As I’ve mentioned in previous blogs about hikes in Hawaii, I love short hikes. The less hiking I do — the better. And yes, I know that kind of defeats the point of hiking, but the hikes I enjoy the most are to beautiful destinations (not just for the sake of hiking). For this reason, Dead Man’s Catwalk was incredibly appealing. It’s a quick out-and-back hike that’s only an hour roundtrip. Count me in!
About Dead Man’s Catwalk
This hike provides an amazing lookout over the east coast of Oahu. The land is privately owned by Kamehameha Schools. Recently, they decided to remove the cement slab labeled “Dead Man’s Catwalk” due to safety and security concerns. Like many other private landowners on Oahu, they have closed down this hike simply because of liability.
The hike itself is not dangerous. There are no narrow ridgelines, and although the viewpoint is near an edge, you’re never required to go close to the edge to participate in the hike.
While the road itself for the hike is paved and there have been no major issues, you should know that it is trespassing if you choose to do this hike.
You should also be aware that there are occasional patrols in the neighborhood where the hike is located. The patrols are uncommon and hikers are on the trail daily, but it should be something to keep in mind.
How Do You Find Dead Man’s Catwalk on Oahu?
This is the million-dollar question. Mapping to Dead Man’s Catwalk in Google Maps won’t do you much good. It seems that someone has worked hard to erase the hike’s footprint. We ended up in the wrong suburban neighborhood initially. This blog can help you if you’re planning to travel by public transportation. The map screenshot below is one I snapped when I was right next to the gate. When you see the gate with the No Trespassing sign, you’ll know you’re in the right place.
Why Hike Dead Man’s Catwalk
If it’s technically illegal, why would anyone risk it for this hike? As a rule-follower by nature, I feel confident in answering this. Deadman’s Catwalk is ideal for those who want gorgeous views without much work. You can drive all the way up to the top of the neighborhood hill and park before you begin your hike. From there, it’s only about 30 minutes of an upward climb on a paved road before you’re seeing gorgeous ocean views. If you turn around, you also have a spectacular view of Diamond Head.
Additionally, unlike other illegal Oahu hikes (think Stairway to Heaven), at no point is Dead Man’s Catwalk dangerous. It’s illegal because it’s private land, but it isn’t illegal to keep anyone safe. You could take a stroller on this hike and be totally fine.
With that, if you’re uncomfortable hiking this location because you’re concerned about encountering a patrol or you want to be extra sensitive to Hawaiian land, then you can do the Koko Crater Trail which is right nearby.