1000 Steps Hike – Mangilao, Guam

1000 Steps hike in Mangilo, Guam is a great scenic hike that will get your heart pumping on the hike back up. The reward is the picturesque views of the east coast side of the island and the amazing blue water as it laps along the rocks.

This hike also goes by a few other names which makes it confusing when researching info, I’ve seen it called 1001 Steps, and in the Best Tracks on Guam book it’s called Taguan. I stuck with the name that is posted on the sign to keep things easier. Plus in all reality it’s only 256 steps anyways, it just feels like 1000 on the way back up 😉

This hike can be done with littles, both walking, and in carriers. We had a 1.5 year old in a carrier and a walking 4 year old with us at the time. It only took us 30 minutes to get down, and a few mins longer to get back up.

Note that while these paths are supposed to be maintained by Mangilao Golf Course, they leave something to be desired. The steps and even the path itself is slippery with moss, and that is on a dry day. On a wet day it may be a nightmare, so watch your step, I’d avoid it during the rain.

The path is also steep, which is not so bad going down, minus the slipping, but coming back up it’ll get your heart pounding. Bring water to drink and plan to take a few breather breaks on the hike back up.

The stairs are uneven and mossy spots will be slick, banister gives the illusion of support but some areas are sketchy so keep an eye out.

We seen tons of neat little crabs on our hike, this guy was taking a hike of his own up a tree!

On the hike down you’ll get a sneak peek of some of the great views. Most of the hike is in shaded areas which is nice, although there is one good stretch in the sun.

Once at the bottom you can hike out to the edge, note there is no path and it is rocky and uneven so watch your step. The views are fantastic and worth the short walk to the edge. Also note before walking away from the trail where the tree is with the ribbon so you can find the path easily to make it back up.

Keep in mind that it is NOT safe to swim in this side of the island so stay out of the water and away from where waves may knock or sweep you in.

I had cell service here so I was able to go live on Facebook, you can see the video on my Facebook page One of the perks about Guam is that in 75% of the locations I’ve been in I have had cell service and been able to use FB live.

This is a good family friendly hike, in the right weather, and it’s not too tough. It’s a great way to get your family out exploring Guam!

Know Before You Go

What: 1000 Steps – Mangilao, Guam

Hike Info: Rated – Medium, Length – 1.2 miles, Elevation change- 380 feet up and down, up is the killer, LOL!

How To Get There: From the back gate of Andersen drive down Rt 15 until just before the golf course, you’ll see a brown sign that says 1000 steps, turn at the sign. At the end of the paved road park in the grassy area, it’s near a trashy area. Approx 18 mins from Andersen AFB and approx 38 mins from Big Navy. Here is a google map to the parking area it’s from Andersen but you can change the from area on the left hand side.

Bring: Water! Clothing: Gloves. Bug spray, sunscreen, & snacks. Visor/hat/sunglasses are optional. Also waterproof bags for cellphones, at a bare minimum as zip lock bag so it doesn’t drown if you get caught in a downpour!

Parking: Just after leaving the paved road park on the left side of the road, it’s kinda near a trash heap.

Cost: Free

Traveling with little kids: While there are steps, there are also some steep decline areas that could be slippery. This hike can be done with littles, my friend did it wearing her 1.5 year old in a hiking pack, and we held the hand of her 4 yr old. If your going after a rain storm then know the path down will be slippery so watch your footing.

How long: Plan on at least 1-2 hours to get down there, enjoy the cliff views, and hike back out. Maybe a bit more if your hauling littles up and down.