mile "easy" hike into Moanalua Valley to a 5-mile "strenuous" hike up the steep Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail. In addition to hikes, the Sierra Club, in keeping with its mission to provide stewardship for the land, also offers service outings.

For those interested, the SC hike and outings schedule is available on the web.

For those wanting to join the Sierra Club for an outing, meet at 8:00 on the morning of the hike in the back of the Church of the Crossroads, 2510 Bingham Street, which is near the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. To make the 1.7-mile drive there from Waikiki, travel west ("Ewa," as locals say) along Ala Wai Blvd. Turn right onto McCully Street. Turn right onto S. King Street. Turn left onto Isenberg Street. Turn right onto Bingham Street. The church will be on the left.

If you travel by city bus (a cheap [$2] and excellent choice), from Kuhio Avenue in Waikiki, board the #4. Exit at University Avenue and South King Street. Cross University Avenue and walk down Coyne Street. After one block, turn right onto Kaialiu Street. Turn left onto Bingham. The church will be on the right.

Note that for hikes on the windward side of Oahu (check the SC outings schedule for hikes marked with an asterisk (*) hikers are asked to meet at 8:15 am at the First Hawaiian Bank parking area in the Windward City Shopping Center.

Hikers who are not SC members ($35 annual fee), are asked for a $5 donation to participate. SC members and hikers 14 and under are asked to pay $1. Hikers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Hike participants sign a liability waiver form prior to all outings. Bear in mind that the SC does not provide transportation to trailheads. However, for those who show up "rideless," it 's possible to find someone who will offer a seat in his or her vehicle. Note that the SC takes no responsibility for these arrangements.

On Sierra Club outings, all participants stay together as a group. Unlike the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club's hike-at-your-own-pace philosophy, the Sierra Club keeps all hikers on its outings together. That is, the hike leader indeed leads, pointing out trailside flora and points of interest along the way. Meanwhile, another leader takes up the rear as sweep. For those worrying about getting lost, that's not going to happen on a SC hike. Also know that dogs and other pets are not allowed on SC hikes.

Sierra Club hikes are slower-paced and educational. If that is what you are looking for, consider joining the SC for an outing. If you want more of a workout, consider hooking up with the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club. Both are good choices that will not strain your pocketbook.