We've found that almost always, the further you hike, the sweeter the reward. Pali Notches is the antithesis. You can get from the parking lot up to the first notch in 10min if you're a strong hiker. If you aren't a strong hiker or have a fear of heights, you probably won't get much further past the first notch. But, if you're a savage, you can go from notch 01, to notch 02, to the nipple, all the way to the chimney a super epic, but unbelievably sketchy vertical rock face held together by metal wire. I'm not usually shook by heights, but this one got my heart racing. If you can make it to the chimney, you're pretty gnarly🤘.
Aside from epic views, this hike has some pretty cool historical significance as well. The notches carved into the Koʻolau Ridge were strategically created for defensive purposes. These two large cuts in the ridge line were used by warriors to position cannons and guard against potential attacks. The notches provided clear vantage points for monitoring movements and defending the Windward Coast against invaders. Legend has it that King Kamehameha had enemies thrown/driven off the cliffs of Pali Notches to their death during the battle of Nuʻuanu.
Pali Notches is positioned right in the center of the island so this hike is great for both sunrise and sunset. We have done this hike several times and seem to consistently score epic sunsets. If you're lucky you'll get to see the beam of light that shines through the Pali Puka side of the ridge line. Crowd levels are usually pretty good here. In most cases you'll only run into 1 or 2 other groups of hikers.
Hold on to your butts, they don't call it the windward side for nothin. Sometimes it can be completely calm up at the top here. Other times, extremely strong winds can shoot right up the side of the mountain and try and blow you right off the cliff. Forget about the free climbing, even just standing atop the notches can become sketchy if you get unlucky with the wind. We definitely recommend checking your weather app for the wind forecast if you can to try and avoid windier conditions. If you can't avoid it, you'll still likely be fine up until you reach the chimney. If you're still savage enough to stand atop the chimney with those winds, then you're braver than we are.
Pali Notches is a perfect hike for any level of hiker. It's pretty central and easy to get to, only takes 15 min to get to the first notch, and progressively gets more difficult so you can choose how adventurous you want to get. Whether you make it to the chimney, or just to the first notch, the views are really impressive. Sunset conditions can get pretty special, so hit this hike for sunset if possible. This hike involves limited climbing/bouldering. Be cautious and try to avoid windier days.