tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67606326873780459912024-03-12T19:30:28.947-07:00HI LifeEzekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-64499226569515171682012-06-05T12:03:00.000-07:002013-09-01T12:02:04.767-07:00Moanalua Middle Ridge to Haiku Stairs<div style="font: 11px Verdana; margin: 0px; text-align: left;">
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It has been a long time since I have been on a long hike...</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Trekking up Moanalua Middle Ridge along Keahi a Kahoe to the top of Haiku Stairs brought back memories and I am reminded why I love hiking. The lush green, the cool breeze, the exciting walk across a ridge, the unforgettable views, and that tingling feeling in your legs long after you have left the mountain--all I will miss.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Starting in Moanalua Valley, Tiff and I began our hike at around 11:00 am. Originally we planned to leave at 9:00 but after a night of drinking with old neighborhood friends, we decided to sleep in. We jogged part of the 3 mile road to the trail head located about 10 feet after the Kulanaahane Trail state sign. The path was clearly marked and we crossed the stream. The trek up the Middle Ridge was tiresome and I had to stop numerous times to catch my breath. We passed a few hunters with their dogs and continued the strenuous journey. <i>When will this end?</i> I thought. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">After an hour of agony we finally emerged on the ridge. Sights of Pearl Harbor and Moanalua valley came into view. A few rope sections added excitement to the trek and another hour later we were at the Middle Ridge.</span><br />
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Although extremely muddy the anticipation of the infamous satellite coming into view was almost unbearable. The adrenaline made it easy to push through Keahi a Kahoe's thick vegetation and before we knew it sounds of cars driving on the H3 and Likelike could be heard. <br />
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A little later, there it was...THE satellite. We made it! The clouds nor wind nor rain dampened our spirits! </div>
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As I descended the stairs, I reflected on how beautiful and precious
Hawaii is. I am so grateful and fortunate to experience Hawaii in ways
many will never know, and I can only hope that all who enjoy hiking as
much as I do will take care of the trails for future generations to
enjoy. </div>
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Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-67738461501407295202012-06-04T22:03:00.000-07:002012-12-06T11:55:46.068-08:00*Likeke Falls*<div style="font: 11px Verdana; margin: 0px; text-align: left;">
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Knowing we have less than two months left on this beautiful island, I have made it a priority to explore as much of Hawaii as possible. Today, Ezekiel, Zephen and I started our hike to Likeke Falls via the Old Pali Road. Although Likeke Falls is accessible from the Koolau Golf Course, for as long as I can remember I have gazed at the old road, and like my sons have wondered what lurked beyond the graffiti. To our delight the Old Pali Road is in decent condition and even better, provides a new perspective of Pali Highway.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VC6f-6JShcs/T8--yb-XQrI/AAAAAAAAA80/Ds_Pkht-QHA/s1600/IMG_1856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VC6f-6JShcs/T8--yb-XQrI/AAAAAAAAA80/Ds_Pkht-QHA/s400/IMG_1856.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Due to years of commuting on the Pali I knew the junction to take to get below the highway. (If one is unfamiliar with the area, a good landmark is a pile of boulders to the right where the sharp path will be to the left. Further down is the Maunawili Trail sign.) We walked under using the wooden step stool but were careful as it was rotting and unsteady. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">The boys and I
should have continued straight under the town bound lane and back onto
Old Pali Road but instead followed some marked trees down the gulch
located to the right. Soon it was obvious that we had gone the wrong
way. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">We back tracked onto the road and meandered downhill. At one point the road curved left with a noticeable trail to the right labeled “7”. Although curious about the path, we remained on the road.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Around the next bend the trek opened to a clearing as it joined with Auloa Road. We looked left for the cement easement and utility pole, both of which were quite obvious. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Zeke, Zeph and I continued along the steps behind it up a short series of swtich backs ending at a four-way junction.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">From there we headed straight (on the middle path) where it turned left and descended the mountain's other side. The boys and I continued past a gulch of kukui trees, and the path split again. we took the left trail through a tunnel of hau trees.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">A small portion of the path became muddy due to trickling streams trying to make their way down hill, and just after we reached the refreshing Likeke Falls.</span><br />
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<br />Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-9430701385999832872012-06-01T21:33:00.000-07:002012-06-06T14:32:41.482-07:00*Koko Head*<div style="font: 11px Verdana; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">WE DID IT</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">and of course you two beat me to the top!!! </span></div>
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<br />Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-59571311489403492182012-05-12T17:19:00.000-07:002012-06-06T14:30:31.223-07:00*Wiliwilinui*<div style="font: 11px Verdana; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Wiliwilinui</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">another fun, easy and of course beautiful hike</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">my family and I will cherish as we take on new adventures in a new home</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">Starting at the tope of Wailae Iki Subdivision, Wiliwilinui is a 5 mile round trip hike to the Koolau Summit. A good portion of the hike consists of a dirt road wide enough for a 4-wheel vehicle to navigate. At the end of this road, the muddy trail narrows and steepens as you make the final climb to the summit. Although not necessary, there are ropes to aid in the ascent and descent. Just beyond a utility tower is the top, revealing a breathtaking view of the windward side. </span></div>
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</div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-47768436950072405802012-04-28T21:52:00.001-07:002012-12-06T11:55:01.409-08:00*Olomana*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0px;">Zeke and Zeph, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0px;">Initially I thought it was a great idea to take the two of you to hike Olomana today, but as I watched both of you use ropes to transverse the rocks or your tiny fingers grip crevices to manipulate the steep terrain, I couldn't help but be a nervous wreck. I guess that's what they call motherly instinct. In the future, I am not sure how or if I will be able to accompany the two of you as you take on adventures of your own for the older I get the more reality sets in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">But for now, as I sit here in the comfort of our home, I beam with pride! Both of you not only made it to Olomana's first peak but smoked me in doing so! Wow Zeph, even at your little six-year-old stature you were able to ascend Olomana, a hike rated difficult by many. You are, if not, one of the youngest people to accomplish this huge feat. Just as awesome Zeke, you demonstrated maturity beyond your years. You composed yourself and did not let your fears get the best of you, something many adults are not capable of.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br />I love you both dearly and look forward to creating more memories to last a life time as we spend our final months in what has been home to us all our lives...</span></div>
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Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-77698201556213214992011-06-19T18:49:00.000-07:002012-04-29T23:48:05.336-07:00Kaliuwaa Falls<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">If I could, I would keep this journal entry private. After all, this blog is for my children. Today we went on a hike that I enjoyed tremendously but do not recommend it. If you are like me, and just have to try and experience new things, acknowledge the risks, and take full responsibility, God forbid, anything should happen, then I am sure you would do this hike with or without the existence of my blog. Nonetheless, if you do this hike, you are forewarned of the potential risks involved and possibility of death. YOU are liable for your actions.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Kaliuwaa Falls better known as Sacred Falls is closed indefinitely due to the tragedy that happened on Mother's Day, <a href="http://archives.starbulletin.com/1999/05/11/news/story1.html">May 11, 1999</a>. Eight people died and more than 50 others were injured. Because the state advertised the place as a tourist destination, it was found <a href="http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/1999/ofr-99-0364/">guilty</a> for not adequately warning tourists of possible falling rocks, and in having knowledge of the danger due to previous incidences.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Like countless sites warn and many people have told us, it is likely to get arrested on this hike so Matt, Nate, Moani, Kalei knew we had to be incognito. We parked our car at the beach and waited until the coast was clear before walking around the yellow gate fronting the once public park. Nat spotted a trail to our left and suggest we take it.</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">"It's a sign," he said.</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We looked at the path but kept heading straight. As we neared the second locked fence, fate would have it. A van pulled up and a man exited to unlock it. We ran into the bushes for fear of getting arrested. We couldn't help but giggle, although this was not laughing matter. Nate calmly walked behind acknowledging that the man had seen us. Yes, we probably looked really stupid but the thought of getting arrested is non-existence in my mind. Plus, I'm sure Nate can outrun anyone, but me, I'd be the first to get caught! We hid as the van drove in and waited patiently for it to pass. We exited the trail which led around the gate and back onto the dirt path. Fearing more cars, we headed down to the stream and tried to walk along it, but in reality spent more time in it.</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><i>The hike didn't even start yet and my shoes are wet! UGH!</i> I thought.</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">But there was little time to complain as the sound of an engine neared and another truck passed.</span><br />
<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What are the odds of that? Seriously?!!! Out of all the days and times, we have impeccable timing!</span></i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Having soggy shoes sucked so much that Beimes and I headed back to the road even though we knew there was a great possibility we'd have to jump in the bushes if a third car appeared. My heart raced at the thought of being caught but luckily the coast was clear. We took a left as the road made a "Y." The wide trail split again, and we continued left for a second time on a much narrower path.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">From the distinct trail, it is obvious that many people still frequent the falls. Unlike <a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/10/maakua-gulch.html">Maakua Gulch</a> it was very clear where to go. We snaked through some boulders, ducked under some hau and crossed the river bed. Once on the right side, we strolled through the load of mountain apple trees. To my surprise they were full of fruits. Not as ripe as I would have liked, but I'm not complaining.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">About thirty minutes later we excited the grove and walked up the river bed to the base of the falls. I stood in awe and respected the beauty and power of it. We took tons of pictures and had a blast swimming beneath it. We decided to set the timer on Beimes' 7D to take some final group shots. As we were about to take the last one...DUNK! It was a rock! It had fallen right next to Nate..</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">"Time to get out of here!" someone shouted.</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We all agreed and headed out.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">It took about an hour to get back to our car. I cannot believe how easy it was to get to and from the falls. No wonder so many people visited it and still do, even with the potential risks! I am glad I got to experience Kaliuwaa Falls and feel extremely blessed to live in such a beautiful place. However, I still don't think if I'll ever be back...</span><br />
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</span>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-14665212951016022862010-10-08T22:43:00.000-07:002012-04-29T23:48:47.162-07:00Hamama Falls<div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
How could we have lived in Kaneohe all our lives and<br />
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Coincidentally while searching for another falls in Ahuimanui, Beimes came across this hike. Starting at the end of Waihee Road (the first left after the bridge in Kahaluu), Hamama Falls is an easy 3 mile roundtrip stroll. Once through the hole cut in the locked fence we continued on the dirt and gravel path. Running water could be heard almost entirely throughout the hike and to my surprise mountain apple and guava trees lined some parts of the trek. After a few minor inclines and only about thirty minutes we were standing below the gorgeous Hamama Falls. Another beautiful day, another beautiful hike...</div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-70067908392280743112010-10-05T23:43:00.001-07:002012-04-29T23:52:55.160-07:00Maakua Gulch<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Over a month without a single hike sucked!!! </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;">Not wanting to take on a strenuous or dangerous trail Beimes and I decided on Maakua Gulch. Originally we were shooting for Piliwale but with the lack of hiking this past month I knew that would have to wait. In fact, the more I contemplate attempting one of the most treacherous trails on the island, the more I realize it’s probably just not for me. Is the experience of summiting Konahuanui from the windward side worth the risk, especially when it can be reached from a much safer path? Do I really want to take the chance of falling to my death or having to call search and rescue for a HIKE? I know, I know, <i>you only live once</i> BUT there is much more than just my life at stake...</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Supposedly an easy 6 mile round trip hike, Maakua Gulch is located off Hauula Homestead Road (near the Hauula town sign). Ryan, Kiele and their son Kamuela also joined us for today's adventure, and met us around noon for what we assumed would be a quick and effortless hike. We parked our cars along the road fronting the yellow gate which leads to the trail head and not at Hauula Beach Park like most sites and books suggests. We continued along that road past the Hauula Loop trail and Maakua Ridge hike to the road's end which contains a water pumping station. Some pretty cool Uncles were at work and let us walk through the usually fenced area.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">*On any normal day one would just have to walk past the station to the right where there are signs warning about the dangers that lurk ahead. Maakua Gulch is actually closed indefinitely. The tragic Sacred Falls incident, and potential rock falls and flash floods make the trail too risky. In all honesty, it probably wasn’t best that we attempted Maakua Gulch considering yesterday’s rainy weather, last night’s rain, and this morning’s showers, but with submerging blue skies and Kiele’s forecast of dissipating clouds in Punaluu we decided to still go.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">As we walked along the distinct trail exiting the station, we passed a pretty nice size boulder and then through a viva (strawberry guava) grove. However, our smooth sailing quickly came to an end as the trail vanished. We were forced to determine our own path and opted to follow the riverbed but soon found ourselves ducking beneath hau trees. Back and forth across the dried up stream we trekked trying to find a prominent trail but with no success. On a few occasions we did have the luxury of walking on dirt but majority of the time was spent carefully maneuvering the bed's rocks.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">About thirty minutes later we reached the highly anticipated mountain apple grove. To our delight the trees were still in full bloom. Loads of apples laid splat on the ground and more glistened on the branches waiting to be picked. The fresh, juicy fruit was such a treat especially since the last time I can recall eating it was in elementary. We continued along as we munched away and longed to hear the sound of water. The valley started to get narrower and the walls began to creep up around us. It was a sight to behold but an even greater feeling to be sandwiched between such steep and lush walls. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Finally we heard trickling and figured we were almost there! Or so we thought! We couldn't have been more wrong as the trail snaked deeper and deeper and deeper into the valley. Maneuvering the now mossy, wet, and slippery rocks made the hike much longer than usual and was quite frankly, damn irritating. As each bend neared I prayed it was the last one. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">After what seemed like forever, two and a half hours, we reached the swim hole. We swam across the first area and up to the second...jackpot! A stunning waterfall awaited us including a rope to ascend it. We climbed up and jumped into the fresh water. Ryan even did a couple of swan dives. And while cold, it was extremely rejuvenating but best of all it was secluded! It was more beautiful and fun than I imagined and made every step of the hike worth it! Talk about lucky we live Hawaii!!!</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Our return hike was much faster, about a half hour shorter, because we noticed more maintained paths, many of which are located on the right side of the riverbed when heading in. A key trail that we missed would have saved us a lot of time. It is located at the widest part of the bed where a huge mango tree stands. Rather than walk up along the rocks, head straight across it. The path is not marked with a ribbon but if you take a minute to look for it, it is easy to find.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We eventually reached our cars at 5:00 pm. The 6 mile, easy rated Maakua Gulch took a total of five hours! Rather long in my opinion but...today was awesome. I don’t know if I really liked Maakua Gulch or if I was just super stoked to hike. It was probably a combination of both. The cumbersome trek is definitely outweighed by the abundance of guava and mountain apples, fun swim hole, beautiful waterfall, and gorgeous sights. We'll definitely be back on a sunnier day with more time to play away and maybe even a camelbak or two of Red Bull-vodka.</span></div>
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<br /></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-33913788183487904532010-08-22T10:00:00.000-07:002011-06-14T17:35:06.193-07:00Tarp Surfing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana;">HAPPY 7th BIRTHDAY</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/THTyIM-i2hI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/EJZMttVmWF8/s1600/IMG_3846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/THTyIM-i2hI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/EJZMttVmWF8/s320/IMG_3846.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"></span><br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Zeke turned 7 and I figured it was time to buy him a complete. A real skateboard, not one from Walmart or already put together, but one where HE picked out his deck, trucks, wheels, and even screws. I was pleased when at APB we found a green Element-mini, Speed Demon trucks and wheels, and Lucky Hardware (7 black screws and 1 green one).</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">He was so stoked he rode it the minute we left the store.</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">After calling just about everywhere to find the largest blue tarp on the island we headed to Home Depot and got a monster 40 by 60.</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">I decided not to have a party for Zeke, well not a huge party but more of a small get together with his cousins to keep the cost down...</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">$250 Complete Head to Toe:</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Skateboard, Backpack, Hat, Shirt, Shorts, and Shoes on order</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">$175 Blue Tarp</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">$45 Pizza</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">$15 Drinks</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">$25 Goodie Bags</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Total: $500ish</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">So much for saving money for our Disney and Vegas trip. </span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Five hundred dollars for a day of tarp surfing and swimming at the pool! Kind of ridiculous when I think about it, but seeing the kids faces and knowing it’ll be one of those memories they’ll tell to their children made today all worth it. </span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">On the other hand, getting the tarp to cooperate was a bit tricky. Depending on the wind we pulled either diagonal of straight. Majority of the time three of us pulled to create the largest, nicest wave. The wind was so strong it was next to impossible to pull the tarp alone. </span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Just as I finished getting some pretty cool shots of the kids it started to rain so I borrowed what little clips my 8 year old niece took with my brother’s 4g. The HD sucks or something.</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Regardless everyone had a blast and we're definitely going tarp surfing next weekend.</span></span></div><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jKcbjPX3gWY" width="481"></iframe></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-67989562880018182962010-08-20T22:54:00.000-07:002012-04-29T23:55:23.750-07:00Pali Notches and Beyond<div style="font: 11.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;">It’s been a while since our last hike and it’s feels like forever since I’ve seen Beimes. </span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">To back track, Beimes came across this blog: <a href="http://hiking-oahu.blogspot.com/">Hiking on Oahu with Martyna and Allegra</a>, and we soon realized that hiking beyond the second notch is possible. The first time we did the Pali Notches we did not go past the first one so going beyond the second one was definitely on our list of things to do. Thus it was decided upon as the first hike of my new school year. Thank goodness for Statehood Day. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Today was beautiful. The entire Koolau Mountain range was clear and Konahuanui was visible. It was a great day to do the notches.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Or so we thought...</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">No clouds meant that the winds were strong, in fact blustering. Beimes’s hat blew off, on several occasions we were literally pushed aside, and on our ascent back up the second notch the rope fluttered in the wind. I have never, ever seen rope fly in the wind as I did today. Needless to say the hike beyond the second notch was unnerving and challenged my fear of heights. It’s never the sheer ridge-lines that get to me, it’s that damn rock climbing and in this case rock descending. The wind did not help as I inched my way down the second notch. I clearly remember thinking, <i>What the hell did I get myself into</i> and at the same time <i>You can do this, you’ve done worse</i>. Slowly but surely I finally made my way down thanks to Beimes aiding me. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The trek beyond the second notch wasn’t nearly as terrifying until we reached the knob. I decided to ascend it while Beimes tried to go around it’s base, but because both of us knew that today wasn’t the day we wanted to die we sat atop satisfied and called it a day. We could see a white tank hanging from a branch on the vertical ledge marking someone’s conquered feat. I wonder if anyone has gone farther and actually made it all the way to Konahuanui. What a story that must be.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">I think I’m pretty much done exploring the Pali Notches. If I ever attempt to make it to K1 I’d have to go all the way because there is no way I could descend that insane ledge, but who knows what else the hike beyond entails. I personally don’t think the risks outweigh the experience so I’ll wait for someone else to post their incredible accomplishment and live vicariously through them.</span></div>
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Venturing beyond the second notch was fun. I can't wait for our next hike which I hope is soon, and secretly wish for some furloughs.</div>
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</div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-79886405761686243782010-07-16T01:45:00.000-07:002012-04-29T23:58:13.674-07:00Haiku Stairs Camp<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">As I was loading up pictures to Facebook I came across this:</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Stairway at night...catch the city lights, get some sleep, watch the sunrise. Sounds fr!ken awesome! But before committing myself I texted Vance a buco-billion questions: Camp or hike? Party Hardy all nighter? Tent? Beers or Hards? If I was going to be stuck on the top of the Koolau Mountains overnight I wanted to know what that entailed. Luckily Vance wasn’t trying to pull an all nighter with tons of booze. <i>I don’t think it’s a good idea to get nuts on top of that mountain</i>, he texted. I agreed! </span>Shas said she was in and what a relief it was to know that my bestie would be joining me. Beimes was going too so that made me feel better. The more definitely the merrier.</div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The next day Shas and I went shopping to prepare for our mission. We walked around Walmart picking up the necessities, and as we debated long and hard about carrying a bulky sleeping bag to the top of the mountain Shas had the greatest idea, “Let’s take an inflatable raft and blanket.” Perfect! It’s not bulky, and it’s way more comfortable than sleeping on the hard ground. With that settled we finished up our shopping still unsure if everything would fit in a backpack. Shas went to Sports Authority to find a real hiking pack but I went home to squeeze in a nap. I got about an hour of rest, and although short, it was much needed for our midnight trek up thousands of stairs.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">10:00 pm</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The weather looked good so I started to pack my bag. Heavy jacket, jeans, blanket, poncho, headlamp, flashlight, bandaids, camera, tripod, water, booze, floaty, blanket, toothbrush and toothpaste, cell phone, snacks...<i>I hope I’m not missing anything</i> I told myself. </span><br />
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12:00 am</div>
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Shas was running late, and to top it off got pulled over for speeding. I was beginning to have second thoughts about the overnighter but we made it to Vance’s, and not a surprise, Beimes was running late as well.<br />
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1:00 am<br />
Vance, Beimes, Vince, Naomi, Shasta and I left for Haiku Stairs. As we parked, another car pulled up. I guess we weren’t the only ones with this great idea. What a mood killer it was to have two strangers intrude on our adventure, but that didn't stop us.<br />
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1:30 am<br />
I took my first actual step, just one of many to come. The hike to the first platform is always killer but tonight with a twenty pound backpack, it was insane! I don’t even know how many times I took a break, but I do know there were several times I wanted to hurl my pack over the rails.<br />
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2:15 am<br />
Platform one accomplished in the clouds.</div>
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2:45 am<br />
Platform two completed in more clouds.</div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">3:15 am</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span>Satellite reached still in the clouds!<br />
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We were finally there, sitting in the bunker, trying to keep warm from the wind and blowing up our inflatables. Beimes even set up Vince’s hammock. With our sleeping situation set, we busted out the food or should I say candy. From chocolate to Sour Patch Kids to beef jerky to Won Ton Chips, we had it all! Everyone must’ve been on a sugar rush with all that junk. The sweets did come in handy though, especially to chase the hards or cranberry juice and vodka that tasted more like cough syrup..SPK (Sour Patch Kids) back! Fortunately, Vince had this cool gadget which boiled water in two minutes so there was even some cup-o-noodle going around.</div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">4:45 am</span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Before we knew it the sun would be coming up. With less than an hour left of darkness we turned off the headlamps and tried to get some sleep. The inflatables were comfortable especially since Beimes was such a gentleman and let me use his sleeping bag. He even pumped up my floaty. I guess that makes up for leaving me to walk around with ferns in my hair on <a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/07/puu-manamana-ii.html">Puu Manamana</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">But it wasn’t long before visitors woke us up. They must have been surprised to see our ridiculous set up. I peeked out from the sleeping bag not wanting to miss the sunrise but all I could see was white. Still in the clouds! No view meant no rise and definitely no reason to get up. It was 6:15 am! I rolled over and tried to get more rest, but it was freezing. The wind and rain whipped through the doorway. Additional hikers came and left, and in our unsuccessful attempts to get some zzz's we f</span>inally began to pack up. Luckily there wasn't a line of <a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/01/haiku-stairs.html">twenty other hikers</a> in front of us so the descent was quick. </div>
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9:00 am<br />
We were done!!! Exhausted but accomplished. Disappointed but happy. WE WERE DONE!<br />
Although we left with no view of the city lights or sunrise, climbing Haiku Stairs at night is definitely something I've always wanted to experience and...<br />
What an experience it was!<br />
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<br /></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-50588932584047350172010-07-14T01:27:00.000-07:002012-04-30T00:01:03.654-07:00Puu Manamana II<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
I woke up to the sound of pitter-patter. Great...rain. As I looked out the kitchen window I could see nothing but white. I contemplated texting the crew but it was 6:30 am. As I debated whether or not waking them, to my surprise Beimes texted me, It’s raining at my house. Not a shocker, it’s always raining at “the second wettest place on earth.” Since Beimes was up I figured Justin was, too. The weather’s not bad in Lanikai, he responded. So I went to look out the balcony window and sure enough blue skies were headed towards Kaneohe. If the weather looks good at 8:00, were on, I texted the two of them.<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Eight o’clock rolled around and the weather was pretty awesome. It was hard to believe that just an hour ago even the base of the Koolau Mountains was shrouded with clouds. We got ready, drove to Kahana Valley, parked along the highway, and began our adventure. At about 9:15 we turned at the trailhead marked by telephone post 79 and headed to the Crouching Lion. I don’t know why but today I was extremely tired. The hike from the base was exhausting. I dragged myself up, and couldn’t wait for the rock climbing to begin, quite the opposite from the <a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/02/puu-manamana_16.html"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">last time</span></a>. As we took pictures we could see rain coming. What a spectacle it was to watch the cloud approach and feel the wind shift. We waited patiently for it to past and as it lightened began the ascent on the infamous ridge. From what I remembered of Puu Manamana it was unbelievably terrifying. I waited for the hike to get steeper and crazier but as I climbed each rock face I realized it wasn’t nearly as scary. Puu Manamana got nothing on <a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010_06_01_archive.html"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Anamolo</span></a>. It was, however, a lot of fun and definitely thrilling!</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We reached the “Safer Bypass” and sheer ridge without much thought, and began the second phase of the hike navigating through the trees, mud, and fern. “Is this the mud you’re talking about?” Beimes asked. “You won’t have to ask when you see it,” I responded. Sure enough there was a lot of mud! The ferns were no joke too, and how irritating it was to have the head high uluhe scratching my arms and neck. A few ferns even got stuck in my hair, and Beimes was kind enough to let me walk around with them! </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">After an hour of misery, we finally began the grueling descent. The path was slippery and felt exceptionally long. This time I found it to be rather annoying, and have no idea why I thought it was so much fun the first time around. I couldn't wait to get off the mountain. It would take another hour before we'd walk on flat ground, a total of five hours and fifteen minutes to complete Puu Manamana. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">I really doubt I’ll be doing the hike again. For sure, I'll be back to trek Puu O Mahie Ridge. The rock climbing and sheer drops are exhilarating and riveting like nothing else, but then I'm turning around. Forget the mud and ferns! The rest of the hike is just too taxing.</span></div>
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</span></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-25997108888560077412010-07-07T19:54:00.000-07:002012-04-30T00:03:45.711-07:00Koko Crater<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Originally Beimes, Justin and I planned to do Puu Manamana but bad weather conditions forced us to choose another hike. I was pretty bummed as we all tried to think of an alternative because the entire Koolau Mountain Range was in the clouds. Just when everything seemed point less, Justin suggested hiking Koko Crater. My newfound sadness turned to excitement for I have seen many pictures of its backside and know it to be HTMC’s traditional New Year’s hike. I couldn’t wait to ascend the rocks and Koko Crater’s rim. </div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Cara and Nate decided to join us as well, and we all met at Koko Head Tracks. We then drove to the Blow Hole Lookout. From there we crossed the street, and walked over the guardrail to head up one of the ridges. Although we weren’t sure which one to ascend we knew once on top we’d be able to see where the trail led. Sure enough a faded dirt path showed the way, and soon the famous natural arch came into view. I was stoked to climb the bridge but stayed behind to take pictures of the view. One by one everyone gunned the arch’s rock face. Only Cara was left as I neared, and it was then I noticed there was no rope to aid in the ascent. I tried to guide Cara up but she was not used to climbing rocks, let alone smooth rocks, nor trusted herself to run it. I soon realized I would need to find her an alternative route if we were going to complete this hike. I peered over the edge and noticed a path along the side. Although I really, really, really wanted to be on top of the arch we made our way down the left side and walked under it. Cara and I headed upwards, and climbed up a white rock face meeting up with the rest of the crew. Needless to say I was super disappointed, but what a feat it was for Cara and I commend her for making it.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We walked through some shrub making the steep trek to Koko Crater’s rim. It was, indeed, a workout but the views of A.D’s, Hawaii Kai, and Hanauma Bay, and nice breeze made it all worth it. Plus with the bunker in view we knew we were almost done. Upward we continued maneuvering the rim’s rocks. Some we climbed, others we walked along side or under, and a few we jumped off of. It definitely broke up the monotony of the trail, and about thirty minutes later we were sitting nicely on top Koko Head's bunker enjoying the view. We took a lot of pictures and a much needed rest before heading down. It was nice to know that in another 10 minutes of all downhill we’d be done!</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Koko Crater was a pretty fun hike. I'm sure on a clear day it's hot but luckily today it was cloudy. The beautiful natural arch, rim trek, gorgeous views and easy descent make it one I'll definitely do again.</span></div>
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</span></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-11222479322375306892010-07-06T19:54:00.000-07:002011-06-14T17:35:58.416-07:00Pali Puka II<div style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-family: Helvetica; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; letter-spacing: 0px;">Love Pali Puka BUT L</span><span style="font-size: small;">ove Her More</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vO1A8nC4sn4" width="481"></iframe></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-85504244318823614722010-06-21T03:51:00.000-07:002012-04-30T00:10:00.393-07:00Anamolo<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">A</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 12px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">NAMOLO...Olomana backwards. YES, we did it!</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Today Beimes, Justin and I conquered Olomana’s third peak from the back. It was a thrill, even scary as shit at some points, but well worth it. I wish I took more video and had my GoPro wrist camera charged for this one. It is a hike I will probably never do again, and as a single mother of two probably shouldn’t have done to begin with.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Initially we planned to do Bowman but because of time constraints decided on Olomana reverse. We have all completed the infamous third peak from the front and would agree </span><a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/01/olomana.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Olomana</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> to be one of Oahu’s more challenging trails. The hike to the first peak is killer, and the ascent and descent of both the second and third peak requires careful footing and the use of many unmaintained ropes. It also includes sheer drops definitely testing one’s fear of heights. But NONE of that comes remotely close to the climb up Olomana’s back.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Before attempting this hike we each tried to research information but came up empty. All we knew was it could be done. Luckily, Justin, a fire fighter stationed at Waimanalo, had the chance to check out the Maunawili Ditch Trail while on duty. He knew it led to the Matterhorn. Having just completed </span><a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/06/maunawili-demonstration.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Maunawili Demonstration Trail</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> also helped because we had an idea of how the trails connected. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Once again we parked our car at Justin’s friend’s house in Waimanalo. We exited the property, took a few short cuts through the forest, one which included the Old Kailua Ditch Trail (marked by a yellow, foam arrow), and met up with the Maunawili Ditch Trail cutting off a good 10 minutes. The trail eventually led to a fork where the left path is the Maunawili Demonstration Trail. We continued on the middle path (the Ditch Trail) through some posts and weaved through more forest steadily gaining elevation. We did enjoy a few declines only to walk up again. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">About 50 minutes later we finally reached the ridge. We got our first glimpse of Waimanalo but still were not at the base of the third peak. We trekked on through a nice grove and emerged at our first real incline. The terrain was gravely and included no ropes providing a hint of what the third peak entailed. I grabbed onto the brush and imagined descending this on our return trip. I could see myself slipping and sliding and holding on for dear life. That soon changed because once on top I realized I was about to descend the slope’s back. It was sketchy but fortunately no one fell. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">We continued along, and as we neared the peak’s backside could see the challenge ahead. Right away we would be using a rope to aid in our ascent. Unmaintained ropes again, and worse, we had no idea when they were last used. I stayed at a clearing to video Justin’s climb and from observing how long it took him to reach the rubber tree I knew it was no easy task. He continued up the second half of the rock face and took even longer! I was in for it. While Beimes continued up, I climbed to the rubber tree. Oh how I loved that rubber tree. I could hear Justin giving Beimes pointers on how to ascend the rocks, and as I approached the area received the same advice. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Make sure you get good footings. Hold the rope but don’t put all your weight on it,” Justin said. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">So there I was almost spread eagle against this huge smooth rock with no crevice or crack, balancing with each foot on an adjacent rock. I knew the next step was to place my left foot higher and use the rope in my left hand to pull the rest of my body upward. Only problem is I’m right handed and I know my right arm is stronger than my left. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“I don’t think my left hand will hold my body weight,” I told Justin. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Just bring your left foot higher,” he replied. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I told myself over and over again to move my left leg, but it wouldn’t move. It just wouldn’t. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“You CAN’T bring your leg up here and bend it? I thought girls were flexible,” he said sarcastically. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“I am flexible, Justin. I can lift my leg vertically in the air but how can I bend my knee at shoulder level?” I answered back.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I brought my right leg back and stood on the little ledge shaking out my left foot. </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Try two. I placed my right foot on the opposing rock. With both legs split once again I grabbed the rope with both arms and placed my weight onto it as I lifted my left leg and then right which was nearly as vertical as Justin explained earlier. With my right foot planted firmly on top, I let go of the rope and pushed myself up. I was finally done! </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Or so I thought. There were THREE more insane, vertical, rope requiring, sheer drop climbs. I never put so much trust into ropes and I know I shouldn’t have, but we didn’t have any other choice. When looking from the side, Olomana’s backside is much steeper than its front. The rocks are also larger which means there are less cracks and grooves for grabbing and balancing. If that isn't bad enough, the rocks are crumbling which makes for a lot of gravel. In fact, as I balanced with the rubber tree on the first rock face gravel poured out from around it. I am not sure how much longer the lovely tree will remain intact. At another point, as I tested the strength of a rock to help pull myself up it gave way.</span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">A little over an hour and a half into it and we were almost there. We could see the top of the third peak. All we needed to do was get over the last hump. Justin placed his foot in the rope’s noose and tried to get up but couldn’t. Beimes gave him a lift and Justin still took some time getting up. </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Oh wonderful</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> I thought to myself. I knew I was going to have to step on Beimes and trust Justin to pull me up. And I do trust both of them, but standing on a platform with sheer drops to both sides hundreds of feet in the air means, like earlier, my body will not listen to me. So close and wanting to finish, I stepped onto Beimes and reached for Justin. He pulled me up with ease and I was on top without a second thought. I have no idea how Beimes got up but with Justin’s aid the three of us were on top of the third peak. In one hour and forty-seven minutes...</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">We conquered Olomana from behind!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">During our ascent we realized there was no way we could go back the way we came. Actually, Beimes and Justin probably could do it, but that was a risk I wasn't going to take. We agreed the return trek would be like rappelling but without harnesses, and there was no way I was going to trust putting ALL my weight into those unmaintained ropes. So we headed out the normal way, down the third peak, up the second, and down the first. The climb up the back of the third peak made the rest of the hike, in regards to fear factor, zilch. It seemed exceptionally easy and on narrow ledges I found myself running. It was, however, a killer on the calves going up the second peak. We took a nice break at the first peak and completed the hike in about three hours. (To think we actually thought we were going to climb up and down Olomana's back in two, what fools!)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Olomana in reverse is in one word: EPIC.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I am so grateful to Beimes and Justin because without the two of them this and many of the other hikes I have been on would not be possible. Thanks guys!!!</span><br />
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<br /></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-25083595806745321502010-06-17T01:38:00.000-07:002010-07-13T22:12:55.662-07:00Konahuahui via Kalawahine<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Konahuanui is a hike to the two highest peaks in the Koolau Mountain Range. K2, the second highest peak reaches an elevation of about 3,105 ft., while K1, the highest peak reaches a height of about 3, 150 ft. Although the first half of the hike via Kalawahine is not difficult, the second half is often overgrown and extremely muddy, requires the use of ropes, and contains portions of massive drops. However, the strenuous climb is definitely outweighed by its priceless views unlike any other.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TDwsIoiMSXI/AAAAAAAAA1g/Ohr0as-aU74/s1600/IMG_3341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TDwsIoiMSXI/AAAAAAAAA1g/Ohr0as-aU74/s320/IMG_3341.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Today Justin, Laura and I trekked to the two peaks praying that with some good planning and a little bit of luck we would get to see what so few have been able to: Konahuanui’s summit view in its entirety. At about 8:45 we meandered along Kalawahine through a well maintained and rather leveled path. The shade and cool breeze made it a nice stroll. We continued on, turning left at the Pauoa Flats junction, and then through a beautiful bamboo grove. We watched the rooty ground careful not to trip, and contoured through more forests until reaching the Nuuanu Lookout marked by a bench. We took a quick break as we enjoyed the views of Nuuanu Valley, Pali Puka, and Pali Notches. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A faint trail past the bench marked the beginning of Konahuanui. The path was overgrown like many sites advised to keep inexperienced hikers from venturing into. However, after several yards the path returned to a well graded trail. We were fortunate, especially Laura who had on running shorts, that HTMC recently cleaned it because there were no uluhe choking the path to scratch our legs. After much more meandering, we finally came across Lulumahu Waterfall. At first we weren’t sure if it was the falls because only rocks were exposed, but as we neared, it was clear that today we would not get to see the “secret” waterfall for it was dried out. We trekked on quite disappointed about missing the much anticipated falls but our thoughts quickly shifted for that is when the real hiking began. We looked ahead to the ridge we were about to climb, and could tell that it was going to be muddy, slippery, and taxing. We took on one incline after another. Some portions of the ascent, two in particular, made me exhausted just by its appearance, and the once clear path now became overgrown and dense. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Slowly but surely we finally made it to the cloud covered K2. Justin ventured on and as I followed wanting desperately to be atop of K1 he came back saying the mud wasn’t worth it unless there was a view. So we returned to K2 to take a few victory shots and a much needed rest. As I sat in the clouds trying to visualize the view, I asked if that way (pointing) was Kaneohe. Justin and Laura laughed as it was town side. I’ll be the first to admit I have a horrible sense of direction, and go figure because even now I can’t grasp what we should have seen. In the midst of the teasing the whites cleared and we could see the windward side. I don’t think we were ever more excited and that was it. We were headed to K1!</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">With K1 in sight we pushed through the mud, and the harder we tried to avoid it, the more we got covered by it. In my desperate attempt to stay clean I grabbed onto leaves and branches but it was useless. At one point my foot slipped and I couldn’t see my shoe, not even my ankle! But that didn’t stop us, and we ventured on through the insane mud and on-and-off again showers. On our way up we could see Kailua and the Mokulua Islands, and Waimanalo, Olomana, and Rabbit Island. The three peaks never looked so small. Directly below was a deadly drop and a distinct path part of the Maunawili Demonstration Trail. We could just imagine what the view from up top entailed, and about 30 minutes later finally made it to K1!!!</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">But...</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The clouds were in full effect and we couldn’t see anything. I called my mom at home to look at the summit and predict weather or not the clouds would clear, and immediately she could not believe we were anywhere near clouds because it was such a beautiful day. She figured they would blow over as they were moving rather quickly. So we prayed and hoped for some kind of view, and explored the peak as we waited. A trail to the right veered off into the whiteness as well one to the left but that one was ribboned off. I am not sure where the trails lead to and I have no desire to find out. Even a frog statue sits atop K1 signed by many hikers who have reached the summit. I wondered who would carry such a peculiar object all the way in. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">After more waiting and wishing, a white, rectangular shaped object far below came into view. As the clouds dissipated I recognized Pali Lookout’s parking lot and...a white tour bus. I could not believe how high we were! In addition, every so often the sun shown so brightly it was hard to believe we were in the clouds. I have been in the clouds many times before but never has the sun felt like it was right there. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Unfortunately the clouds remained and we left without a view. Although the descent was much faster than the climb it was just as crazy. I have no idea how many times I fell and everything was covered in mud! To be back on Kalawahine was a relief, and we ran out majority of the way so that Justin and Laura could make it to the NBA finals on time. In a little over two hours we were back at our car. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A total of 5 hours and we successfully scaled the highest peak in the Koolau Mountain Range. Although I dread the mud, and believe me, there was a lot of mud, more than I have seen on any other trail, I know I will climb Konahuanui again because I have to see the view from the summit. I just have to!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: auto;"><br />
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</span></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-39621785816749846732010-06-15T03:45:00.000-07:002011-06-19T20:25:31.018-07:00Pali Notches II<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">I really miss hiking with Shas. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Our hikes have become far and few in between which makes me enjoy this summer more than any other. I realize it is probably the last one where we will have the time and liberty to hike at all. Plus we're getting older. Soon our bodies won't be able to keep up.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Such is life...</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">Today was a beautiful day, a great day to scale the second notch. I didn't even think about how windy and cold the Pali always is regardless of how hot it may be at home. It reminds me that I should invest in a wind breaker to keep in my Camelbak for times like these. From our <a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/02/pali-notches.html">last hike</a> up the Pali Notches I knew to take the farthest left path since it had trees and brush to aid in the ascent. Today was no different and it was still slippery but not as nearly as when Beimes and I had to grab onto grass to help us up--grass! </div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">Another perk of taking the left path is that it climbs the ridge line. Within a few minutes gorgeous views of Kaneohe emerged, and before we knew it Shas and I were at the open grassy area. We continued upward cautiously climbing the rock face and reaching the first notch about 15 minutes later. This time there were no clouds. In front we could see from China's Hat to Rabbit Island, and behind from Nuuanu Reservoir all the way to Downtown.</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">We took a nice break, briefly checked out the descent of the first notch and decided to go for the second. I have to admit the hike to it was nerve-racking, and as I carefully placed each foot and grab hold it became clear why so many people are satisfied atop just the first. We made it safely between the two notches and like <a href="http://ezekielandzephen.blogspot.com/2010/02/pali-puka.html">Pali Puka</a> the wind funneled through the 15 foot by 15 foot cut. It was freezing! The hike up the second notch was rather easy. However, on top the path was much narrower than the first making walking and resting on it not one bit relaxing. Add in the wind factor and it definitely got my heart pumping. After a lot of pictures we began our climb down the second notch, back up the first, and down the remainder of the mountain back to Pali Lookout.</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">It was a great two hours, and now I can say I completed the Pali NotchES.</div><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/yddZiP5oGdw" width="481"></iframe></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-30370979378377845042010-06-14T02:26:00.000-07:002010-07-12T23:46:56.841-07:00Laie Falls<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;"><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Laie Fall is a serene hike. Located past the entrance to the Morman Temple on Poohaili Street, the three hour trek ends at a 15 foot waterfall and swim pool. Beimes, Justin, and I parked our cars along the football field and continued through a yellow gate along a gravel road. Although there were “No Trespassing” and “Permit Required” signs no one seemed to mind or bother. However, one house to the right had an array of posts or should I say threats. A couple of them, as I recall, stated “One way in, No way out” and “If your not blood you will bleed.” (Yes, the signs contained misspelling in case you’RE wondering.) Although curious as to what would make someone so angry we hurried along joking about what might happen if we ventured down the road. In about ten minutes we were at the trailhead. The initial sign gave a rather descriptive illustration of the hike. We knew there would be some “Scrambling Hills” followed by a “Pine Forest” before reaching the falls about 1 hour and 30 minutes later. Although we wanted to go to the summit we did not have time for a six hour hike.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Thank goodness the trail had a steady incline. I really wasn’t in the mood to walk up and down, and up and down. We strolled along a wide dirt path and came across a junction. We opted to go straight which proved correct. Following were the scrambling hills which didn’t require much scrambling but the lack of shade started to get to us. Fortunately we reached the forest of pine proceeded by a tunnel of strawberry guava trees. At first it was pretty cool but it got old real fast. You can only stare at strawberry guavas for so long. At the same time I didn’t complain because I was happy to be in the shade. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A while later we emerged from the tunnel and took the critical junction, turning right, to the falls. The path to the falls was wet, a bit muddy, and very slippery. I held onto the rope and trees just in case. We took our time descending and reached the falls in an hour and twenty minutes. The water was flowing but not gushing as we had seen in pictures posted on the internet. I can just imagine how beautiful the waterfall must be when it is. After checking out the falls and taking some pictures, Beimes and I went in for a swim still keeping to my promise. We swam around for a bit and tried to see if we could ascend any of the walls but to no avail. There wasn’t much to do in the pond, no place to jump from and no rope to swing on, so we didn’t stay in very long. Not surprising was the coldness of the water. Surprising was the stiller we were the warmer we felt. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">On our way out we opted for side trails which all met up with the original path. I was pleased that the descent was downhill. For the most part I enjoyed Laie Falls. The terrain was a nice change from all of our recent Kaneohe hikes and the refreshing swim at the waterfall beats any day at work.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP77kFTr9I/AAAAAAAAA0U/mO6-oOXi0s0/s1600/IMG_3244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP77kFTr9I/AAAAAAAAA0U/mO6-oOXi0s0/s320/IMG_3244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"></span></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP9bPQjueI/AAAAAAAAA0s/P0mvu-5uk-o/s1600/IMG_3267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP9bPQjueI/AAAAAAAAA0s/P0mvu-5uk-o/s320/IMG_3267.jpg" width="213" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP8Gl6bHmI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/QoudSG8zkzY/s1600/IMG_3246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP8Gl6bHmI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/QoudSG8zkzY/s320/IMG_3246.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP-LMgkmhI/AAAAAAAAA0w/Lyh2sKF9Jy4/s1600/IMG_3252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP-LMgkmhI/AAAAAAAAA0w/Lyh2sKF9Jy4/s320/IMG_3252.jpg" width="213" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP9GmkLFlI/AAAAAAAAA0k/OJU7ov8DWo0/s1600/IMG_3260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP9GmkLFlI/AAAAAAAAA0k/OJU7ov8DWo0/s320/IMG_3260.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP9OI2fftI/AAAAAAAAA0o/Q-O5QksPyZQ/s1600/IMG_3264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TCP9OI2fftI/AAAAAAAAA0o/Q-O5QksPyZQ/s320/IMG_3264.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
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</span></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-52104027673304212232010-06-11T02:26:00.000-07:002011-06-19T20:29:39.997-07:00*Maunawili Falls*<div style="font: 12px Verdana,sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Today Zeke, Zeph and I took the shortcut to Maunawili Falls. </span></div><div style="font: 12px Verdana,sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">Let me begin by saying this shortcut is the only reason I continue to go there. If we had to walk for over an hour to see what it has become I wouldn't go back. The falls will never be what I remember them as: secluded and serene. On any given day, be it a week day or holiday, the pool is stuffed with a minimum of 20 people. You can't even get a shot of the falls without some stranger in it!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span">But since it takes about 20 minutes to get to and the boys have never been there, I decided it wouldn't be so bad to let them experience their first waterfall.</span></div><div style="font: 12px Verdana,sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div style="font: 12px Verdana,sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span">The cold nor the crowd deterred them from having a wonderful time. While Zeph jumped from rock to rock, Zeke was brave enough to swim across the pool to the waterfall all by himself. It was awesome to see the two of them having so much fun!</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><br />
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</span></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-45193027640599849842010-06-10T02:25:00.000-07:002010-06-16T03:54:55.034-07:00*Mariner's Ridge*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TBirzl6PoSI/AAAAAAAAAys/z288Cj-1gOU/s1600/IMG_0390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TBirzl6PoSI/AAAAAAAAAys/z288Cj-1gOU/s400/IMG_0390.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"></span>Another great day with Zeke!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">One hour to complete Mariner's Ridge even with a rest at the top. </div><div style="text-align: center;">You never cease to amaze me... </div></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
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</div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-42680826719076490312010-06-07T02:24:00.000-07:002010-08-23T00:32:23.821-07:00Maunawili Demonstration<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Maunawili Demonstration Trail is a 10 mile one way stroll along the base of the Koolau Mountain Range from Pali Highway to Waimanalo. Of course not wanting to make this a 20 mile hike Beimes, Justin and I parked one car at a friend’s house in Waimanalo and then drove to the starting point at Pali’s “Hair Pin Turn” Lookout. This is, after all, our first hike in over a month and the first of our summer.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We exited the top of the Lookout's parking lot and walked along a trail heading steadily downward. It was wet and muddy and there were tons of mosquitos. We soon crossed a riverbed and back again, and then...the trail vanished. Obviously we had gone the wrong way, but what did we expect when the girl leading was the very one who didn’t read up on the hike?! As we back tracked Beimes referred to Stuart Ball’s The Hiker’s Guide to Oahu and learned we were supposed to head upward towards Old Pali Road, make a few switchbacks, and then pass a watershed. We climbed back up towards our starting point and spotted a pink ribbon. We searched further not wanting to go the wrong way again and finally someone, I think Beimes, spotted the correct path. I don’t know how we missed the trail but finally we were off on our 9.3 mile journey.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">There's not much to say about Maunawili Demonstration Trail. It weaved in and out, crossed many small but dry riverbeds, and provided views of Kailua, Olomana, and Waimanalo. At the end, it was quite amazing to look back and see how far we came. We could actually see all the way to Chinaman’s Hat. However, that's about the only thing I found amusing because although the hike was easy, in my opinion, it was really long and mundane. The terrain rarely changed, there was no real challenge, and the views were so-so. With that said I will probably never do this trail again.</span><br />
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</span></span></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-8554457931263772842010-05-29T23:50:00.000-07:002011-06-14T17:37:01.722-07:00*Lanikai Pillbox*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TBclrVTewkI/AAAAAAAAAyU/14KivAvymzc/s1600/IMG_3204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/TBclrVTewkI/AAAAAAAAAyU/14KivAvymzc/s320/IMG_3204.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">Schools out and summer’s here!!! What better way to spend our days than hiking.</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">Today all of us, Zeke, Zeph, my niece: Cherysee, Grandma, and I went hiking. I decided to take the kids on the Lanikai Pillbox Trail. I’ve only done it once--in the dark--but from what I remember it’s short and relatively easy. We didn’t get on the trail until about 1:00 so of course the sun was at its peak. I’m not complaining though because after this extra long, wet and cold winter it felt good to be outdoor.</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">The trail was nothing the boys couldn’t handle. They had fun using the ropes which weren’t necessary. If they had their way they would have ran up most of the trail, but with cousin and Grandma not as conditioned we had to take numerous breaks. They still walked at a brisk pace, tried to sneak in a few spurts of runs, and in fact kept up with a couple of Punahou students. It was quite funny to see the “Oh hell no these two little kids aren’t going to beat us to the top,” look on their faces each time they turned around to check on us through their 80’s style sunglasses. I’m pretty sure if we didn’t have to wait for Cherysse and Grandma we would’ve smoked them.</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">We made it to the first bunker in no time, maybe 20 minutes. As we waited the boys played and Zeph gave me numerous heart attacks. He jumped from the trail to ledge alongside the bunker. He really has no fear but add in the fact that as a four year old he does not grasp the concept of falling off a cliff, and you’ll get a boy playing, teeter-tottering, and jumping right as if on flat ground! </span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">Grandma and Cherysse finally made it, but grandma wasn’t feeling so well. She decided to stay at the first bunker while I took the kids to the second. If you ever go to the Pillboxes you don’t want to miss the view at the second bunker. You can see from Kaneohe to Waimanalo. Plus it’s only a couple of minutes away. At the second bunker when I was just about to help the boys get up, Zeke stood on the adjacent rock, jumped and stepped up with ease. Before I could even stop Zeph he followed in his older brother’s footsteps. I had but a split second to think about him missing, falling back, and hitting his head on the rock, or knocking out his two front teeth. Of course that didn’t happen and he popped onto the bunker like nothing. I did, however, have to help my eight year old niece get up. Grandma even joined us at the second bunker after her rest. Hooray Grandma!</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana;">We enjoyed the view for a few more moments and headed out. Going out was a lot more fun than the trek in since the boys ran and slid down most of the parts. </span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/o-wImPyHDJk" width="481"></iframe></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-32850569620010251202010-05-07T00:33:00.000-07:002011-06-19T20:28:23.229-07:00Ulupaina<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-pcCvapkRI/AAAAAAAAAx0/GeuEj9vrC7s/s1600/IMG_3103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-pcCvapkRI/AAAAAAAAAx0/GeuEj9vrC7s/s320/IMG_3103.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Today we explored our “home” further...</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Ulupaina is a 4 mile loop that begins to the left of Valley of the Temples. Vance, Beimes, Sean and I met at Hui Iwa Street and walked across to the trailhead. Although not visible from the road once there the path is quite obvious. We opted for the left trail since numerous sites recommended hiking clockwise. </span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 15px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The hike began with a brief incline and soon leveled off weaving along the bottom of the ridge. It snaked inward across a ravine then back out, in across another ravine, then out, AND back in and back out several more times. We joked as we passed each new ravine that we swore we crossed it before. Upon the “out” of each curve we could see Kaneohe Bay, Kaneohe Marine Core Base, and Olomana. A beautiful view in deed, but nothing new to any of us born and raised on the windward side.</span><br />
I should mention that along the ins and outs we came across two junctions. The first one is near the beginning of the hike. The left trail headed straight, and the right trail headed up. Both trails were marked with ribbons which didn’t help but since Beimes knew that the turning point would be near Haiku Plantation we took the left one. The second junction is the turning point. The left path headed straight further towards Haiku Plantation, and the right trail headed up. Once again both paths were marked with ribbons. This time we took the right path and trekked upwards since we could see the beautiful plantation homes and knew we should be headed towards the ridge. I’m not sure if the ribbons were placed recently because none of the hike reviews we read mentioned them. For someone unfamiliar with the windward side and its landmarks following the correct ribbons is a must.</div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 15px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The rather easy trail now began to climb. The steep ascents quickly brought us to a much higher elevation. Some parts were slippery so I made good use of the trees. The trail eventually curved right but our climbing was not done. Like all other ridges, the path continued to ascend and descend. Midway through we came across a third junction. We knew that taking the right one would lead us out, but we opted left which headed towards the Koolau Mountain Range and to the power-lines. No more than ten minutes later we were there and to much of our surprise were at an elevation of about 1000 feet. (According to Trailguru 1094 feet.) It was also the first time on the hike we could see from Kualoa to Kahaluu, including Chinaman’s Hat. The short detour was well worth the time. In fact it was the only part, in my opinion, that made the hike worth it.</span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 15px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The remainder of the hike had a few more ups and downs, and concluded with a steep descent along a well cushioned ground of pine needles making the trek slippery. Thinking about it, if we hiked counterclockwise up this portion it would have been--for lack of a better word--a bitch. Near the bottom at a fourth junction we took the left trail curious to see where it exited, and came out at one of the cemetery’s cul-de-sacs.</span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 15px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Verdana; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The entire hike took us a little under three hours. I'm glad we ventured around our neighborhood more, but I probably won't be doing this hike again any time soon. Summer is near and I can't wait to take on more challenging ones.</span></div><br />
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</div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-20870551359633209042010-04-30T01:42:00.000-07:002010-07-12T16:50:29.364-07:00Oneawa Hills (Kawaewae)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">After exploring Beime’s backyard, I was excited when he recommended a hike behind my house. In fact, as a child I played in the ditch, looked up towards the bamboo grove, and wondered what lurked beyond the forest. I’ve gazed at the ridge, white rock, and “cross” many days wondering if it could be hiked. Well it can and today we did it.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;">Kawaewae is a three mile trail which begins on the “Friendship Garden” loop. Immediately Beimes and I walked up some rock stairs and veered left. (The right trail is the en route from the Friendship Garden loop.) Following were a series of switchbacks and soon another split. From research we knew to take the sharp left. A bit more trekking and the trail split for a third time. A kind lady who hikes the loop often recommended that we go left to the lookout. In deed there were beautiful views of Kaneohe Bay. </div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">After a few pictures we turned around and headed off the Friendship Garden path to start the hike along the ridge. The trail got steep and some parts were accompanied by ropes which weren’t necessary on this dry day. However, the path was still slippery due to the loose dirt. After some huffing and at last a top the ridge we got more gorgeous sights of Kaneohe Bay, Kaneohe Town, and Kailua. Down the ridge we hiked passing a group of high schoolers painting the rock. We continued along to the next hump weaving through dense forests. Back down and back up we trekked. Finally we made it to the quarry where below we saw dump trucks and tractors hauling gravel, and a man made lake. It was surprising to realize that of all the times I’ve driven to Kbay I’ve never noticed or heard the work occurring.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Following an old water pipe up the final high point we climbed. Carefully we looked for the ribbon which we knew would lead us out. We feared missing it--which it frequently is but found it rather easily to our right. And...that's when the never ending descent began. The trail eventually curved right and near the bottom split. Beimes and I headed left on a jeep path, passed a house with posted signs stating “Trespassers will be killed” and walked along a fence hoping for an exit. The trail continued beyond what we knew so we back tracked and noticed the bright pink ribbons we somehow missed. Back on the marked trail we crossed a dry riverbed, and although the ribbons continued towards the starting point we followed the drainage to the road. Sure enough the path ended on Lipalu Place. A little less than two hours later and we were done. We walked back to my house which was much closer than Kokokahi Street. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Overall, the hike was mediocre. The best views were at the beginning so the remainder of the hike seemed rather monotonous. The ups and downs were tiring and although provided a good workout were not very rewarding. In additon, upon returning to my car my side mirror was broken, obviously hit by a passing car. The driver fled without leaving any information but fortunately the students who were painting the rock took down a license plate. I am not sure I will do this hike again, but I am definitely going to see if the ditch behind my house meets up with Kawaewae.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Directions: On Kaneohe Bay Drive, pass Castle High School on the right and then Bay View Golf Course on the left. After passing Kokokai YWCA on the left, turn right onto Kokokahi Street. Follow the road uphill until it bends right. The trailhead is on the left marked by the noticeable green “Friendship Garden” sign.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kOLfP-SnI/AAAAAAAAAwY/P9oaHwzKoQo/s1600/IMG_3040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kOLfP-SnI/AAAAAAAAAwY/P9oaHwzKoQo/s320/IMG_3040.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kOh1B3xfI/AAAAAAAAAwc/7tmV6aNRH-o/s1600/IMG_3041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kOh1B3xfI/AAAAAAAAAwc/7tmV6aNRH-o/s320/IMG_3041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kO14KLo4I/AAAAAAAAAwg/ZLpy03q0OT4/s1600/IMG_3042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kO14KLo4I/AAAAAAAAAwg/ZLpy03q0OT4/s320/IMG_3042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kPHQWonhI/AAAAAAAAAwk/KiXRnjxGEsE/s1600/IMG_3044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kPHQWonhI/AAAAAAAAAwk/KiXRnjxGEsE/s320/IMG_3044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kPa--MBhI/AAAAAAAAAwo/M76_gqOczxQ/s1600/IMG_3047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kPa--MBhI/AAAAAAAAAwo/M76_gqOczxQ/s320/IMG_3047.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kQaoox8UI/AAAAAAAAAw0/8xxlwo0VTSU/s1600/IMG_3049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kQaoox8UI/AAAAAAAAAw0/8xxlwo0VTSU/s320/IMG_3049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kQEWvWEiI/AAAAAAAAAww/SMWWRgVDjos/s1600/IMG_3048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kQEWvWEiI/AAAAAAAAAww/SMWWRgVDjos/s320/IMG_3048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kViU1DoDI/AAAAAAAAAxY/KIKjrdmYtwU/s1600/IMG_3068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kViU1DoDI/AAAAAAAAAxY/KIKjrdmYtwU/s320/IMG_3068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kVFp_ItXI/AAAAAAAAAxU/svb99hfEunE/s1600/IMG_3066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kVFp_ItXI/AAAAAAAAAxU/svb99hfEunE/s320/IMG_3066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kT9HewBzI/AAAAAAAAAxI/5YocsDXwGjA/s1600/IMG_3061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kT9HewBzI/AAAAAAAAAxI/5YocsDXwGjA/s320/IMG_3061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kUPntJ8AI/AAAAAAAAAxM/_NNYMVl8BR0/s1600/IMG_3062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kUPntJ8AI/AAAAAAAAAxM/_NNYMVl8BR0/s320/IMG_3062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Pali Notches</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kUjE9efQI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/bLeNFaHffdI/s1600/IMG_3064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kUjE9efQI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/bLeNFaHffdI/s320/IMG_3064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Pali Puka</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kV7dbSdTI/AAAAAAAAAxc/mdZSf7tE3Mw/s1600/IMG_3073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kV7dbSdTI/AAAAAAAAAxc/mdZSf7tE3Mw/s320/IMG_3073.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kTmQ-5x1I/AAAAAAAAAxE/I1D6026Ki1M/s1600/IMG_3060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kTmQ-5x1I/AAAAAAAAAxE/I1D6026Ki1M/s320/IMG_3060.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kPsp8XAXI/AAAAAAAAAws/7tvXrlsM5a4/s1600/IMG_3052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S-kPsp8XAXI/AAAAAAAAAws/7tvXrlsM5a4/s320/IMG_3052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div></span></span>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6760632687378045991.post-4655410354893819262010-04-23T21:29:00.000-07:002011-06-14T17:37:42.104-07:00Nualolo-Awaawapuhi<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">Sleeping Giant was fun. The Wet Cave better.<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">BUT the only thing I really wanted to do on this trip to Kauai was hike Nualolo-Awaawaphui Loop.</span><br />
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Nualolo-Awaawapuhi consists of five trails totaling 10.5 miles. Unlike most hikes, this loop begins with a descent, in fact a decline of about 2,000 feet, and ends with an incline. Yes, back up 2,000 feet. Although hikers can begin from either end most would agree that starting from Nualolo is easier since Awaawapuhi's ending incline consists of switchbacks and is therefore a gradually climb. Nu`alolo on the other hand consists of only a few switchbacks so if chosen as the loop's finish is much steeper. However, this also means that starting at Nualolo equates to a steeper descent which can be very taxing on the knees.<br />
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Nualolo is approximately 3.5 miles and ends at a junction where hikers can continue further to the Na Pali Coast via Lolo Vista (0.5 miles). Although some may bypass it, eager to start Nualolo Cliff, the view from the lookout should not be missed. After returning the half mile back in from Lolo Vista the trail heads left on Nualolo Cliff (2 miles). Here the trail winds through Nualolo Valley to the next junction on Awaawapuhi. There the junction's left trail, Vista (0.3 miles), is the lookout from Awaawapuhi ridge, and its right trail, Awaawapuhi (3 miles), is the final ascent back to Kokee Road. However, that is not all. Once completed hikers must walk 1.5 miles on Kokee Road back to Nualolo. Therefore, it is highly recommended that two cars be taken. No one wants to walk a mile and a half after trekking ten and half!</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Due to our late start, Jaxon, Tiff, Cassie and I didn’t begin the hike until 11:00. Beginning near Kokee Lodge at an elevation of 3,660 feet, Nualolo's cool, well shaded and muddy trail took some maneuvering. Although we avoided the puddles, and fallen trees and branches we still took our fair share of slips. We laughed continuously at one another anticipating who would be the first to really eat it.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94Nh8f5MwI/AAAAAAAAAvo/aQNNcjfElv4/s1600/IMG_3001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94Nh8f5MwI/AAAAAAAAAvo/aQNNcjfElv4/s200/IMG_3001.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94M5N5_qjI/AAAAAAAAAvc/OvPPVher7WE/s1600/IMG_3003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94M5N5_qjI/AAAAAAAAAvc/OvPPVher7WE/s200/IMG_3003.jpg" width="133" /></a></div></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A mile later we made it out clean to a beautiful pasture like area. The descent continued towards the ocean. Down, down, down we walked until finally the trail's canopy opened giving us our first glimpse of the Na Pali Coast and Niihau. </span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94P8eBSvsI/AAAAAAAAAv4/uOmYTHeNG0E/s1600/26976_1358569857397_1626049690_858948_3080187_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94P8eBSvsI/AAAAAAAAAv4/uOmYTHeNG0E/s200/26976_1358569857397_1626049690_858948_3080187_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDmOkVBQI/AAAAAAAAAvA/3UhHPw6vWgQ/s1600/IMG_3010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDmOkVBQI/AAAAAAAAAvA/3UhHPw6vWgQ/s200/IMG_3010.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94OwgEILxI/AAAAAAAAAvw/lsKaBVYCXsU/s1600/IMG_3012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94OwgEILxI/AAAAAAAAAvw/lsKaBVYCXsU/s200/IMG_3012.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Excited to see what other views were in store, Jaxon and I ran the remaining portions which were rather dry and rooty making it to the junction about an hour later. Patiently we waited for Tiff and Cassie. Five minutes. Ten minutes. After asking another hiker walking by we learned that one of the girls hurt their ankle so Jaxon left to check on the situation. Several minutes later he returned saying that Tiff tripped and fell, and although injured was on her way. Five minutes. Ten minutes. Still no Tiff and Cassie. This time I left but only to find Tiff sitting under a tree unable to walk. Although she didn’t look in much pain I told her that we had three options: 1) turn around and walk back, 2) continue and finish on Awaawapuhi which is longer but supposedly easier, or 3) walk half a mile to Lolo Vista where she could be medically evacuated. Tiff decided on option #3 so we headed to the junction. Trying to keep Tiff’s spirit high and in the least amount of pain I piggy backed her down some portions which was pretty hilarious stuff.<i> </i></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDSpwmPqI/AAAAAAAAAu4/1kM9WtFKZ40/s1600/IMG_3022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDSpwmPqI/AAAAAAAAAu4/1kM9WtFKZ40/s200/IMG_3022.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Junction</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qC_eZ1nfI/AAAAAAAAAuw/sI3I0eFdvqE/s1600/IMG_3021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qC_eZ1nfI/AAAAAAAAAuw/sI3I0eFdvqE/s200/IMG_3021.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><i></i>Back at the junction Jaxon and Cassie decided they would stay with Tiff and help her walk to Lolo Vista while I ran back out Nualolo to call for help. One hour and fifteen minutes later I was at Kokee Lodge dialing 911. Although I knew Tiff was fine and would be okay I was overcome with emotions. My voice quivered as I tried my best to explain the situation. Soon I was talking to the fire chief and then the paramedic. Initially I was advised to stay at the lodge to meet and then lead them in to Tiff. Fortunately the fire chief called back saying they would send a helicopter to medivac her out. </span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">After a few more conversations with the rescue crew I was back on Nualolo. Halfway in I actually watched the helicopter air lift Tiff to safety and 45 minutes later was once again at the junction. I continued to Lolo Vista where I met up with Jaxon and Cassie. Knowing that Tiff was safe, we decided, actually I decided and they agreed, to complete the hike along Nualolo Cliff and Awaawapuhi. Jaxon and Cassie went ahead as I continued to Lolo Vista’s look out point not wanting to miss any views. The dry trail, gravely and uneven, made the path sketchy. In addition the signs warned about the loose ground that may wash out at a moment's notice, and although not vertical, the gradual drops were steep enough to end one's life. All of the above made the hike on Lolo Vista one that I did not take lightly. I trekked cautiously, contemplating the <i>what ifs,</i> and wondered how in the world Tiff made it out on this path with an injury. Yet, the anticipation filled me with exhilaration and excitement. The rewards definitely outweighed the risks. </span><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">A total of five hours and eleven miles (what should have been four miles) later I was finally at the look out some 1,400 feet above the Na Pali Coast. There to the left was Ni`ihau, to the right the Na Pali coastline, behind Nu`alolo Valley and its <i>Jurassic</i> <i>Park</i> waterfall, and just below the riverbed from the dry waterfall leading to the ocean. </span><br />
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Talk about unforgettable, unbelievable, stunning views.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDx_lFJSI/AAAAAAAAAvE/UcrkeSLMmVE/s1600/IMG_3029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDx_lFJSI/AAAAAAAAAvE/UcrkeSLMmVE/s200/IMG_3029.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qD80FizWI/AAAAAAAAAvI/KdbsI3bGcPI/s1600/IMG_3026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qD80FizWI/AAAAAAAAAvI/KdbsI3bGcPI/s200/IMG_3026.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9uOUWEqbuI/AAAAAAAAAvY/jBl1nhWcgtM/s1600/IMG_3027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9uOUWEqbuI/AAAAAAAAAvY/jBl1nhWcgtM/s200/IMG_3027.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94RZ_Bw-YI/AAAAAAAAAwA/uBw57kCKTpI/s1600/IMG_3025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94RZ_Bw-YI/AAAAAAAAAwA/uBw57kCKTpI/s200/IMG_3025.JPG" width="200" /></a></div></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">I returned from Lolo Vista and continued along Nualolo Cliff meeting up with Jaxon and Cassie for a third time. The two mile trail snaked along a large washed out portion where a section of the right side of the mountain is caved in. Its fallen rocks covered the path making footing crucial. We also crossed three dry river beds. I can only imagine how beautiful the mini waterfalls must be during the wet season. From here the sights from within the valley toward the ocean were just as gorgeous!</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDdaHrTHI/AAAAAAAAAu8/4Q2OWHxSGU0/s1600/IMG_3031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S9qDdaHrTHI/AAAAAAAAAu8/4Q2OWHxSGU0/s200/IMG_3031.jpg" width="133" /></a> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94UiIQKl9I/AAAAAAAAAwQ/WhEzYcBjOSk/s1600/IMG_3038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Iltz9B5TJzQ/S94UiIQKl9I/AAAAAAAAAwQ/WhEzYcBjOSk/s200/IMG_3038.JPG" width="200" /></a> </div><br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">At last we were at the second junction ready to began the ascent on Awaawapuhi, Nualolo's adjacent ridge. Luckily the trail was well shaded but the gradual inclines seemed never ending--maybe because it was monotonous or maybe because I was just utterly and completely exhausted. I prayed that behind each bend was the road.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Finally eight hours later we were back on Kokee Road but we still had to walk back to our car. Fortunately Jaxon stuck his thumb out getting us a hitch to the lodge which we didn’t know at the time was a mile and half away! Thinking about it, if we had to walk another mile after the SEVENTEEN I just completed I would have cried.</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We drove back to check on Tiff who was resting at home. While there the Dr. called confirming that she had broken her fibula!!! And with both our phones dead Jaxon and I hurried home to Koloa where everyone awaited our safe return. I called my mom on Oahu who was worried as well. Needless to say everyone was glad that no one was seriously injured but...</span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 12.0px Verdana; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">We all can't wait for the next hike!</div></div><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BN7ccFufW54" width="481"></iframe></div>Ezekiel & Zephenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10118787362936743246noreply@blogger.com0