Beautiful Le‘ahi

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May 6, 2014 | By Waikiki Magazine Team

Hawai‘i’s most recognized feature is continuing to flourish due to its recent transformation of the Fort Ruger Pathway and new Bryan Clay Exercise Park. Diamond Head State Monument is loved by both visitors and residents alike—an astonishing over 900,000 people visit the iconic site each year. Now, hiking up Diamond Head has never been better due to the trail enhancements it’s received. Improvements to the Fort Ruger Pathway include an accessible, multi-use 1.3-mile pathway with various picnic tables and rest areas. The Bryan Clay Exercise Park, dedicated October 2013, is equipped with accessible exercise machines and conveniently situated adjacent to the new path near the crater’s entrance. “The pathway and surrounding areas will encompass 12 acres that will beautify the natural landscape, provide recreational opportunities for walkers and bicyclists, and provide an exercise park to encourage fitness,” says Department of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson William Aila, Jr. Now visitors can leisurely navigate the crater, and perhaps even take a pit stop for a few chin-ups. Diamond Head has long been a “must-see” among island visitors and will no doubt continue to attract thousands of eager hikers wanting to enjoy the sweeping views of O‘ahu’s south shore.