tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10303810265049402072024-02-19T06:22:10.840-10:00Island Trailskaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-81530109386452146222013-09-13T16:20:00.003-10:002013-09-13T17:51:14.781-10:00Papali Uka-KST-Upper Kaluanui-Castle 3-Day Backpack - September 2-4, 2013Hello. My name is Keith and I'm guest blogging for Kaleo. We have been hiking together for years, and after this 3-day trek he offered me the chance to recall our trip exploring four waterfalls far above Sacred Falls.<br />
<br />
We got great info from a friend about these less visited falls and came up with a plan for finding/exploring them. Most of you know that Sacred Falls is illegal to visit, somewhat guarded, and still very dangerous. We've had friends visit it in recent years that mention how narrow the valley is, and the discomforting feeling of rocks falling near you. There is no place to hide when the heavens open up with inanimate objects that have no emotion or regard for human life. The chasm remains as it has for millennia, flowing and slowly crumbling, and I hope that no one gets hurt trying to explore these majestic pools. Above the unstable valley floor ascends a 300ft and 500ft waterfall that is only seen by the perpetual tourist helicopters that hover near them for a minute so their passengers can capture their memories. These enormous sections were repelled by a group of guys that may have accomplished one of the greatest adventures ever undertaken in the Oahu mountains. More on that story can be found here: <a href="http://www.merman.us/cgi-bin/blog?s=1&pl=lf" target="_blank">Merman.us</a>. And so begins our story.<br />
<br />
Kaleo and I began our 11-hour day of hiking by ascending the Papali Uka ridge. We had meticulously planned our calorie requirements, and packed the bare minimum of food and clothing, but as with every overnight hike the pack feels heavy when climbing a ridge. The beginning of a hike is always exciting, and historically I'm guilty of starting at a fast pace and suffering for it later. Every hiker knows the demoralizing feeling of lactic acid burning your legs on day two of an overnighter, so it was important that we set our pace slow from the beginning to survive the three days. Neither of us have been hiking much lately, so our conditioning was not the level it should have been, and it was a legitimate concern that we might not be able to complete the adventure. I have never hiked so slow in my life, but keeping our heart rate low made such a huge difference from sea level to the summit of the Ko'olau.<br />
<br />
Papali Uka was a pretty standard ridge hike with some nice views of Kaluanui Valley and the numerous peaks along the Ko'olau summit. It took us about 7 hours to reach the Castle Trail junction. The previously mentioned helicopters often buzzed close to our ridge, and after a few hours of seeing tourists suspended over us in insect like crafts I decided to stand tall when they passed so they could see us. For some strange reason I wanted to be a catalyst that changes their lives and gets them to walk some miles in hiking boots (or Vibrams). I concede that I was a little jealous that they got to see giant falls that I probably never will, but I contend that seeing paradise without effort takes little precedence in our memory banks. I have fond recollections of postcard views I worked for, but I can hardly recall emotion from when I took an aerial tour of Maui waterfalls. I felt bad for those passengers and wished that they could be in the dirt with us, but then my daydreaming was washed away with a flood of reality, and I remembered that I constantly fail at encouraging any of my friends to hike. Hiking is definitely not for the general population that safely rests in their couch & tv designated comfort zones. Logical fears of falling off a ridge keep most people indoors, but they don't think twice about our fragile bodies being 36 inches from disaster anytime we get in a car. Moving on.<br />
<br />
From Castle trail junction to the summit is pretty overgrown and minimally traveled, and I think it's safe to say that long pants or gators are necessary to prevent thimble berry thorn induced shin bleeding. Kaleo warned me that the Ko'olau Summit Trail would be brutal with unavoidable mud pits, and that's exactly what we got. We spent hours of trudging sludge, and often cowering through Nate Rubio-esque hobbit tunnels. No Doubt/Gwen Stefani fans would be proud to know Kaleo sings "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZktNItwexo" target="_blank">Spider Webs</a>" in between curse words while entangled in silk. It's quite amusing to watch some of the smallest, harmless spiders cause a grown man so much frustration, but not so amusing when my own paranoia makes me think creatures with four times as many legs as myself have made their way down my own back.<br />
<br />
After a few hours on the KST, and a few turns we can't mention, we reached a private cabin just before dark that would be our temporary home. We originally planned to hike to the waterfalls on day two, but after Mud Fest 2013© we realized that doing that swamp section three days in a row would be an absolute waste of mental and physical energy. We opted to stay-cation for day two at our mountain paradise so we could get an early, well-rested day three start and have more time for waterfalls. <br />
<br />
And what a great rest it was. Day two's timeline was waking up around 8, breakfast, napping, lunch, napping, more eating, and concluded with some major/minor freaking out about an amazing nuclear bomb sunset. With the sky on fire Kauai was clearly visible on the horizon, and it was my first time seeing the Garden Isle from Oahu. It was also my first time eating Country Stew that tasted as bitter and unpalatable as anything can taste. The cabin was stocked with 20-year shelf life survival packets that we decided to eat after running low on food after Grind Fest 2013©. I thought Kaleo just got unlucky with a bad recipe, and my abs hurt from laughing so hard at the self-proclaimed "foodie" trying to stomach such a meal. I wasn't laughing for long when I realized that my Corn Chowder (and I use the term "chowder" lightly) was equally foul. Kaleo said it tasted like a Filipino tripe soup called Bindongo. I have never tried the said soup, but now I don't need to. The moral of this story is if you like prepping for the zombiepocalypse make sure you sample dried food options before buying them in bulk. And no, don't tell me you will indefinitely live off spam and vienna sausage. Good luck running from zombies when your crystalized gout toe becomes the handicap that gets you gang tackled and eaten alive. <a href="http://www.zombielandrules.com/" target="_blank">Zombieland</a> Rule #20: It's a marathon, not a sprint, unless it's a sprint, then sprint. I digress.<br />
<br />
Fast forward through a rainy morning and more mud treachery, and we reached the Castle Trail junction and descend to the stream below. Wearing boardshorts while boulder hopping on the valley floor is quite an amazing feeling after the previous hardships. Being covered in mud for a while makes you reach a point where you just stop caring about the dirt that has become a part of you. However, reaching the stream and seeing clear, flowing water is like reaching the promised land, and I found myself all the sudden caring when my legs acquired a new small spot of red soil on them. The stream water was surprisingly warm compared to every other O'ahu mountain stream that I've shivered from swimming in. The four waterfalls were just minutes apart, which was a pleasant surprise for tired legs. The first one was about 50 feet with a deep pool, but the rock was too slippery to climb higher and jump from the big boy ledge. The second and third waterfalls were relatively small, but the latter had a neat half-bowl cave on one edge. <br />
<br />
Not seeing the fourth waterfall from the bottom is my only regret of the trip. From the top there's a picturesque pool about twenty feet down, and below that pool is the 70 foot waterfall. A little bit of fear set in when I realized that if I slipped and fell into the pool below I would not be able to climb up the wet, vertical face void of footholes. The only option would be to jump 70 feet into the pool below with submerged boulders at an unknown depth. Again, I have to credit those guys that repelled these waterfalls because they knew that once they began their journey there was no turning back. We then hiked straight up the ridge to the side of the fourth pool to find the "trail" that was traveled and photographed by our friend who gave us info about the area. After getting to the top we realized that going down might take an hour of blazing our own path straight down the side of the steep ridge (without rope), and it was more time than we had to spare. Fear of having to hike out with headlamps trumped our desire to see the fourth waterfall from its base, so we retreated. In hindsight it was the best decision we made that day based on the events that followed.<br />
<br />
We leave the stream and get back on the Castle Trail with a few hours of daylight left. Author Stuart Ball said that the Castle Trail was, in his opinion, the nicest hike on O'ahu. As we begun the descent down the switchback I found my new favorite mountain view. I won't try to describe it and these photos do no justice. My euphoria gave way to pure frustration as we watched the famous eighty-something year old trail disappear. It was closed to the public about a year ago, and it is now gone. We needed to get off the mountain and we anxiously watched the sun get lower. There was no where to go except fight our way through thick brush tangles at a snail's pace, and our will power couldn't bring the trail back from the dead. After about 45 minutes, soaking with sweat, we realized we wouldn't make it down before dark. We made a desperation phone call to our friend who had hiked out on Castle a few weeks prior. With the much needed advice we backtracked up the switchback through our previous brush tunneling and jumped on a ridge junction. In almost no time at all we were easily a thousand feet below the summit and feeling good. We reached a junction where there's a sign saying "to road", and it pointed back to where the Castle switchback continues across the mountain face over a thousand feet below our previous point of frustration. All I could think of is how advantageous it was that we took the ridge down instead of being stuck high overhead in the dark, but we were faced with a new problem of whether to continue on the ridge that goes straight down, or follow a sign that clearly says the road is that-a-way. Ego is a poison that gets people killed in the mountains, but I flat out told Kaleo that I was over that damn switchback trail, and I wanted to continue on our ridge that we could see went straight down. He agreed. <br />
<br />
We continued our rapid descent, but our walk turned into semi-horror as the ridge trail ended, and we were detoured sideways around the mountain face heading deeper into the valley. Our phone-a-friend advice didn't mention the detour, and now we were without phone reception to call again. Kaleo had previous bad experiences with pig hunting trails that lead aimlessly farther away from civilization. We stopped for a minute to think and fought the flood of panic setting it. With cloudy logic we strongly considered taking our sea level progress as a loss, and backtracking about 45-minutes uphill to the "to road" sign. We decided that although we were going deeper into the valley we were indeed rapidly descending. It is better to be at zero feet elevation and have to find our way to the ocean than to be stuck on a mountain face after sunset. I reminded Kaleo of his advice to me years ago that if I was ever lost I should keep descending until I find a stream or valley that takes me back to sea level. We really needed that advice now more than ever.<br />
<br />
Adrenaline took over and we were absolutely blazing down the trail, ignoring our quadriceps pleas for rest. It seemed like the valley floor was an eternity away as the sun disappeared over the mountains, but all of the sudden our trail turned into a wide, well traveled path surrounded by strawberry guava on both sides. I think we were still somewhat in denial about civilization being close because we were speed walking at a pace that might qualify us for the 2016 summer Olympics (is that seriously still a sport?). We heard a lawnmower, saw a house, hit a dirt road, then a paved road, and a bearded hippy pointed us to the ocean. We later found out that our trail out was indeed the only way out. The sign that pointed "to road" should be destroyed because it takes hikers back into tangles and no realistic path of escape.<br />
<br />
It was a few miles walking on pavement before we saw Kamehameha Highway, and I could feel my body shutting down as the survival adrenaline wore off and a 11-hour hike came to an end. We reached the sand and salt water as the earth went dark, but it was just in time to get two tall Red Stripes and fresh poke before a neighborhood store closed. Trip completed. <br />
<br />
In hiking there are many ways for things to go wrong and to find yourself in a rescue helicopter situation over something small like a sprained ankle. Having a partner that can hike miles out to cell phone reception is absolutely essential, and having supplies to survive a wet, cold night alone on the mountain is even more important. Plan for the worst...and then put those thoughts behind you as you enjoy mountain adventures that a tiny fraction of 1% of Hawaii residents will ever dare to see.<br />
<br />
"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil - this is the gift of God." Ecclesiastes 3:11-13<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-O7bMWXJQLyGypKsXpy6XDuEITr_YqNShG-EXQvQaFiEbygjzsCi5lbSNw04VzdvxglGdruhYcu0F-fkYRZxlqRVqEqQbq2eb-zSSSj5suOQcCf5Ho-l-pb4WjcP00IdpSIMYMYobBFjm/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-O7bMWXJQLyGypKsXpy6XDuEITr_YqNShG-EXQvQaFiEbygjzsCi5lbSNw04VzdvxglGdruhYcu0F-fkYRZxlqRVqEqQbq2eb-zSSSj5suOQcCf5Ho-l-pb4WjcP00IdpSIMYMYobBFjm/s320/1.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YiJ7jVi0akU4u7SD30cHOnkOz9oapkCHjAgUdEUV8ZZnlxUQkyDhtJSAB6z820O0lWRF6P1IRLBC00AsCHiSsx4sduT-Y-f4VlTkUjT24dBIhG9L10FJHOG0nz1vNVfYswMwoXjtd3RR/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YiJ7jVi0akU4u7SD30cHOnkOz9oapkCHjAgUdEUV8ZZnlxUQkyDhtJSAB6z820O0lWRF6P1IRLBC00AsCHiSsx4sduT-Y-f4VlTkUjT24dBIhG9L10FJHOG0nz1vNVfYswMwoXjtd3RR/s320/2.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepA-oi0wCv4x1_9kwibzn8ScXoZ-uecPqoZ2o_0IfUWQvCgwIGPXt8W5Snypn-ct2Ca7q0EgTD-2je_qN5RJBB4aJskV4ibluRnS7YWnUklmpF1t2dPm89o5reY5C-BPMasJuSpdiigPk/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiepA-oi0wCv4x1_9kwibzn8ScXoZ-uecPqoZ2o_0IfUWQvCgwIGPXt8W5Snypn-ct2Ca7q0EgTD-2je_qN5RJBB4aJskV4ibluRnS7YWnUklmpF1t2dPm89o5reY5C-BPMasJuSpdiigPk/s320/3.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7E5I0_UhmkRgOil_Y9EoAVMIl05KlPMSikeQYl1iZeAGTxLRtSFXxFFTnfi9K2bNv3ao05HjpMYnsMNCziJqwsQB0gRyd3SMEBOAvkpL7hsRWuuYpeJe11QcIYnN6RqhQyUiA5Sp4z7RU/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7E5I0_UhmkRgOil_Y9EoAVMIl05KlPMSikeQYl1iZeAGTxLRtSFXxFFTnfi9K2bNv3ao05HjpMYnsMNCziJqwsQB0gRyd3SMEBOAvkpL7hsRWuuYpeJe11QcIYnN6RqhQyUiA5Sp4z7RU/s320/4.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvkKT8UK5KHBeGEB4-kZ_p7cUYv0yLGiKi9kUj41qKCXSbHrglZZa2Hk3zkNSM91cCQJRmWQ3MEDMdpBcjh8-vBc-gZFTWOaD-FYC_JZKY_x-nCNOHpmTHenhkZTQuCbe8N4Y61OVis4L/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvkKT8UK5KHBeGEB4-kZ_p7cUYv0yLGiKi9kUj41qKCXSbHrglZZa2Hk3zkNSM91cCQJRmWQ3MEDMdpBcjh8-vBc-gZFTWOaD-FYC_JZKY_x-nCNOHpmTHenhkZTQuCbe8N4Y61OVis4L/s320/5.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7vq_Ap7-tN-RgxyCQAsy7JFbTCthmvn2lAR-uwXabYlgpc6Dl4fJSOBRv1eE445ZXPFv7jQLBVklazInN9MtzNJi-cAtewioTAYS8UXs4fH7t3UEiT69hDK408QTNkz7mW2GVEcU8-3D/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7vq_Ap7-tN-RgxyCQAsy7JFbTCthmvn2lAR-uwXabYlgpc6Dl4fJSOBRv1eE445ZXPFv7jQLBVklazInN9MtzNJi-cAtewioTAYS8UXs4fH7t3UEiT69hDK408QTNkz7mW2GVEcU8-3D/s320/6.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgsno8SLuM4nRQxWxdPZiOCyaO_W3pQokZ6gU5oXy3qqlLc8N33WxknxAq22Nkv1sPLGiC1F__eVNJbt6TnVx-lUyXu7Ak-z4BnuzRcTsuErRJmz4milIIIq9hSnPO5snDlhcL5eq99pG/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgsno8SLuM4nRQxWxdPZiOCyaO_W3pQokZ6gU5oXy3qqlLc8N33WxknxAq22Nkv1sPLGiC1F__eVNJbt6TnVx-lUyXu7Ak-z4BnuzRcTsuErRJmz4milIIIq9hSnPO5snDlhcL5eq99pG/s320/7.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQm-de5P5JrMIXEcpQD-RRCJcLDc6IoqkROLn6GeRqJgwjOBSpoba40c70jMgsj8S2vWIicpqPy6vwEL-BzCx0sxv7HqvMha4z4QSHNdhHXmTi15MsTmV1osVchsAlANOu3Wr_Diw0zDEV/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQm-de5P5JrMIXEcpQD-RRCJcLDc6IoqkROLn6GeRqJgwjOBSpoba40c70jMgsj8S2vWIicpqPy6vwEL-BzCx0sxv7HqvMha4z4QSHNdhHXmTi15MsTmV1osVchsAlANOu3Wr_Diw0zDEV/s320/8.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPQEcJlV3BJxvaPKNDLt0jrMBbmq8NWiDCZVAfAAaj0joIH7YC_keJkDRzMtBruq383x5AW35N-PaNRb1CWE7gxUlTGlqNx8D_qu-ozc8Np_0lPreq5JavaztoerRobGcV-rqvkHCxvjr/s1600/DSCN1786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRPQEcJlV3BJxvaPKNDLt0jrMBbmq8NWiDCZVAfAAaj0joIH7YC_keJkDRzMtBruq383x5AW35N-PaNRb1CWE7gxUlTGlqNx8D_qu-ozc8Np_0lPreq5JavaztoerRobGcV-rqvkHCxvjr/s320/DSCN1786.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiztUBPSIrws2VKwBsP1LAYGQzMbX0YEpHk7OtI2hc6K0O5DteN5mS4_NhZp00n3QpsvLoOZKv3RHMwVAmrL7d0-keJOpaDYSqpY_rkMs5eErg5dLc3qcf31AaDbLFqKjeF7d_WaeYkYTg3/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiztUBPSIrws2VKwBsP1LAYGQzMbX0YEpHk7OtI2hc6K0O5DteN5mS4_NhZp00n3QpsvLoOZKv3RHMwVAmrL7d0-keJOpaDYSqpY_rkMs5eErg5dLc3qcf31AaDbLFqKjeF7d_WaeYkYTg3/s320/9.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6N1Cdq4mje5r6vxgFtV4LjiKmgpZeFLbUgGA3PoH2aTOebTmX_GohhDu9_pgKFJFpVwcD-rxwc6CUG9-qZ4yVy2n_G7YyaGJCfvLUFnlplDa9F0vHJzlCHHDnpb3shR100dGbmyx1mNW1/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6N1Cdq4mje5r6vxgFtV4LjiKmgpZeFLbUgGA3PoH2aTOebTmX_GohhDu9_pgKFJFpVwcD-rxwc6CUG9-qZ4yVy2n_G7YyaGJCfvLUFnlplDa9F0vHJzlCHHDnpb3shR100dGbmyx1mNW1/s320/1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQMhTHD221569PyPMqwxw5GtaCBoWy0uAjBKxk47kiYZeUk6bGY6lDTC83mlKChRXB22WlcIaS6eV5ZztqAjxRfNSeIPNMFUx9aXgyMEK8-_KlarFpvssYaHSsbkg7EOy7Hr0lla8q3w5/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQMhTHD221569PyPMqwxw5GtaCBoWy0uAjBKxk47kiYZeUk6bGY6lDTC83mlKChRXB22WlcIaS6eV5ZztqAjxRfNSeIPNMFUx9aXgyMEK8-_KlarFpvssYaHSsbkg7EOy7Hr0lla8q3w5/s320/2.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnw57D7wOeRzrjiQicDCO8ec6vFyv5Pf76grPCEyzB1TEZ0Vb3hOt-QLjhRR4FeKWQDfNXBRHdh-9HPvNTaqe23HmtDoOncOPxuv3giwtwmSs0LjDjXD2kdcVIwbYfFRZYG8rHGcEVpFU_/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnw57D7wOeRzrjiQicDCO8ec6vFyv5Pf76grPCEyzB1TEZ0Vb3hOt-QLjhRR4FeKWQDfNXBRHdh-9HPvNTaqe23HmtDoOncOPxuv3giwtwmSs0LjDjXD2kdcVIwbYfFRZYG8rHGcEVpFU_/s320/3.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAaTgMiPQafqRRecz-0NygDmAvorATHRQPd3msIbkJUjz_YCUeui9MMOvDHN34WD7l5H-BF8kJG0D-oSVoFMgakXofiNE5kUWHmvsBuEgbQs9F0YasC332T4EG5p-gnR-TkIJXMreoHbPS/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAaTgMiPQafqRRecz-0NygDmAvorATHRQPd3msIbkJUjz_YCUeui9MMOvDHN34WD7l5H-BF8kJG0D-oSVoFMgakXofiNE5kUWHmvsBuEgbQs9F0YasC332T4EG5p-gnR-TkIJXMreoHbPS/s320/4.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnc3p77CWXxcLzgdD_6m1-N-Qcbm6BrfCvaD9Ls6YebN2Ns9-kGkaCBjx6ZlFgKlFQuTFI9J7Ajb_Ht2KoGt0JSxj5HP9jwFd4cr2aDWpLWNlJGgMVAlfeZwTwj9pYRx2wZOAEsqc94Wt/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnc3p77CWXxcLzgdD_6m1-N-Qcbm6BrfCvaD9Ls6YebN2Ns9-kGkaCBjx6ZlFgKlFQuTFI9J7Ajb_Ht2KoGt0JSxj5HP9jwFd4cr2aDWpLWNlJGgMVAlfeZwTwj9pYRx2wZOAEsqc94Wt/s320/5.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4D2ipGki6jF7kp7PxVpF9AthPC2S1UbHRxSa4hTH3biytvcMZ3RsgwaW9PZR-fusLT9JyOZ9BXdUMWzVWClAL-uHcNKqar-g18vTTM5rc6npvE_qZ-s2wWqcnRGv__nMaMEyhjQOs4WnD/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4D2ipGki6jF7kp7PxVpF9AthPC2S1UbHRxSa4hTH3biytvcMZ3RsgwaW9PZR-fusLT9JyOZ9BXdUMWzVWClAL-uHcNKqar-g18vTTM5rc6npvE_qZ-s2wWqcnRGv__nMaMEyhjQOs4WnD/s320/7.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeisbNGJHh1U3idVruEWO7ePp42szimMp0PYBqJdrt5QLjalEZsh6tmsQ_LCS0xFcUQiokWnzJqOj6-tf5aBv-z8CiTzI2JO-get1cYLFdxvyzhh0kPYJ9VSBeYQ7T03g9QdS41LM-NuHL/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeisbNGJHh1U3idVruEWO7ePp42szimMp0PYBqJdrt5QLjalEZsh6tmsQ_LCS0xFcUQiokWnzJqOj6-tf5aBv-z8CiTzI2JO-get1cYLFdxvyzhh0kPYJ9VSBeYQ7T03g9QdS41LM-NuHL/s320/9.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_QIlF5-FBUi2FLJ8nBqyJwchDCks5m_2v7TmOpeTZ2oGoqdjP8nnE_2YZ9aJt9URbymInj_YJoAuccD5tlYtxwcPfdDYiDQlBrryYox3sYKLCLiCxPq1K0Ydly9RzjaiEQ4dn4ysB2g_E/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_QIlF5-FBUi2FLJ8nBqyJwchDCks5m_2v7TmOpeTZ2oGoqdjP8nnE_2YZ9aJt9URbymInj_YJoAuccD5tlYtxwcPfdDYiDQlBrryYox3sYKLCLiCxPq1K0Ydly9RzjaiEQ4dn4ysB2g_E/s320/10.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4P1mEES-iWwu_fR4NiwvE3lVBBdhMceoBMY2_l-MN6czEc_1J1v_sPydDmYuyz6PuYHfTJQRBM54kZq26WTabez6bVX-iUzkBXT3tWWPwLsT6Oj3Jv_w8oaC5C7Tom4Qo_rE7V1IA60t/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4P1mEES-iWwu_fR4NiwvE3lVBBdhMceoBMY2_l-MN6czEc_1J1v_sPydDmYuyz6PuYHfTJQRBM54kZq26WTabez6bVX-iUzkBXT3tWWPwLsT6Oj3Jv_w8oaC5C7Tom4Qo_rE7V1IA60t/s320/11.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDsXH8UT7tCg80bjb3-oSjRhyaGJYK2SBCvDdQ7198wzcLrPtngm_mgs-kV9iRHO9dDVWQOFZpry7Zhv9l56xk4YD_KoN7F4_GHCXAq4BEg6eSSmGTtSl6FTsmu6hTKgrJwuhDX4sD5oO/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDsXH8UT7tCg80bjb3-oSjRhyaGJYK2SBCvDdQ7198wzcLrPtngm_mgs-kV9iRHO9dDVWQOFZpry7Zhv9l56xk4YD_KoN7F4_GHCXAq4BEg6eSSmGTtSl6FTsmu6hTKgrJwuhDX4sD5oO/s320/12.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvLGS4Foz9jJIrecuEYiVEVQqMQj_IfTklxTzGYSO19Lufr0v7QH7O8t2GBoqDWKr-MukmfrtSA4D673pATtSdAnLFsBw2ySSiUbiyDKw-O65uK1XPt1Md_jBo8UnOQDRtoKJxwuifrvj7/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvLGS4Foz9jJIrecuEYiVEVQqMQj_IfTklxTzGYSO19Lufr0v7QH7O8t2GBoqDWKr-MukmfrtSA4D673pATtSdAnLFsBw2ySSiUbiyDKw-O65uK1XPt1Md_jBo8UnOQDRtoKJxwuifrvj7/s320/13.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZ77mNZu26TXTVSxkJ2iQ5WJmenTAK2sM-ocifo_Ij-8DHqlyqlv1-_RnxOQuZ4zycb5lRIcs0Yoa1oDSp71LkuU8YwWyDar3Sh7sdcXfj51lgxLG9Awse5THfpMQ05QedLOeSPbuo8nq/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZ77mNZu26TXTVSxkJ2iQ5WJmenTAK2sM-ocifo_Ij-8DHqlyqlv1-_RnxOQuZ4zycb5lRIcs0Yoa1oDSp71LkuU8YwWyDar3Sh7sdcXfj51lgxLG9Awse5THfpMQ05QedLOeSPbuo8nq/s320/14.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLfQh_OJMlQC9DVUjLB-BRhMqLjra_naNbxtRXqy_NacMXmGTuwpn-M8Pkv0qcUA0qhx_czJdbytObdhTbTERfPjfgZ3GNfvPbbvyXngM-CM5K3HS5DoB_NDHfjfJKfqs1EV9N9VX7luT/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLfQh_OJMlQC9DVUjLB-BRhMqLjra_naNbxtRXqy_NacMXmGTuwpn-M8Pkv0qcUA0qhx_czJdbytObdhTbTERfPjfgZ3GNfvPbbvyXngM-CM5K3HS5DoB_NDHfjfJKfqs1EV9N9VX7luT/s320/15.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaIULc-xTaWN_Swgor6uWd_ZnbpkfmALSycTDWHrW37KWf9tur-wDLnE8MqpNCJUIFNAq1OthuDPKF5yQ5j2W5_9QO4QcbOS9x14T3AYU_Aeu1otx0BY49RRLKshDnNbMFlA9l0q9BopY/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaIULc-xTaWN_Swgor6uWd_ZnbpkfmALSycTDWHrW37KWf9tur-wDLnE8MqpNCJUIFNAq1OthuDPKF5yQ5j2W5_9QO4QcbOS9x14T3AYU_Aeu1otx0BY49RRLKshDnNbMFlA9l0q9BopY/s320/16.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB6jPja7ojeMEaeNG_GTJTwwo2PjvpNzaRgGSvbhyphenhyphen-a1bxudtRWbJ_Zu7u_MFOlnPUHpCXTrGZs1aLrI1j7pf-qDaZ8hvZGaTt5K5FMXklIg2LuMELZLerMouAidvdd4WJEw1P6gz79KE/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB6jPja7ojeMEaeNG_GTJTwwo2PjvpNzaRgGSvbhyphenhyphen-a1bxudtRWbJ_Zu7u_MFOlnPUHpCXTrGZs1aLrI1j7pf-qDaZ8hvZGaTt5K5FMXklIg2LuMELZLerMouAidvdd4WJEw1P6gz79KE/s320/17.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZrjnkXfmDxeqvLZMvsnhsK7q_8vDAlfbHA46IFZe2AS3ZbQyPB_R_MALk9UJhNLLz_oPA1lza2DhhNfT-6GQDZ0pYmsaEHnA-h_qrC95leth_lfKnYGfk2Y7I6emYtO0fRvOEL-Q7gG5/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZrjnkXfmDxeqvLZMvsnhsK7q_8vDAlfbHA46IFZe2AS3ZbQyPB_R_MALk9UJhNLLz_oPA1lza2DhhNfT-6GQDZ0pYmsaEHnA-h_qrC95leth_lfKnYGfk2Y7I6emYtO0fRvOEL-Q7gG5/s320/19.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeNiqgLnXRlqGKEAFfnZMjUYbpTtGNYUnI0vCEk8RJMmx5u5D-z1YyGmF_gZoxFUyD0HfXxGjHEXW9PVdrIGcfPO6BSEzD1QBpZay0FbpzqDgjWjjFoVL5rvTjxUrXXV7DBVp-kftmtjI/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeNiqgLnXRlqGKEAFfnZMjUYbpTtGNYUnI0vCEk8RJMmx5u5D-z1YyGmF_gZoxFUyD0HfXxGjHEXW9PVdrIGcfPO6BSEzD1QBpZay0FbpzqDgjWjjFoVL5rvTjxUrXXV7DBVp-kftmtjI/s320/1.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7UK3ETEPROnX-Ze9-b49QmDDD39X52E3K8SUUgV1SQJJEpS_dKXAEpFv-tvTRtE5wPFRW8PQDZdJk6PD9USP7phrvRzFWOSPX-is5E-L8yBXnoZT5XRQ_zjE8W9h5EEFKmyATUhZS8L3/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS7UK3ETEPROnX-Ze9-b49QmDDD39X52E3K8SUUgV1SQJJEpS_dKXAEpFv-tvTRtE5wPFRW8PQDZdJk6PD9USP7phrvRzFWOSPX-is5E-L8yBXnoZT5XRQ_zjE8W9h5EEFKmyATUhZS8L3/s320/2.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARJBRoqCjyXrxH_I4Kgc7TETqa3GBDzpgjqk3o__kZp4wikSw4EIViFU5SYetrhRgZXgEyBI4gzgUrOhWWW98ChVIYb4aJgelpvNyekDTdcbtfMXTc8x-EuVUjsQBKB1V3kh5TTfLqZ4c/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiARJBRoqCjyXrxH_I4Kgc7TETqa3GBDzpgjqk3o__kZp4wikSw4EIViFU5SYetrhRgZXgEyBI4gzgUrOhWWW98ChVIYb4aJgelpvNyekDTdcbtfMXTc8x-EuVUjsQBKB1V3kh5TTfLqZ4c/s320/3.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKzmB8aZR519NgyWiKl6k0pfhKZYDdwok-v9E1XhjQ5ASIgBe43gfFcCS3UYWlMC7UvtmwzULOUaM9AdQw1XzFGgtxdWLLLEUazCgWUGQcKHQpZ4nm0fE824Y5xr43sGgWpRCYd7LLxv4/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQKzmB8aZR519NgyWiKl6k0pfhKZYDdwok-v9E1XhjQ5ASIgBe43gfFcCS3UYWlMC7UvtmwzULOUaM9AdQw1XzFGgtxdWLLLEUazCgWUGQcKHQpZ4nm0fE824Y5xr43sGgWpRCYd7LLxv4/s320/4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF-6APYVW0mH2WEKRiEkLa3w_aa2oxpod8xJWwMAj8IaDn84F5-dW5EMmoXst8EPmIzGOPVVD4N6K6jKjJQWjg1wdHPut539J8Zn1Tpym5c8oaQNmPUjGVGIrhJ2G4YCmlXBNYXNQcfHI/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF-6APYVW0mH2WEKRiEkLa3w_aa2oxpod8xJWwMAj8IaDn84F5-dW5EMmoXst8EPmIzGOPVVD4N6K6jKjJQWjg1wdHPut539J8Zn1Tpym5c8oaQNmPUjGVGIrhJ2G4YCmlXBNYXNQcfHI/s320/6.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XICCPvTSnYuVlPM7X0MQNbEzNRdT3PYoSWxP88F6jYBudIN4ykHIBUqjIiJvYdfBIL5IEyMmd72HQgOx6M6YzQy4_6DVUoyK2G91TqTmyUUE23UQqV9lRKsj8y4TodM7YvAGiUOs3LsQ/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XICCPvTSnYuVlPM7X0MQNbEzNRdT3PYoSWxP88F6jYBudIN4ykHIBUqjIiJvYdfBIL5IEyMmd72HQgOx6M6YzQy4_6DVUoyK2G91TqTmyUUE23UQqV9lRKsj8y4TodM7YvAGiUOs3LsQ/s320/7.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFzc2jQWwxaXq3iPvwRkny7F2-w_DSI7qfb9deskwgpKK4eKgDD7eYAZZWTUtZKRZ72mLbDyU6ehqTxwcTjYpkQlQ8p9fZZ7d1AdB3ycgW7IjuhZo-82bcH08wRR7HInapiepjXWt2RYn/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEFzc2jQWwxaXq3iPvwRkny7F2-w_DSI7qfb9deskwgpKK4eKgDD7eYAZZWTUtZKRZ72mLbDyU6ehqTxwcTjYpkQlQ8p9fZZ7d1AdB3ycgW7IjuhZo-82bcH08wRR7HInapiepjXWt2RYn/s320/8.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oEFExRBdKDWR73vk4oeFIjFnlFvA9PTHRVdUy-SS5Xo_R4dOObPxX8v-eYCXkgVL-ahsXMBzh8wZticoQYptq-rqDlcPQJiJ7hmqGeqxTAiNgpTSaoAtoRgAM2h6eruyRmUMNBqIwdLt/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oEFExRBdKDWR73vk4oeFIjFnlFvA9PTHRVdUy-SS5Xo_R4dOObPxX8v-eYCXkgVL-ahsXMBzh8wZticoQYptq-rqDlcPQJiJ7hmqGeqxTAiNgpTSaoAtoRgAM2h6eruyRmUMNBqIwdLt/s320/9.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1DAf05_w-JAusaY0jt-5X8-jWdk3i0hq_gcvcvlI5zVlKrCNLWdSHHdttSf4TZhYeWdGtNaDB3OpjeNOAvEQwKL_3qJdzGr1JsuwQNbMNP9EgPp60qbUiEC7LFDCSUfu5ke9pEiMhAyH/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1DAf05_w-JAusaY0jt-5X8-jWdk3i0hq_gcvcvlI5zVlKrCNLWdSHHdttSf4TZhYeWdGtNaDB3OpjeNOAvEQwKL_3qJdzGr1JsuwQNbMNP9EgPp60qbUiEC7LFDCSUfu5ke9pEiMhAyH/s320/10.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZe1Z_aYfXfIAH-_Ey_PA6YMiF7hs3BtbbGRrcXh9OBQYjL5B2rxsgOGvFF5msJoKgMun6Jefqfs0p2ZB04fOUO1pECIBGSV08dSNPD8cmSH9aUzqhuipiMmFE09NCYNZXWc8TRNEgQo5/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIZe1Z_aYfXfIAH-_Ey_PA6YMiF7hs3BtbbGRrcXh9OBQYjL5B2rxsgOGvFF5msJoKgMun6Jefqfs0p2ZB04fOUO1pECIBGSV08dSNPD8cmSH9aUzqhuipiMmFE09NCYNZXWc8TRNEgQo5/s320/11.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadq7_BivhigmqWZrvSZJ7350A4SA6StectIdavyxAQPItd4AnSSDAg5slczaOmCBz9uROW3DxbpYrFTyJbMEFQwquBvYcm1MFKG6bvxLCHPYwJP9c0FM-UchqqRKjGN_l__kq1H2GzI6a/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadq7_BivhigmqWZrvSZJ7350A4SA6StectIdavyxAQPItd4AnSSDAg5slczaOmCBz9uROW3DxbpYrFTyJbMEFQwquBvYcm1MFKG6bvxLCHPYwJP9c0FM-UchqqRKjGN_l__kq1H2GzI6a/s320/12.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSrcCeR_44coF1o7fFIxIkjbsT4g3r3TVtuDNqM_vCmM5ucYP5613o97dY6IM8AUew0rJXjgDU9WyIitIr5ai2CaQHtO2xbOFFk9uPCnOQWCfwsTcjmzSaH_kF1wsRNCNS_a9N_5FtDuj/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSrcCeR_44coF1o7fFIxIkjbsT4g3r3TVtuDNqM_vCmM5ucYP5613o97dY6IM8AUew0rJXjgDU9WyIitIr5ai2CaQHtO2xbOFFk9uPCnOQWCfwsTcjmzSaH_kF1wsRNCNS_a9N_5FtDuj/s320/13.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROLD4Fuu-6JPr80PLjf9sj2pmOWSD_8cXSXImxb77qos81fiuyMmUIkm7R6CC4dmpyagTJFdyJNlVVQECCRPwLijnGMhtPih0igvuLYV0vO6zMeNKK3m5y_kpSGDBb6CG3ofomHHC888m/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROLD4Fuu-6JPr80PLjf9sj2pmOWSD_8cXSXImxb77qos81fiuyMmUIkm7R6CC4dmpyagTJFdyJNlVVQECCRPwLijnGMhtPih0igvuLYV0vO6zMeNKK3m5y_kpSGDBb6CG3ofomHHC888m/s320/14.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8fkz1RhMEViSfcGtcIbJ04kvv2ttkpyZslARhhl6VPwaRSFXbRhzOKvn-AMp43ExrH8IRAtmEuCdTI7YwZvLaRrLU7VVAgcCVrRpqbwRFltjOu4Oza8_bDwH2pS7sZvreOCCUWmSRHIP/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8fkz1RhMEViSfcGtcIbJ04kvv2ttkpyZslARhhl6VPwaRSFXbRhzOKvn-AMp43ExrH8IRAtmEuCdTI7YwZvLaRrLU7VVAgcCVrRpqbwRFltjOu4Oza8_bDwH2pS7sZvreOCCUWmSRHIP/s320/15.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKjhNf9bQWyhlyWltOadCyXxfM7U1zLS62e4l8bfKJLS0XhqcbhqK2U01VGwR8l981d3FeUQNmi07XFWuwupn4FnZwsiAKGx8-Btw8KQSlmwbBZclwQbI1ue_jdlnocAxTf4CU1Y59AKE/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKjhNf9bQWyhlyWltOadCyXxfM7U1zLS62e4l8bfKJLS0XhqcbhqK2U01VGwR8l981d3FeUQNmi07XFWuwupn4FnZwsiAKGx8-Btw8KQSlmwbBZclwQbI1ue_jdlnocAxTf4CU1Y59AKE/s320/16.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTSiXsmgwArntbIbWtov24T72fWen0kxR_q5-CjFV-jK_W6VPaoJs5QkT1F0zUjdtlpehYZiKp89nsdiQrnQZKN3JFnGJKTQDwXb1SY3JrVQgr9-tAD3ELkd_aOuTt1NRriTER0BOkNSAF/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTSiXsmgwArntbIbWtov24T72fWen0kxR_q5-CjFV-jK_W6VPaoJs5QkT1F0zUjdtlpehYZiKp89nsdiQrnQZKN3JFnGJKTQDwXb1SY3JrVQgr9-tAD3ELkd_aOuTt1NRriTER0BOkNSAF/s320/17.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oXl0nIE0QtTSnPc2hXoC1MMLrgsURRb_DUGJ-yQSr2hlgAredHFWIYDm6hudslE7oWtf5bZMHxmsABMcMFaE_cKXvsK9uEtFXHBkrQZsamK2L2ZBVInN3kPsjV7sahmSS_q9CPKPE2YY/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3oXl0nIE0QtTSnPc2hXoC1MMLrgsURRb_DUGJ-yQSr2hlgAredHFWIYDm6hudslE7oWtf5bZMHxmsABMcMFaE_cKXvsK9uEtFXHBkrQZsamK2L2ZBVInN3kPsjV7sahmSS_q9CPKPE2YY/s320/18.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqNxa5C4UKlGvF91G7MtwR9bKMjw-ecVKiJwECj0LYPJ-UieO_6NnQNIHHg5p6FdCQv9J2pqRkvbkwOIgdwmevkHK-mFMdmQNjeMn73keDh4TYwTbt6KHkjL60o-zqxCosX8Bk0RqODqV/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHqNxa5C4UKlGvF91G7MtwR9bKMjw-ecVKiJwECj0LYPJ-UieO_6NnQNIHHg5p6FdCQv9J2pqRkvbkwOIgdwmevkHK-mFMdmQNjeMn73keDh4TYwTbt6KHkjL60o-zqxCosX8Bk0RqODqV/s320/19.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgbcKGHT1jq5DywA58sO0BsDcHluqKJ6oDrDZWHm46RzEg6eHDe1GN-27zj_LYBE280_vSqk4ZWp6Nd8YK93QCTCzsiq6TvEakK__HiZVmFB5YOVV6frjt0Z0ZrpBTdlCDCwLCxiZb1l8L/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgbcKGHT1jq5DywA58sO0BsDcHluqKJ6oDrDZWHm46RzEg6eHDe1GN-27zj_LYBE280_vSqk4ZWp6Nd8YK93QCTCzsiq6TvEakK__HiZVmFB5YOVV6frjt0Z0ZrpBTdlCDCwLCxiZb1l8L/s320/20.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aegsarAj5MdpCE4xpMI_myBhWZg1x2ix96eSGZaIuQMzaoSDxXGwWLLiUx2qa0XM0YYitWPZ68SqBtQJaCdrP7IDrgkniG9-Nffx-1nRLpPcCTIC2bkBItW7Dx_8_t2NI9jF_t5Lr0mS/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2aegsarAj5MdpCE4xpMI_myBhWZg1x2ix96eSGZaIuQMzaoSDxXGwWLLiUx2qa0XM0YYitWPZ68SqBtQJaCdrP7IDrgkniG9-Nffx-1nRLpPcCTIC2bkBItW7Dx_8_t2NI9jF_t5Lr0mS/s320/21.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZgCdj1JE3I01u1pKyMLE6rMRI5IL4RM8EcSDrLL9Y6ZxQGmcVNtOwWXZWb1U1Pem-D1R8weZPnmhq47kWW3RuPdpVACUrraIgXXfklC48QcCCJ-thzFQX6ObTHKXOUNgDFj7BNeHICVC/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZgCdj1JE3I01u1pKyMLE6rMRI5IL4RM8EcSDrLL9Y6ZxQGmcVNtOwWXZWb1U1Pem-D1R8weZPnmhq47kWW3RuPdpVACUrraIgXXfklC48QcCCJ-thzFQX6ObTHKXOUNgDFj7BNeHICVC/s320/22.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Z3KSlL4qxstdlSqrVS5sFOdMr36TK8G2woI8mkilUSeXh_CJDSenYTDE3ThqUPoiT9cJVtYqlpp60b4eJrWnutX5WAHF3i2l3lTorcxswlKKSWNwLwkSTDzYwvxWf2y9T4rP1qpw-G-2/s1600/23a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Z3KSlL4qxstdlSqrVS5sFOdMr36TK8G2woI8mkilUSeXh_CJDSenYTDE3ThqUPoiT9cJVtYqlpp60b4eJrWnutX5WAHF3i2l3lTorcxswlKKSWNwLwkSTDzYwvxWf2y9T4rP1qpw-G-2/s320/23a.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilt5SLSWG9Jsf3SiOxtU2xUPfseBKp4iqPIBRqEA0qbgGp2bW-dE9j1eURqk0vVSKC3Q-e1b7z9KCaScnVuhqAF_KX665gjVx8FXMn6rH0myqqr2IYM0Ql2xfaR-QJCecn7SE4HsEQM8_v/s1600/24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilt5SLSWG9Jsf3SiOxtU2xUPfseBKp4iqPIBRqEA0qbgGp2bW-dE9j1eURqk0vVSKC3Q-e1b7z9KCaScnVuhqAF_KX665gjVx8FXMn6rH0myqqr2IYM0Ql2xfaR-QJCecn7SE4HsEQM8_v/s320/24.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-7311106227870313922013-03-31T12:26:00.001-10:002013-03-31T12:31:34.401-10:00Makaua Falls - March 4, 2012<i>*The following report was written in March 2012 for the first issue of a Hawaii-based publication known as Mana Magazine.</i> <i>For more information about Mana Magazine, please visit <a href="http://mymanamagazine.com/" target="_blank">MyManaMagazine.com</a>.</i><br />
<i>Edited by Matthew Ing.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Rain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It happens a
lot on our islands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the source of
things to come: greener landscapes, cooler weather, and nourishment for the
crops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The early Hawaiians, like any
other civilization, welcomed the rains and used it to their advantage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From a drizzle or a heavy downpour, the rain
is beneficial in every aspect of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>With rain comes beauty.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s March on Oahu, the
wettest month of the year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A large storm
approaching from the south blankets the island, causing a good amount of
flooding on the northeastern portion of the island from Kaneohe to Laie.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the small town of Ka’a’awa is a small valley known as
Makaua.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the back of the valley is a
waterfall that only flows during periods of heavy rains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually a dry waterfall chute at its lowest
tier, Makaua Falls stands about 200 feet, and for
those who have seen Makaua flowing would agree that is is one of the most
beautiful waterfalls on the island.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unlike other arduous waterfall hikes, the trail to Makaua takes only
half an hour.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Arriving in Ka’a’awa at 9am, I meet with David
Chatsuthiphan, Lei Yamasaki, and Ryan Chang.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The rain fell hard on the way to our rendezvous point, but it had
stopped once we geared up and started the hike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Even more depressing is the view from the road into the valley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We see that the upper tiers of the waterfall
are not flowing at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless, we
set off into the valley, hoping for a downpour.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the streambed, we hear the sound of clashing thunder
directly above us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a good sign, but
a flash flood in Makaua
Valley could prove
deadly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the way we plan out our
escape routes to higher ground where the valley walls narrow.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Further in the valley walls close in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We climb up several small waterfalls, and
finally hit the back of the valley.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just
as we thought, the waterfalls are a mere trickle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our disappointment worsens as the downpours only last a
couple minutes, then completely stop and do the same off-and-on tease for about
an hour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The hour passes, and we turn
around and decide to head back.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Several minutes downstream, the sun lit on the surrounding
landscape dims.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The clouds grow thicker,
and the rain falls at a tremendous rate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We turn back to look at the waterfall through the trees and as if
someone turned on a switch, Makaua
Falls is alive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With excitement we retrace our steps back to
the waterfall, looking up at the t5wo streams of water cascading into a small
pool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rain stopped intermittently,
with just enough time for us to point our cameras up at the sky to capture
raindrop-free images of Makaua
Falls.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The wait is all worthwhile.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is something akin to patience and beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like the rare waterfall that needs rain to
come alive, the kalo in the lo’i, the low tide for the fish ponds, and the
clear skies above to navigate the Pacific by boat all have something in common:
the wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The wait is the source of
beauty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kalo must be ripe for
consumption.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tide must be low to
snag the fish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The clouds must clear to
set sail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rain must fall to enliven
the dry waterfall chute.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Patience is a
virtue that yields to beauty: that source of beauty Hawaiians know all too
well.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSQ9bPXrfvYJFv-pBi5jl9pfwlBS-lLQGUsN00FNq1ermavFXBv8p_WbNU3mLTw-qir0uUn00OxNusUKH-gj7xDE1ighDKkO6neYNt1WdxB_6m6R_QdWbntoxLG2G3wO-dpW1eB0M1uwA/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSQ9bPXrfvYJFv-pBi5jl9pfwlBS-lLQGUsN00FNq1ermavFXBv8p_WbNU3mLTw-qir0uUn00OxNusUKH-gj7xDE1ighDKkO6neYNt1WdxB_6m6R_QdWbntoxLG2G3wO-dpW1eB0M1uwA/s400/1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/38015445?title=0&byline=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-11374201605854459632013-01-21T23:09:00.002-10:002013-01-21T23:14:25.357-10:00Island Trails' 2012 Video Summary<br />
Comparable to previous years, 2012 was a slow year for myself out on the trails. We did do some pretty awesome trails, nonetheless; however, after almost five years of blogging, this will probably be the last video summary put together by Island Trails.<br />
<br />
Life has gotten busy, to say the least, and keeping up with the passion I've been doing constantly since I started has slowly dwindled into nothing more than a "leisurely thing." Blogging, photographing, and videographing the outdoors became a major obsession that totally took control of my life for the good, the better, the bad, and the worst. I had been waiting long for the moment where the obsession would let loose and keep me off the computer seat and out of the mountains -- and lo and behold! -- it finally has.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, though. Hiking is still something I love and will continue to do, but I feel that the constant compulsion to gather pictures, video, and the words to describe the trails I've done has taken away precious time from certain things that really matter most to me.<br />
<br />
Family and career choices have finally taken center stage, straying my focus away from the blog. I will always be drawn back to the mountains, and in no way is this a farewell. I'm just taking a break from blogging, plain and simple. If I have the time or ever feel like blogging, I'll throw in a write-up here and there with some pictures, and maybe even a video. But for now, I'm pau. It's been a true learning experience and I don't regret one bit of it.<br />
<br />
The Island Trails blog started off as a joke. I thought to myself, "Let's see how long I can keep a journal of this." But after time passed, I noticed people taking interest and visitor traffic increasing, which in turn fueled myself to deliver more and more info to the people who wanted it the most. And to be quite honest, if it wasn't for the hiking community's interest in my blog, I wouldn't have done all the hikes I set out to do. And with that said, I thank all of you, old and new, from the bottom of my heart for all the inspiration throughout these past several years. I was able to explore the island I was born and raised on and had one hell of an experience doing it. Without all of you, Island Trails would be nothing, and for that I thank you so very much. It really means a lot to me.<br />
<br />
Here's a video I made from all the hikes we did in 2012. I hope you enjoy it. It's been fun. Mahalo again. Aloha.<br />
<br />
-kaleo<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/57912048?title=0&byline=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-85087218794876960032013-01-09T20:38:00.000-10:002013-01-10T00:17:09.534-10:00Pu'u Kea'au via Makaha Beach Switchbacks - December 16, 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Much of my childhood summers were spent on the west side of Oahu. School was out and my parents needed someone to watch me on the weekdays while they were at work, so every weekday morning they'd drive my sister and I all the way from Wahiawa to my grandma's house in Maili. Because the ocean was right across the street, I'd take advantage of every opportunity I had to swim and surf -- with grandma and grandpa's approval, of course. After countless summers, my relationship and knowledge of the ocean grew stronger. I'd surf the reefs up and down the coast from Maili to Keawaula, with Makaha Beach being one spot I'd surf a lot. While sitting on my board in the water waiting for the waves, I'd always look up at the towering mountain ridge right across the street from the beach. I always wondered what it would be like to be on top of that ridge -- but how? Well, in recent years I've noticed an obvious switchback trail starting from the the Makaha Beach parking lot and leading up the makai crest of Kea'au Ridge. I found out last month that <i>that's</i> <i>how</i> you get to the top of the ridge, and it was awesome!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was invited by Pete Clines and Dave Webb to hike up the Makaha Beach Switchbacks in November, but a conflicting schedule prevented me from joining them. Luckily, Pete's invitation inspired me to try out the hike I had been wanting to do for so long but had somehow forgotten about. I set a date in December and invited Jason Nakasato, Lei Yamasaki, and Kelven Del Rosario to join me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We arrived at Makaha Beach around 7:15am. We pushed off about fifteen minutes later following a faint trail abutting a paved road. Leaving the paved road behind we soon hit a wide and obvious path with an occasional ribbon leading the way. The rocky switchback trail gained elevation slowly, eventually hitting the crest of Kea'au Ridge after about an hour of ascending. From the ridge crest of Kea'au we followed it mauka along a craggy and exposed ridge to Pu'u Kea'au (elev. 2,650). Along the way were incredible views of the ocean, Makaha Valley, Ohikilolo Valley, the coastline view from Lahilahi Point to Kaena Point.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
From the top of Pu'u Kea'au we immediately headed makai down an obvious side ridge. Although not extremely dangerous, the ridge did have tricky sections -- loose rock, narrow sections -- that required caution along the way. An interesting rock outcrop provided a memorable photo opportunity. Jason and I made our way to the top of highest rock outcrop as Lei hiked a little ways back up the ridge to snap the dramatic photos of Jason and I standing on top of the pointy crag with the Pacific blue serving as a spectacular backdrop.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Further we descended as the midday heat set over us making for an uncomfortable hike along the lower portion of the ridge. Hiking at a very fast pace, we headed off the right side of the ridge onto cattle trails littered with large piles of cow shit. Unknowingly, we were in a cattle corral where we encountered bulls taking solace under inverted cliff faces, shading themselves from the midday heat. We noticed the bulls; the bulls noticed us. We hiked at an even faster pace at this point and finally reached the fence bordering the corral and jumped over. We reached a paved road, followed it out to Farrington Highway, and walked back to our cars at Makaha Beach. It was 2:30.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The hike was finally done. Hot and sweaty, we jumped in the cool waters of Makaha Beach watching kids catch the waves of the wrapping north swell. It had been years since I had taken a dip there, and it was a needed visit that was long overdue. From the mountain to the ocean, I experienced both all in one day. The ridge I stared up at as a kid from the ocean at Makaha, I finally set foot on. It truly was a memorable day.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8aUpBvXrtQTkhIetSzweXQTlvYCCOCs3VyfhiU6moQVosrtIdyd0Ok_ttbEmchAaOafzU7-NJPWZawWEZRdB6702onQQJ_3RVXT1uacV5i1U33rj-In7Vfer_gORl6qeC0x9kkPn0lfV/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8aUpBvXrtQTkhIetSzweXQTlvYCCOCs3VyfhiU6moQVosrtIdyd0Ok_ttbEmchAaOafzU7-NJPWZawWEZRdB6702onQQJ_3RVXT1uacV5i1U33rj-In7Vfer_gORl6qeC0x9kkPn0lfV/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlA_Ju_RYMPw1_y3SZuXZu_3my3RkW45pgv2k6F7jZpko97kSt7WM0dNYrx84aZGjEfXd0RnZY3nW5R9yMeBxRP5PYic7ervz2ZqqjMl1o-a0r_wU24jGNq5m1VcaRmy3FGAGB7yVKPObS/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlA_Ju_RYMPw1_y3SZuXZu_3my3RkW45pgv2k6F7jZpko97kSt7WM0dNYrx84aZGjEfXd0RnZY3nW5R9yMeBxRP5PYic7ervz2ZqqjMl1o-a0r_wU24jGNq5m1VcaRmy3FGAGB7yVKPObS/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQrnYKVlaus6i5jFl5ISnouL3uxhRpimCBycwiWh5Dc62Zi7UKCSoVU5rWVjyieVH26O2L2C6YIy-gMa4Yp7nfOJRnx_XjiYaNVAIs0mAlXdicjdEsknmzBkoqolbBH-ulEW95iJqYiVkH/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQrnYKVlaus6i5jFl5ISnouL3uxhRpimCBycwiWh5Dc62Zi7UKCSoVU5rWVjyieVH26O2L2C6YIy-gMa4Yp7nfOJRnx_XjiYaNVAIs0mAlXdicjdEsknmzBkoqolbBH-ulEW95iJqYiVkH/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDfQyjKhAMdLgTKpcb34WDv0h-LN-T6MRVRtfZoaHF1OETQ-KmpPmk8qYo15IWP8DtcD4Ej1w12Vriwd39ErsY9ykkxjZQ1oKuG7mqm-rKC_euXTc-J6IjnY8wN7Ebg1GDpGaFRQR1E4X/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaDfQyjKhAMdLgTKpcb34WDv0h-LN-T6MRVRtfZoaHF1OETQ-KmpPmk8qYo15IWP8DtcD4Ej1w12Vriwd39ErsY9ykkxjZQ1oKuG7mqm-rKC_euXTc-J6IjnY8wN7Ebg1GDpGaFRQR1E4X/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0PSvHaviNF0p9HJuGG5vhJJE_G5t1wdFlnJSB92vj8DneH3oSwYytLyqPIawLHoGUlwN2eosP8_hCUMOP4DESX3eW9xNBEe6u5Dl70W9XCKoi_qYkrHL0ZbBMeTILdnd1r3upXAPQ00lc/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0PSvHaviNF0p9HJuGG5vhJJE_G5t1wdFlnJSB92vj8DneH3oSwYytLyqPIawLHoGUlwN2eosP8_hCUMOP4DESX3eW9xNBEe6u5Dl70W9XCKoi_qYkrHL0ZbBMeTILdnd1r3upXAPQ00lc/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsRaDWwgDt4nI6BR2IMWkDJTp7OO07JQCDhnGmi6mWb89RDxI49R2d40JL7lyIXjAT3DUAZUccBTDD2pzbyIKsaldFbQQ5h1BwECS-pRajNjyjYMiY5_ssis0m_UM395A2DckfO_FVCOK1/s1600/6a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsRaDWwgDt4nI6BR2IMWkDJTp7OO07JQCDhnGmi6mWb89RDxI49R2d40JL7lyIXjAT3DUAZUccBTDD2pzbyIKsaldFbQQ5h1BwECS-pRajNjyjYMiY5_ssis0m_UM395A2DckfO_FVCOK1/s400/6a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfUeSfUC8KdCAM7Tlw7wKUmxE8YxOwHaRgLVQFyVov8jY8xinME440ZV6UvOU99oV7FKceUJKN4aD_i3sf4xNrq1kq9KGFR0QxvrHtuhfvGxjvFObKb0QMgNh2i1cu7At0RAageYGC1bu/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="70" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfUeSfUC8KdCAM7Tlw7wKUmxE8YxOwHaRgLVQFyVov8jY8xinME440ZV6UvOU99oV7FKceUJKN4aD_i3sf4xNrq1kq9KGFR0QxvrHtuhfvGxjvFObKb0QMgNh2i1cu7At0RAageYGC1bu/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Click on image to view a larger version of the panorama.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSfxHxmuz49fmaXTiMLeQ0Zv6WY-ASaaLlbN1Pxj0WnhiVjOFFPcA6__UuV_TTj7SgG96nWXBp6DYlBIUuA5DW2p-yTtACpZXwmR6oS5WB_6FnHElGqKXkIA8pOHd83edb81T32xt02ir/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSfxHxmuz49fmaXTiMLeQ0Zv6WY-ASaaLlbN1Pxj0WnhiVjOFFPcA6__UuV_TTj7SgG96nWXBp6DYlBIUuA5DW2p-yTtACpZXwmR6oS5WB_6FnHElGqKXkIA8pOHd83edb81T32xt02ir/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmGi-DKskPXLWhXkczsFwG6w28vGHzHlavKBgbG3ckCeGOhYy4Y2PKSSqsNavUBCWfwPtCDsV5TNKN1hFx3Jbtd6UzY98kAmub5G5GbUVVWrT7IdvyWDs_Vl1TTlpcBdc1Jh4Qk0CFmAX/s1600/9a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYmGi-DKskPXLWhXkczsFwG6w28vGHzHlavKBgbG3ckCeGOhYy4Y2PKSSqsNavUBCWfwPtCDsV5TNKN1hFx3Jbtd6UzY98kAmub5G5GbUVVWrT7IdvyWDs_Vl1TTlpcBdc1Jh4Qk0CFmAX/s400/9a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xdrpTf4Y2rdfgqGt_AzeIVIjrigW9zHstN7fqQEl8MB3RsJzrZlYn5wI8TMtpuszU9ZTVRTmZ8km0c2z1HwUU4YpglZcr7P1vUcMBI4yz4duH77rsM2dESs3YiCzFQfmLPuiXVl7EnkA/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xdrpTf4Y2rdfgqGt_AzeIVIjrigW9zHstN7fqQEl8MB3RsJzrZlYn5wI8TMtpuszU9ZTVRTmZ8km0c2z1HwUU4YpglZcr7P1vUcMBI4yz4duH77rsM2dESs3YiCzFQfmLPuiXVl7EnkA/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF0mv-gj5dIP5mSBs94cVaW1D2kU7Y5_Y1bJFUh4QGvE7b3bg9Zwrli3AfMvBG86UT1zNBko3S0ITzLA9-esuJVTi3iA5vGNTG8fcTPFc2NHIT8GL-q4ve_ZobM34zfVzBY1uZsnvg3Kn/s1600/10a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF0mv-gj5dIP5mSBs94cVaW1D2kU7Y5_Y1bJFUh4QGvE7b3bg9Zwrli3AfMvBG86UT1zNBko3S0ITzLA9-esuJVTi3iA5vGNTG8fcTPFc2NHIT8GL-q4ve_ZobM34zfVzBY1uZsnvg3Kn/s400/10a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUovq1QcHm1d6QGmS9zuVKfaAtmbQ9AfUl1t9F_Oe0CDih4IhrGuLyrAzAPWVksV_pX8TH2rBNrkJO971d5ePQQZHjVR6x6HC8L08XD-OchhYtotRcok2-6oUt48_HTC6HJhlCL7UCTmI3/s1600/10b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUovq1QcHm1d6QGmS9zuVKfaAtmbQ9AfUl1t9F_Oe0CDih4IhrGuLyrAzAPWVksV_pX8TH2rBNrkJO971d5ePQQZHjVR6x6HC8L08XD-OchhYtotRcok2-6oUt48_HTC6HJhlCL7UCTmI3/s400/10b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyyWHxf000eYwTE7cy_n4zFf9jbVtz6dnrwKNtbvYKtz9iEFhn_NDBFGxJBlrerEPu8-fdDu46TwxDTsjp2VyH4Z-yQAkEY5q2OBoyeMPiIqTYddbsnbRjwactBh2Q8ygWnccLYsGHG9H9/s1600/10c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyyWHxf000eYwTE7cy_n4zFf9jbVtz6dnrwKNtbvYKtz9iEFhn_NDBFGxJBlrerEPu8-fdDu46TwxDTsjp2VyH4Z-yQAkEY5q2OBoyeMPiIqTYddbsnbRjwactBh2Q8ygWnccLYsGHG9H9/s400/10c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQ3M_U2luyyhnxrpm9cYis4axRwYtJQIpLGAjeyYKQ-wz4F2pyIumbwuxMcvS8q-tWYLrPHynvVy9vk4evr6Ghr-DJw17y9czwVYy3cE96r0JTuWSoxR6OyZCVOM_RwdLkRYdNC7xgzYs/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQ3M_U2luyyhnxrpm9cYis4axRwYtJQIpLGAjeyYKQ-wz4F2pyIumbwuxMcvS8q-tWYLrPHynvVy9vk4evr6Ghr-DJw17y9czwVYy3cE96r0JTuWSoxR6OyZCVOM_RwdLkRYdNC7xgzYs/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGE1zly7V9Khw5uUGlyfCZej-iSqYdsAOJfPPdnrw6M2WpMnRjxbba2FVOeyJLUzn9oI-FCweIM-SWTawP6ZhyphenhyphenfV-JRF7W27kC30FlP5rZRhXan4fDMK2R-F7tqcvIiWmjs9nJDvn-dvT/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGE1zly7V9Khw5uUGlyfCZej-iSqYdsAOJfPPdnrw6M2WpMnRjxbba2FVOeyJLUzn9oI-FCweIM-SWTawP6ZhyphenhyphenfV-JRF7W27kC30FlP5rZRhXan4fDMK2R-F7tqcvIiWmjs9nJDvn-dvT/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPRREYuwmJ2j0jh-of4UgSB2M_zFxpFeyEDYFc64i-qif3jy8t4aKcwXZv4gu99NOB-Ew7rvtDvyXwXpctJerQEw6cJJMInbQYVfS15ZTx0np5WcPGu2CV71kmWHisAYYMMGRX0D_rmggd/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPRREYuwmJ2j0jh-of4UgSB2M_zFxpFeyEDYFc64i-qif3jy8t4aKcwXZv4gu99NOB-Ew7rvtDvyXwXpctJerQEw6cJJMInbQYVfS15ZTx0np5WcPGu2CV71kmWHisAYYMMGRX0D_rmggd/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOuq57G2rKf-nUuLWlk7aLWHTBABMLSYMAoZFK-70u8LIstGErFih1m9jj8tWJfTN59re1qkC8HTzOEzIn-SFnaouenOXAe8ywpbh1JAYbhzeocpV7vLRwrIReUI2CtmHTFJk5Mfot2-B/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYOuq57G2rKf-nUuLWlk7aLWHTBABMLSYMAoZFK-70u8LIstGErFih1m9jj8tWJfTN59re1qkC8HTzOEzIn-SFnaouenOXAe8ywpbh1JAYbhzeocpV7vLRwrIReUI2CtmHTFJk5Mfot2-B/s400/15.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZDVVi1YKwM4MPOZwZA2tibNNTUFXtQA4-XJiUulOc-xOVEk6vLS_oSle8cLiGSIeX90454f9cvw02Ct9W5fiq1dHQ5svMkXMdaYUdD3QBq52pdy8N9F7iyIU2R8nmZwHO3GiUyO8Cat2/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZDVVi1YKwM4MPOZwZA2tibNNTUFXtQA4-XJiUulOc-xOVEk6vLS_oSle8cLiGSIeX90454f9cvw02Ct9W5fiq1dHQ5svMkXMdaYUdD3QBq52pdy8N9F7iyIU2R8nmZwHO3GiUyO8Cat2/s400/16.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXT-iao-2Oe6OJ8RCWafpdQ7cE_skKr6Y-mN_LdIzdZ748lV3zmOjsyq8ujEAcBbwCm_R0IpjIrNkWIa_gZ4XoUpdA6WONqwp79spWN8bCuqicCxmSrL6UP5V6ycYePyKdS6Y_q7x4QxR/s1600/DSCN0982croppedsmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXT-iao-2Oe6OJ8RCWafpdQ7cE_skKr6Y-mN_LdIzdZ748lV3zmOjsyq8ujEAcBbwCm_R0IpjIrNkWIa_gZ4XoUpdA6WONqwp79spWN8bCuqicCxmSrL6UP5V6ycYePyKdS6Y_q7x4QxR/s400/DSCN0982croppedsmall.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUgVgqck3rYSXHPnqVFjqq55eUIKBhGkL6aioxz11ClTJJUDlo8xcdWGZbkfM__DUsIC3cySg0gnDqDLcpQ1LMKlShJphEQIWAFgKzcnx2wWXME9puAlSR6N2vLBbnqQ4uoIFaMxABiSL/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUgVgqck3rYSXHPnqVFjqq55eUIKBhGkL6aioxz11ClTJJUDlo8xcdWGZbkfM__DUsIC3cySg0gnDqDLcpQ1LMKlShJphEQIWAFgKzcnx2wWXME9puAlSR6N2vLBbnqQ4uoIFaMxABiSL/s400/17.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_t8SAl8MyjemCodDAWm8-B0e8w5AAdycMZR7FmTMFv5KVHTh_c9EzHiGB5UbSCERLA9RrbTXxVpHI5C25A7MlMi9VirDecFdwzFvJW3wutiZnjoEFKE6h-hnDy91AU9QrH6MqSz_u-7b/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_t8SAl8MyjemCodDAWm8-B0e8w5AAdycMZR7FmTMFv5KVHTh_c9EzHiGB5UbSCERLA9RrbTXxVpHI5C25A7MlMi9VirDecFdwzFvJW3wutiZnjoEFKE6h-hnDy91AU9QrH6MqSz_u-7b/s400/18.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-tyAa_sw8zy6_lGvJ0dWw_bDhYk0JuVaBcVBIZmEn4-Gamo0yWAmVUC1gvaO84uyfkoiXKP6RIdMZh2HEZnDUX8QmVj_gaiyVUTPizw2wHBOCcOMOGsbggoOMpYuxCx7nmsM7UoFbRQr/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-tyAa_sw8zy6_lGvJ0dWw_bDhYk0JuVaBcVBIZmEn4-Gamo0yWAmVUC1gvaO84uyfkoiXKP6RIdMZh2HEZnDUX8QmVj_gaiyVUTPizw2wHBOCcOMOGsbggoOMpYuxCx7nmsM7UoFbRQr/s400/19.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzuMU_cAZ0HQPUhAu1TrGujTCZBiaqVuMw_OlpcK7deKyNqht29fnT4dBV7O-BW1OPfxRLb949gVl-yUYX7rtOylQdcj318-o75QD7xKPDk8M2TbOd2UPADu6OHRLriw1Mb5POMhreQjeD/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzuMU_cAZ0HQPUhAu1TrGujTCZBiaqVuMw_OlpcK7deKyNqht29fnT4dBV7O-BW1OPfxRLb949gVl-yUYX7rtOylQdcj318-o75QD7xKPDk8M2TbOd2UPADu6OHRLriw1Mb5POMhreQjeD/s400/20.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-9303346235396108192012-12-12T23:57:00.002-10:002012-12-13T00:20:15.291-10:00Brisbane, Australia (Hawaiian Airlines Inaugural Flight) - November 28th-30th, 2012Within the past decade, Hawaiian Airlines has really been expanding their international flight destinations out of Hawaii. The airline industry giant now flies direct routes to four cities in Japan, Seoul in South Korea, and Manila in the Philippines. In 2004, they first connected the Hawaiian Islands with Australia by flying direct to Sydney. Fast-forward to November 2012, and they now fly non-stop to Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, and the third most populous city in Australia. I was very fortunate to be invited on Hawaiian Airlines' inagural flight to Brisbane to dabble a bit in the city life for a couple days. Upon arriving in Brisbane I met three other bloggers: Ed Sugimoto of <a href="http://www.world-wide-ed.com/" target="_blank">World Wide Ed</a>, Catherine Toth of <a href="http://www.thecatdish.com/" target="_blank">The Cat Dish</a>, and Melissa Chang of <a href="http://www.nonstophonolulu.com/" target="_blank">Nonstop Honolulu</a>. They were also invited and would be my companions throughout the trip.<br />
<br />
My first night in Brisbane was spent at a dinner gala in the <a href="http://www.sofitelbrisbane.com.au/" target="_blank">Sofitel Brisbane Hotel</a>, a beautiful French-inspired hotel located in the Central Business District of Brisbane. The Sofitel would be my home away from home for the next couple of days. The dinner gala was put together by Hawaiian Airlines to celebrate its inaugural Hawaii-Brisbane flight. Food was catered buffet-style by Oahu-based chef Chai Chaowasaree of <a href="http://www.chaisislandbistro.com/" target="_blank">Chai's Island Bistro</a>. The food was incredible, and it was a perfect welcoming for all of us that were invited. Live Hawaiian music and hula was also provided for entertainment, catching all of my attention to the point where I felt as though I was still in Hawaii.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENpxj8SyS_xSnKd1TN8Xv_9EyHcPdUjv_pxrwUVnEzgLkpcx_PtO67JJhkwUHZCXkAB5bCJFOHXzoVp2M_-qShFC4KJiHg9cVZ7ftrEcSfbk-sWiUui4KAjErV8MRyldmTKuPI3Cky9ea/s1600/2012-11-29-07.40.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENpxj8SyS_xSnKd1TN8Xv_9EyHcPdUjv_pxrwUVnEzgLkpcx_PtO67JJhkwUHZCXkAB5bCJFOHXzoVp2M_-qShFC4KJiHg9cVZ7ftrEcSfbk-sWiUui4KAjErV8MRyldmTKuPI3Cky9ea/s400/2012-11-29-07.40.42.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View from the elevator at the Sofitel.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKImT5ivhiGqHahzWOhYDAunVq_wfth7L26KrsiNE47DrN8_czKwMKEb8Z6h_7-x0WrrhGho7OXk0gDkPU7S077f39ycxHv2n23zM12rfEa3SKxlBmLiNxuYN1CNceI8rq8bJAVOJd3LxE/s1600/DSCN0594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKImT5ivhiGqHahzWOhYDAunVq_wfth7L26KrsiNE47DrN8_czKwMKEb8Z6h_7-x0WrrhGho7OXk0gDkPU7S077f39ycxHv2n23zM12rfEa3SKxlBmLiNxuYN1CNceI8rq8bJAVOJd3LxE/s400/DSCN0594.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My hotel room!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvxnOko8QyX8b8CbA8mGEz_myLnpr6OjjOK1gu14DdUm9Yi4OosF0nMRjgm2_MBVAbjR0M7JCtqG_k_u3tM2sjBZHZv4ooCe7B1idFneHNJvg5VC3x-Om-14mJJStNsdggID72xeEMu7X/s1600/GOPR3258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvxnOko8QyX8b8CbA8mGEz_myLnpr6OjjOK1gu14DdUm9Yi4OosF0nMRjgm2_MBVAbjR0M7JCtqG_k_u3tM2sjBZHZv4ooCe7B1idFneHNJvg5VC3x-Om-14mJJStNsdggID72xeEMu7X/s400/GOPR3258.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The view from the window of my hotel room.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-B4wdTjox0gqoZU0gMxBIf-jPuZkDQUMKZJZHkgDUw9mq0JWi6q-Gzv_A9HA-kLRRzfErXezHzzJWTsYMvb79_v0xxckjtUWi738Ly9wttryA0FlS_TXu-QP4nS3vi9e7Oy88H323nydS/s1600/DSCN0595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-B4wdTjox0gqoZU0gMxBIf-jPuZkDQUMKZJZHkgDUw9mq0JWi6q-Gzv_A9HA-kLRRzfErXezHzzJWTsYMvb79_v0xxckjtUWi738Ly9wttryA0FlS_TXu-QP4nS3vi9e7Oy88H323nydS/s400/DSCN0595.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first thing that caught my eye at the Hawaiian Air dinner gala was this massive skillet of fried rice. I never knew skillets were made that big.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVPDRagjDFGcE8Wd2aV_X-u5dY8c8_Wl-ZptuGOduQABS1d3RqHfQ44_QH5ZFbB0krQ8U1k-PsciZJrsdwQuubayoX-sBVHBkda7kCBuy-6EYLpabbYBdSjgu1oAtWhWthWEw0-avAMtr/s1600/DSCN0596.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfVPDRagjDFGcE8Wd2aV_X-u5dY8c8_Wl-ZptuGOduQABS1d3RqHfQ44_QH5ZFbB0krQ8U1k-PsciZJrsdwQuubayoX-sBVHBkda7kCBuy-6EYLpabbYBdSjgu1oAtWhWthWEw0-avAMtr/s400/DSCN0596.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Food for days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsnc8RStxUdhvuLLHTrvvMVMQu2H9LGiJ4_BSZRcCE03fPKTqN3YxH3brCqRraRdI73rdiz23lmSaRztq-MmSIDwmO03yrvEMv0epCHavXs8droP5Uixxckp5hPviWCgtBsVVuWqmnB-x/s1600/DSCN0597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsnc8RStxUdhvuLLHTrvvMVMQu2H9LGiJ4_BSZRcCE03fPKTqN3YxH3brCqRraRdI73rdiz23lmSaRztq-MmSIDwmO03yrvEMv0epCHavXs8droP5Uixxckp5hPviWCgtBsVVuWqmnB-x/s400/DSCN0597.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lamb.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwTxf3iy43NpcgiRYsXi3b8-OpoKD8nTjM8rs9Rvefe6Em3Er6-C5YG_gQJhuw6c1nFRwjGFg3tP8LKfkj7PdiovVT-kPi-26K00KQ2W3eq5e1aeEK9qiKF2WjPDJVHByweivF1uM51mP/s1600/DSCN0600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwTxf3iy43NpcgiRYsXi3b8-OpoKD8nTjM8rs9Rvefe6Em3Er6-C5YG_gQJhuw6c1nFRwjGFg3tP8LKfkj7PdiovVT-kPi-26K00KQ2W3eq5e1aeEK9qiKF2WjPDJVHByweivF1uM51mP/s400/DSCN0600.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sushi.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_V2v9-UcYiBImCMG8ZQkMLbHrLo3nKHe1QoJwH52scTv9YBWVTdz3-NicyICTlTxx3jddfOR-QxX4Ttrk4QjukzO9wNff409-yLWmsoEL5ZPdYCXZi52dwntPbmFM1vFAqAoct7KeiRr/s1600/DSCN0601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_V2v9-UcYiBImCMG8ZQkMLbHrLo3nKHe1QoJwH52scTv9YBWVTdz3-NicyICTlTxx3jddfOR-QxX4Ttrk4QjukzO9wNff409-yLWmsoEL5ZPdYCXZi52dwntPbmFM1vFAqAoct7KeiRr/s400/DSCN0601.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tiger prawns.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NCSIKrmQf-TH4B4c2lQuyAuCJy9mJZ72hZJUEF_JOF7936h8YQr84ul8iPBFhJIMUWZw5tnWSWt9mR8nNuLNhQjYoE6NSCwZ6THDHg6Gb9WrWrcvIA1xe5hoiQZx2dkJ5h_CHE6vaMtN/s1600/DSCN0602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NCSIKrmQf-TH4B4c2lQuyAuCJy9mJZ72hZJUEF_JOF7936h8YQr84ul8iPBFhJIMUWZw5tnWSWt9mR8nNuLNhQjYoE6NSCwZ6THDHg6Gb9WrWrcvIA1xe5hoiQZx2dkJ5h_CHE6vaMtN/s400/DSCN0602.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shrimp.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWltkyd6r-EveB1MkviOJP4slqbssg4LFqAf2kE8jptkPwSI_M34C4gkNa_x98vq5MxXzS3QRX_qQ7Go6rgh77M9YCWiibzanfFQq9pA0LM2aCdgdAnquJgLeyADGHgbur-GXFyXJ6EDKN/s1600/DSCN0610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWltkyd6r-EveB1MkviOJP4slqbssg4LFqAf2kE8jptkPwSI_M34C4gkNa_x98vq5MxXzS3QRX_qQ7Go6rgh77M9YCWiibzanfFQq9pA0LM2aCdgdAnquJgLeyADGHgbur-GXFyXJ6EDKN/s400/DSCN0610.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Live Hawaiian music.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
When the dinner gala was finished, my fellow bloggers and I headed out on foot to a pub known as the <a href="http://www.pignwhistle.com.au/content/pnw-standard.asp?name=Home_QueenStreet" target="_blank">Pig 'N Whistle</a>. The open-air pub was about an eight minute walk from our hotel. Much of the beers on tap were Australian. I opted for a Toohey draft and would have a few more as I chatted with Cat, Ed, and Melissa about what was in store for the next day. A visit to the South Bank was on the itinerary.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkeRACTEDHFwzs97-r8fvC5ueUOMbztk-sBYtynWNI4yKNaaYSULCTIMcf6B0qFE0Qc5jSxi3d4IrTloXgd8V6MHnodgfN8lSeQGlg0IH6nGSwr87GTNG1e22Un5cVrNYsQF_IWhTtTwM/s1600/DSCN0624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkeRACTEDHFwzs97-r8fvC5ueUOMbztk-sBYtynWNI4yKNaaYSULCTIMcf6B0qFE0Qc5jSxi3d4IrTloXgd8V6MHnodgfN8lSeQGlg0IH6nGSwr87GTNG1e22Un5cVrNYsQF_IWhTtTwM/s400/DSCN0624.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
ANZAC Square.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLgES3QIsxJqXtJx7MiiP_IgHojn6b7OWBNYKQv7FGf7D3_RgBZdcggYjtYXqMHsLqLug2aWpjSIAGKWQWYOdWeeFdP2WQfGfhPm2WY8fwkKrsm5bwZ6ftzPh-clJYHHlAkZml9fLaiir/s1600/DSCN0632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLLgES3QIsxJqXtJx7MiiP_IgHojn6b7OWBNYKQv7FGf7D3_RgBZdcggYjtYXqMHsLqLug2aWpjSIAGKWQWYOdWeeFdP2WQfGfhPm2WY8fwkKrsm5bwZ6ftzPh-clJYHHlAkZml9fLaiir/s400/DSCN0632.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beers on tap at the Pig 'N Whistle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Day two was hot and sunny. Clear skies prevailed, making for a hot, half-hour walk through Queen Street Mall, over Victoria Bridge, and into South Bank Parklands. South Bank Parklands is a massive area along the edge of the Brisbane River, with a wide variety of restaurants and cafes. Other attractions include a giant ferris wheel known as the Wheel of Brisbane and a man-made beach known as Streets Beach. The view from the edge of the Brisbane River is spectacular. It is even more impressive at night as the bright city lights reflect against the surface of the river. During our jaunt along the South Bank, we spent much of our time taking pictures of the city and relaxing at the edge of Streets Beach. Heading back to the hotel along Queen Street Mall, we stopped to enjoy the Hawaiian music and hula entertainment Hawaiian Air had setup near the Wintergarden retail outlets to promote their newest route from Hawaii to Brisbane.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_zbxPIpclOEvqHy3rLkyhewgv8pf7irMwHgQQxVrXnWVyI-hgua6IR0E53fjqKAJ6yV7JZjuopEIr1fYTtPss4XUYkwkSsAVN7TTxWMUp1LT7yJYGAwpciZ6zOSqCDgvvjGVdlfZv-Ta/s1600/DSCN0661.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv_zbxPIpclOEvqHy3rLkyhewgv8pf7irMwHgQQxVrXnWVyI-hgua6IR0E53fjqKAJ6yV7JZjuopEIr1fYTtPss4XUYkwkSsAVN7TTxWMUp1LT7yJYGAwpciZ6zOSqCDgvvjGVdlfZv-Ta/s400/DSCN0661.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Treasury Hotel and Casino.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYszwsIIAxDu7RAfeqjmXq_vReGExAGrkgjQWPXAxQexq0xDlVBtf0muFZrb3JARKGiYaDbog2jf-cAW-riSCIJYfFyd4tSl-7futjdmo2hs-NG6OOW0mxYBlp9fq0K50qdtJGdPjcMCK/s1600/vertpan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYszwsIIAxDu7RAfeqjmXq_vReGExAGrkgjQWPXAxQexq0xDlVBtf0muFZrb3JARKGiYaDbog2jf-cAW-riSCIJYfFyd4tSl-7futjdmo2hs-NG6OOW0mxYBlp9fq0K50qdtJGdPjcMCK/s400/vertpan.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbG4RqmdpqHqK-pqWQr4tBJfTLNDHmKOFdZxxi75io1laTCsaKznc0sHD9H0bRt3U6XRp7nq3rfoHAxhCYPDh0oXEHr9lMc26IhB80IlUrepuIdp-SuNcLetut9zni6mIkmLMgfbnVohC/s1600/2012-11-29-13.40.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZbG4RqmdpqHqK-pqWQr4tBJfTLNDHmKOFdZxxi75io1laTCsaKznc0sHD9H0bRt3U6XRp7nq3rfoHAxhCYPDh0oXEHr9lMc26IhB80IlUrepuIdp-SuNcLetut9zni6mIkmLMgfbnVohC/s640/2012-11-29-13.40.56.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Walking to the South Bank along Victoria Bridge. Click on the picture to view a larger version.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfk69azo6s-WBbJUNalSZNALQxERxFjZK9HN7rXqqmtScoqmNS3sg0WLTC6eh6i2xWYX9m6Bgeec-jWtBFfeJzoACt-0Q0mx075NAxaggl4nroJXVrecA716nhnDOS2iohuYk5TJj-Q3Pv/s1600/2012-11-29-11.57.58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="92" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfk69azo6s-WBbJUNalSZNALQxERxFjZK9HN7rXqqmtScoqmNS3sg0WLTC6eh6i2xWYX9m6Bgeec-jWtBFfeJzoACt-0Q0mx075NAxaggl4nroJXVrecA716nhnDOS2iohuYk5TJj-Q3Pv/s640/2012-11-29-11.57.58.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Panoramic view from the South Bank. Click on the picture to view a larger version.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDuKP1qdqYN5-_ch3XepbQdTxfUDk94RUJCDm2oQ6j2GyXJHQVPab-xIFv8k8O5sOx823LRA_rm1eQ24mo35iGCgh1hlIn9rxV3gyHwQDvs00Fy_RCpy9Fxva4aqxCKOM6yiE0EureWld/s1600/streetsbeach1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKDuKP1qdqYN5-_ch3XepbQdTxfUDk94RUJCDm2oQ6j2GyXJHQVPab-xIFv8k8O5sOx823LRA_rm1eQ24mo35iGCgh1hlIn9rxV3gyHwQDvs00Fy_RCpy9Fxva4aqxCKOM6yiE0EureWld/s400/streetsbeach1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Streets Beach.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKurmJeiIcKTEwKXqhuT24rxH3ybA6lynRE-wbN-O65Z3EJmetAyt68GbNRLO49ILXUjoc7rTOBjGgAcxGmrVftvmFGW-VHjZZFU4luo991LqPP45W-r4iTLwYhYbCU090pXMh7nOnoW52/s1600/streetsbeach2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKurmJeiIcKTEwKXqhuT24rxH3ybA6lynRE-wbN-O65Z3EJmetAyt68GbNRLO49ILXUjoc7rTOBjGgAcxGmrVftvmFGW-VHjZZFU4luo991LqPP45W-r4iTLwYhYbCU090pXMh7nOnoW52/s400/streetsbeach2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
After the show was over, we freshened up at the hotel and walked to Chinatown to find some dim sum. Thirteen of us marched through the streets to the <a href="http://kingofkings.com.au/" target="_blank">King of Kings Chinese Restaurant</a> in Fortitude Valley, about a twenty minute walk from the Sofitel. After finding our seats, the waiter took our order and asked if anyone was interested in a drink known as "The Dragon." Since no one was up for the challenge, I opted to try it out. The waiter placed three separate glasses in front of me. One was a shot glass filled with bright red liquor; another was a glass cup filled with yellow liquid; the last one was a shot glass filled with a green liquid. I was instructed to shot the red one first, then gulp down the yellow one next, and finish off by shotting the green one. Before I took on the challenge the waiter told us about the "legend" behind the drink. It was something about how 2,000 years ago if you wanted to control the world, you had to control the dragon, so obviously, you had to slay the dragon first. I slayed the dragon, alright, and it gave me a mean buzz within a minute of guzzling down the shots. I'm not sure what the drinks consisted of, but the red shot tasted like nail polish remover, the yellow one tasted like beer, and the third one tasted like mouth wash. It also burned like hell going down and left a spicy tingle in my mouth. But it was awesome, and after we ate, I lead everyone back to the hotel on foot. After slaying "The Dragon," I'd say everyone was pretty brave to follow me. Lucky thing we didn't get lost.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhE3vAJDXa6pFNUYE6bHOVKw4E1KG6n-F7mrdjFF-oJSahyphenhyphenPjjlNRZiplZ5OQ4d-EDJgahhBIu3cufSmdvYD5yprHqNRa7CeEsf5DBfrmVBLqONKAGVwtSfbeKhmqTej-yOecGCq6Jqxq/s1600/DSCN0689.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhE3vAJDXa6pFNUYE6bHOVKw4E1KG6n-F7mrdjFF-oJSahyphenhyphenPjjlNRZiplZ5OQ4d-EDJgahhBIu3cufSmdvYD5yprHqNRa7CeEsf5DBfrmVBLqONKAGVwtSfbeKhmqTej-yOecGCq6Jqxq/s400/DSCN0689.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beer!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3njLZgCDijkaXgM0Xl6PK0NGU7z3_prACZVFWw9rl5iq_851eUX1F3ik_EtxhcDgwdvkTr75TlQOZ9siGtILeT4W9IArJjUiDePkjtQu8XLJD0zLmZ4nZfPUGieXuh_0RstbsnavhenXW/s1600/DSCN0693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3njLZgCDijkaXgM0Xl6PK0NGU7z3_prACZVFWw9rl5iq_851eUX1F3ik_EtxhcDgwdvkTr75TlQOZ9siGtILeT4W9IArJjUiDePkjtQu8XLJD0zLmZ4nZfPUGieXuh_0RstbsnavhenXW/s400/DSCN0693.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lots and lots of Chinese food.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Back at the hotel, we showered off and got ready for our second night in Brisbane. We met with Hawaiian Airlines employees Jeremy Althof and Jesse Starmer. Both would lead us to our dinner locale. Like we did earlier that day, we walked to the South Bank to view the city under a full moon along the edge of the Brisbane River. The view was incredible. The light shimmered across the river with the full moon hovering just above the highest skyscrapers. We then caught a taxi to our dinner destination, a brand new restaurant and pub known as Alfred and Constance in Fortitude Valley. The restaurant was loud and filled with people enjoying drinks from the bar. We ordered several plates on the menu and some pitchers of mixed drinks that we all shared. After we had had enough, we caught a cab to the Treasury Hotel and Casino. Cat, Ed, Melissa, and I were exhausted from the long day of walking. Jeremy and Jesse decided to stay at the casino. We parted ways. The next day would be my last day in Brisbane, but not without visiting the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and the Mount Coot-tha overlook.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLOYyCRczTTs0HrnLQmDzMwDyhG4u3bUdhwlhR86ET-uLSpoO3Gp2w8FSbAlUW1joj4PsoKrZ8kvMMFrbUV5CP-1kIFQG0UM8ktoN__v0AEO5XzxC1oOUzTJ4JAxn4u6rLurgiQalpBXX/s1600/DSCN0709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLOYyCRczTTs0HrnLQmDzMwDyhG4u3bUdhwlhR86ET-uLSpoO3Gp2w8FSbAlUW1joj4PsoKrZ8kvMMFrbUV5CP-1kIFQG0UM8ktoN__v0AEO5XzxC1oOUzTJ4JAxn4u6rLurgiQalpBXX/s400/DSCN0709.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Night view along Victoria Bridge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQt3oo6okBWtlJA0_VOly8QDRupUYfuLoNbqZMDeru9OkaseL8zh1SMUv_bGkibqnt1lq9IHVKiXJ1ckFrUb3S3kcAKftgzhjiMsvKx9Yy-v4ZIX8pdmtQrHY8qJTtaWdL_pxCdbXjr9l/s1600/DSCN0726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpQt3oo6okBWtlJA0_VOly8QDRupUYfuLoNbqZMDeru9OkaseL8zh1SMUv_bGkibqnt1lq9IHVKiXJ1ckFrUb3S3kcAKftgzhjiMsvKx9Yy-v4ZIX8pdmtQrHY8qJTtaWdL_pxCdbXjr9l/s400/DSCN0726.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Wheel of Brisbane at night.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGMJ2tr5cNcjAm1Q8f1qp3QQQb_YNtwbKi8MAaQxARyAepKdvJBF3icDcgubrrUHYCOGiGFw4gn0xH6H5Fj9MNKskB05L6QJbGSr2hGecpEcbJtNPJKLNAbc-VQvX9QDQut48oRnzXVIO_/s1600/DSCN0734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGMJ2tr5cNcjAm1Q8f1qp3QQQb_YNtwbKi8MAaQxARyAepKdvJBF3icDcgubrrUHYCOGiGFw4gn0xH6H5Fj9MNKskB05L6QJbGSr2hGecpEcbJtNPJKLNAbc-VQvX9QDQut48oRnzXVIO_/s400/DSCN0734.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Full moon over the Brisbane metro reflecting off the surface of the Brisbane River.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkxJiY8o0rCDL6xAV5YJl3V9442YqdxN2fjZpO0rpLvduTH2109ChkkdD8sQ5OFulUOhyphenhyphencOggCfoH15K8UEjmdLP8L6QLjWQu5UaLxnunznGeFvZr36-Xf0NY9Lsw94UzwQkIazep6tjQ/s1600/DSCN0741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkxJiY8o0rCDL6xAV5YJl3V9442YqdxN2fjZpO0rpLvduTH2109ChkkdD8sQ5OFulUOhyphenhyphencOggCfoH15K8UEjmdLP8L6QLjWQu5UaLxnunznGeFvZr36-Xf0NY9Lsw94UzwQkIazep6tjQ/s400/DSCN0741.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dinner time at Alfred and Constance.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLs9qlm3OWd6pTu51_RKC8Ip8Ne7o6wC7231GCWNDce1oFtCsXA-ct5ObT3Hwznv8bZfON3IoWPDv9Hwiy2gYnrJv7tLLKjXgNCF12yoyoj3ynWzsXFjZ-vWOB3WsEb5Nn__GgOL5RSHTk/s1600/DSCN0747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLs9qlm3OWd6pTu51_RKC8Ip8Ne7o6wC7231GCWNDce1oFtCsXA-ct5ObT3Hwznv8bZfON3IoWPDv9Hwiy2gYnrJv7tLLKjXgNCF12yoyoj3ynWzsXFjZ-vWOB3WsEb5Nn__GgOL5RSHTk/s400/DSCN0747.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oyster kilpatrick.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
On my third and last day in Brisbane, we visited the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. The sanctuary is much like a zoo, offering glimpes of wombats, kangaroos, snakes, lizards, and of course, koalas. We also had a chance to hold a koala and pet and feed kangaroos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5gvHV4i7P_JMLRh95Xd3UE4HnJVa_OZRhfXXY9Dv6p0w7JNHG3nWl78m2IBw2hOLaVQCTJd0euHjWit3E-xomun9ru5-T5-iYAR73J8tms-hsFh0XFZ2N6CIpSB5cc6pKBgHp5kDelDT/s1600/DSCN0759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5gvHV4i7P_JMLRh95Xd3UE4HnJVa_OZRhfXXY9Dv6p0w7JNHG3nWl78m2IBw2hOLaVQCTJd0euHjWit3E-xomun9ru5-T5-iYAR73J8tms-hsFh0XFZ2N6CIpSB5cc6pKBgHp5kDelDT/s400/DSCN0759.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUxeI_gcQmoBkbhWwLnhvW6GpFPaBENSq8_1LONbAAphdeG5cA7wDJQKR2T-cnORd7qop7Pc4RhhVXQVZVB21re4dsCgEz8nCTljDSJM2ftgD4JGjo03VftCZHjXY2wCe_eRqqsGlYyRF/s1600/DSCN0764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKUxeI_gcQmoBkbhWwLnhvW6GpFPaBENSq8_1LONbAAphdeG5cA7wDJQKR2T-cnORd7qop7Pc4RhhVXQVZVB21re4dsCgEz8nCTljDSJM2ftgD4JGjo03VftCZHjXY2wCe_eRqqsGlYyRF/s400/DSCN0764.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nice head rest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkz3ir94J06R43YH8GmmAJ7U70fym4DY_r04IeNuilc14rTc20jvFk3zy8VsL-Y_jp1TqiYSD6YXK_hwo4hcoRI2KAO74tyge_VzL0XsBuLConB_bgR42dCqI71eq5fGKd3s_Fu6cP-K1/s1600/DSCN0767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkz3ir94J06R43YH8GmmAJ7U70fym4DY_r04IeNuilc14rTc20jvFk3zy8VsL-Y_jp1TqiYSD6YXK_hwo4hcoRI2KAO74tyge_VzL0XsBuLConB_bgR42dCqI71eq5fGKd3s_Fu6cP-K1/s400/DSCN0767.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lazy buggers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdDtB5bDNcnAOmJf_a6x63A9P-OuSJW0PlwDuuaGDZYij42Cj_iM4Sb5njfp1kJvdtUiG77MKwom2XorNuUBBw0nQEnZJ4EpWb03ZakZM514jyEz5JF1cF96phOw_KZwf0BRSiy53QEiz/s1600/GOPR3291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdDtB5bDNcnAOmJf_a6x63A9P-OuSJW0PlwDuuaGDZYij42Cj_iM4Sb5njfp1kJvdtUiG77MKwom2XorNuUBBw0nQEnZJ4EpWb03ZakZM514jyEz5JF1cF96phOw_KZwf0BRSiy53QEiz/s400/GOPR3291.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kangaroos everywhere!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvOYkVN1c0bZP-YymzRGpr8NdLJFhDrmhYs3yF93U6OOF48TEQ5GCCHaYfONxSFPNn_O3NF7idsJQtlMi5kx4Qos3_R1DitVhy4AKcfaOHIXfGj5YZUgdzXK-cRSdGshoC33sSyydlXjy/s1600/DSCN0813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvOYkVN1c0bZP-YymzRGpr8NdLJFhDrmhYs3yF93U6OOF48TEQ5GCCHaYfONxSFPNn_O3NF7idsJQtlMi5kx4Qos3_R1DitVhy4AKcfaOHIXfGj5YZUgdzXK-cRSdGshoC33sSyydlXjy/s400/DSCN0813.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQOWWGUUPN9azhi6NuwTf3pKCni20_WFho3wUqFdVBnOXxUOLDr6DOGH808Rd4UCI965dsIYYAUPrT0dMkHUN9PIWZLpC0Q1Y5HMqv_13wi6tWUvMFwrsf6F26PPX2XwPXsseaHUQRb9R/s1600/DSCN0793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQOWWGUUPN9azhi6NuwTf3pKCni20_WFho3wUqFdVBnOXxUOLDr6DOGH808Rd4UCI965dsIYYAUPrT0dMkHUN9PIWZLpC0Q1Y5HMqv_13wi6tWUvMFwrsf6F26PPX2XwPXsseaHUQRb9R/s400/DSCN0793.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
We then headed to the Mount Coot-tha lookout where we had an amazing panoramic view overlooking the metropolitan area of Brisbane. Far off in the distance we could see Moreton Bay and Moreton Island. After snapping some photos, we entered the gift shop where I bought a bag full of kangaroo jerky. Interestingly enough, the 'roo jerky actually tasted fishy to me, but it was delicious. Ironically, just an hour earlier I was petting and feeding kangaroos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGYC-IMWqxky2P92vk9cuIKUt1J83el3nx0Zkcsj4PAGJ_5rX5LqOB3Y_wL0AjqCmFpy2FuzseRBitR9lqz40kaUo6KKvExsS76nQVWNCsXoxtIgpR1A_B7FjCi8Af7xFKl2ZmeKsNuZw/s1600/brisbane-mtcoottha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGYC-IMWqxky2P92vk9cuIKUt1J83el3nx0Zkcsj4PAGJ_5rX5LqOB3Y_wL0AjqCmFpy2FuzseRBitR9lqz40kaUo6KKvExsS76nQVWNCsXoxtIgpR1A_B7FjCi8Af7xFKl2ZmeKsNuZw/s400/brisbane-mtcoottha.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Downtown Brisbane.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuzBfhkFw6CvFYQxro2HF2GrNLdGh6_0zMJkUi6oO6jgVxDCIMa64_uwcBJ9nFWWCDVV4fXfz1LSxGsJhuT56dhdwqO5hi84rn9WYLD7i34I_Jb1K7_YSl-CLw1yRl_Z4mVac-bNv1-kK/s1600/2012-11-29-19.36.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuzBfhkFw6CvFYQxro2HF2GrNLdGh6_0zMJkUi6oO6jgVxDCIMa64_uwcBJ9nFWWCDVV4fXfz1LSxGsJhuT56dhdwqO5hi84rn9WYLD7i34I_Jb1K7_YSl-CLw1yRl_Z4mVac-bNv1-kK/s400/2012-11-29-19.36.46.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jerky, Aussie style.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Noon approached, and it was time for lunch, so we headed to a restaurant known as <a href="http://www.storybridgehotel.com.au/shelter/index.php" target="_blank">The Shelter Bar</a>, situated underneath Story Bridge, the largest cantilever bridge in Australia. Two draft beers, a bloody mary, and a savory lamb and rosemary meat pie hit the spot after an active half-day of tourist roaming. It was now time to head back to the Sofitel to get ready for the 6:30pm flight back to Honolulu.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpR3pwZOpq0NCnzUeHeZ0PZmH0M1ndVigu629uljnoNwGXOAqh243iiQ7QAVPSNLaeiEHfgN3MG6_O9fZR1pnDobg7vjgeN8gQjystiUG6AO_6SDtiqPxmkJ2AWw7T-v467_GB-N7euVKg/s1600/DSCN0650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpR3pwZOpq0NCnzUeHeZ0PZmH0M1ndVigu629uljnoNwGXOAqh243iiQ7QAVPSNLaeiEHfgN3MG6_O9fZR1pnDobg7vjgeN8gQjystiUG6AO_6SDtiqPxmkJ2AWw7T-v467_GB-N7euVKg/s400/DSCN0650.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Meat pies at the Pie Face.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Spending only two days in the city, I can't vouch for being an expert on the weather in Brisbane. Although, I can tell you that it was hot and humid when I was there: around 32 degrees Celsius during the midday, which equates to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It kind of reminded me of Hawaii, but a little hotter. The city of Brisbane abuts the Brisbane River, offering dramatic river-to-city landscape views from certain vantage points around the metropolitan area. The architechture of modern and old contrast well as seen walking along the city sidewalks. The metropolis is vibrant and alive, hustling and bustling during the day and into the night. The numerous eateries and pubs to satisfy your hunger and thirst are everywhere. I highly recommend trying a meat pie. It is sold at any bakery you can find and most restaurants, and it definitely hits the spot after a long, booze-filled night out in the town. Speaking of booze, if you're looking for beer, Australia has some of the best. I recommend Hahn's Super Dry. Stay away from hard liquor, though; it'll burn a hole in your wallet, and you'll want to save some of that money for shopping. Purchasing something "authenically Australian" isn't hard to find as there are plenty of shopping opportunites at <a href="http://www.queensplazashopping.com.au/home/" target="_blank">Queens Plaza</a> and <a href="http://www.queenstreetmall.com.au/" target="_blank">Queen Street Mall</a>. And if you're an avid gambler, the Treasury Hotel casino is the place for you.<br />
<br />
The city of Brisbane is awesome. From eateries and pubs, to shopping and sightseeing, it is definitely a worthwhile destination to put on your travel wishlist. Hawaiian Airlines has truly bridged the gap between Hawaii and one of Australia's metropolitan gems.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKOLiXcKjJdYlrOoKHicUGTMn2yzTRzlBoVAS5JlVod-vhuDAANM6o3paGIsrIuZzh55mili0b5wCbmOK3s91iRsM7_hXhLpvHvyZH4fOhVYqc7IMZNUN8jj4TiQFYCKtsVbncMPYxC5Q/s1600/bribanemetromoonlit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKOLiXcKjJdYlrOoKHicUGTMn2yzTRzlBoVAS5JlVod-vhuDAANM6o3paGIsrIuZzh55mili0b5wCbmOK3s91iRsM7_hXhLpvHvyZH4fOhVYqc7IMZNUN8jj4TiQFYCKtsVbncMPYxC5Q/s400/bribanemetromoonlit.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/55511517?title=0&byline=0&badge=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="400"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Book your flight now at <a href="http://www.hawaiianairlines.com/" target="_blank">HawaiianAirlines.com</a>.<br />
<br />
For more pictures and tweets, check out #AlohaBNE on <a href="http://instagram.com/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.<br />
<br />
For more complete write-ups, videos, and even more pictures of our trip visit the following websites:<br />
<a href="http://world-wide-ed.com/">World-Wide-Ed.com</a> by Ed Sugimoto<br />
<a href="http://thecatdish.com/">TheCatDish.com</a> by Catherine Toth<br />
<a href="http://nonstophonolulu.com/">NonstopHonolulu.com</a> by Melissa Chang<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-34976613812691667932012-12-06T17:15:00.003-10:002012-12-06T17:15:26.912-10:00Laie to Waikane - September 1st-3rd, 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span></div>
<div>
Three months ago my friends and I went "tent-less" on an incredible three day backpacking journey in the Ko'olau mountains starting from Laie town and ending in Waikane Valley. Equipped with all backpacking necessities besides a tent, the twenty-two mile trek took us through some of the most desolate and remote sections on the island of Oahu, stopping at two separate cabins along the way for shelter during the night. During daylight we navigated through nuking tradewinds, knee-deep mud, thick vegetation, and occasional white-out conditions, testing both our stamina and sense of direction. Despite the physical and mental hardships, the views were unrivaled and strengthened the bond of friendship among us all.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
______________________________<wbr></wbr>___________</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<u>Day 1 (09/01/12):</u></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A quick carb-loaded breakfast at the Hukilau Cafe in Laie served as our last "legit" meal for the next two-and-a-half days before heading out. Our ever so reliable friend, Keahi Ka'awa, was nice enough to shuttle us from the other side of the island with our gear to Laie that morning. He would also pick us up in Waikane Valley on day three.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With bellies full, Lei Yamasaki, Ryan Chang, Keoni Napoleon, and I jumped back into Keahi's van and headed to the Laie Ridge/Waterfall trailhead. It was 8:15am. While unloading our gear and bidding farewell to Keahi we were confronted by an unofficial security guard who politely asked what our intentions were with such large backpacks.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Where you guys going?" the hefty Polynesian man asked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Up the ridge, to the summit, and all the way to Waikane," I replied.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
He looked at us like we were crazy. "Waikane? Ho shit! That's far away! You guys gonna make it, or what?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Yeah, uncle, no worries. We got everything," assured Keoni.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Okay, good. I just asking cause there been some people going up this road into the bottom part of the trail shooting guns. That's why I patrolling this part, make sure you guys no have any guns on you."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Nothing on us here."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Okay, well you guys be careful, and good luck. That's a long walk to Waikane."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"We know. Mahalo!"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We set off on the trail at 8:30am. I had been up and down the Laie trail multiple times, but with a thirty-pound backpack, the thought of "holy shit, what did I get myself into" crossed my mind more than once as we labored our way up through the hot, dry, exposed bottom portions of the wide and gradually ascending dirt trail.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Two hours in, legs burning, we hit the junction with the waterfall trail. A quick rest and we resumed our slow ascent along the well graded trail aimed for the Ko'olau summit. The weather was perfect with high, overcast clouds masking the heat of the sun, the clouds staying well above the Ko'olau mountain peaks. Once at the Laie terminus we sat down to eat lunch atop a cramped overlook to see what was in store along the route toward our next landmark: the Kawailoa helipad. We eyeballed the route until the swath disappeared into the convoluted greenery of the Ko'olau hills.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lunch was done, and we then began our first steps on the KST (Ko'olau Summit Trail) towards Kawailoa. The trail was in surprisingly good condition, and before we knew it, we hit the helipad around 1pm. From the edge of the leeward side of the helipad we were greeted with spectacular views, most notably the view to leeward showcasing the vast expanse of undulating ridges towards the Wahiawa plains with the Waianae Mountain Range as its backdrop. To the right we could see the obvious swath along the upper portions of the Kawailoa trail. Had we brought our tents I would have elected to spend the night there, for the helipad was a very wide, flat, and exposed area that could accomodate a multitude of campers without any fuss. But without a tent, we hiked on to find the first cabin that we would call home for our first night in the Ko'olau.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Beyond Kawailoa the trail remained graded, contouring around hill after hill eventually hitting a fence. Construction of the fence is for eradication purposes to protect native species and plants from destructive non-native species such as wild pigs from traveling up and over certain sections of the mountain. Although a nuisance to look at and avoid -- at times we had to climb over the fence to regain the trail -- the fence proved to be an excellent guide leading us in the right direction.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Time seemed to fly by after leaving Kawailoa, and we soon found ourselves at the Koloa Cabin. The cabin was a sight for sore eyes and legs, and although it would have been a prime spot to spend the night, it was still in the stages of being built, and the smell of new paint was a bit nauseating. It was now 2:15pm. We had to decide on whether or not we would stay at Koloa Cabin or push on to a another cabin our friends had told us about that would make the trip even more worthwhile and memorable. For a moment we fiddled with the idea of staying at Koloa to enjoy the rest of the day relaxing. The smell of paint in the cabin turned out to be the deal breaker so we set off for the next cabin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Leaving the Koloa Cabin behind, we also left behind the fence and reached an incredible overlook in between a notch in the ridge at the back of Kaipapa'u Gulch. The absence of wind at the overlook took on an eerie type of silence, yet the view remained surreal and beautiful. From the notch we hiked along an awesome windward contour trail with Kaipapa'u Gulch to our left until the trail switched to the leeward side. Upon switching to the leeward side we were greeted with major overgrowth and a rough trail to follow. The going was slow, and time seemed to dwindle faster with every step.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The sun was now dipping below the Waianae Mountain Range, the temperature noticeably dropping, and the clouds settling lower over the Ko'olau. We approached another amazing overlook behind Ma'akua Gulch, well above Hau'ula town. At this point we could see nothing manmade, just a lush green landscape contrasting with an azure sliver of ocean leading to the Pacific horizon. The wind at the overlook was blasting. Because the gusts sounded like a jet engine in our ears, trying to converse with each other was an added task aside from trying to keep ourselves grounded. We took some pictures, posing in the wind trying not to fall or get blown away, then headed back onto the trail. The trail went back alee, sheltering us from the pounding winds.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Rougher and rougher the trail became, keeping us sweaty and dirty. More mud. More vegetation. It seemed endless. Time was waning, and we had to hurry and find the next cabin before nightfall. I had wrote down directions given to me by a friend and took it out of my pocket. I scanned to the parts of my handwriting that explained the landmarks to look out for. We had reached none of it yet. Either we didn't reach any of it yet, or we passed it. If we passed it, we'd be in trouble, and there was no way we were going to backtrack. It was getting late and cold. We were now in clouds. What were once white clouds now turned to a dark steel bluish-gray, an indication that night was fast approaching. The clouds enveloped the whole landscape, confusing our sense of direction, allowing us to only see a mere thirty feet or so in front of us. Following the swath ahead was the only option. The wind blew. The rain came. Colder and colder, the temperatured dropped even more.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our progress became discouraging. At one point we were actually going to find a spot on the leeward side of the trail where we could hunker down, shelter ourselves from the winds, and spend the night. There weren't many options, though, and the wind and rain seemed to be picking up. With the weather getting worse, we knew we had to find the cabin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'm just gonna spend the night here," Lei said.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Oh hell, no," I dejected.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Fuck! It's cold as fuck," Ryan yelled.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"We gotta find the cabin," Keoni said. "I ain't spending the night in the rain."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Where are the landmarks? I didn't see one fucking landmark on the paper I wrote on!" I was frustrated. "This is bullshit. Should have stayed in Koloa."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keoni suggested, "We just gotta keep going. If we already passed the landmarks, maybe we'll hit Poamoho."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My watch read 5:55pm. Keoni was right. If we had passed the landmarks already, we could keep going all the way to the Poamoho cabin. But how far more would that be? How much longer would it take? All that mattered was that we needed shelter.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Okay, let's go."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Back on the trail, we hiked for another forty mintues until we finally we spotted the landmark that I had written down on paper. Exhausted and cold, my body felt a rush of energy upon reaching the landmark.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Fuck you!" I screamed with joy. "So I guess we didn't pass it. Shit!"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We followed the remaining directions and finally got a glimpse of the cabin we had been looking for all day. The initial view of the cabin didn't seem real at first, like it appeared out of nowhere, envoloped in clouds and mist, a boxy, shadowy figure at an unassuming spot in the Ko'olau mountains. For us though, it was a "beacon of light" amongst the inclement weather. Our pace increased to an all out sprint as we got closer and closer to the cabin. At 6:45pm we were at the cabin porch.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We unloaded our gear and showered outside via a spigot in the cold, blustery conditions. The minute or so of showering was harsh to say the least, but the rinse off was needed. We commenced with dinner under candlelight and headlamps. The rain and wind outside was loud. The idea of spending the night outside would have been hell. The temperature inside the cabin was surprisingly cold, and some sips of hard liquor would up our body temperature just tad. A drink was in order before calling it a day. I had a full bottle of Jameson's scotch whiskey; half in a plastic bottle and the other half in a metal flask. Keoni had some brandy, and Ryan had a full bottle of Jack Daniel's. There was more than enough to pass around for the next two days so we drank just enough to loosen up our muscles, feeling the buzz and warmth of the alcohol in our bodies to fall asleep with the sound of wind and rain pelting against the windows and wooden walls outside. The next day would be challenging as well. We would traverse a section of summit trail we had never been on before, but eventually reaching familiar ground at the stretch between the Poamoho summit and Poamoho cabin. It had been a long day. One we could certainly leave behind but never forget. The alcohol soon worked its magic. We fell asleep.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpOBMT1ZlPsmMLCxqmsTsP7E3QEtaMQ34IrCwePuM6NjFIwCAkzQ6BiJVL3GMvfM82QAhavwtBB4v7GsLOsxj61yvW2MZlRbkZCeOpc4yVnMemY1DvFGMopc-8CNVVGp-0ejLMJfde9flH/s1600/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpOBMT1ZlPsmMLCxqmsTsP7E3QEtaMQ34IrCwePuM6NjFIwCAkzQ6BiJVL3GMvfM82QAhavwtBB4v7GsLOsxj61yvW2MZlRbkZCeOpc4yVnMemY1DvFGMopc-8CNVVGp-0ejLMJfde9flH/s400/0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the Laie trail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMLYvlIvJjm_tLY_SE7Q6x7_NSZ0vijVDS4DLuhsvC1xWs9eWcwBmvZBL_PYTnKKlR2w6ksLz5KFS2Gg0vQKDWuxHkWtZMCUJDObS7cAxMEdAjGW1_FtBTlzGdbweix4j6s-D94bGjr7a/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMLYvlIvJjm_tLY_SE7Q6x7_NSZ0vijVDS4DLuhsvC1xWs9eWcwBmvZBL_PYTnKKlR2w6ksLz5KFS2Gg0vQKDWuxHkWtZMCUJDObS7cAxMEdAjGW1_FtBTlzGdbweix4j6s-D94bGjr7a/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The view from the Kawailoa helipad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcV9XRPHupbX_QLJJWzj8JK_ZFk5t8PNFDgM7wWI2GHKcRQQQBdrtAd6LeEa0UIs6xLeySYuBiGtwJfbHpO2SQb3rUXZhuvzwehsu_rNz5XoKbP-7AsoLUlBfPDrPY6JEkx-DiP6fdiFKd/s1600/1ab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcV9XRPHupbX_QLJJWzj8JK_ZFk5t8PNFDgM7wWI2GHKcRQQQBdrtAd6LeEa0UIs6xLeySYuBiGtwJfbHpO2SQb3rUXZhuvzwehsu_rNz5XoKbP-7AsoLUlBfPDrPY6JEkx-DiP6fdiFKd/s400/1ab.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z9w_R3adNdh9UP_5vW9VKiAogrTFwNitpjL0QEorUvb8v4w-FS0vwkMtBP92zidRpArEy5HgIkAdX2KoIGURjNDmrZcK9d7YTcBHvk4Cv2LRsPjFNsbiAHpbwq-cqzf7gWpelZoqE_XV/s1600/1b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z9w_R3adNdh9UP_5vW9VKiAogrTFwNitpjL0QEorUvb8v4w-FS0vwkMtBP92zidRpArEy5HgIkAdX2KoIGURjNDmrZcK9d7YTcBHvk4Cv2LRsPjFNsbiAHpbwq-cqzf7gWpelZoqE_XV/s400/1b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXATtCQ2efU6NUFGDHQ3CtmhkurIiflniZXSp3koPmpK_sJin7W458TJ-7sj9h6khjqPNCR9eEYxe89T4uizwRkwpkX4rS7oWO62WR4BfKjls66cJnAWIFcsxuf4HPP2vQ3c7YlNW5dAQ5/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXATtCQ2efU6NUFGDHQ3CtmhkurIiflniZXSp3koPmpK_sJin7W458TJ-7sj9h6khjqPNCR9eEYxe89T4uizwRkwpkX4rS7oWO62WR4BfKjls66cJnAWIFcsxuf4HPP2vQ3c7YlNW5dAQ5/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span></div>
<div>
<u>Day 2 (09/02/12):</u></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I woke up to the sound of Ryan's voice.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Holy shit, guys! Wake up! You gotta come out here and see this view!"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The liquor from the night before had done a number on me. I opened my eyes from the top bunk of the cabin looking down on Lei and Keoni, both of whom were still sleeping. My watch read 7:00am. I laid back down, tongue dry as ever.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Damn, Ryan. You snore loud," Lei complained.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"So does Keoni," I replied. "I slept good, though. Now, I just have to shake off this mini-hangover."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Come outside," Ryan insisted.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keoni was first to join Ryan on the porch and confirmed Ryan's excitement.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Oh damn! Yeah, that's nice."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Looking toward the west was a low rainbow hovering just above the numerous ridges sprawling out to the Wahiawa plain. Framing the rainbow and ridges were wispy, etheral clouds with light bands of showers falling to the landscape below. Far behind was the Waianae Mountains, colorfully lit by the rising of the morning sun. The weather was better than the night before; the winds had died and the rain was light and sporadic. We were alone, too. No one around. No one knowing of our location.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Well, I'm gonna eat breakfast. Anyone want some coffee?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I couldn't pass up Keoni's offer. "I'll have some."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
During breakfast the rain returned. The seven cups of coffee had kicked in, and I was ready to start the next leg of our trek to Poamoho.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"How about we wait 'til the rain eases up," I suggested.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Everyone agreed. For the next two hours we relaxed and chatted about the latter day's good and bad moments, hoping the bad moments would not repeat once we headed out. At 10:15am, the rain had stopped, and we packed our stuff and headed out to the KST.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The weather was cool and windy, still cloudy and socked in, and the trail muddy as ever, if not worse. We hit another fence and followed it to a point that would be the highest elevation of our trip. The wind here was incredibly strong, the clouds shooting up and over the ridge at an blazing speed. Leaving the spot of our peak elevation we then reached an unbelievable lookout over Punalu'u Valley. The wind was still in full force. We posed for some photos with Punalu'u Valley in the background all while trying to look cool and composed with the strong gusts of wind at our backs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Still following the fence we reached the top a waterfall in narrow pocket harboring a stream, the whole area somewhat resembling a meadow. The small amount of water in the stream dropped off in a cascade into Punalu'u.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The fence kept going and lead the way, eventually skirting the very edge of the Ko'olau summit ridge. Clinging to the fence was the norm along these sections because of the strong winds. Much of the hike from the cabin was spent in clouds, but as we started skirting the summit ridge, the clouds began to lift, giving us astounding views of Kahana Valley and the Ko'olau summit ridge.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
At a certain point we decided to climb the fence and leave it behind. Doing this brought us to a massive flat meadow of which we had to cross. The sun shone bright along this section, making for perfect lighting to snap photos and record video.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Two hours had lapsed. It was time for lunch. We eventually rejoined the fence and ate lunch on a strip of ridge that was flat and grassy. The lunch spot offered a view ahead to gauge how much further we had to Poamoho.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Looks about another two hours to the cabin," Keoni said.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Minor," I replied.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After lunch we pushed forward, the trail doing it's usual contour around ridges and occasionally following the ridge crest. The clouds lifted, offering views in all directions. At 2:00pm we reached the terminus of Poamoho. Not much time was spent at the lookout. We wanted to reach the cabin, which was only about fifteen minutes away. Our early arrival time at the cabin would give us ample time to enjoy the rest of the day relaxing and getting ready for day three.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now on familiar ground, we reached the Poamoho cabin in no time. Unlike the previous cabin, Poamoho cabin was littered with rat shit and smelled of something awful. Evidence of past hikers was obvious: batteries, empty water bottles, trash in a box at the corner of the cabin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"The last cabin was a hotel compared to this," I said.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But it was somewhere to sleep. No complaints there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As the clock hit 4:30pm, we took out the remaining amounts of alcohol. Drinking at an early start would ensure an early slumber to be fully rested for our last leg of our trip: Poamoho cabin to Waikane Valley. Dinner commenced. The alcohol now all gone; the buzz in full effect. The dark settled once again, and the clouds completely blanketed the area around us. It was 8pm. I fell asleep.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AAQVUUop4QUc-1CQvUje7D-gTaY1f4t7bfJzXK8f39fhXlGgkgWX7zMUFmB3mUpMIbO5E3q8ut_3X4CEuDDI5ljaMHt0MGrR73RzFCcoqVpq3lC2GmuiXBp80pvjiQietIOOrYL_z_dY/s1600/1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AAQVUUop4QUc-1CQvUje7D-gTaY1f4t7bfJzXK8f39fhXlGgkgWX7zMUFmB3mUpMIbO5E3q8ut_3X4CEuDDI5ljaMHt0MGrR73RzFCcoqVpq3lC2GmuiXBp80pvjiQietIOOrYL_z_dY/s400/1a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMOKqqr2fzonRoPHKJ_kkYu3MZlgxcLeLHiKOtlR8C8i368bxD3YF5RdxP35_oIN2FENYpA19AVkZK6SLUmttO4wKYc5rAi0l5vmk3Bgc78-DVWzF1EolWdo1g1ffPYv9cUZegUmkgVQ-/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMOKqqr2fzonRoPHKJ_kkYu3MZlgxcLeLHiKOtlR8C8i368bxD3YF5RdxP35_oIN2FENYpA19AVkZK6SLUmttO4wKYc5rAi0l5vmk3Bgc78-DVWzF1EolWdo1g1ffPYv9cUZegUmkgVQ-/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mud.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSfuTJn-Xe1y6GJDI7OCiZp7U0uFXQg4MnPR0PK-PZMG_zWir4x_oH93qtI7BU3NXiB8pike1qEUOwDrBZc_12IcnVo32gR75DB5WgVcaKtGrTtvTYali46wRs-SDVehefO54A2VbNhJf/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDSfuTJn-Xe1y6GJDI7OCiZp7U0uFXQg4MnPR0PK-PZMG_zWir4x_oH93qtI7BU3NXiB8pike1qEUOwDrBZc_12IcnVo32gR75DB5WgVcaKtGrTtvTYali46wRs-SDVehefO54A2VbNhJf/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Large meadow about an hour-and-a-half from Poamoho.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSYCw4X2haqUrldTcdFGga7gRXXHFTsYuMQyxruYQSoKLXYaNV2lTWyhc0zSqsPs2vR7ZjlS5Oi6ldQUwn7AshqT-t5iS10iRGmLWjP07jq6Tqy-LcGtnprTbS6jHRLNcciiriMbPbHz5E/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSYCw4X2haqUrldTcdFGga7gRXXHFTsYuMQyxruYQSoKLXYaNV2lTWyhc0zSqsPs2vR7ZjlS5Oi6ldQUwn7AshqT-t5iS10iRGmLWjP07jq6Tqy-LcGtnprTbS6jHRLNcciiriMbPbHz5E/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTI0SmAgOHQE5azEzX2KdZz1Hv7Uza7jTKd7V06EOUxriGUhuASfaFzfeAxOaXfwi7E7AidUZvCLDnsXyVkpFve7xDDgJ2tve0B_wIUQl8zYpK_HxR4ydp_cS0qaSPpeaAl3ZLn7VV8lgx/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTI0SmAgOHQE5azEzX2KdZz1Hv7Uza7jTKd7V06EOUxriGUhuASfaFzfeAxOaXfwi7E7AidUZvCLDnsXyVkpFve7xDDgJ2tve0B_wIUQl8zYpK_HxR4ydp_cS0qaSPpeaAl3ZLn7VV8lgx/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leeward view just before the Poamoho cabin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUz3VMZNwj1id3ivRC5WoaKnHW3ZH3uKiiTvPGfxy767zGNXcUFO1ONhS4_NUv-1Sg06ygclZ2wY0TVtIPQWurk92kqB0KaSPwWRnGO9uedeC503C3oYt-31vxOVwDjvRKX3paBSP_uBT3/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUz3VMZNwj1id3ivRC5WoaKnHW3ZH3uKiiTvPGfxy767zGNXcUFO1ONhS4_NUv-1Sg06ygclZ2wY0TVtIPQWurk92kqB0KaSPwWRnGO9uedeC503C3oYt-31vxOVwDjvRKX3paBSP_uBT3/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Poamoho Cabin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span></div>
<div>
<u>Day 3 (09/03/12):</u></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The morning greeted us with cool temperatures and rainy weather. Throughout the night we could hear the wind and rain outside, and the sound of rats scampering inside the cabin walls. I had achieved better sleep at the previous cabin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With breakfast made and a cup of coffee in hand, we discussed our desired departure to at least get to Waikane by 3pm. I had done the stretch from Poamoho to the junction with the Schofield-Waikane trail, and it had taken a little over two hours. I had never hiked beyond Schofield-Waikane, but from what I heard from others, it would take around half-an-hour to reach the Waikane trail junction, and then an easy five miles out to civilization.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We agreed on an earlier start than the day before, so we set off in the rain just after 8am. Leaving the Poamoho cabin, we were totally enveloped in clouds. The trail then switched to the infamous windward contour that is raved about time and time again. It truly is the most beautiful section of trail on the island. The ground was wet and soft, the dew from the vegetation soaking every inch of our bodies along the way. The wind picked up, chilling us to the bone as it brushed over our wet skin.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The clouds began to lift around 9am, and from then on, we were treated with the best views all the way to Waikane. The view of Kahana Valley from that section of KST never gets old. From our vantage point we could see the entire valley of Kahana out to the blue Pacific Ocean. To the east we could see the coastline spreading all the way to Mokapu Point in Kaneohe. Although sunny, the breeze kept us constantly cool. We made slow progress along the KST, rounding corner after corner, capturing as much images on camera as we could. At about noon we reached the junction of the Schofield-Waikane trail and devoured a quick snack.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Onward we hiked to the junction with the Waikane trail. The KST continued on, turning right and switchbacking its way gradually up to Pu'u Ka'aumakua. We turned left and headed down the Waikane trail. As we descended Waikane, the views were even more impressive. The Ko'olau mountain range was in full view, and it was mind-boggling to see how far we had traveled.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Further down we descended until we hit the dirt road in Waikane Valley. We passed a vibrant stream, and opted to cool off by splashing water against our heads and faces. All that was left now was the long dirt road back out to Kamehameha Highway.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was just after 1pm. We passed homes deep in the valley, with a few residents enjoying the day near the stream with their grandchildren. We exchanged smiles and a wave.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Howzit," I acknowledged.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Aloha. Where you guys came from?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Laie," I replied.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Ho, aunty! You heard that? They came from Laie! How long took you guys?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Three days," Keoni said.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Oh, wow! Congrats you guys," one of the women said.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Thanks. Bye."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After about an hour-and-a-half on the road, we finally heard cars in the distance.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You hear that," I asked. "Sounds like Kam Highway. We're almost done."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Within a few minutes we could see Kamehameha Highway. To the right of the road we were on abutting the highway was a large grassy area. We took off our bags, sat down on the ground, and let out a sigh of relief as our three day hike officially came to an end. We phoned Keahi that we were done. Within half-an-hour, Keahi showed up with his van, large cooler inside with water, sodas, juices, and beers. He even had manapua, pork hash, musibi's, and a full bottle of Jack Daniel's. We scarfed down all we could, and drank until we could drink no more, conversing about the three awesome days we spent in the Ko'olau mountains.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcIZaRlfPrn7HvSKvkGUiV77231ZA45n_DHZ_ttKp35bEsqlpJacVOPvvn3rz-Zg6lnUSPmS3CgNdLYXGUqOXmmD_hvxH3ZlSM-FZajPN0ibuNjuxFHTMYYIGm73U9QNZIPHO586eBXAK/s1600/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcIZaRlfPrn7HvSKvkGUiV77231ZA45n_DHZ_ttKp35bEsqlpJacVOPvvn3rz-Zg6lnUSPmS3CgNdLYXGUqOXmmD_hvxH3ZlSM-FZajPN0ibuNjuxFHTMYYIGm73U9QNZIPHO586eBXAK/s400/0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leeward section of trail past the Poamoho cabin, in clouds.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpG4lMiTfSsiBhUdScfKqyGiGeyjp4YNqxXrY2MTzNhltPgcZoVKh3E5nAx0Co0uI0aKCiPA7Ce2v8VoIucU2ljaxYo-Fvc18f4jm7S9cLMs9M4CxbHRp6bKJNEH5JnfSlUoXxRtAHInUi/s1600/0a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpG4lMiTfSsiBhUdScfKqyGiGeyjp4YNqxXrY2MTzNhltPgcZoVKh3E5nAx0Co0uI0aKCiPA7Ce2v8VoIucU2ljaxYo-Fvc18f4jm7S9cLMs9M4CxbHRp6bKJNEH5JnfSlUoXxRtAHInUi/s400/0a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The view opens up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSM4kDZD8PsHnscx83Xlmg536s3JYHZgZzeNl4eS1Dbn-wUSd7bNnU0Ow2ve_dQXBNqmOL_ly1g1aMmkdZnzJ2H4r6B6B3e0yDrwsNz3clMKAZhCekPny35Zu2swebpYR4c0_Fd3E2GzFh/s1600/0b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSM4kDZD8PsHnscx83Xlmg536s3JYHZgZzeNl4eS1Dbn-wUSd7bNnU0Ow2ve_dQXBNqmOL_ly1g1aMmkdZnzJ2H4r6B6B3e0yDrwsNz3clMKAZhCekPny35Zu2swebpYR4c0_Fd3E2GzFh/s400/0b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstpaQAcOdr2gy5QlnKvFLhnqNISBEZklaEa99BfuO_dmx1FegB2ivC-Uxzu_eBrmUdSMG0-FE2umL_s48iEujx8t_OD1IPG4CuhyLE-0rNO_3hsYlDuxEL2LGAcGGvXXmIQa_ePTNeUBt/s1600/0c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstpaQAcOdr2gy5QlnKvFLhnqNISBEZklaEa99BfuO_dmx1FegB2ivC-Uxzu_eBrmUdSMG0-FE2umL_s48iEujx8t_OD1IPG4CuhyLE-0rNO_3hsYlDuxEL2LGAcGGvXXmIQa_ePTNeUBt/s400/0c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBs0MZZoEfEoASetOJpICivPibN3pElMG_qpZ3-h6e4xstU3Jgwvnm2-pTdnKhtMdXpiED373DRqRlYmd52bvYUZqTcN0g0k8cX64bB0iBOIiB7yyUwAdbrNopb_-xcSXVaIc4rprKVox/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBs0MZZoEfEoASetOJpICivPibN3pElMG_qpZ3-h6e4xstU3Jgwvnm2-pTdnKhtMdXpiED373DRqRlYmd52bvYUZqTcN0g0k8cX64bB0iBOIiB7yyUwAdbrNopb_-xcSXVaIc4rprKVox/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kahana Valley.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17R60WIXi2km0rgmzdoCxosM6sZSxtumTHeYubc7Dpkeq2VdN75rpCmIsP4VfT4TYajx_PrQdMUe2LVcuFWQWBQ4Vcprj-wIyN_ProJKeBstq2gA6GVDWzfSn6ObLWKEyO2Hk1dvmyfGW/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17R60WIXi2km0rgmzdoCxosM6sZSxtumTHeYubc7Dpkeq2VdN75rpCmIsP4VfT4TYajx_PrQdMUe2LVcuFWQWBQ4Vcprj-wIyN_ProJKeBstq2gA6GVDWzfSn6ObLWKEyO2Hk1dvmyfGW/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rounding a corner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uKTTYyJz1vgbzcUHPX1eYQJq2mj2b-x6on7XJNyVWAYOKzPwlAHxVqS8Pfq9umBmYmnX8boXFkESzes1AHBgpGWsIBiD7og5KzxCUtmNVGeCSCQd4TWlqBNYvoynknOrOllH1a6jkX-A/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uKTTYyJz1vgbzcUHPX1eYQJq2mj2b-x6on7XJNyVWAYOKzPwlAHxVqS8Pfq9umBmYmnX8boXFkESzes1AHBgpGWsIBiD7og5KzxCUtmNVGeCSCQd4TWlqBNYvoynknOrOllH1a6jkX-A/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leeward view.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rF9ehOFY7Nv0oMM5rnD-oUOiRVzb3aiDrwrM5qr4wLJOjF6BSld9WH5Y2kMG0e_Qcp09SBY1jgLci0Qak8MFekQsb8KxzJdV6w3549LJZ3m5ch6hGAkTqDdhyaD54Cb_JHtQ2zInp_lu/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7rF9ehOFY7Nv0oMM5rnD-oUOiRVzb3aiDrwrM5qr4wLJOjF6BSld9WH5Y2kMG0e_Qcp09SBY1jgLci0Qak8MFekQsb8KxzJdV6w3549LJZ3m5ch6hGAkTqDdhyaD54Cb_JHtQ2zInp_lu/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYRIjChAuYwGVSmjLfeiMHKzrcS3r-yF6QeeotWHBhjHDqb4A3dqXRf50rBdN9jtFhPR3vcc0tvj-APLDib_n90uwT_tjzHTfcUbP6JAsD-gzm-PGMKN0Vtzu7C0pnLhM1sPnLc6tWNG0/s1600/6b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYRIjChAuYwGVSmjLfeiMHKzrcS3r-yF6QeeotWHBhjHDqb4A3dqXRf50rBdN9jtFhPR3vcc0tvj-APLDib_n90uwT_tjzHTfcUbP6JAsD-gzm-PGMKN0Vtzu7C0pnLhM1sPnLc6tWNG0/s400/6b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCI7mKV7NgYscWwh7o_o7UZ6UCA2pHJsMV0a0lRWPToBQ91uyYA0HYWlFLaxZMWM_3gTdmb0oTMQfYDOq4oSGLFfHQ5U2sDtaBWTeVwNImB-KAthNWrbZCl24oapCMsNwJXI6y2f6jgGs1/s1600/6c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCI7mKV7NgYscWwh7o_o7UZ6UCA2pHJsMV0a0lRWPToBQ91uyYA0HYWlFLaxZMWM_3gTdmb0oTMQfYDOq4oSGLFfHQ5U2sDtaBWTeVwNImB-KAthNWrbZCl24oapCMsNwJXI6y2f6jgGs1/s400/6c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Descending the Waikane trail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOIRRLsHBHnCIX2Rt2M6Kkkxn76CQGg8pvrpqNlKUx9l_-rbI-bFWjskw4Yf-5iTNDgrXySOZjcG3h8M8UykRAUG0egMYBatG8EG7NzkW3fELYiJvz7ivy5cWP8q5dl7shN-Bs5lJwTx7/s1600/6d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOIRRLsHBHnCIX2Rt2M6Kkkxn76CQGg8pvrpqNlKUx9l_-rbI-bFWjskw4Yf-5iTNDgrXySOZjcG3h8M8UykRAUG0egMYBatG8EG7NzkW3fELYiJvz7ivy5cWP8q5dl7shN-Bs5lJwTx7/s400/6d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7CnQs8WWYLsRMJooIggA9154mzJ4WDdS7FjRFJOrrPC0y7sKPBDfQbACOomHLcOtV6DRetQkSVLbUg-BSePL1nZMTAzPhU5_ydXo9YSHAEnO0GyGnccm9M62TkrG864cvuNQC_ByY4YBV/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7CnQs8WWYLsRMJooIggA9154mzJ4WDdS7FjRFJOrrPC0y7sKPBDfQbACOomHLcOtV6DRetQkSVLbUg-BSePL1nZMTAzPhU5_ydXo9YSHAEnO0GyGnccm9M62TkrG864cvuNQC_ByY4YBV/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Waikane Valley.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
The three days in the Ko'olau came and went. What could have been done in two days, we spread out in three. And I'm glad we did. Three days was just enough to experience what very few have experienced first-hand, and to do it tent-less made it that much more exciting and unique. I'll always remember the challenging first day, and the laughs we shared in the cabin reminiscing about the day we so gladly could leave behind. I'll never forget the second day, pushing through intense winds in knee deep mud at our highest point of elevation, eventually reaching familiar ground at Poamoho. And I'll forever cherish our final day, where the weather seemed to change in our favor along the most beautiful stretch of trail on Oahu, a perfect ending to our long trek. And lastly, I couldn't have asked for a better group to do it with. We finished it together, and without the company of Lei, Keoni, and Ryan, it wouldn't have been the same.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">
The stretch between Laie and Waikane remains to be the most remote section of the Ko'olau summit that I have hiked. It is full of wonder and awe, but it also expends much of your energy. The mud, wind, rain, and indistinct trails make it very challenging, and depending on how far you want to go, the mileage will take its toll physically and mentally. However, you have to learn to roll with hardship, and enjoy it. It's the only way to cope, and the only way to move further. The mist will roll in, the wind will get stronger, the temperature will drop, and the sun will come and go. It's a perfect analogy to life itself: there will be pain and serenity -- find the advantage of both to push on through.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/49154370?byline=0&badge=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="400"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Related links:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/08/poamoho-to-wahiawa-july-24-2011.html" target="_blank">Poamoho to Wahiawa - July 24th, 2011</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/10/kahana-to-wahiawa-october-8-2011.html" target="_blank">Kahana to Wahiawa - October 8th, 2011</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/07/malaekahana-to-laie-july-2-2011.html" target="_blank">Malaekahana to Laie - July 2nd, 2011</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-46012516912483295362012-11-20T12:02:00.001-10:002012-11-20T12:05:55.946-10:00Konahuanui West to Manoa Middle - August 25, 2012A lot of attention has recently been given to a ridge route that starts at the Pali Lookout in Nu'uanu Valley. The route traverses the popular Pali Notches trail and several menacing obstacles, eventually topping out on the highest peak in the Ko'olau mountain range, Konahuanui. The west ridge leading to Konahuanui has become a very popular route for those seeking an adrenaline-inducing scramble. Konahuanui West ridge is also a very historical site; it is where the Battle of Nu'uanu was fought, leading into the unification of the Hawaiian islands. More info on the Battle of Nu'uanu can be found by clicking <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Nu%CA%BBuanu" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
I've had the Konahuanui West ridge route on my to-do-list for around three years. It didn't get much publicity until Pete Clines, Duc Ong, and Laredo Muredo did it in 2009 (or was it 2008 or 2010 -- I forgot the year). It is very unlikely Pete and crew were the first, but after reading Pete's write-up on it, Pete was probably the first to actually fully document the trek.<br />
<br />
After hearing about Pete, Duc, and Laredo's successful hike up the Pali Notches trail and down Piliwale, word spread quickly into the hiking community along with Pete's PDF document. Several hiking groups jumped on the opportunity and followed suit, completing the trek successfully as well. Within a month, over five groups had done the hike, and it was safe to say that the ridge was getting more traffic in just one month than it did in the past decade. A hike that I found so intriguing had lost its somewhat "virgin" appeal. I left alone the idea of completing it for later.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to August 2012, and I finally got the motivation to do it. I juggled with the options of either going down Piliwale or the regular trail from K2. I had done both already, so I chose to extend the trek along the Ko'olau summit ridge all the way to the junction with Manoa Middle Ridge instead. From the terminus of Manoa Middle Ridge we'd descend and end in Manoa Valley. In prepartion for the hike, I wanted everything to be perfect: cool, breezy tradewinds, partly cloudy, dry conditions, and a summit free of clouds atop Konahuanui, a rare event atop the muddy and moist mountain peak. Weather forecasts a week prior looked promising, so I set the date and called Jason Nakasato, Micah Komine, and Scott Fisher to join me.<br />
<br />
The morning of our hike was beautiful. It was cool, breezy, and partly cloudy: just what I had wanted. Starting at 8:15am, we made our way to the first two notches in about fifteen minutes. We negotiated the first notch with ease and made our way to the second notch. At the second notch a rope was affixed to a metal peg on top of the ridge. It was our first tricky obstacle, but we made it down the second notch safely.<br />
<br />
Past the second notch the ridge gets down to serious business. The ridge becomes extremely narrow just before reaching an obstacle known as "The Chimney." The name coincides with the smooth and shute-like nature of the rock face that needs to be climbed. Like a chimney, without rope, you'd have to shimmy your way up using all fours. Luckily, rope was already installed, giving us added security on the way up. Beyond the chimney the rock gets even more brittle, much of it cracking and crumbling with every step.<br />
<br />
The most dangerous part of the hike was just ahead. We were confronted with a large vertical rock face that we had to contour on its leeward side. Although webbing was installed hugging the mountainside, the danger was obvious. A horizontal ledge merely a foot wide is all there is to use as footing until scrambling again over loose dirt and rock. The drop at the ledge is unforgiving, plummeting a couple hundred feet into Nu'uanu Valley. Jason went first and made it look easy. So did Micah. I went third and found the webbing to be more of a nuisance than helpful. Along the narrow ledge, the ground under my feet felt weak. I inched my way slowly, not wanting to put to much foot pressure along the ledge. I began the scramble. As soon as I started to climb a rock the size of a large marble fell right onto my naked right eye. The little rock hit me hard enough lose my footing for a moment, as well as my vision. I paused for a second to regain my vision and footing, finding a reliable hand holds for added security. After regaining my composure I made it back onto the crest of the ridge. Looking ahead there was a little more scrambling involved but much more forgiving than the contour. Scott was the last in line and I took out my GoPro camera to get a top-down view of him scrambling up the sketchy contour. He made it up to the ridge crest with no problem.<br />
<br />
Higher and higher we ascended. Major obstacles were few and far between. I remember having to climb an eight foot boulder situated directly in the middle of the ridge without any option for a contour. We had to climb up and over the boulder to proceed further -- tricky, but doable. Another noteworthy obstacle was a long rope section nestled in vegetation along a wet and slick portion of the ridge. No drops to worry about there, just a lot of upper body strength involved to advance further.<br />
Beyond the long rope section the ridge got muddier, a sign that the summit was near. After about three hours of ascending, we finally reached the top of a Konahuanui, cloud-free! The view was phenomenal! From our vantage point, we could see from Kualoa all the way to Makapu'u Point, as well as the cloud-free neighboring peaks to the west along the Ko'olau mountain range. In the far off distances, we could even see the Waianae Mountain Range to the west, and the islands of Molokai and Maui to the east. The sun was out, the tradewinds kept us cool, and we were alone. We sat down, ate lunch, and rested for around hour, enjoying the awesome views laid out in front of us. After our much needed break, we packed up and pushed on along the Ko'olau summit ridge to the terminus of Manoa Middle.<br />
<br />
The stretch between Konahuanui and Manoa Middle was mostly downhill. An obvious swath and ropes along certain section assured us that we were now on familiar hiking territory. Hiking two-and-a-half hours lapsed: we reached the ribboned terminus of Manoa Middle. After just under two hours of descending, we found ourselves following Waiakeakua stream back out to civilization. At 4:30, we reached my car and shuttled back to Jason's car at the Pali Lookout.<br />
<br />
Related links:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/01/manoa-middle-to-waahila-january-16-2011.html" target="_blank">Manoa Middle to Wa'ahila - January 16th, 2011</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/03/konahuanui-march-17-2008.html" target="_blank">Konahuanui - March 17th, 2008</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/10/piliwale-ridge-october-11-2009.html" target="_blank">Piliwale Ridge - October 10th, 2009</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/10/piliwale-to-lulumahu-september-10-2011.html" target="_blank">Piliwale to Lulumahu - September 10th, 2011</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuIvxkoKGQv2rRSfpHm8oOW3UzyB_1mK42jwGCi-vdbJVPMARqFsLspvf-pX1TubIaxNeasZaf0rncvFcVaXhOUg4TpquDebStii1g2mpedNuzYSrv0fb_jmaz2lIOb5k4WwmlX1yxmWC3/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Scott scrambling up the contour after the chimney.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsXk-zyFS_qCXnOkauS47Xwo9ivdNTfC05FAx1PQ92QRwo2e7upy4mPqUlD9qfcZRa-40anregTUi8onGHFka5phLI3isT9BpPO1ae_QtlNWDHf-m-vHsmhFiKrtVGEpYNAfAXXFcoPyh/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Micah inching his way along the thin ledge of the contour.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggm1LUI-ykXSsfpX0AkLTvKZzKetQlwtNICrts4HEA7f2gTsezz1USiDQFgmRmKPhY8hpH1kDHhMdw5Y4CciphsNYhqzHZUDOR_2vcPkDruE-NTYx9QbM3MN5N3bRLujWrYwubs8M7aB5Z/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggm1LUI-ykXSsfpX0AkLTvKZzKetQlwtNICrts4HEA7f2gTsezz1USiDQFgmRmKPhY8hpH1kDHhMdw5Y4CciphsNYhqzHZUDOR_2vcPkDruE-NTYx9QbM3MN5N3bRLujWrYwubs8M7aB5Z/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wcUw-cogh3yXgcd1LEQV80Okgl2F-nA3orabNsZf3FWtIeCNCvzoAwBrD9A-CNd2SO5m1RVk0_2ZFzMBTJOxIS9VHijbOc_TZBWDjRAfLAjo-ksRD8rTfoInqm1YrA_GhWRJPVhDo893/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looking east toward Makapu'u Point.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0PWegYlMVo3arX4FV38EaZj0kIQeDQSxqFMUFM2DWqDaU-konwi3TJlDy5EmGUPAFcocNHqVTyj2-3DAetX3WL17_RHfMJ6IWjcz34Ofi8kB1wN-9rpQBcJ3_HXrxNwmzp1NcroOxJ59/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc0PWegYlMVo3arX4FV38EaZj0kIQeDQSxqFMUFM2DWqDaU-konwi3TJlDy5EmGUPAFcocNHqVTyj2-3DAetX3WL17_RHfMJ6IWjcz34Ofi8kB1wN-9rpQBcJ3_HXrxNwmzp1NcroOxJ59/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View looking northwest.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYWnmTkMeo5gWv5TcYifCVe-GNrh95fcC1k5Y_tZItN7cFPcpJ_FR-zKfDjiWeksCBHh1-gK1e9xSQ2P9i8BHx403eFYSlxc3DZltwv_tW0eqzfOQv7EN9L2cclxMjhRxY4NKh6fQ3KRV/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYWnmTkMeo5gWv5TcYifCVe-GNrh95fcC1k5Y_tZItN7cFPcpJ_FR-zKfDjiWeksCBHh1-gK1e9xSQ2P9i8BHx403eFYSlxc3DZltwv_tW0eqzfOQv7EN9L2cclxMjhRxY4NKh6fQ3KRV/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leeward view looking toward Honolulu.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNdLZ2OObrOUpswT2Wz03wQlOdBcpMG60dIhJ-HahQ4-pV0YiZGvihW9pPPtWlmY9XVa3honbY6nOCylrjNseFYfelriDeKW5kBcqXUOhyphenhyphenrtjQ7rV3Gnpq90LixDsFfczGT4UE_waaJJt/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNdLZ2OObrOUpswT2Wz03wQlOdBcpMG60dIhJ-HahQ4-pV0YiZGvihW9pPPtWlmY9XVa3honbY6nOCylrjNseFYfelriDeKW5kBcqXUOhyphenhyphenrtjQ7rV3Gnpq90LixDsFfczGT4UE_waaJJt/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Looking toward Pu'u Awa'awaloa from Manoa Middle.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/48586092?byline=0&badge=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1&loop=1" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="400"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-26600002398274628112012-10-04T12:17:00.001-10:002012-10-04T15:50:24.675-10:00Kaua-Kanehoa - August 5, 2012Pu'u Kaua is one my favorite trails on the island of Oahu. It is a trail less trodden on by hikers, but used mostly by the Nature Conservancy and the Oahu Army and Natural Resources crews for plant research and invasive species eradication. Although the trail is one of the lesser known on the island, it still gets regular trail maintainence by the aformentioned parties, making for a well-defined, wide open trail year round.<br />
<br />
From the Pu'u Kaua trailhead it takes less than an hour-and-a-half to summit Kaua's peak at 3,127 feet. The ascent gets steep around half-an-hour into the hike, and gets even steeper around the last 150 feet, with ropes installed along several sections. It's too bad, though, that access to the actual trailhead takes some time and navigation through a hot maze of dirt roads.<br />
<br />
I've been to the peak of Kaua a number of times, the view at the top being one of the best 360-degree views on the island. I've always wanted to connect Kaua's neighboring peak to the north, Pu'u Kanehoa, along the Waianae summit ridge. However, doing so would require traversing a menacing ridgeline separating both peaks, complete with extremely narrow ridge sections, crumbly rock, and severe vegetation overgrowth.<br />
<br />
Before attempting Kaua-Kanehoa I did some research on Kanehoa first. I had never been up there, and just like Kaua, getting to Kanehoa's actual trailhead from the bottom is tricky. The bottom portions of the ridge to the top of Kaua are mostly used by hunters. Several write-ups, a Kanehoa topo map given to me by <a href="http://waianaecrider.com/" target="_blank">Steve Rohrmayer</a>, and some info given to me by a hunter friend of mine who has hunted in the area a number of times proved very useful.<br />
<br />
Kanehoa, unlike Kaua, rarely gets any hiker traffic. The actual trailhead that was used by the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club started at what my friend Gary Badis and other local hunters call "Mongoose Theater," a manmade landmark near the base of the ridge leading up to Kanehoa that resembles a large green screen. Mongoose Theater can easily be spotted from Kunia Road, and the trail that heads up to Kanehoa starts in that relative area.<br />
<br />
The Kanehoa trail was regularly hiked to the summit by the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club. It's been over three years since their last clearing, so I knew that portions along the ridge would be completely overgrown. In fact, <a href="http://www.alohafrom808.com/" target="_blank">Cory Yap</a> and Baron Yamamoto scouted the trail about a year ago and reported heavy overgrowth near the middle sections of the ridge.<br />
<br />
More importantly would be how to distinguish the summit of Kanehoa and where to turn down. From the write-ups I had read and some tidbits given to me by August Smith, Kanehoa's summit is a large, exposed dirt clearing. From there, ribbons would mark the correct path down windward.<br />
<br />
Secondly, I gathered as much as I could about the summit section between Kaua and Kanehoa. I only knew of two people completing that particular section. Jeremy Kreis did it in his mind-boggling 12-hour solo hike from Kolekole Pass to Makakilo. Pete Clines also completed the section, so I asked him how the ridge section was. There are two prominent tooth-like features about twenty minutes from Kaua. Just before the teeth are two sizeable rock faces that also have to be negotiated to get to the base of the first tooth. Pete told me that he remembered seeing a contour that bypasses the teeth, avoiding the perilous upclimbs and downclimbs altogether. The only way to find out was to go up there and take a look.<br />
<br />
A week before actually committing to the Kaua-Kanehoa attempt, I went up to Kaua with Keoni Napoleon, August Smith, Tanya Peiffer, and Chastity Wassman for a quick scouting mission, stopping just short of the "teeth" to see what was really in store.<br />
<br />
Initially, we started out on the dirt roads. On past hikes I had done to Kaua, the dirt roads I took were firm and solid as you walked on it. This time I could tell the road had been tilled. Every step we took our feet would sink in to our shins. We consorted to skirting the edge of the road where the ground was firmer and easier to walk on.<br />
<br />
Further in I could also see a large bit of land had been developed with houses, wooden fences, and machinery. That was not there the last time I was in the area. Apparently, large parcels of land are being sold, which probably explains why the roads have now been tilled. Whoever is in charge is aiming to rid of the roads so access by vehicle will soon be impossible. It will be a shame if all the undeveloped cropland is sold for housing, and with it up for sale, it is inevitable. And when that happens, the only way to get to the Kaua trailhead would be to hike along the Hono'uli'uli contour trail, a long contour trail at the base of the Waianae Mountain Range starting from Kolekole Pass to Makakilo that is similar to the Maunawili Demonstration Trail found at the base of the Ko'olau Mountain Range.<br />
<br />
As we approached the teeth, looking at it head-on was a bit discouraging, especially what existed before it to get there. The rock faces before the teeth are vertical and inverted in spots, and would require rope. The ridge also lacked any spot to affix rope to with confidence. The only trees we could use were far above and would require a good length of rope to safely start the downclimb. After getting a good idea of what to expect, we all headed back down the mountain.<br />
<br />
_________________________________________<br />
<br />
<br />
The next weekend Christina Delima, Nate Rubio, Jordan Hart, Aaron Nokai, and I set out to troubleshoot the rock faces. Nate and I brought along a sufficent amount of rope and webbing along. At the same spot I turned around the week prior, we could see a goat trail skirting off the windward side of the ridge and into the gulch below. Instead of following the ridge line, we'd affix my webbing to a sturdy tree, hang it down the windward side of the ridge, and make our way down to a thin ledge that would allow further progress to the second notch. One-by-one we successfully made it down past the first rock face, leaving my webbing looped around the tree just in case we would decide to turn around.<br />
<br />
The second rock face required a sketchy leeward downclimb off the ridge to a thin ledge<br />
with rope affixed to a fence on top of the ridge. Although not as big as the last downclimb, this obstacle was tricky because the smooth rock face was devoid of hand and foot holds. The ridge was narrow here, but there was fence built directly on top of the ridge providing some security and something to hold onto. The drop to the leeward was giant, and slipping there would not be a good place to fall. Nate looped his rope along the fence. Jordan and I made our way down to the ledge and past the second rock face without any trouble. Christina, Aaron, and Nate stayed back while Jordan and I reached the base of the tooth.<br />
<br />
Jordan made his way up the tooth first. We watched in horror as he climbed up getting past a section of the upclimb that looked the worst: a large, smooth, near-vertical rock face about six feet high. When he hit the top of the tooth, it was my turn. From the base of the tooth looking up, it was obvious the tooth was climbable, looking eerily similar to the first upclimb on <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/09/bolohead-ridge-may-12-may-15-august-14.html" target="_blank">Bolohead Ridge</a>. The climb had surprisingly sturdy rock, with ledges everywhere making the climb easier than I had thought. But then I reached the six-foot rock face. Pulling on the rock face was not a good option because the rock actually wiggled when I pulled on it. Instead, to get above it, I had to situate my footing on a thin ledge on the windward side of the tooth, allowing myself to get more height to place my hands on top of the rock face. Once I was able to put my hands on top of the rock, I used my strength to get myself on top of the rock face using a pushup motion. For a couple seconds my feet were hanging, only my hands supporting my weight on top of the rock face. I swung my right foot forward above the rock face and I was at the top of the first tooth, with Jordan giving me a celebratory handshake.<br />
<br />
Watching from afar and still at the top of the second rock face were Chritina, Aaron, and Nate. We yelled out that getting up the tooth was doable and that we'd coach them on the way up. Christina elected to go back to the first rock face and retrieve my webbing.<br />
<br />
Incredibly nerve wrecking was the bird's eye view Jordan and I seen as we watched our three friends follow suit and climb up the tooth one-by-one. Everyone made it safely up the tooth, and we proceeded to the opposite side.<br />
<br />
The opposite side of the first tooth was narrow, extremely crumbly, and equally challenging. Butt-scooting was the only option. Rocks would crumble and loosen with the pressure of our weight. Near the bottom was the trickest. Hand and foot holds had to be chosen wisely as much of the rock would give way to the slightest touch.<br />
<br />
After we all made it down the backside of the first tooth, we headed up the second tooth, which was much more forgiving than the first. Traversing the second tooth was a cinch, and from the top of the second tooth was an awesome view of the what we face on our way to Kanehoa: a vegetated stretch of ridge that looked to be a hell of a lot safer than what we just went through.<br />
<br />
Staying along the ridgeline, we made our way towards Kaua. Judging by the overgrowth, it's safe to say the section between the teeth and Kanehoa is one of those Oahu ridge sections that is rarely ever hiked. The only swaths we could see were suicidal goat and pig trails shooting down the leeward and windward slopes. Other than that, no ribbons, no eradication fences, no rat traps: nothing. Several spots along the ridge allowed for a nice open rest spot in the shade, some more exposed than others, allowing spectacular views overlooking the western portion of the island. But once we started moving again, we found ourselves pushing through, crawling through, and getting tangled in vegetation.<br />
<br />
As we neared closer and closer to Kanehoa, a swath became more and more apparent. After a short and amazing exposed section just before Kanehoa, we were at the flat, dirt summit of Pu'u Kanehoa. We wasted no time at the peak and just headed down the obvious trail heading down a windward spur that was marked with ribbons.<br />
<br />
For a moment, the ridge seemed to be in awesome condition, with a well-defined trail to follow, but just as Cory Yap and Baron Yamamoto had said, we reached the overgrown middle section and actually lost the trail a few times. Not wanting to veer in the wrong direction, we just stayed true to the ridgeline, keeping our eyes peeled for ribbons and a swath at our feet below the vegetation.<br />
<br />
We reached a junction where the ridge split. The left option, I assumed, led to Mongoose Theater; the right option looked to be more of a direct route toward the direction of our car. We decided to take the right spur. After descending for what seemed an eternity, we reached massive groves of California grass. Following faint trails through the grass, we finally hit a road. Turning left on the road we found ourselves in cropland and at the back of Kunia Camp. From there we walked into Kunia Camp then on to Kunia Road and back to our car.<br />
<br />
Related links:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/09/puu-kaua-september-20-2009.html" target="_blank">Pu'u Kaua - September 20th, 2009</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVyMiDCiaCcXF0-wUNzc4nuUdjLO9rnfFCx8MqmV_nk_zCw-_PP4yStEEpcjMXr9dGWTpo11X_bHLlmlDu-UAT_1SML435zFhT75o3eCICzlOM6_k9SuBh0b0JG_t3m3o9_5Lqm08Fivf/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVyMiDCiaCcXF0-wUNzc4nuUdjLO9rnfFCx8MqmV_nk_zCw-_PP4yStEEpcjMXr9dGWTpo11X_bHLlmlDu-UAT_1SML435zFhT75o3eCICzlOM6_k9SuBh0b0JG_t3m3o9_5Lqm08Fivf/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nate negotiating the windward contour to pass the 1st rock face.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHigvMhPexnFW6nfcpZjhyWe3HQLIzFwQqDtpZsbtN75YtU01u06HS0XfvZhEzJAqlTGjEog1G96egD4vTfg5KOmtaOCYgzugHO_t1qAXFqh6MF0dMPyIQEzeDpRLcdYgJZG3zKNHZlaTF/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHigvMhPexnFW6nfcpZjhyWe3HQLIzFwQqDtpZsbtN75YtU01u06HS0XfvZhEzJAqlTGjEog1G96egD4vTfg5KOmtaOCYgzugHO_t1qAXFqh6MF0dMPyIQEzeDpRLcdYgJZG3zKNHZlaTF/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jordan at the base of the 1st tooth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7c1GeDhoCujXJalSXfMmgNE-TyKY-8VaI_2cIWIgnVCoN1RN_Rd8B9iYy3A-8ZLrT0uS3hiB-0q9adOYOOsRzpF5gkJeBS2B8shEE51vVlwTwTMXvz1wlrc7t7QUKMVp1ANMJnJPhvdZ/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7c1GeDhoCujXJalSXfMmgNE-TyKY-8VaI_2cIWIgnVCoN1RN_Rd8B9iYy3A-8ZLrT0uS3hiB-0q9adOYOOsRzpF5gkJeBS2B8shEE51vVlwTwTMXvz1wlrc7t7QUKMVp1ANMJnJPhvdZ/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Christina making her way up the 1st tooth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIE9xd5rCQ-1dP4-Np0Fvix5ciuGTRz4cGXhm1jOMHz6p_iBBbL6qAetoSCaXDZw-tKqG6Ne2Aq6G160-U8bn2bsI9qrc4lRd4dQimZxMfBnYl5hopgBJ3sq00GhLNOP6a0eKf2Iia4K1D/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIE9xd5rCQ-1dP4-Np0Fvix5ciuGTRz4cGXhm1jOMHz6p_iBBbL6qAetoSCaXDZw-tKqG6Ne2Aq6G160-U8bn2bsI9qrc4lRd4dQimZxMfBnYl5hopgBJ3sq00GhLNOP6a0eKf2Iia4K1D/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Coming down the opposite side of the 1st tooth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmucYSTIeHgi9kx-gUt_kdUjQkkTGvqh4trIXmqST5pCz0HuvxRPXYLiJuD_fh72Km6qASlYwJHQtGtbfjsZT-2YB6jkrpm_OqJ8ZCOEvSEXNZlyzsnmVZTW77vC6t-AA8EzzZOweoxAhz/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmucYSTIeHgi9kx-gUt_kdUjQkkTGvqh4trIXmqST5pCz0HuvxRPXYLiJuD_fh72Km6qASlYwJHQtGtbfjsZT-2YB6jkrpm_OqJ8ZCOEvSEXNZlyzsnmVZTW77vC6t-AA8EzzZOweoxAhz/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhES7Kpvtj4fWmyf_3PUkR384QMzeZvSnHrU1FsHexVXSkJ2TLutexvUbEsKegBlugdvLUQM-o256II8VhaznIyGrnjRaWd0_FGraFntXSfMIeMAWH5aPwNgPnNcaBWmCn6OZQ44BJbijM1/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhES7Kpvtj4fWmyf_3PUkR384QMzeZvSnHrU1FsHexVXSkJ2TLutexvUbEsKegBlugdvLUQM-o256II8VhaznIyGrnjRaWd0_FGraFntXSfMIeMAWH5aPwNgPnNcaBWmCn6OZQ44BJbijM1/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Coming down the opposite side of the 2nd tooth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBn8Z_O7NIN4mYpSL0ax29NpVQGF39Zw9sWUgexgWIBdoMhobZJhJPqTgP1xI15MqOzyLGsP_IREk9CGkpttMAbI_1StZa8-W7fqEgWLifsv_aK8t2yKJv-5QFBKAzO_xG7_ST6a8_Hkv8/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBn8Z_O7NIN4mYpSL0ax29NpVQGF39Zw9sWUgexgWIBdoMhobZJhJPqTgP1xI15MqOzyLGsP_IREk9CGkpttMAbI_1StZa8-W7fqEgWLifsv_aK8t2yKJv-5QFBKAzO_xG7_ST6a8_Hkv8/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Leeward view of Lualualei Valley and Waianae Valley.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rCdq4kC-I01U6GDbSY71kuI8QCzzWSNsH50Fp6F-ACfFLPES3WGJW3nbvuWDPGyshhPTbo5kthQtPwYZX8No5yTqD4zHzAiiudMs-b55NQ9sjYSlbEhCElrnMRDnjtWx_DesAoVBjFLi/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rCdq4kC-I01U6GDbSY71kuI8QCzzWSNsH50Fp6F-ACfFLPES3WGJW3nbvuWDPGyshhPTbo5kthQtPwYZX8No5yTqD4zHzAiiudMs-b55NQ9sjYSlbEhCElrnMRDnjtWx_DesAoVBjFLi/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last climb before summiting Kanehoa.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKOj3VUVRzEikM025tLufFMSLM7IzfvMfZz_UsBVjO33jV8QQkqns4e7PYWxjaoEzBjOT8DeWsn1x2IJcuUVklNhpCfXL9slrV9szWVZ2Hk_Q6Z53FjLRvHD09oraSCF21EQqdEveyWBp/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKOj3VUVRzEikM025tLufFMSLM7IzfvMfZz_UsBVjO33jV8QQkqns4e7PYWxjaoEzBjOT8DeWsn1x2IJcuUVklNhpCfXL9slrV9szWVZ2Hk_Q6Z53FjLRvHD09oraSCF21EQqdEveyWBp/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Looking back towards Kaua from Kanehoa.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/47323342?byline=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1&loop=1" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="400"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-84705687161702301212012-09-15T00:11:00.001-10:002012-09-15T00:19:46.697-10:00Wailele Gulch - July 15, 2012<br />
Wailele Gulch is one of those stream hikes that I will probably never do again. With this second attempt I have to assume that maybe this gulch really doesn't have a waterfall at its end after all. Maybe it's just a spring. Maybe you'll get to the end, and all you'll see is water trickling out of pourous mountain rock rather than a big cascading flow of water.<br />
<br />
Either way it doesn't matter now. I fell in love with this gulch the first time to the point of obsession, with its crystal clear water and desolate location. Now I hate it. It is extrordinarily beautiful, but the effort it takes to get as far as we did just to turn around was not worth it. Hiking about five hours upstream through multiple hau tangles and heavy rain squalls and not being able to successfully complete what you set out for is disappointing to say the least.<br />
<br />
Out of all the stream hikes I've done, Wailele is the only stream where at a certain point I could not tell which way was mauka and which way was makai. All streams lead to the ocean, but Wailele winds so much and so deep into the Ko'olaus that the towering ridges surrounding the area make it hard to distinguish which way is which. Add in some rain with the gulch walls noticeably closing in and you place yourself in danger of a flash flood.<br />
<br />
Our late start at the trailhead was partly to blame for failing. I'm pretty sure if we started at the crack of dawn, we probably could've made it to the back of the gulch with enough time to head back before sundown. But the physical aspect of the hike is unlike any I've done; it even rivals some of the hardest ridge hikes I've done! In addition to gaining elevation gradually on the way in, it's actually the hike back that takes a brutal toll on the body, especailly on the upper body. Picture yourself doing arm dips and swinging your legs in front of you for four hours, all while trying not to roll an ankle on the slippery streambed. Not to mention going through all the hau tangles you went through all over again but in reverse. What follows is a couple days of full body muscle fatigue and recovery.<br />
<br />
For those seeking a wild and remote gluch adventure, Wailele Gulch is it. Just don't bargain on it being an easy stroll alongside a stream. This stream "trail" is long and demanding. If anyone reaches the very back of the gulch, let me know what you find. Hopefully the long trek reaches something worth writing home about.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcy3hCem1Ny-gCizNeIZPx-rJMKCxMxw6Ykoj82dwbzYodwv2hE2SoTkPtn55JotOMVBN9fuACR94_l0xBNO9Yu9P7uA4aGltIbmYSNJzmBzsCusIwgQEL16gbRRuHga2HFtONnuqVL0t/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcy3hCem1Ny-gCizNeIZPx-rJMKCxMxw6Ykoj82dwbzYodwv2hE2SoTkPtn55JotOMVBN9fuACR94_l0xBNO9Yu9P7uA4aGltIbmYSNJzmBzsCusIwgQEL16gbRRuHga2HFtONnuqVL0t/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ryan navigating his way through just one of the many hau tangles.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77yDEwwfLIXrCnejgdn4HPw8ZCzOp0_TXbVmoiji5NKKR2dcVX-zuHtrmKdBkBkUnNa8heCBZh7MktKQD1mgFEG0DKOW6c1OdJoV31MgiRolIpcud9RTa4woIQg1xrRKL7ldn7JnA_12p/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77yDEwwfLIXrCnejgdn4HPw8ZCzOp0_TXbVmoiji5NKKR2dcVX-zuHtrmKdBkBkUnNa8heCBZh7MktKQD1mgFEG0DKOW6c1OdJoV31MgiRolIpcud9RTa4woIQg1xrRKL7ldn7JnA_12p/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Taking a dip at the 2nd waterfall, about four hours upstream.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ZqNwlZXKIPGjTXmU8W-7HIHN0dBNIXDpbWMCo9r_c_g4uJ2ypplT_PK-HWGPeaBUslS2n1RSObbN9jH2YkXdlDR5i6bE64y2Eh8aqiJ95VmoLtVZbv_E0HyDc3hXSD0GVM4d9QQUIyza/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ZqNwlZXKIPGjTXmU8W-7HIHN0dBNIXDpbWMCo9r_c_g4uJ2ypplT_PK-HWGPeaBUslS2n1RSObbN9jH2YkXdlDR5i6bE64y2Eh8aqiJ95VmoLtVZbv_E0HyDc3hXSD0GVM4d9QQUIyza/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Climbing the upper portion of the the 2nd waterfall.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJ2LNmQy2clc6f_BnWx3Zx3pJXIW8jublEYUcxWKoykf_XIm7anoRdT9f5WABXgIoD2a8CzS7YsBwjA1Il2pKLCwNiGSOfpV1lcfWDToeMH-oYf8VprkpVFX9qfYDhCRoCEtqTxl7eWb7/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJ2LNmQy2clc6f_BnWx3Zx3pJXIW8jublEYUcxWKoykf_XIm7anoRdT9f5WABXgIoD2a8CzS7YsBwjA1Il2pKLCwNiGSOfpV1lcfWDToeMH-oYf8VprkpVFX9qfYDhCRoCEtqTxl7eWb7/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lei and Ryan preparing themselves for the long way back out of the gulch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FB7CxxpkUbbvXzdIhlQFqiBiSB7b9RdRU7_J4UduFMcz7PkujLFu6IaqhV-WnH6RBTC-1iHY30meLSgUQ2j1lcLjHLUvtHdSAzi-xCfhiFvqbm9TbxqHJQGJ-uF8hPfk1D2wMIuWCDSq/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9FB7CxxpkUbbvXzdIhlQFqiBiSB7b9RdRU7_J4UduFMcz7PkujLFu6IaqhV-WnH6RBTC-1iHY30meLSgUQ2j1lcLjHLUvtHdSAzi-xCfhiFvqbm9TbxqHJQGJ-uF8hPfk1D2wMIuWCDSq/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our turnaround point, about 5 hours upstream, just before yet another dreadful hau tangle.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/47151446?byline=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1&loop=1" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="400"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-18017509096506339112012-08-18T09:05:00.002-10:002012-08-18T09:05:43.494-10:00Pupukea to Laie - June 24, 2012<br />
Ryan Chang, Keoni Napoleon, Kelven Del Rosario, Mark Balasbas, and I finally got to complete the section from Pupukea to Malaekahana Ridge. Surprisingly, this section was easier than I expected, partly because we took advantage of fellow hiker Chase Norton's trail clearings. Without his work, it probably would've took us a lot longer to complete. It also was the first leg of <a href="http://www.unrealhawaii.com/2012/05/chase-norton-koolau-summit/" target="_blank">Chase's incredible 8-day trek from Pupukea to Makapu'u</a> that he completed in April 2012. The route is mostly contour, making for relatively easy walking through lots of mud and lots of strawberry guava trees.<br />
<br />
We started around 7:30am at the Pupukea Boy Scout Camp at the top of Pupukea Road. Initially, the weather was insanely horrible and discouraging, but as we headed up the paved road and along the trail, by around 9am, the inclement weather changed for the better. And when I mean better, it actually was perfect, with high overcast clouds and strong, gusty tradewinds to cool us off throughout the day.<br />
<br />
At just about 9:30am, we hit the terminus of the Pupukea trail known as the Hina Benchmark. About an hour beyond, past the Hina Benchmark is where it starts to feel like you're in the middle of nowhere. The only exit route is either the Kahuku Ridge trail or turning around, and both options are very far apart. Sprawling views of the landscape can be seen in every direction, most notably the awesome views looking west towards the Waianae Mountains.<br />
<br />
A few times we lost the trail and had to do some route finding, especially near what we thought to be was the terminus of the Kahuku trail. I think we actually went down it for a little while until deciding on turning around to get back to the KST. Another time we got lost was at a signed junction that indicated Laie was in one direction and Kahuku was in the other direction. Perpendicular to the sign was a very obvious trail junction that headed makai, so we followed it a ways until the trail just disappeared into a thick sea of uluhe. I did see old faded ribbons on trees, though, so it must've been an old trail. Shortcut to Malaekahana? I don't know, but we called it quits after about twenty minutes of bushwhacking, turning around back into the direction of the KST.<br />
<br />
Once back on the KST, the trail began its weaving through now lower vegetation. Because of the exposure, the views here were awesome. It was about 1:30pm, and we decided on bushwhacking up a little pu'u to an incredible lookout point facing west towards the Waianae Mountain Range. After snapping photos, we headed down the pu'u back onto the KST, and headed to the junction with the Malaekahana Ridge trail.<br />
<br />
After fifteen minutes past the overlook, we hit the Malakahana junction. It would now take us about 2.5 hours to get Po'ohaili Street in Laie. The way down Malaekahana was wide open due to a clearing that day by the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club. The sun shone through the clouds, making for a hot and sweaty descent down the ridge, but it also made for some dramatic landscape shots with the sun behind our backs.<br />
<br />
At 4:50pm, we reached Ryan's car which we had staged earlier in the morning. We plopped down on the grass, took off our muddy shoes, packed up our gear into the car, and headed back to Pupukea Heights. A long 9.5 hours of hiking. Well worth it.<br />
<br />
Related links:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/07/malaekahana-to-laie-july-2-2011.html" target="_blank">Malaekahana to Laie - July 2nd, 2011</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/06/malaekahana-ridge-and-waterfall-may-31.html" target="_blank">Malaekahana Ridge and Waterfall - May 31st, 2009</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/07/kaunala-july-30-2009.html" target="_blank">Kaunala Trail - July 30th, 2009</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQn3J36iXVzK8cyXBipUzBaTwjxuU70565ki3SBMKXjC57ygfJk-yFU-KaQTTTo6G5oQvnkwy0AomqojchfKlneVWnj1MIiOrNK0aYERmpRQTPjIrbQQ5Y4Sz3eAwjweV0D15YabBl2ac/s1600/a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQn3J36iXVzK8cyXBipUzBaTwjxuU70565ki3SBMKXjC57ygfJk-yFU-KaQTTTo6G5oQvnkwy0AomqojchfKlneVWnj1MIiOrNK0aYERmpRQTPjIrbQQ5Y4Sz3eAwjweV0D15YabBl2ac/s400/a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTlAzvV1D8oTE4WOhnX1qLKG_lVVT-1OErDyVFv7VKflF5f-dMuesbt57HsX0fYhwuLAI-mloLQ2mP0pkED06J-e7y67yH1MJ17NhTK5pti-KzjrlGiqMfr2lnMt-UBOLN_bxJVUMXWA/s1600/b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTlAzvV1D8oTE4WOhnX1qLKG_lVVT-1OErDyVFv7VKflF5f-dMuesbt57HsX0fYhwuLAI-mloLQ2mP0pkED06J-e7y67yH1MJ17NhTK5pti-KzjrlGiqMfr2lnMt-UBOLN_bxJVUMXWA/s400/b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
View from the Hina Benchmark.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX62fIbyo-oAL9aNakWDwEm3kIYgFWbiAm4gzE0FtjGqqkcFv6Okfe6Vx7JWhCGS4rz1Y_titcc-kWYQW0VLJkQlWgBF_48uthLz8RsDP7aWc6I7O-9kUa7z0YTcRYrKicFItbxOu-Cus/s1600/c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX62fIbyo-oAL9aNakWDwEm3kIYgFWbiAm4gzE0FtjGqqkcFv6Okfe6Vx7JWhCGS4rz1Y_titcc-kWYQW0VLJkQlWgBF_48uthLz8RsDP7aWc6I7O-9kUa7z0YTcRYrKicFItbxOu-Cus/s400/c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vOjyMgXWVHeARj12dZrGMfbV_xCOH3UYC92ePHpDt24gSyI7_Sr16Ehs2xmGlzyPZ3Qps3Vx7ro4yBBldWx8SYNVz-Tl9maEEVBSUXOmtdPViZMkDANevQw7SfPs3n2DVpr9bMPlbSw/s1600/c1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vOjyMgXWVHeARj12dZrGMfbV_xCOH3UYC92ePHpDt24gSyI7_Sr16Ehs2xmGlzyPZ3Qps3Vx7ro4yBBldWx8SYNVz-Tl9maEEVBSUXOmtdPViZMkDANevQw7SfPs3n2DVpr9bMPlbSw/s400/c1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
View opens up looking west toward the Waianae Mountain Range along a leeward section of the trail.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-k8cscQuOppGqzNYHvv1XBpjy1RvpXj6CofWzyQ82FaqCywNvhBMEx7Q0gF_CA97QQJizse-Chk_1-NdvA9TxrRpi8cR4CogeFXkGIPQEycGgCAqQFiUtoUfp6ByJ9agm6AAasXBEKg/s1600/d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-k8cscQuOppGqzNYHvv1XBpjy1RvpXj6CofWzyQ82FaqCywNvhBMEx7Q0gF_CA97QQJizse-Chk_1-NdvA9TxrRpi8cR4CogeFXkGIPQEycGgCAqQFiUtoUfp6ByJ9agm6AAasXBEKg/s400/d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLctrqUs9GfsAgVVA0I_4T1LPnVNVVoBy8C_FfWUa2fwaQBapjG98hRcu_Y6NnDp3DAajiS96cftomNJhwTcBYmtCPyl23n3PYHGoUr67vsz3IYJWfxGG3qdz5S7h6MeEb21uzyd1CC_s/s1600/e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLctrqUs9GfsAgVVA0I_4T1LPnVNVVoBy8C_FfWUa2fwaQBapjG98hRcu_Y6NnDp3DAajiS96cftomNJhwTcBYmtCPyl23n3PYHGoUr67vsz3IYJWfxGG3qdz5S7h6MeEb21uzyd1CC_s/s400/e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-ZlvGQqBykaa228DooWYm5r4NFJ8CB_nSfbi8TOUX8sODAtTw8QL5iveh50R7xuyHoT9i1AainHSlHLETTwPkKoSz4e2bt1Sx74Ypio7_gMPXWlNBoJs8klctR-D22x6T2ju1uU4DgE/s1600/f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-ZlvGQqBykaa228DooWYm5r4NFJ8CB_nSfbi8TOUX8sODAtTw8QL5iveh50R7xuyHoT9i1AainHSlHLETTwPkKoSz4e2bt1Sx74Ypio7_gMPXWlNBoJs8klctR-D22x6T2ju1uU4DgE/s400/f.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1KBOwaBpaygHyDG8YkXNXs_rCi46uNu_ghiZmagkoV05uNgtbpLbIu55D2_FKU7oHU-4mIhYO7pL89RpCrs4uAhI5H0J0M8LhJI3fXJ1_Kjx9tR3lP7rUS_J_IK0HDQLyOr55yEhwoA/s1600/f1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd1KBOwaBpaygHyDG8YkXNXs_rCi46uNu_ghiZmagkoV05uNgtbpLbIu55D2_FKU7oHU-4mIhYO7pL89RpCrs4uAhI5H0J0M8LhJI3fXJ1_Kjx9tR3lP7rUS_J_IK0HDQLyOr55yEhwoA/s400/f1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
View atop an unknown pu'u looking west.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_CYgjBSDJr26JVjroiPe-I27qj94C0zV3pC4KmMh8Aln1Jd3MlcwgDpdOKrfqNaWVZJVXtI0wyCF6RawSgvCjmldt58rsmH-M_xv8lyQfx6Ez2OYxwhQEu3mw_rC1W4GbRrlfsVCzFM/s1600/g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_CYgjBSDJr26JVjroiPe-I27qj94C0zV3pC4KmMh8Aln1Jd3MlcwgDpdOKrfqNaWVZJVXtI0wyCF6RawSgvCjmldt58rsmH-M_xv8lyQfx6Ez2OYxwhQEu3mw_rC1W4GbRrlfsVCzFM/s400/g.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Descending the Malaekahana Ridge trail.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwt9aUdr7GZLHvft7tcsA5yn9d17Xiy6T7cnIqqiIjhrFQRhdNevkFgVNIdlgdpWwIulrSocki9CNfVYJ33LS_3feJ_qj5r9_pkyNK1Q6gJTepB99KY4HiQRC9Z4wPsy-KCE7u0DMaLc/s1600/h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwt9aUdr7GZLHvft7tcsA5yn9d17Xiy6T7cnIqqiIjhrFQRhdNevkFgVNIdlgdpWwIulrSocki9CNfVYJ33LS_3feJ_qj5r9_pkyNK1Q6gJTepB99KY4HiQRC9Z4wPsy-KCE7u0DMaLc/s400/h.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/45373869?byline=0&color=ffffff&autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="400"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-7491834190558369722012-07-23T12:40:00.002-10:002012-07-23T22:05:05.699-10:00Waiau to Waimalu - June 10, 2012<br />
A little over a month ago, <a href="http://unrealhawaii.com/" target="_blank">Dave Chatsuthiphan</a>, Lei Yamasaki, Keoni Napoleon, Laredo Muredo, Patrick Rorie, and I took advantage of the recent trail clearing of Waiau Ridge. Not wanting to do it as an "up-and-down" excursion, I frothed at the idea of going up Waiau, turning southeast along the Ko'olau summit ridge, and coming down Waimalu Middle Ridge. The idea was an ambitious one, and intimidating, to say the least. To put it into perspective the route would require two vehicles at two separate trailheads and an able crew to cover about fourteen miles in twelve hours, with the main attraction being the large, infamous, grassy meadow and summit of Waimalu Middle.<br />
<br />
The plan to do Waiau to Waimalu started several weeks prior to actually completing the route. I never like to "go blind" when attempting long, arduous day hikes, so I tend to always do my homework beforehand. Part of that homework was to find the base of Waimalu Middle Ridge in Waimalu Valley, which <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2012/06/waimalu-valley-may-20-2012.html" target="_blank">Ryan Chang and I successfully did a couple weeks prior</a>. Finding the base of the ridge would give us a good idea of our exit route, which would be the our last leg on the Waiau to Waimalu adventure.<br />
<br />
From the Waimalu Ditch trailhead on Onikiniki Place, the approach to the base of Waimalu Middle is long, taking around two hours, crossing a stream ten times along the way. From reports I had read in the late 90's and early turn of the century, Waimalu Middle did get its fair share of traffic, though it went into disuse for many years thereafter and is now just another overgrown ridge route to the Ko'olau summit. That recently changed when August Smith and Pete Clines successfully bushwhacked their way up the ridge on May 13th, 2012, leaving behind a greatly appreciated swath that would be helpful for our planned descent down the ridge. Their report explained of a jaw-dropping area at the summit, which coincides with previous reports of the summit being "outer worldly" and "mythical." My mouth was watering.<br />
<br />
Neighboring Waimalu Middle to the northwest is Waiau Ridge, a six-mile ungraded ridge to the Ko'olau summit that is known for its heavy overgrowth. The upper portion of Waiau Ridge is notorious for being so overgrown that not many people used to reach the top from the bottom. However, the reliable and dedicated trail clearing crew of the Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club recently made the entire ridge passable to the summit.<br />
<br />
With the long summer days upon us, Waiau cleared to the summit, and a relatively noticeable swath on Waimalu Middle, it was time to give Waiau to Waimalu a go. Having exchanged emails with Pete Clines, I was excited to hear that he, August Smith, and Chase Norton were planning to hike on the same day we were doing Waiau to Waimalu. Their plan, though, was to go up Aiea Ridge -- another ridge further southeast of Waimalu Middle -- to the Ko'olau summit, turn northwest and then come down Waimalu Middle. Our plan was for our two groups to rendezvous at the summit of Waimalu Middle and descend it into Waimalu Valley.<br />
<br />
Our group arrived at the Ka'ahumanu Street trailhead for Waiau Ridge at around 6am; Pete's group started at the Aiea Ridge trailhead around 7am. We pushed off at 6:30am, the weather a bit discouraging initially, with dark, heavy clouds sitting atop the Ko'olau summit and a bit of rain falling while making our way along the dirt road to the actual start of trail. I had phoned Laredo to see if he and Patrick were on their way. They would start later and catch up with us.<br />
<br />
About an hour in, the clouds cleared from the summit, the sun shone, and the winds blew constant and cool. The weather conditions turned out to be perfect. We reached an obvious junction to the Halapepe Nui trail coming in on the right leading to the top of Hapaki Street. Our misjudgment led us a little ways down the trail junction, and we later retraced our steps back to the take the correct trail that stayed on Waiau Ridge.<br />
<br />
About two hours lapsed and we were at the "Big Dip." The Big Dip is a large saddle in the ridge that descends about 200 feet and regains the same elevation that is lost. From this prominent landmark, the summit was a little under two hours away.<br />
<br />
Past the Big Dip, the trail offered awesome views of the surrounding ridges and the Waianae Mountain Range. At a certain point, Patrick and Laredo caught up with us and passed us, eventually reaching the summit first! They had started at 7:50am, and reached the summit at 11:15am. How those two hike that fast is beyond me.<br />
<br />
At 11:30am, Daniel, Lei, David, and I reached the summit as well, snapping photos of the breathtaking view of Waihe'e Valley and the windward coastline. After a quick snack break, we headed southeast along the summit ridge at 11:45am toward the summit of Waimalu Middle.<br />
<br />
The walk along the summit ridge was awesome. Along the way were constant views of the windward side and occasional spectacular views on the leeward side of the ridge. Some sections required caution, for the drops on the windward side of the ridge were steep and near vertical.<br />
<br />
Around 12:20pm we finally reached the summit of Waimalu meadow. I've seen it in pictures, and I've heard stories, but when you see it and experience it in person, nothing else compares. The meadow is large, grassy, and ridiculously beautiful, the wind howling and the clouds soaring at high speed over the summit ridge. A short, steep climb out of the meadow to the actual summit of Waimalu Middle is where we met Pete, August, and Chase for lunch. The top is flat, gusty, and the views are breathtaking.<br />
<br />
After about an hour at the summit, August led the way down Waimalu Middle. The now socked in conditions made it a tad difficult to find the actual ridge to descend. Even with the white out conditions, the experience was out of this world! The beginning of the Waimalu Middle descent is on a ridge devoid of vegetation over shin high, making for a memorable walk on a grassy, exposed ridge. Further down the ridge we were out of the clouds and could see our long route down into Waimalu Valley. Again, the views were priceless. About half way down the ridge is where we hit some overgrowth. Some sections would open up, others would close in, but it was very passable, and the route very obvious. Although, I kept thinking about how August and Pete must've felt ascending the ridge a month prior. A definite "hell no" in my book.<br />
<br />
We reached the bottom of Waimalu Valley in good time, about four hours from the Ko'olau summit. All that had to be completed was the ten stream crossings, and the climb out of the valley to Onikiniki Place. Easier said than done: another two hours of hiking. After the stream crossings, the trail turns into a long contour all the way to the Onikiniki Place subdivision. I led the way, keeping a fast pace, not saying one word, delirious from staring at ever step I took, feeling like a robot, my stride just naturally paced by remembering the sound of ever step hitting the trail below me. We had been hiking for over ten hours, and I was ready to get the hell out. To sum up the last leg of the hike: boring and monotonous.<br />
<br />
At 6:30pm, we finally made it out into civilation. We shook hands with Pete, August, and Chase, parted ways, then jumped in my car, and headed back to the Waiau trailhead that we started at twelve hours earlier. The hike was officially a success. The weather couldn't have been better, and as for the company, it made it that much more memorable. The highlight and main destination, of course, was the meadow atop Waimalu. It is definitely a spot that is "out of the way" to get to. It takes a lot of effort as well, no matter where you plan to start your hike to get to it. And that's what makes it that much more amazing: the remoteness, the seclusion, and the motivation to get you there. That is what makes it so special. From the hustle and bustle of Pearl Ridge Shopping Center, to the traffic on Moanalua Freeway, few know that miles above all that chaos, lies a surreal, quiet place in the mountains that is lonely and untouched, that few have ever been to or seen first-hand. It's just nature in its purest form. Oahu in its true Hawaiian-ness. Without a doubt, the Waimalu meadow is up there as one of the must-see hiking destinations in Hawaii.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zSTA6iTCtIW-grg1MAlV2-ecBoEp4kjDhhSusoYaUGVianc56YouUX5IBCBlnP1M0EeBJQEDllkiRHWo8TEMvvhg73X7Tlm0aeD9wQPgfd9Pzv7n0E9ycTA54UECnOfMDvJCOFSRabs/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zSTA6iTCtIW-grg1MAlV2-ecBoEp4kjDhhSusoYaUGVianc56YouUX5IBCBlnP1M0EeBJQEDllkiRHWo8TEMvvhg73X7Tlm0aeD9wQPgfd9Pzv7n0E9ycTA54UECnOfMDvJCOFSRabs/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View looking toward Waimalu Valley from Waiau Ridge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywi9CDz5T3SL46dSPKE63cldYfiE08cCpPmsWu8F7lsrTKdQxUvUmvFEcS5xKlmlvfvCW87UM_iQ1k7yyJzOBdwj_87rl8Vh3sBfAQRWj9eIFVnbwVla5s4jszqnkiyrgnSDAGlLo2R0/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="70" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjywi9CDz5T3SL46dSPKE63cldYfiE08cCpPmsWu8F7lsrTKdQxUvUmvFEcS5xKlmlvfvCW87UM_iQ1k7yyJzOBdwj_87rl8Vh3sBfAQRWj9eIFVnbwVla5s4jszqnkiyrgnSDAGlLo2R0/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Viewing looking southwest on the upper portion of Waiau Ridge. (photo: D. Napoleon)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4ubUxwSV4EoQ3yYfXoBzngXEpdOokmSbZPupC_VfjAwSCMS9hklPpoeQwvp-fM6bziqu89UFVyt1zuLTqyfV9oj01XA0OyUOtwBOW5HlzMG8WRtHSnSDIx08hx9TOhrwoCiCUeqWmag/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV4ubUxwSV4EoQ3yYfXoBzngXEpdOokmSbZPupC_VfjAwSCMS9hklPpoeQwvp-fM6bziqu89UFVyt1zuLTqyfV9oj01XA0OyUOtwBOW5HlzMG8WRtHSnSDIx08hx9TOhrwoCiCUeqWmag/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Summit view at the top of Waiau Ridge overlooking Waihe'e Valley and the windward coastline.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnB_760dEL2ANvTJGYwWAgTAReXtzTVaA9nPSFOknMBmf4Q0Goo8RymabzJnqH6756ZCNVSyFN0WuntnIqG1plHTtJGVD9dB2xhNmJ_6qk89gNbiHQfnBSCdvw9C0yy5k2ya_V3pQFHw/s1600/3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwnB_760dEL2ANvTJGYwWAgTAReXtzTVaA9nPSFOknMBmf4Q0Goo8RymabzJnqH6756ZCNVSyFN0WuntnIqG1plHTtJGVD9dB2xhNmJ_6qk89gNbiHQfnBSCdvw9C0yy5k2ya_V3pQFHw/s400/3a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Heading to the Waimalu Middle meadow and summit along the Ko'olau summit ridge. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5MnJMP0LhGiz_oyNiHBy_4HZpVOe41CfoKASUOLwL6v_PMbbonC_vxUJvQwqxuKTX0CjrjG7-Q4fg334ELQdUE3YZNNG52Q1hZjCBQ-aM-3pfyPlbYBNzUELUwk5BmIPSZAbFwRGzMs/s1600/3b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5MnJMP0LhGiz_oyNiHBy_4HZpVOe41CfoKASUOLwL6v_PMbbonC_vxUJvQwqxuKTX0CjrjG7-Q4fg334ELQdUE3YZNNG52Q1hZjCBQ-aM-3pfyPlbYBNzUELUwk5BmIPSZAbFwRGzMs/s400/3b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pu'u Eleao in the top right corner of the photo. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hWVCTj5h2salFkZmWEJE85MR5ow85840UAMVGzxBPTobgIdiBmBMWvgdcijfD2n75rE2YelHilhMGfHusyXGwH_DymlXoyOEEq5ze5fCwG3I69f5oYzNq5ZikauQ9ETFxx_PTRAVdRM/s1600/3c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hWVCTj5h2salFkZmWEJE85MR5ow85840UAMVGzxBPTobgIdiBmBMWvgdcijfD2n75rE2YelHilhMGfHusyXGwH_DymlXoyOEEq5ze5fCwG3I69f5oYzNq5ZikauQ9ETFxx_PTRAVdRM/s400/3c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPmZ9K_uu9TlfupFeCADFnjj6YyFoEyjdB88u270NAs3hOvWPjiSaVKK-mnHeMttGQsFm9riSIQd67_ULUNNYJ4TPMeUS8op2oZtPXzF3ZrPP0LO_WR-9gJRgPPkCZIl6pUGl-5WZOP_I/s1600/3d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPmZ9K_uu9TlfupFeCADFnjj6YyFoEyjdB88u270NAs3hOvWPjiSaVKK-mnHeMttGQsFm9riSIQd67_ULUNNYJ4TPMeUS8op2oZtPXzF3ZrPP0LO_WR-9gJRgPPkCZIl6pUGl-5WZOP_I/s400/3d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Waimalu meadow. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZEhs6_9qRV3Nl4frspwp-utem4wLruPJ3BHmX2YztpwRLqxDzfygU1CbB10I3FwNR3B1CgO5R1cv78CYcRDFRzw7Vc902UqfTuTfs6JpP8IVeQOK14zOVMDCpShmxpNP_Cw9kmAyZu4/s1600/3e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZEhs6_9qRV3Nl4frspwp-utem4wLruPJ3BHmX2YztpwRLqxDzfygU1CbB10I3FwNR3B1CgO5R1cv78CYcRDFRzw7Vc902UqfTuTfs6JpP8IVeQOK14zOVMDCpShmxpNP_Cw9kmAyZu4/s400/3e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dhVjuww0eEkzCCjcoMCcprVsvg__hajn4JMJc2-PoWvHxQv3s1JSDg-emAX4HOIhEd3F7IfRoEHeN3-B26woqLNvpPpAi6BHeCAst8XMILXVK4iQdtj0qT_QK-hWonBnTMzIvnb_tbo/s1600/3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dhVjuww0eEkzCCjcoMCcprVsvg__hajn4JMJc2-PoWvHxQv3s1JSDg-emAX4HOIhEd3F7IfRoEHeN3-B26woqLNvpPpAi6BHeCAst8XMILXVK4iQdtj0qT_QK-hWonBnTMzIvnb_tbo/s400/3f.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Patrick Rorie. (photo: D. Napoleon)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAiUf6YRdK7Yx6-JMCTFa1kNI8DCkQlhF_unIcRqbOUc8uEtWsYfhi3sqfunKtKOTqaMNajAxx6zgb5I25L1gzcQyIwt9_C9GTLGkfLAfg3hBPWuTx9gSR0kzW5SiyTtKm59g5YSkBLk/s1600/3g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdAiUf6YRdK7Yx6-JMCTFa1kNI8DCkQlhF_unIcRqbOUc8uEtWsYfhi3sqfunKtKOTqaMNajAxx6zgb5I25L1gzcQyIwt9_C9GTLGkfLAfg3hBPWuTx9gSR0kzW5SiyTtKm59g5YSkBLk/s400/3g.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Descending Waimalu Middle Ridge in the clouds. (photo: D. Napoleon)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprR8aS6CcifVtY8gnME5-1cSH7srvHP4spjMaPYMahPZ3_hghZQxnSEzwgtb94acYVXfbOGoNcVfCO2_3TrsH5W38_nJtUvdcmdnfOTTNaLPn9i925V7pwfTviHpp5AmSBWU-U2Ac2Zk/s1600/3h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjprR8aS6CcifVtY8gnME5-1cSH7srvHP4spjMaPYMahPZ3_hghZQxnSEzwgtb94acYVXfbOGoNcVfCO2_3TrsH5W38_nJtUvdcmdnfOTTNaLPn9i925V7pwfTviHpp5AmSBWU-U2Ac2Zk/s400/3h.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixreaZ9KY9Z1jYqUeVGOE67DxM1mR6JPnFXeUY1ugrMYXAPFC5WAMh4hbTpSlvVsVdS-sQu59koyDERqg88JM8myad0PXuqPt3FMFugayFcKrdK_DxJWDW-lniejAbipW10839Fh1XAes/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixreaZ9KY9Z1jYqUeVGOE67DxM1mR6JPnFXeUY1ugrMYXAPFC5WAMh4hbTpSlvVsVdS-sQu59koyDERqg88JM8myad0PXuqPt3FMFugayFcKrdK_DxJWDW-lniejAbipW10839Fh1XAes/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looking back at Waimalu Valley along the lower portion of Waimalu Middle Ridge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/44724085?color=ffffff&autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-35926164517765056192012-07-05T17:38:00.002-10:002012-07-05T18:17:09.464-10:00Makapu'u Lighthouse - May 30, 2012Summer vacation for my son, and off-of-work vacation for myself: so I decided on hiking to the Makapu'u Lighthouse along the cliffside just south of Makapu'u Beach. I hadn't been to the lighthouse since fifth grade, and I don't remember much of it. All I remember was walking on a boring paved road in the hot sun. The road I'm talking about is a well-known route that is loaded with tourists. But the way my son and I went is a lot faster, breezier, and in my opinion, way more scenic. Plus, we were alone the whole time. The way it should be, right? Here are directions to the trailhead.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Coming from Honolulu, take the H-1 freeway east to Highway 72 (Kalanianaole Highway). Stay on Highway 72 and pass Hanauma Bay and Sandy Beach on your right and the Hawaii Kai Golf Course on your left. Soon after passing the golf course you'll see a parking lot on your right. That is the trailhead for the popular route I mentioned earlier. Instead, keep going until you see another parking lot that offers a lofty view of Makapu'u Beach and the windward coast. Park there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Coming from the windward side, take Highway 72 (Kalanianaole Highway) heading southeast, passing the towns of Kailua and Waimanalo. Pass Sea Life Park on the right, and then Makapu'u Beach on the left. As you are passing Makapu'u Beach the road will climb a bit up to a parking lot on the left. Park there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From the parking lot, jump the stone wall and follow a trail on dry and rocky terrain to a wooden utility pole far uphill. Trails come from every direction, and all lead to the same place, so take your pick. After reaching the utility pole you'll see the obvious way down heading to a road to the lighthouse overlook. Soak in the views, snap picks, have a picnic: when you're done, turn around, and hike back the same way you hiked in.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Related links:</div>
<div>
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makapuu_Point_Light" target="_blank">Wikipedia - Makapu'u Point Light</a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/hiking/oahu/index.cfm?hike_id=23" target="_blank">Hawaii State Parks - Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqnufmEii6ErlBu8kaIB8YN7P6k68VP7N2_ts-oPJ0-_zoZt4_49_dLOyKmlnDBkAATGbClk-TNGp-Z_2bHLuhaFGxJ-z8ISG44qhSI4sezR12aXG449jdZY8bfVKBYIU6RINTcUQZOyY/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqnufmEii6ErlBu8kaIB8YN7P6k68VP7N2_ts-oPJ0-_zoZt4_49_dLOyKmlnDBkAATGbClk-TNGp-Z_2bHLuhaFGxJ-z8ISG44qhSI4sezR12aXG449jdZY8bfVKBYIU6RINTcUQZOyY/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzioQcZ69u7ecqEcsrryipxfWSs0EjsLbqrHpkvzulUQ7cLkwPhet3T-G0IaVX4RNqAZpa_88y676-X-5GWJokGvh5gpIg8kqzpmdQ2VaA8SZfJd-kESK3VesVz7I09hTkrzWv8oAMvqw/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzioQcZ69u7ecqEcsrryipxfWSs0EjsLbqrHpkvzulUQ7cLkwPhet3T-G0IaVX4RNqAZpa_88y676-X-5GWJokGvh5gpIg8kqzpmdQ2VaA8SZfJd-kESK3VesVz7I09hTkrzWv8oAMvqw/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo3Irz0X_L7Qkby-dQAaGIr_mYN16M5GU_Kq_PrzJtwkX54R6yjXFECG1s1a9XXUnrbBKSJu8hg-0peOLCSeuLVBooy52PTlv3IeZPv5uYov7oPsOr-7oOFLjHm399dr5dpQ72QE4s1e0/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo3Irz0X_L7Qkby-dQAaGIr_mYN16M5GU_Kq_PrzJtwkX54R6yjXFECG1s1a9XXUnrbBKSJu8hg-0peOLCSeuLVBooy52PTlv3IeZPv5uYov7oPsOr-7oOFLjHm399dr5dpQ72QE4s1e0/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOQIt1M7jxNSdpR2eoyq8Irr-G8rAoot7U_VVO1G7eImQn7B1G-36d1sVujtFDhG6eYvJplSBGbZYMefiJoyChl1Rx8yYgBwmMXMElYwjSHwaB8RrazJhX8zLhvoRoqU-5F_8TiIaBt0/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOQIt1M7jxNSdpR2eoyq8Irr-G8rAoot7U_VVO1G7eImQn7B1G-36d1sVujtFDhG6eYvJplSBGbZYMefiJoyChl1Rx8yYgBwmMXMElYwjSHwaB8RrazJhX8zLhvoRoqU-5F_8TiIaBt0/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSbjENzuviq4yrYgDsoQ8hFtnZAeBEYLnLK3pai8LhYsAloCfl-QTtnBh8pa6xl-ODfMrO5qcXO7PvC46wN8W5bpdVOeEYp893PPTGlM4dE8wwlXy4n-zu0_ERKULe4HlSInY9o4ZfU8/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSbjENzuviq4yrYgDsoQ8hFtnZAeBEYLnLK3pai8LhYsAloCfl-QTtnBh8pa6xl-ODfMrO5qcXO7PvC46wN8W5bpdVOeEYp893PPTGlM4dE8wwlXy4n-zu0_ERKULe4HlSInY9o4ZfU8/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaP26IvDwMGqUxM_292FGtM_2HXWB_EVauUtX4ZWW44gyoeAqM0Jd8LIepFWXIp4hyfCKDOi3ylTX2cj2MYdQKDlc4cSabsifsG3NypMgI9hyFRpKp4ibDX0_Cc5f4zcJLp7i2fvprbQ/s1600/maksframe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaP26IvDwMGqUxM_292FGtM_2HXWB_EVauUtX4ZWW44gyoeAqM0Jd8LIepFWXIp4hyfCKDOi3ylTX2cj2MYdQKDlc4cSabsifsG3NypMgI9hyFRpKp4ibDX0_Cc5f4zcJLp7i2fvprbQ/s400/maksframe.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-26936765570663476522012-06-29T17:45:00.001-10:002012-06-29T22:45:55.697-10:00Piei Mauka - May 27, 2012Located on the northern wall of Kahana Valley, Piei Mauka is a lesser known route to the peak of Pu'u Piei. The route initially follows the Pauao Ridge trail, but when on the crest of Pauao, instead of heading toward the Ko'olau summit, you head toward the ocean to the top of Pu'u Piei. The route provides a tough grind through heavy vegetation overgrowth, with a bit of scrambling over narrow, crumbly ridges, and steep climbs over unstable terrain. It also provides awesome views of Kahana Valley, Punalu'u Valley, Kahana Bay, and the ocean. It was definitely a challenge, but well worth it.<br />
<br />
My day started early: 3:30am to be exact. My sights were set on hiking from Waiau to Waimalu, but with the constant rains in Wahiawa Heights the night before and a few days prior, I had a feeling that a Ko'olau summit hike would be out of the question. In fact, I actually drove to the Waimalu Ditch trailhead that morning to meet up with my crew of three: <a href="http://unrealhawaii.com/" target="_blank">Dave Chatsuthiphan</a>, Lei Yamasaki, and Ryan Chang. Upon arriving in Waimalu Heights at 4:30pm, the rain was coming down hard, so Ryan came up with the idea to check out Piei Mauka starting in Kahana Valley on the other side of the island. I was game, as was everyone else.<br />
<br />
Our arrival in Kahana seemed much more promising. The rain was minimal, the trade winds were brisk, and Pu'u Piei was free of clouds. Although the ground was heavily saturated, we decided to push on anyway.<br />
<br />
Starting at 6:40am, we were on our way on the long road that leads to the Kahana Valley water tank. From the watertank we took the steep trail that leads to the ridge crest of Pauao Ridge. During our ascent, the rain began to drench us. About two-thirds of the way up, we took a rest, totally drenched from head to toe, and actually contemplated turning back. Our rest spot offered a lofty view towards the ocean horizon and we could see that the downpours were just passing rain squalls, and by experience, we agreed that as the day went on, the weather would definitely get better ... we hoped.<br />
<br />
We pushed up the last section to the crest of Pauao and rested again, while another rain squall approached and gave us an added soaking. Once the rain passed, we headed makai to Pu'u Piei on an obvious trail that I assume hunters use regularly. At a certain point, the swath disappeared, and we soon found ourselves just following the ridge line, pushing through heavy vegetation along the way.<br />
<br />
Further along the ridge, some sections were lofty and exposed. These sections were especially awesome because it offered some incredible views of Kahana Bay, Kahana Valley, and Punalu'u Valley. Much of our time was spent snapping photos and taking water breaks along these sections.<br />
<br />
Ryan took the lead in front, and was way up ahead for a short while until he reached a nasty looking rock face that he claimed would not be a good idea to climb. So instead of following the ridge line, we blazed a contour trail on the Kahana side of the ridge. The contour was a bit sketchy as we traversed what looked to be a recent rockslide: broken trees, loose ground, and large rocks made progress difficult. I actually dropped my GoPro camera along this section and watched it tumble downslope about thirty feet until its momentum was stopped by a tree. I went down to retrieve it, thinking the worst. But to my surprise, the camera housing wasn't scratched, and the camera was still working.<br />
<br />
The contour eventually regained the ridge line at a low point. The bypass we took seemed more than apt as we looked back at the ridge line that we would have had to hike on: it was very narrow, a bit steep, and really crumbly.<br />
<br />
Pushing on, we got a good view of what was up ahead. It looked like three steep and exposed climbs, the first climb on rock, and the second and third climbs on grass and dirt. Even more so, from our vantage point, the climbs looked a bit intimidating. But as we neared the base of the first obstacle, it wasn't as bad as it looked from afar.<br />
<br />
The first climb was a short, semi-steep ascent, with lots of strong trees rooted into the ridge for added security, ensuring forward progress. The second climb and third climbs were a bit sketchy. It reminded me of a mini version of some of the climbs on <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/04/ohulehule-southeast-april-16-2011.html" target="_blank">Southeast Ohulehule</a>: loose dirt, loose rocks, minimal hand holds, and mostly ulei to grab a hold of to pull yourself up.<br />
<br />
After completing the climbs, we finally hit the summit of Pu'u Piei around 2:30pm. The view at the top is obscured by vegetation, so we decided to keep on going without a taking a rest. About ten minutes later, we reached the main trail junction and began our descent. An hour later, we were back at our cars, looking up in awe at the ridge section we just completed. As short as it looked, it ended up taking us all day. And it's probably one of those hikes that I will never set foot on again.<br />
<br />
Check out these other links related to the same ridge and mountain peak:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/10/kahana-to-wahiawa-october-8-2011.html" target="_blank">Kahana to Wahiawa - October 8th, 2011</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2008/05/puu-piei-may-10-2008.html" target="_blank">Pu'u Piei - May 10th, 2008</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/11/piei-makai-november-12-2011.html" target="_blank">Piei Makai - November 12th, 2011</a><br />
<a href="http://www.unrealhawaii.com/2012/06/puu-piei-mauka/" target="_blank">Unreal Hawaii by David Chasuthiphan - Piei Mauka</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5Zb-XEWDSk1JWUNq6wwbPPhyphenhyphenqpJMKILJFzCL_w4gfHChoWTka1KFG-Cvs6c45MI1ME1pLB9XLKu0oX9OmRcEierDvxLUtgx-Wjd3jIrzIiGw_jGKMpItfgL7xstBY_4XWEwabk9TFjc/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5Zb-XEWDSk1JWUNq6wwbPPhyphenhyphenqpJMKILJFzCL_w4gfHChoWTka1KFG-Cvs6c45MI1ME1pLB9XLKu0oX9OmRcEierDvxLUtgx-Wjd3jIrzIiGw_jGKMpItfgL7xstBY_4XWEwabk9TFjc/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpA0z8kemukwqLu5oF_I7LtkoAAN4vaAj-SoZFIaqi6snEHmkwZ60bJtuCRIGnSsfVjCTg8aGbAFIjq_2WFkuiqeCxApGkhsmaHAIbk3zhaBwascS88cKY1JzurMZ682l3KmmALpPBH0/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdpA0z8kemukwqLu5oF_I7LtkoAAN4vaAj-SoZFIaqi6snEHmkwZ60bJtuCRIGnSsfVjCTg8aGbAFIjq_2WFkuiqeCxApGkhsmaHAIbk3zhaBwascS88cKY1JzurMZ682l3KmmALpPBH0/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vjg1eZgAJ4H0Nawagl62XEe2MaE29F7U6E1KzODzjWohV1kxjqfoJRKv7izokfkPlavUt0kIUccE1YUCloXTWG9R8NGI8NWIgGPHerR_1eKkINxQskjUd9Zkqhoa4CsL7ZIE16-UHqo/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vjg1eZgAJ4H0Nawagl62XEe2MaE29F7U6E1KzODzjWohV1kxjqfoJRKv7izokfkPlavUt0kIUccE1YUCloXTWG9R8NGI8NWIgGPHerR_1eKkINxQskjUd9Zkqhoa4CsL7ZIE16-UHqo/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvwF84t3vodZoWiHOu2fEztl6m_7T21-9lSyaGO57qR319cZJCUvWrTxaYhhj6N5lkmv_fFVNmluTymnTVYkOhFDjOtyfyBjbiKQbyKTy6UI5vlzpo0cl5wHgg5qD2FZ9KixeV3vmwbo/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvwF84t3vodZoWiHOu2fEztl6m_7T21-9lSyaGO57qR319cZJCUvWrTxaYhhj6N5lkmv_fFVNmluTymnTVYkOhFDjOtyfyBjbiKQbyKTy6UI5vlzpo0cl5wHgg5qD2FZ9KixeV3vmwbo/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDLyEQnyvxkM2kLAhrnRrDiMKdk7rU5kBH7dDAwkJgAUToU_JUxxA0aoe9Q70VCnrR3mNdAaHSNiuERdrfbOzRl63tSqlEEOqXytD6YYj_CbR8G3347L7xMy1AJxo5s0NqeYI01GFv3s/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDLyEQnyvxkM2kLAhrnRrDiMKdk7rU5kBH7dDAwkJgAUToU_JUxxA0aoe9Q70VCnrR3mNdAaHSNiuERdrfbOzRl63tSqlEEOqXytD6YYj_CbR8G3347L7xMy1AJxo5s0NqeYI01GFv3s/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvMT0lE8hv_-CTzHr-iTq8RXWN-LIS4ecnDxf3xlvInq4mefi25BQTE_zi-cjgyo4eoH9ffx_Mx49IqxEqh2ytvPcZbVfstXV-L8rl0ZEOTPZ4z4GRjLmjBv5tNfl2_uboJ5QI7yaim8/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvMT0lE8hv_-CTzHr-iTq8RXWN-LIS4ecnDxf3xlvInq4mefi25BQTE_zi-cjgyo4eoH9ffx_Mx49IqxEqh2ytvPcZbVfstXV-L8rl0ZEOTPZ4z4GRjLmjBv5tNfl2_uboJ5QI7yaim8/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLP0oNIAC-9kSvw2lve59AwmjAg7bltr6hLsmEg_4D-1graReAJfI5tPgWQX7DHU1JgvwTCMXoJY0lJyiLzX6YAhCHvo-eLEPW31JOmprqCHwi3pIPahL4j1BoH5fdArUOvCwIhszbe4/s1600/GOPR1842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvLP0oNIAC-9kSvw2lve59AwmjAg7bltr6hLsmEg_4D-1graReAJfI5tPgWQX7DHU1JgvwTCMXoJY0lJyiLzX6YAhCHvo-eLEPW31JOmprqCHwi3pIPahL4j1BoH5fdArUOvCwIhszbe4/s400/GOPR1842.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8mbYJku05YD8kt9nRaChp3sjT3qvllMlns_22ZIrr0NdKb3klDXUthM9u5puMbjiFJyylAzjGEZjBdpZcvrz9oAl5b1BQY9Htn1rMrGpj2hWcrLYbNDEjW6SLONspATnSGTUHFZAWCk/s1600/GOPR1844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8mbYJku05YD8kt9nRaChp3sjT3qvllMlns_22ZIrr0NdKb3klDXUthM9u5puMbjiFJyylAzjGEZjBdpZcvrz9oAl5b1BQY9Htn1rMrGpj2hWcrLYbNDEjW6SLONspATnSGTUHFZAWCk/s400/GOPR1844.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljavohec8dVrMHd9j42vxnDqF1FBOhmLHh_K-giTbM5_w3i0bNW0EzWbvm6ujuBjZ60r9n3UEBYG9Yz9kVnkxq8SEOKYq-djPhbYabkFoZ7Dg8myQrgMFaXZ7IVHB5e9hoFSpMLa25PA/s1600/GOPR1908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljavohec8dVrMHd9j42vxnDqF1FBOhmLHh_K-giTbM5_w3i0bNW0EzWbvm6ujuBjZ60r9n3UEBYG9Yz9kVnkxq8SEOKYq-djPhbYabkFoZ7Dg8myQrgMFaXZ7IVHB5e9hoFSpMLa25PA/s400/GOPR1908.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFBYZQ4QRuxkh3ZjV2GasbfpTqkRD2ukZ4RgmT50hpRpb2dzkdDTOMv_HDQoJdwIyh4GFr_lqDDwjdIndmdzQ99UuTRwdSFx_i4ogyeZPDJqMs-vTnh7_pKE8zGIFEG4wG0vwKDZgktKo/s1600/GOPR1913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFBYZQ4QRuxkh3ZjV2GasbfpTqkRD2ukZ4RgmT50hpRpb2dzkdDTOMv_HDQoJdwIyh4GFr_lqDDwjdIndmdzQ99UuTRwdSFx_i4ogyeZPDJqMs-vTnh7_pKE8zGIFEG4wG0vwKDZgktKo/s400/GOPR1913.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/43094283?color=ffffff&autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-80774284359074678802012-06-14T19:12:00.003-10:002012-06-17T18:18:52.675-10:00Waimalu Valley - May 20, 2012About a month ago, Ryan Chang and I set out deep into Waimalu Valley to find the base of Waimalu Middle Ridge, a ridge route to the Ko'olau summit that is rarely ever used. The last people I know that summited the Ko'olau summit from Waimalu Middle was Pete Clines and August Smith. They ascended Waimalu Middle two weeks prior to this outing, and both claimed it as a tireless and brutal bushwhack through heavy vegetation.<br />
<br />
So why would we put ourselves through such torture in the near future? Well, we won't be going up the ridge; instead we plan to come down it, which will be a hell of a lot easier, especially now that Pete and August left somewhat of a swath to follow -- more about how we'll come down it later. Also, the payoff at the top of Waimalu Middle offers up what veteran hiker Wing Ng says is both "a mythically and mystical place." That description in itself has had my curiosity salivating, and from the recent pictures I seen from Pete and August's successful ascent, I'd say it's definitely something to check out.<br />
<br />
To get to the top of Waimalu Middle, we plan on hiking up the recently cleared Waiau Ridge trail that parallels Waimalu Middle to the northwest. From the summit of Waiau, we'll turn south-southeast along the Ko'olau summit ridge, and descend into Waimalu Valley along Waimalu Middle Ridge. Sounds easy, but Waiau and Waimalu are both long and ungraded ridge trails, one being cleared and the other not cleared at all. Mix in the one-hour jaunt along the Ko'olau summit and you've got yourself an all day hike taking around twelve hours or so, give or take.<br />
<br />
The approach to the base of Waimalu Middle Ridge from Onikiniki Street takes around two hours with a total of ten stream crossings. Getting to the base Waimalu Middle initially follows the popular Waimalu Ditch Trail which is regularly used by hunters and hikers. The first eight stream crossings are minor, with the ninth crossing being the trickiest: you climb a steep and rutted embankment to get to the tenth crossing. From the tenth crossing are ribbons across the stream that mark the beginning of Waimalu Middle. Ryan and I went up the ridge a bit to find the bottom portion recently cleared for about 100 yards; the clearing was done by Baron Yamamoto and Jeremy Kries.<br />
<br />
After our successful scout of finding the the base of Waimalu Middle, Ryan and I then headed back for the two hour hike to the Onikiniki Place trailhead. We couldn't wait to get on Waimalu Middle the following week.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-T_laVVDLxH4OilGJbPUG5QiXPOI49fUuI3Tdmjze7fOGTpCkGjTBEfKuTF1YMVfcoEUlSPnpVDMggZXvKSWSc4_evMwGievCajNcfchXD-JeA81retEkr9PBkDpgpFgu7JHbQc4hStI/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-T_laVVDLxH4OilGJbPUG5QiXPOI49fUuI3Tdmjze7fOGTpCkGjTBEfKuTF1YMVfcoEUlSPnpVDMggZXvKSWSc4_evMwGievCajNcfchXD-JeA81retEkr9PBkDpgpFgu7JHbQc4hStI/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNeXvf8381YOhOxuL4GL3Aps22cjb1QBt4pGN_hCqkbJr8tDSaWhPJ8zx8OJh-xiIeBlcFQyoMhwT-TOyaYXWLOolRMHQFI7QbWDVjYlhSajDsjbDbsfdsS_9OrWejpeZMRxjjN_HvokU/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNeXvf8381YOhOxuL4GL3Aps22cjb1QBt4pGN_hCqkbJr8tDSaWhPJ8zx8OJh-xiIeBlcFQyoMhwT-TOyaYXWLOolRMHQFI7QbWDVjYlhSajDsjbDbsfdsS_9OrWejpeZMRxjjN_HvokU/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYEcvAnY3s4-1m1Bh2yNJ-Q5c_zn_3GOWTRTcFxPXbUHJvjWqvFlYCuYRtkhbikIPrHAY0Xk64vrbnOTFPlHzZtvEW0KeesTluot4yBe2IWx9nsMDy1P6pNFeaQ7I_Sj5Sd0uAjLvcXY/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHYEcvAnY3s4-1m1Bh2yNJ-Q5c_zn_3GOWTRTcFxPXbUHJvjWqvFlYCuYRtkhbikIPrHAY0Xk64vrbnOTFPlHzZtvEW0KeesTluot4yBe2IWx9nsMDy1P6pNFeaQ7I_Sj5Sd0uAjLvcXY/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOkPO-UR-ZCtu6s4top66g5Zj50l6Usbej7BL5ftUz7w8S9hewqOmRzLbX3qMZ6Y2SDpMkPqvu5_XLFkt4MrWkE1wVJXoMAfbrx2OWXtgH4uVdWvk5ojljSALdRjbRcFZVw9JTucvtBU/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOkPO-UR-ZCtu6s4top66g5Zj50l6Usbej7BL5ftUz7w8S9hewqOmRzLbX3qMZ6Y2SDpMkPqvu5_XLFkt4MrWkE1wVJXoMAfbrx2OWXtgH4uVdWvk5ojljSALdRjbRcFZVw9JTucvtBU/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkD3MkCPSPLkuo00H0pHe7Rniq8b7dE61vhEebCIqLVi6TIZ7kawhPSrCpgKpxjlolgnE4b5-aeJTgQ7CCTpWI7C_8AJsyZhuEPYO2U72kiwq8ce6aIqJ7UtUe5Mqzs8auw2tH9s9bJk/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkD3MkCPSPLkuo00H0pHe7Rniq8b7dE61vhEebCIqLVi6TIZ7kawhPSrCpgKpxjlolgnE4b5-aeJTgQ7CCTpWI7C_8AJsyZhuEPYO2U72kiwq8ce6aIqJ7UtUe5Mqzs8auw2tH9s9bJk/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbLHjF_1qO95aXRDFw3XE47ps5wipAkjEHJACMZSUfln05vWmdI_WfPJoGVme2HKEPeMzp-eic_70xB_M8usWytyN6O2NS1GT3Dji31JPbNhumsHF-ngX47KGLVBgNuFMr9t1lflIl3co/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbLHjF_1qO95aXRDFw3XE47ps5wipAkjEHJACMZSUfln05vWmdI_WfPJoGVme2HKEPeMzp-eic_70xB_M8usWytyN6O2NS1GT3Dji31JPbNhumsHF-ngX47KGLVBgNuFMr9t1lflIl3co/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGRVU17ho_LTJzy3-BkZS5grJ-JgciftcTMoA3ANE2YuZk84kcXC5L1rnZ6i2MkPZm7x2VPXReWAwpBxdM7gioBOLtHkdJlh4A8AYAjYfwtiv-BYZipLSTTUy0yB2UbHBA8XtX_KTc8c/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGRVU17ho_LTJzy3-BkZS5grJ-JgciftcTMoA3ANE2YuZk84kcXC5L1rnZ6i2MkPZm7x2VPXReWAwpBxdM7gioBOLtHkdJlh4A8AYAjYfwtiv-BYZipLSTTUy0yB2UbHBA8XtX_KTc8c/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7Z5HUEqIVeXdJQ9WIGaGNk-TmKEtVhp90FI2IGAD-L3Za2z7EEElNmwgHDUo2ANRngTnOi-2R5ti7DRhsmyw-Mr21aMh2NR9NxdEbdQ-1CwXQ7IKDECTK9v7Ne-dyW7JNcUPTB93AT4/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY7Z5HUEqIVeXdJQ9WIGaGNk-TmKEtVhp90FI2IGAD-L3Za2z7EEElNmwgHDUo2ANRngTnOi-2R5ti7DRhsmyw-Mr21aMh2NR9NxdEbdQ-1CwXQ7IKDECTK9v7Ne-dyW7JNcUPTB93AT4/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-YnLQKj_vMkCrQfjZan02JLxzt8h5oqJSHuC_VH8UPOqAecmZ3oC3omelEeN2Yp8kM0B5RN93UPRHfrn8Oj29IRdMLWzTVIPcZxuSrFt3TEofKfp072RIiwFE8C5Q3Bkj7-4BJoPGOQ/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-YnLQKj_vMkCrQfjZan02JLxzt8h5oqJSHuC_VH8UPOqAecmZ3oC3omelEeN2Yp8kM0B5RN93UPRHfrn8Oj29IRdMLWzTVIPcZxuSrFt3TEofKfp072RIiwFE8C5Q3Bkj7-4BJoPGOQ/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73zMvmeIj-U5pNSHWiEQ-T9mmk5tKo0kuUlvx40yz5WIIluufv08wmwRa-6oGuIrkxWHr7Eitcj_lYCBLt1Lzkq_M90YvIhOPPENAEfRyj51YcfYkwsCRtTJGtzJ4imkg-wyKzylo_gs/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73zMvmeIj-U5pNSHWiEQ-T9mmk5tKo0kuUlvx40yz5WIIluufv08wmwRa-6oGuIrkxWHr7Eitcj_lYCBLt1Lzkq_M90YvIhOPPENAEfRyj51YcfYkwsCRtTJGtzJ4imkg-wyKzylo_gs/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lost hunting dog with an underbite. She followed us out, by the way, and sat in the back of its owner's truck until he arrived back at the trailhead.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPw0L9eDxbOZ2IJTDqr1L0UUes5ZYQpYjJeL5vRA2cxXOB0gfBRiZh1m-Qj-LyiKiwchHq6tHOrH61ODlIGkHQRS01iS7eS5OhzCAlfPkqhAp9t6wAdo7BDx6_AhBkISJakYZhyyOZjC0/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPw0L9eDxbOZ2IJTDqr1L0UUes5ZYQpYjJeL5vRA2cxXOB0gfBRiZh1m-Qj-LyiKiwchHq6tHOrH61ODlIGkHQRS01iS7eS5OhzCAlfPkqhAp9t6wAdo7BDx6_AhBkISJakYZhyyOZjC0/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-50247695607995817252012-05-31T20:32:00.001-10:002012-05-31T20:33:35.906-10:00Kalalula-Kanewai - May 12, 2012Kalalula-Kanewai is a five mile loop trail located in Waianae Valley. It is a trail regularly maintained and trodden on by western Oahu hiking guru, <a href="http://waianaecrider.com/" target="_blank">Steve Rohrmayr</a>, who aptly dubs the hike "Waianae Water Walls." The trail passes several small waterfalls along Kalalula Stream, then ascends a ridge, and drops back down following Kanewai Stream to the initial starting point. Beyond the waterfalls along Kalalula Stream the grade steepens gradually offering up a good workout. A few "healthy-looking" heiau are passed on the way to Kanewai Stream as well.<br />
<br />
On this outing we got lost in the beginning and ended up bypassing the Kalalula waterfalls (no pics of the falls, sorry), but we managed to find the ridge trail that ascends to the first heiau and beyond to eventually complete the loop.<br />
<br />
What is amazing about this trail is that it proves there is actually fresh flowing water in Waianae Valley. Not only is there water, but the streams are fed by a spring, so the water is almost always flowing, and it is cool and clear. It is a far cry from the misconception of Waianae being dry and hot.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOlH4PpBNl07KrcZeeoQ_K8N7b3b1Ykz7MEUl5WbowDmq537jZXzYDhbehpuy8tWotVhMLRi5tfkFx7mVIEuVJnCEYkjtK_RRjd3frBIYtmq0wN2BJufgMheQ-TwDqiNU5dZzVlKyRN4/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMOlH4PpBNl07KrcZeeoQ_K8N7b3b1Ykz7MEUl5WbowDmq537jZXzYDhbehpuy8tWotVhMLRi5tfkFx7mVIEuVJnCEYkjtK_RRjd3frBIYtmq0wN2BJufgMheQ-TwDqiNU5dZzVlKyRN4/s320/1.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
photo: L. Yamasaki</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOmVjyrHuHqyO8s0N9BHmEY2T_GSk2kyBr3MwKEofV81-uf6mvltCQ9XgmXp6ZgcvoJc7phcRvUaDAKtnPDF97rfMN0iFxocXcWr0toHxpAXclF0rz42I2SC-uuyIWHYcN56-DOGfLHdc/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOmVjyrHuHqyO8s0N9BHmEY2T_GSk2kyBr3MwKEofV81-uf6mvltCQ9XgmXp6ZgcvoJc7phcRvUaDAKtnPDF97rfMN0iFxocXcWr0toHxpAXclF0rz42I2SC-uuyIWHYcN56-DOGfLHdc/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XoqxCNo-WDQMvr83ZjwBKVJ_b5sVRmZh9FrJboY9sa_-W5awkTvjOahMrc7OB4QBVJCMW36E4IY1UHrnjEjtsrfGIIUPurZ4k3nApdBpFSpmAtwdXNpEKaQ8b9CaRB6tUGlNWdHJw1s/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XoqxCNo-WDQMvr83ZjwBKVJ_b5sVRmZh9FrJboY9sa_-W5awkTvjOahMrc7OB4QBVJCMW36E4IY1UHrnjEjtsrfGIIUPurZ4k3nApdBpFSpmAtwdXNpEKaQ8b9CaRB6tUGlNWdHJw1s/s320/3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
photo: B. Bautista</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJcJSJSimnoTN2P-E2gmfER5cy1vtUgYgdP7jI3t0GTcSzipVqhK16Fm3mZ4OijZ1GYkbvAl1kupPm4UulFdLv4Ss9PLfhW2gS_FeuakvDLKvv7dD_DavNtjSthMQq6lnqWkJNRcNjZYE/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJcJSJSimnoTN2P-E2gmfER5cy1vtUgYgdP7jI3t0GTcSzipVqhK16Fm3mZ4OijZ1GYkbvAl1kupPm4UulFdLv4Ss9PLfhW2gS_FeuakvDLKvv7dD_DavNtjSthMQq6lnqWkJNRcNjZYE/s320/4.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kanewai Dam. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3DGBku6N1jXC_JhTPeqfHm7EcsLPf0ru3WOy3eH6Bsef0qoVG8PS784VZabWnTdItBC0xYVr5NOSjSXWO2cdKg_1KMvUmNsOXQcDJO_s5mIY-wYesHO1jR05zVNHdPziePkHEJrzjb0/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw3DGBku6N1jXC_JhTPeqfHm7EcsLPf0ru3WOy3eH6Bsef0qoVG8PS784VZabWnTdItBC0xYVr5NOSjSXWO2cdKg_1KMvUmNsOXQcDJO_s5mIY-wYesHO1jR05zVNHdPziePkHEJrzjb0/s320/5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-39959584357687911202012-05-23T19:59:00.001-10:002012-05-23T20:00:17.134-10:00Naohia Falls - April 6, 2012Tucked away in Kalihi Valley is a quaint waterfall known as Naohia Falls. Known to locals as "Ice Ponds" and "Tin Roof," the trail to Naohia is short, safe, and easy going. Although, a bit trashy because of its popluarity, the waterfall is still rewarding. Much of the hike involves hiking about half-an-hour on a gravel road. At a certain point there is a steep trail on the right that descends steeply to the waterfall. Ropes aid the way down and can be a bit hairy when wet, so caution is advised especially for children. Once at the waterfall, take a dip in the large pool at the falls' base. Snap photos. Kick back and listen to the tradewinds rustling through the canopy above, as well as the lively sound of the stream. It is definitely one of Kalihi Valley's prized gems.
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADWlYG_Ro4ud0uD6GDtTdGIxmX9zrBdaWlP5rFHDj-GxhvNJkeuQCEz-uefR17leW_N-EDPyemZ88G5MjsyadLbbkPLbKTv5nxlCBuYTq3rtrArwouaJIeyWegnzmh-c45s5XayoR6VY/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADWlYG_Ro4ud0uD6GDtTdGIxmX9zrBdaWlP5rFHDj-GxhvNJkeuQCEz-uefR17leW_N-EDPyemZ88G5MjsyadLbbkPLbKTv5nxlCBuYTq3rtrArwouaJIeyWegnzmh-c45s5XayoR6VY/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBhs1ED7B-3HManWynjKKi5P9d9M3EqU0olfoAL2GzOcb_biWiMxbt3EMKQJ7QvtOwr_FvkeSHuxWSeG88JzmdWfeB02jzjbeZgq7KlWlkobaKfDtZ5ccCqYqCAN87h4b5JRu1yYSr8E/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBhs1ED7B-3HManWynjKKi5P9d9M3EqU0olfoAL2GzOcb_biWiMxbt3EMKQJ7QvtOwr_FvkeSHuxWSeG88JzmdWfeB02jzjbeZgq7KlWlkobaKfDtZ5ccCqYqCAN87h4b5JRu1yYSr8E/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71za6Vid7XTenRcnY7zmPAQg5Pb6edW1sh163wW0MVeIDKx0-g2a4UH469Eq8DJIHB2uKoS23DjODKb6EN_r3CV4o_bt7TCEvMxujy_UIkaAvLdtEs0tWytvBqPCSyVeC9C88kuxXs4Y/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi71za6Vid7XTenRcnY7zmPAQg5Pb6edW1sh163wW0MVeIDKx0-g2a4UH469Eq8DJIHB2uKoS23DjODKb6EN_r3CV4o_bt7TCEvMxujy_UIkaAvLdtEs0tWytvBqPCSyVeC9C88kuxXs4Y/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EMu48Ih1qrJQZFztVn7oqXg_VnQw_TPRl_R_g0YkBJrN_z1eAmExunhrSal-oPRMQsh3LwDjTm7nbnf6iyJZEOR5ebuG-mTEXrlPa08TJhesx_mDIHDYBwTHjaXpuAxjaXrcOlwqt5g/s1600/naohia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EMu48Ih1qrJQZFztVn7oqXg_VnQw_TPRl_R_g0YkBJrN_z1eAmExunhrSal-oPRMQsh3LwDjTm7nbnf6iyJZEOR5ebuG-mTEXrlPa08TJhesx_mDIHDYBwTHjaXpuAxjaXrcOlwqt5g/s400/naohia.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-91619231831496949122012-05-13T16:39:00.002-10:002012-05-23T19:29:58.266-10:00Poamoho Ridge - April 1, 2012As far as hiking trails go, nothing comes close to the Poamoho trail. The trail is remote, lush, quiet, relatively short, and insanely beautiful. If the weather cooperates, the view at the top offers one of the grandest views on the island of Oahu. Access to the trail requires a permit from the Department of Land and Natural Resources. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is also recommended for the six mile dirt road before the actual trailhead. Pay no mind to what people tell you about other state trails: Poamoho is the best state trail on Oahu.<br />
<br />
For more information on how you can access this trail, visit the following link:<br />
<a href="http://hawaiitrails.ehawaii.gov/trail.php?TrailID=OA+08+007" target="_blank">DLNR: Poamoho Ridge Trail</a><br />
<br />
Visit Unreal Hawaii by David Chatsuthiphan for more information and pictures from this same outing:<br />
<a href="http://www.unrealhawaii.com/2012/04/poamoho-trail/" target="_blank">Unreal Hawaii: Poamoho Trail</a><br />
<br />
Check out the following link of our past hike up Poamoho Ridge:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/08/poamoho-to-wahiawa-july-24-2011.html" target="_blank">Poamoho to Wahiawa</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTc7qQrJJVDiA-1D-nZTfYfoRJmckB92UsScB33PWKgAuLN8dkewutY5q8YQwcJOAFBDuVP7QnaTWpBWFVn_IYBfPfHhe0qBKyZOYPqF-9VLvNPC7xdcWOZ7hCxEecrBWXdHzlKL1Yog/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitTc7qQrJJVDiA-1D-nZTfYfoRJmckB92UsScB33PWKgAuLN8dkewutY5q8YQwcJOAFBDuVP7QnaTWpBWFVn_IYBfPfHhe0qBKyZOYPqF-9VLvNPC7xdcWOZ7hCxEecrBWXdHzlKL1Yog/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERN6CzHIT4ooPPxUe_OBCZvqSTO6ZMorinTMwdI4RDWTn__su4i2vN27y4YscSjN7WN5bJ6LrRqGNfIxabdar1YwuNCOpaAeojIiPeZlPBMJbAktDX49vK88BEw7U1Ay00tmXzZAfXOc/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERN6CzHIT4ooPPxUe_OBCZvqSTO6ZMorinTMwdI4RDWTn__su4i2vN27y4YscSjN7WN5bJ6LrRqGNfIxabdar1YwuNCOpaAeojIiPeZlPBMJbAktDX49vK88BEw7U1Ay00tmXzZAfXOc/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2tPutN1phCJO3PSv5ifaunJ8yLSRFCbqsY_0TKnH6qifEmljXNUsM7VoSR0vR_Z4uJxpAQA949OKUX2Kpuu1yU_SPru8yPNSBeQZi0NUDVX0RwR0mMi9fcPWJ_2k3UkPbShJ916Y6M2E/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2tPutN1phCJO3PSv5ifaunJ8yLSRFCbqsY_0TKnH6qifEmljXNUsM7VoSR0vR_Z4uJxpAQA949OKUX2Kpuu1yU_SPru8yPNSBeQZi0NUDVX0RwR0mMi9fcPWJ_2k3UkPbShJ916Y6M2E/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtagHePlVnfsSQHx0kam2EfSZfLjrQa5Yj7fa1zgnyGWmQKf2YKfKUFh2ke4NsX3Yb41AtvU0zTsKu2-maPCP7_mHyf1KC3jSlVuCQnOYSKt7sEJKhslHo1Jv7GL5cD2eS2SXSPWUG8ps/s1600/4-bw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtagHePlVnfsSQHx0kam2EfSZfLjrQa5Yj7fa1zgnyGWmQKf2YKfKUFh2ke4NsX3Yb41AtvU0zTsKu2-maPCP7_mHyf1KC3jSlVuCQnOYSKt7sEJKhslHo1Jv7GL5cD2eS2SXSPWUG8ps/s400/4-bw.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1f08twatObcwZNPliacQ5M5xlEWVn1miSBpTUVggnkgAFcuGBkGrdmZz0FFzf2DR2hZh_TVCslaidmBJRljavKITZnlDQjpXwcmakeTEwQdujemQtTqk3qIKSdaGqwKD2MP8_63MFY0/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1f08twatObcwZNPliacQ5M5xlEWVn1miSBpTUVggnkgAFcuGBkGrdmZz0FFzf2DR2hZh_TVCslaidmBJRljavKITZnlDQjpXwcmakeTEwQdujemQtTqk3qIKSdaGqwKD2MP8_63MFY0/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXgAVmGJTIG5u7GUn71F3tq1BK0G4wl0mji6ju0_ieyGTzAlz8jiI4aRDzNy2UCLoAepZoIgBfVH8w7JpPibgrOGGvFKWY4ar9YnXY2p6ktG5-O-QjUIQYjyZzBgd66-mzoW5jUX7lfY/s1600/p-view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuXgAVmGJTIG5u7GUn71F3tq1BK0G4wl0mji6ju0_ieyGTzAlz8jiI4aRDzNy2UCLoAepZoIgBfVH8w7JpPibgrOGGvFKWY4ar9YnXY2p6ktG5-O-QjUIQYjyZzBgd66-mzoW5jUX7lfY/s400/p-view.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85OTIN5MBc9IrfvNUNFwg4q3by4O7fKD0F02OpTLRODG7f3gYileHLwtLuJap1ADKLoxCWwV0oUSsjSG0E7WtW0bu4WGIFLdvb1PC-Z5KS6Q85aW_iIoNlHL8MQDLm2NA6snvPcxR9PE/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi85OTIN5MBc9IrfvNUNFwg4q3by4O7fKD0F02OpTLRODG7f3gYileHLwtLuJap1ADKLoxCWwV0oUSsjSG0E7WtW0bu4WGIFLdvb1PC-Z5KS6Q85aW_iIoNlHL8MQDLm2NA6snvPcxR9PE/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="224" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/39667767?title=0&byline=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="398"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-5128917693093798102012-04-06T17:58:00.004-10:002012-04-06T17:58:36.475-10:00Manoa Falls - March 26, 2012Manoa Falls is one of the most popular hikes on the island of Oahu. The trail is short and easy, ending at at a beautiful 150-foot waterfall in the back on Manoa Valley. The trail is regularly maintained by the state making for a well-defined and easy-to-follow trail. Because of its popularity, you'll be lucky to find yourself hiking alone.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The total in-and-out mileage along the Manoa Falls trail is around 1.6 miles. Parking is available at the Lyon Arboretum for $5.00. If you prefer to not to pay for parking, there is free parking down the street along Manoa Road. Another way to get to Manoa Falls is the Aihualama trail; that route, also maintained by the state, is a tad longer and offers up a bit more of a workout.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For more information on Manoa Falls, visit the Na Ala Hele website:<br />
<a href="http://hawaiitrails.ehawaii.gov/trail.php?TrailID=OA+19+007" target="_blank">Na Ala Hele: Manoa Falls Trail</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePqqQUzE2NapFPmnrlm5WioM9fDaqPGCzqPzC4lUEMYp0jmssWaQvZxHbt0ANX6IQ44Kt2f2GEGUNZPU1BEOYuBM3FbQkdJIcnHT-S2VIi5TxM5eesCcKN9mBJDcJsaNCOuP_E5EShoE/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePqqQUzE2NapFPmnrlm5WioM9fDaqPGCzqPzC4lUEMYp0jmssWaQvZxHbt0ANX6IQ44Kt2f2GEGUNZPU1BEOYuBM3FbQkdJIcnHT-S2VIi5TxM5eesCcKN9mBJDcJsaNCOuP_E5EShoE/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXGKKPqq01Dfw4X9B2f9rfSnuL7p3TdxVyGWqo1cBPKQTkbo9-81p75iWUxeC-RSzzLf3XtAw0190gGRBukiWLh871G7E6zdHS3MYCkw-fxExNpMEIu2h_-aCHMzga1pXK9MzvlSvrAQ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDXGKKPqq01Dfw4X9B2f9rfSnuL7p3TdxVyGWqo1cBPKQTkbo9-81p75iWUxeC-RSzzLf3XtAw0190gGRBukiWLh871G7E6zdHS3MYCkw-fxExNpMEIu2h_-aCHMzga1pXK9MzvlSvrAQ/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWF8Vwn-EgNI9WUhubQZfgpv41zhvPX38m9HMAh1Xgcsuxy-vLdKNugLoEzqXxa1A1MljQrm-yzsQ4JU8x0v_zXWoECfV8eDilJEEpps1P0b-4tlNiGvpwKXFMcPl-9DIUQvNiILBimc/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWF8Vwn-EgNI9WUhubQZfgpv41zhvPX38m9HMAh1Xgcsuxy-vLdKNugLoEzqXxa1A1MljQrm-yzsQ4JU8x0v_zXWoECfV8eDilJEEpps1P0b-4tlNiGvpwKXFMcPl-9DIUQvNiILBimc/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxTofQ8jbfBLEL7pnsmYHrwDe295AuAy_ZgSX2MfaMNSJbUBexq_2VHROrYG3Fnd3bNkqSYjkVoWCf8v9Q5ln79K7_NYxwsLe1Z9o6hR6Xobl9k5CubPsG0rbIjrovtyEl2JXY5ME5io/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxTofQ8jbfBLEL7pnsmYHrwDe295AuAy_ZgSX2MfaMNSJbUBexq_2VHROrYG3Fnd3bNkqSYjkVoWCf8v9Q5ln79K7_NYxwsLe1Z9o6hR6Xobl9k5CubPsG0rbIjrovtyEl2JXY5ME5io/s400/4.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-35286085432069940102012-04-05T18:15:00.000-10:002012-04-06T18:47:57.230-10:00A'akaki'i-Kokololio - March 25, 2012<br />
The A'akaki'i-Kokololio hike is a loop trail located in the foothills above Hau'ula town. Half of the route traverses a well-trodden path; the other half traverses a route mostly used by local pig hunters.<br />
<br />
Initially, the trail starts on a well-defined path that gradually gains elevation and then descends into A'akaki'i Gulch. The trail then finds its way out of A'akaki'i Gulch by climbing steeply to gain the top of a ridge.<br />
<br />
Turning mauka from the top of the ridge heads through an overgrown trail with the occasional head high uluhe fern; the makai route heads down the ridge back to the starting point. Despite the overgrowth on the mauka route, the views are spectacular. Lofty views of the windward coastline from Kahuku to Punalu'u can be seen, as well as views deep into Kaipapa'u and its adjacent gulches. More spectacular are the towering peaks of the lush Ko'olau mountains.<br />
<br />
Heading makai, the ridge descends toward the ocean and back to the trailhead. With a bit of route finding, the broad ridge offers panoramic views along every exposed section. There are some shady rest spots to take advantage of: a quaint Cook pine grove offers a good amount of shade about half way down the ridge, as does some breezy ironwood groves further below as the ridge loses elevation. Every now and then a trail would appear, mostly faint and indistinct, but nothing unmanageable.<br />
<br />
Nearing the end of the ridge, we took advantage of our last lofty view of the windward coastline before heading downhill to our starting point. Looking to the horizon we could hear a rustling stream to our right, with a small waterfall in view just below the north side of Kaipapa'u Hill. After a long rest and a wealthy amount of photo ops, we headed back down to our starting point and headed home.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIiOVeFH8w3cqoQ6fG0Ad9uG5rGjH2O3DQjk1kGFR1nxN88AVOKJccCke9XqeGsTvbI5Qi_63dEKQtUSy-8vef0afj494QTNvUQwZX8oxILW5TuSfpE7I92455kXws037Dh2DP-b1g5gE/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIiOVeFH8w3cqoQ6fG0Ad9uG5rGjH2O3DQjk1kGFR1nxN88AVOKJccCke9XqeGsTvbI5Qi_63dEKQtUSy-8vef0afj494QTNvUQwZX8oxILW5TuSfpE7I92455kXws037Dh2DP-b1g5gE/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnxlLAawTgvzVkK71cFzGCCx4VwwDKt1yOK95oDLruQ21FA4GeliRFk6SZxxPpXAuph8s5N36OTyIiPVmSacEXuAkzsmZJYT6souniy6r54K8VUxcODD61fDU0ifWqr-PBolo2Sfx0dww/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnxlLAawTgvzVkK71cFzGCCx4VwwDKt1yOK95oDLruQ21FA4GeliRFk6SZxxPpXAuph8s5N36OTyIiPVmSacEXuAkzsmZJYT6souniy6r54K8VUxcODD61fDU0ifWqr-PBolo2Sfx0dww/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMDG2-APeY42eZp1mwgJqVQzjhhlpVVAwFwB_kQ5OSeTlQ2Z1V8YOVc2igUwYAy0F6PuVl94hLa-my8QWdTLOLwOhX2lDtnSFC00cNOBxjGbA8LP7XwnCXmsCsVWKOa8RTBSdJCJyqYI/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMDG2-APeY42eZp1mwgJqVQzjhhlpVVAwFwB_kQ5OSeTlQ2Z1V8YOVc2igUwYAy0F6PuVl94hLa-my8QWdTLOLwOhX2lDtnSFC00cNOBxjGbA8LP7XwnCXmsCsVWKOa8RTBSdJCJyqYI/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_m9-4qBbnuOYx8FHJl8t2G9Hsypu6nPVOnXJlvCOdLeQu1ObU1oztQZ2CViFhyphenhyphen5xtx9Vm1e7LPz6okbZ7pfLPegsHSbcoZiADzNxXGz5VEqIT_AaCWY9B_d9WsQsPfW94d1MAosJ8Veg/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_m9-4qBbnuOYx8FHJl8t2G9Hsypu6nPVOnXJlvCOdLeQu1ObU1oztQZ2CViFhyphenhyphen5xtx9Vm1e7LPz6okbZ7pfLPegsHSbcoZiADzNxXGz5VEqIT_AaCWY9B_d9WsQsPfW94d1MAosJ8Veg/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwsMMfGu-Mh-X2Qgn8nqxQHba6KaWq9dx1_0mSBDYPhCjBNr210RCEVSRRrBAYGzJQIE6wwaMX_nWdtAr-_a4hq7pQ5HYx7zvJFdf03hGG33xQVx-HWHc4BSqjTRiViNkraBIlHqtfH0/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwsMMfGu-Mh-X2Qgn8nqxQHba6KaWq9dx1_0mSBDYPhCjBNr210RCEVSRRrBAYGzJQIE6wwaMX_nWdtAr-_a4hq7pQ5HYx7zvJFdf03hGG33xQVx-HWHc4BSqjTRiViNkraBIlHqtfH0/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="224" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/39521470?title=0&byline=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="398"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-50174404980515886392012-02-13T17:32:00.000-10:002012-02-13T17:33:32.346-10:00Wahiawa Botanical Garden - February 11, 2012<br />
Happy New Year everyone! The blog has been left to rot, <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/11/piei-makai-november-12-2011.html">my last hike</a> was in the beginning of November 2011, and I've had no motivation to drag myself onto the trails since then. Why? Well, the waves have been pretty damn good this Oahu winter season. That means more time in the ocean, and less time in the mountains. I did get to sneak in a short little hike with my son this past Saturday, though. We hiked in our hometown at the Wahiawa Botanical Garden. It was my first hike of 2012, and his first hike ever.<br />
<br />
The last time I was in or around the Wahiawa Botanical Garden was for a friend's wedding. Other than being an ideal place to exchange wedding vows, the garden has an impressive trail system that's perfect for children and novice hikers alike. The twenty-seven acre site is also home to a wide array of native Hawaiian plants that thrive in Wahiawa's relatively cool environment. All of the notable plants are identified by shin high green placards abutting the trail. Overly impressive is the collection of massive trees that stretch high into the garden's canopy.<br />
<br />
Much of the trails are paved, complete with concrete stairs and metal railings. Near the gardens lowest elevation are actual dirt trails and the occasional road. At the entrance of the garden are free maps that indicate the various trail routes and points of interest. There are also bathrooms and water fountains. How convenient!<br />
<br />
For more information on the Wahiawa Botanical Garden, visit the following websites:<br />
<a href="http://www1.honolulu.gov/parks/hbg/wbg.htm">Wahiawa Botanical Garden (Honolulu.gov Website)</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wahiawa_Botanical_Garden">Wahiawa Botanical Garden on WikiPedia</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6WyTor06M_BJtXdoRJytcN2pOUnf0bRvDP8wxmMJ0rledbG0M49r1uqzZ0UG21swEHGWUyCArwRKp715y7EaoEDsogsfRagMPrK2J45ypGelf1TGcXe5GXh6OZENTRMvbNNGvnnN7OB0/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6WyTor06M_BJtXdoRJytcN2pOUnf0bRvDP8wxmMJ0rledbG0M49r1uqzZ0UG21swEHGWUyCArwRKp715y7EaoEDsogsfRagMPrK2J45ypGelf1TGcXe5GXh6OZENTRMvbNNGvnnN7OB0/s320/1.jpg" width="233" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXuLNv4PfAPcw4VPhAVwyHY4ZWia6DL7yB65Kf5ViYFGhoK6GO_slhql2qYvXbRuoqapLhEhGj6qmrNgeB4OMkhTo3zwprbdGyJVlljycU1Z6VkbN4WiX_qH8AQyYIx3ztjA7wSF9KV98/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXuLNv4PfAPcw4VPhAVwyHY4ZWia6DL7yB65Kf5ViYFGhoK6GO_slhql2qYvXbRuoqapLhEhGj6qmrNgeB4OMkhTo3zwprbdGyJVlljycU1Z6VkbN4WiX_qH8AQyYIx3ztjA7wSF9KV98/s320/2.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUi2V3FGWg7KzaSYULOvlolILxXOQrPqElPnUxoYSzqekwdbTPoJdYQitL7c9PIrcWHbNzZa1ATKHi4xai6GcNc2v7OU8M1K_NtdLy68guE3EHUaT-iqKf64iPb5MecStjbPNp93mIowI/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUi2V3FGWg7KzaSYULOvlolILxXOQrPqElPnUxoYSzqekwdbTPoJdYQitL7c9PIrcWHbNzZa1ATKHi4xai6GcNc2v7OU8M1K_NtdLy68guE3EHUaT-iqKf64iPb5MecStjbPNp93mIowI/s320/3.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxmXrvMMe1hXUc6vuZoaI4h0oMsq1u5wDXWBdhjZRMKtY4wRY-1q08_xZowzXV1n3tAxuLmEm0eWNVDzsfiJbjVSXhHeIykBF4OUSfL08ApfDHnSn1fIoNUgq3yN6-_DppvUlsZULmX4/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxmXrvMMe1hXUc6vuZoaI4h0oMsq1u5wDXWBdhjZRMKtY4wRY-1q08_xZowzXV1n3tAxuLmEm0eWNVDzsfiJbjVSXhHeIykBF4OUSfL08ApfDHnSn1fIoNUgq3yN6-_DppvUlsZULmX4/s320/4.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIehm-JiNcSBPGtxKvavPpks1rqO39-EoINxRk-yALJUPOInfrJgwNme0hZuXmuBMBVffF_tqLzys6Q5stqd5gTwetj4PlZ3JHxBiS-jy5DiXglvwKe57R76_nFNkclDB3-oZCnXLAOtQ/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIehm-JiNcSBPGtxKvavPpks1rqO39-EoINxRk-yALJUPOInfrJgwNme0hZuXmuBMBVffF_tqLzys6Q5stqd5gTwetj4PlZ3JHxBiS-jy5DiXglvwKe57R76_nFNkclDB3-oZCnXLAOtQ/s320/5.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvJWKyVccmUprOfAfcGaJJ9lkVip4QFG3dv3i0gGxg31mQmK-j79K3MUzl9jPsLv4oKwwEQXCTONfV7F7qaxGPc6feDN8UKkZkaVMEuKS4fcaOh3ZaIyxga1Jn1j9zUV5w_PGog_8EKE/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvJWKyVccmUprOfAfcGaJJ9lkVip4QFG3dv3i0gGxg31mQmK-j79K3MUzl9jPsLv4oKwwEQXCTONfV7F7qaxGPc6feDN8UKkZkaVMEuKS4fcaOh3ZaIyxga1Jn1j9zUV5w_PGog_8EKE/s320/6.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfeWowFRO-EEugrooO224ewqR3o7UebXXVK-tQfMpsthUbzgdamgpYExCkaTgVNmwHTin_fjU5gu9Ksoer5WOwN01lluIAcrhI08IsUwYVNvir20YnZlBytbLP-UAV88J_x0LrVu41gM/s1600/6a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfeWowFRO-EEugrooO224ewqR3o7UebXXVK-tQfMpsthUbzgdamgpYExCkaTgVNmwHTin_fjU5gu9Ksoer5WOwN01lluIAcrhI08IsUwYVNvir20YnZlBytbLP-UAV88J_x0LrVu41gM/s320/6a.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrLaawbZP6tIfi86B_FPyxDcxLakouwEjR43HRA5KRG9bwxldeW-DF8MY1Vuj9ra53uprwdEye9Z8nlPNDyI6Z-xk3RtzzrVcyMxYLHYThdF9wExmzS6zIQOtiJI4QVHCGfUrhG7rnrI/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrLaawbZP6tIfi86B_FPyxDcxLakouwEjR43HRA5KRG9bwxldeW-DF8MY1Vuj9ra53uprwdEye9Z8nlPNDyI6Z-xk3RtzzrVcyMxYLHYThdF9wExmzS6zIQOtiJI4QVHCGfUrhG7rnrI/s320/7.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZ2xNhZSG7pibBMKhq5BbxLxgGpUM_iy3728O2kLLCjKTzQnNoY3K_Hf-m6DbhFRVBn_fPvoIWZGjWRCe-oJ5LR61RwB4gtZsAaq25ZCyDA7lb3eNn7IPde0mFLgDpWGG12gCvdoZWDA/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZ2xNhZSG7pibBMKhq5BbxLxgGpUM_iy3728O2kLLCjKTzQnNoY3K_Hf-m6DbhFRVBn_fPvoIWZGjWRCe-oJ5LR61RwB4gtZsAaq25ZCyDA7lb3eNn7IPde0mFLgDpWGG12gCvdoZWDA/s320/8.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QEjXhZkMmqmgWgLG9KSuAA-zdJJW8cuemPKpMnGFN6EYjsHLq6p60ZNTb5OTxwaiKXN9IWZPSB3BJKTuq2vgXHzFtNhR2qW-wL50ZGtQo42kp4QN-tuOxv1lqAC1gAJ0uk4plR-8u2Q/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QEjXhZkMmqmgWgLG9KSuAA-zdJJW8cuemPKpMnGFN6EYjsHLq6p60ZNTb5OTxwaiKXN9IWZPSB3BJKTuq2vgXHzFtNhR2qW-wL50ZGtQo42kp4QN-tuOxv1lqAC1gAJ0uk4plR-8u2Q/s320/9.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlniXfreFJfSPdH4zQ8BLhyphenhyphenB4P8QtF3h4Uaurzrj5uDO7TqRsd39KwxGyEG1cUmJp3XrF_HNoQhtgi7g4iD04rSnY7NtpN6vrxup4NcylbsARL5iVpoj2taX1i0M8lU4me9lyqabXYhsc/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlniXfreFJfSPdH4zQ8BLhyphenhyphenB4P8QtF3h4Uaurzrj5uDO7TqRsd39KwxGyEG1cUmJp3XrF_HNoQhtgi7g4iD04rSnY7NtpN6vrxup4NcylbsARL5iVpoj2taX1i0M8lU4me9lyqabXYhsc/s320/10.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBvI-z0l_w1HmmzO7_FgDrazgpV59-FPdz703ozsFz9Yp-givJY7OV1Wljr4maOE7da-p80cb_afQOZh5KzQ4qC31C2Zzmd99DVWZgI2rv6POKDGa02b0leIqSsZ5z39aUtqTPLImOCs/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBvI-z0l_w1HmmzO7_FgDrazgpV59-FPdz703ozsFz9Yp-givJY7OV1Wljr4maOE7da-p80cb_afQOZh5KzQ4qC31C2Zzmd99DVWZgI2rv6POKDGa02b0leIqSsZ5z39aUtqTPLImOCs/s320/11.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKok_zgEez-HPaei5q7bA4oWOIUrhDRfHSyA2PRfHb3Mm6O2JTr4fBE-f8t4XtaP8hxyOh89Wb6LRHUtWiF3VDLBDVGWujuUATO6TJH5T5eopUsz9iXuk9uRHkt4-Lh-bFu2r-AU9jb4/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKok_zgEez-HPaei5q7bA4oWOIUrhDRfHSyA2PRfHb3Mm6O2JTr4fBE-f8t4XtaP8hxyOh89Wb6LRHUtWiF3VDLBDVGWujuUATO6TJH5T5eopUsz9iXuk9uRHkt4-Lh-bFu2r-AU9jb4/s320/12.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;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-37151104682273621002012-01-03T20:18:00.000-10:002012-01-03T21:12:40.021-10:00Island Trails' 2011 Video Summary2011 was good fun! Within our crew, there weren't any major injury(s) like last year. Our crew had a couple close calls, but nobody <i>wen <a href="http://www.e-hawaii.com/pidgin/pidgin-english-words-starting-with-m">make</a></i>. (Excuse my pidgin.)<br />
<br />
There were a bunch of trails discovered, and lots cleared. And there was certainly a big and obvious surge of new people around the island setting aside their "rubbah slippahs" for some good 'ole hiking shoes. Not that it's a bad thing. Getting sweaty and dirty in the mountains is a hell of a good time when you're with your buddies. But with more people on the trails, mountain rescues were noticeably frequent and all over the news. At one point I remember there being over forty rescues in one month, all hiking related: poor HFD.<br />
<br />
With all drama aside, 2011 was definitely the year of exploration for us. From our <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/10/waimanu-august-19-21-2011.html">backpack trek on an outer island</a>, to <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/06/wailele-gulch-may-29th-2011.html">a gluch</a> with not a single human footprint, to <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/09/bolohead-ridge-may-12-may-15-august-14.html">a ridge</a> that only goats trample on, to a spot on <a href="http://pacificnetwork.tv/shakashakedown">a local TV show</a>, and to some pictures featured in <a href="http://www.hawaiimagazine.com/">Hawaii Magazine</a>, I'd say we covered a lot ground, literally and figuratively speaking.<br />
<br />
Despite the exposure, 2011 was the year with the lowest page views. Don't get me wrong, though. The site was booming with the highest visitor traffic on record for Island Trails in the first seven months or so this year. But recently, the page views have taken a dramatic nosedive. Why? Part of the reason is that I'm too lazy nowadays to scrounge up pics, edit video, force a write-up through the keyboard, and immediately post what recent hikes we've done, leaving those who visit Island Trails regularly to give up on future updates. (Sorry, guys. I'll try my best to speed up the updates.) But the main reason for the site's low visitor traffic is the influx of new hiking blogs. Research an Oahu trail on Google, and you'll have more then enough options to browse through. Island Trails is almost four years old. Who wants to read a hiking post about Kuli'ou'ou Ridge that's almost four years old? I wouldn't. We all want fresh info. Fresh pics. Fresh video. "What is there now?" "What wasn't there before?" "Is the trail even open?" Probably not.<br />
<br />
With that said, look for Island Trails to post hikes we haven't done yet and maybe even redo those trails we've done and posted before. We haven't completed every trail yet; we still have a lot more to go. Shit, I haven't even stepped foot on Bowman or Aiea Ridge yet! So with the new year upon us -- and the new GoPro2 HD Hero in my pack -- it looks like we got some work to do. We met and hiked with a lot of great people in 2011, all of whom we will have long-standing friendships with for as long as we have our two legs. Hopefully 2012 will be the same, if not better. Looking forward to it. Aloha!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="224" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/34144177?title=0&byline=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="398"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-34264215942418743152011-11-19T08:50:00.001-10:002011-11-25T19:32:59.511-10:00Piei Makai - November 12, 2011A couple weeks ago I was fortunate to have completed a portion of ridge that I thought was un-hikeable. Thanks to an invitation by Pete Clines, who actually did it about ten years prior, my preconceptions were shot down, and what I thought was un-doable, turned out to be doable. In fact, it was more enjoyable than I had expected. Coupled with an awesome crew and great weather, it is now one of my favorite loop hikes.<br />
<br />
Pu'u Piei is a peak situated on the northwestern wall of Kahana Valley located on the northeastern side of Oahu. The main trail to Pu'u Piei climbs a steep spur ridge then takes a left to the actual summit of Piei. Few, if any, turn right and take the little-used route heading makai (towards the ocean) along a craggy, tooth-like ridge. From the bottom of Kahana Valley, looking up at the "teeth," the makai portion heading away from Pu'u Piei looks a bit menacing, and a tad crazy. But with a little rope and meticulous hand and foot placement, the ridge offers up a good upper body workout, with insane views of Punalu'u Valley, Kahana Valley, Kahana Bay, and the coastline leading from Punalu'u to Kahuku.<br />
<br />
On hand was a crew of seven, including myself: Pete Clines, Chenay Borja, Duc Ong, Rosie Ho, Dave Webb, Laredo Muredo, Chase Norton, and Ryan Chang. We met at the Kahana Valley parking lot nearest to Kamehameha Highway around 8:30am, headed on foot a short ways into Kahana Valley, and took a right on the road that lead us to toward the Pu'u Piei trail. <a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2008/05/puu-piei-may-10-2008.html">The last time I did Pu'u Piei</a> I miraculously found the main trail leading to the top. I say "miraculous" because for those who have tried to find the main trail to Piei for the first time would definitely agree that it is difficult to locate.<br />
<br />
The same thing happened to us this time around. Following an obvious trail below the spur ridges, we sparked the notion that we were headed the wrong way toward the fishing lookout known as Kapa'ele'ele Ko'a. Little did we know that if we hit the lookout, we would've hit the main Pu'u Piei trail. Instead, we backtracked and crossed a dry stream, then resorted to following the stream uphill. Once out in the open we could tell that we were on the left side of a broad ridge clad with uluhe. Our errant decision didn't threaten our forward progress, for we knew that if we pushed uphill through the uluhe, we would eventually link up with the main trail leading up to Piei. After a tiring ten minute bushwhack uphill, we finally hit the main trail.<br />
<br />
Relieved, we sped our way up the spur ridge and topped out a little past 11am. Duc and Chase decided to tag the peak of Piei, while the rest of us took a rest and waited for their return. A quarter before noon we headed makai towards the teeth. Dave decided to call it a day and turned around.<br />
<br />
A small rock face with an old cable had to be negotiated, and past that the "trail" was pretty straightforward. A small amount of hacking here and there was needed to create a swath but nothing was entirely overgrown. We encountered a cool looking rock feature that resembled a ten-foot high tombstone. From there some minor climbing was involved, but nothing overly strenuous. Downclimbing was the norm, and the rocks were brittle in spots, but keeping a low center of gravity on the downclimbs and constantly determining our next step was key.<br />
<br />
Along the way were a few old black cables that were either broken or just too old to rely on. A couple of those black cables were also anchored and hanging off of ridiculous looking portions of the ridge that really had no merit. So we pretty much made forward progress by ignoring the cables, keeping our pace slow.<br />
<br />
The ridge narrowed considerably in spots. Comparable to other dangerous ridge trails, the drops were modest but still had us on alert. One wrong move and we would have got stabbed by the surrounding vegetation, cracked our heads open, broke our bones, or all of the above.<br />
<br />
Our first major obstacle was a large notch in the ridge. Debating on a contour, we decided that dropping to the left side of the ridge with the aid of Chase's rope was the best way to go. Perfectly situated directly above what we intended to drop down from was a small hole in the ridge. From there it was roughly a twenty-foot drop to a narrow strip of solid ground surrounded by vegetation. The hole was our anchor point. We would loop the rope around the hole and make our way down slowly with whatever foot holds we could find. Pete, of course, elected to go first. Second was Chase, third Chenay, then Duc, then Rosie, then Laredo and Ryan. When it was my turn I realized that getting down would require putting all faith into the rope. Foot placement was tricky, but the rock was surprisingly sturdy. About 3/4 of the way down, my arms began to cease, and I found myself struggling to get down the last eight feet or so to solid ground. I took a quick rest to regain my strength, and finally made it down to where Ryan was.<br />
<br />
With the first large notch behind us, we moved on. I spotted another one of those old black cables, this time hanging off the right side of the ridge. It looked as though it lead to a contour trail that would bypass what we would encounter next.<br />
<br />
A bit of uphill climbing led us to the top of another large notch. This time, the drop wasn't so forgiving. One slip to the left and you'd get some airtime before hitting something. At the top of the notch was an old white rope and a very useful O-ring. However, the rope and O-ring were attached to a weak shrub that would definitely not bear the full brunt of someone's weight. Using rope on the downclimb would require gentle pulling and extreme caution to not rip out the shrub from its roots. Pete took out some webbing and looped it around the O-ring. Again, in the same order, we descended one by one. The downclimb we had to negotiate was similar in size to the previous notch we successfully passed, but there were more footholds and ledges to boost our confidence on the way down. But like the last notch, the remaining eight feet or so was devoid of footholds. Pete helped us down the last several feet, his hands acting as ledges. He put both hands on the rock face, had us step on his hands, and he'd instruct us to slowly move downward all while cradling our feet in his hands. That's one technique I've never used while downclimbing, and it was a useful one at that.<br />
<br />
With the second notch behind us, we headed further. A smaller notch in the ridge had to be negotiated, but no rope was needed. A short uphill climb led to the top of broad crag with a view to die for. We rested a bit and ate lunch, then headed steeply downhill to the remainder of what we could see was the saner portion of the ridge. We followed an obvious swath to the last spur ridge that would make its steep descent to Kamehameha Highway. We were back at our cars at 3:30pm.<br />
<br />
My friend <a href="http://scottkfisher.blogspot.com/">Scott Fisher</a> successfully completed the same route solo one week after we did it. He confirmed that the old black cable that was dangling off the right side of the ridge after the first notch did actually lead to a contour trail, avoiding the second notch altogether. That's good to know. I'll be sure to use that contour the next time I do the hike. Piei Makai is definitely worthy of a rehike.<br />
<br />
To see more info on Pu'u Piei, check out the following link:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2008/05/puu-piei-may-10-2008.html">Pu'u Piei - May 10th, 2008</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Oiqw_vn4aXH3A9x0vuRi8QgrOYx7spW1SP4uytMjS0XI8eUXdgTpGNRRwKx1ETT8vsdBKsOQ9JJyOfxn3HBXGV3OImPScEtkGoiRUNtLceiM83kvf-1v0XOV4nGzeahS1s-11ZDX7H8/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Oiqw_vn4aXH3A9x0vuRi8QgrOYx7spW1SP4uytMjS0XI8eUXdgTpGNRRwKx1ETT8vsdBKsOQ9JJyOfxn3HBXGV3OImPScEtkGoiRUNtLceiM83kvf-1v0XOV4nGzeahS1s-11ZDX7H8/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Laredo on the ridge.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdyzzJ8JpSGWZHjnwh9QVTKaX1TjQM6SZSZt3_flFyBJCl3uwldM1IlCf_ZqT9Om3LSrTIUEuEGUnE394ofO4iLc8AXvHihKn8SJORxTjAwoSTRvHV3PXbBFUvA4Xcn-U_ciUUzCfkJk/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdyzzJ8JpSGWZHjnwh9QVTKaX1TjQM6SZSZt3_flFyBJCl3uwldM1IlCf_ZqT9Om3LSrTIUEuEGUnE394ofO4iLc8AXvHihKn8SJORxTjAwoSTRvHV3PXbBFUvA4Xcn-U_ciUUzCfkJk/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDmfw0HpqgPD7apr2caLYaW282KRY3QExJhCm7MN4E6zdGsvMhfNxIOS-AUTGq5xpWfNzvkRcP7D0j616R23L1vt3YWirXmBoU4t9QXnRDzS2ChnBOst2ZxDuygigvCXM880L0IlffcA/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYDmfw0HpqgPD7apr2caLYaW282KRY3QExJhCm7MN4E6zdGsvMhfNxIOS-AUTGq5xpWfNzvkRcP7D0j616R23L1vt3YWirXmBoU4t9QXnRDzS2ChnBOst2ZxDuygigvCXM880L0IlffcA/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pete on one of the narrow sections along the ridge.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaetIR5rQRR43PECuicLTlpw0CGLT2QodAqYxAzvpWpYhMIJGystDSK4oExVTFmvnbgDwNvUL9UU-IFcEazBJPhcThYWGu3tRAKZaaDr6hu1pim-RgI1VpJmGARWBtQYv2q-W2zu5iAX4/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaetIR5rQRR43PECuicLTlpw0CGLT2QodAqYxAzvpWpYhMIJGystDSK4oExVTFmvnbgDwNvUL9UU-IFcEazBJPhcThYWGu3tRAKZaaDr6hu1pim-RgI1VpJmGARWBtQYv2q-W2zu5iAX4/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9RNDZyEOAP7_icAJtSpRWHi_iLBiKo2R0jDEoRWkqlO8I8VL9KwX95E0ElTDmSXGqbCEzYoZ9UrFgrYUd75LUrhEylLx5oo74rFWH6UIApP0IiN2Jx1_YDpk_aYktz_-gDgxrHno1aY/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9RNDZyEOAP7_icAJtSpRWHi_iLBiKo2R0jDEoRWkqlO8I8VL9KwX95E0ElTDmSXGqbCEzYoZ9UrFgrYUd75LUrhEylLx5oo74rFWH6UIApP0IiN2Jx1_YDpk_aYktz_-gDgxrHno1aY/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMBm7vPQGU5oEnDpiVCVyb9mTPSF7U3qFi0xinJzn1nPNOjzvseo3lEdKy2coNF_pjsgTOgHOJa1VD8JKSWzW0-KUqdQ3NyT658Nu9gyGvwefoFXJGc_uzy1Df807XrF3qXgOUkWiq0w/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMBm7vPQGU5oEnDpiVCVyb9mTPSF7U3qFi0xinJzn1nPNOjzvseo3lEdKy2coNF_pjsgTOgHOJa1VD8JKSWzW0-KUqdQ3NyT658Nu9gyGvwefoFXJGc_uzy1Df807XrF3qXgOUkWiq0w/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eX4QpwSDSLFsWln5SMaYsGIjorynxMXPuWG6UCVkcOS2Tw__Q4TBAUuAJut8WL0z5206NzWWPiX-8IlrhJs-cCsKHMG8mAs_RG1WeLSE9ZpbAnH6xIU9sB0hmqaEVYTMu8KmZ08ijcI/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eX4QpwSDSLFsWln5SMaYsGIjorynxMXPuWG6UCVkcOS2Tw__Q4TBAUuAJut8WL0z5206NzWWPiX-8IlrhJs-cCsKHMG8mAs_RG1WeLSE9ZpbAnH6xIU9sB0hmqaEVYTMu8KmZ08ijcI/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking down the coast from Punalu'u to Kahuku.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTAMANLZ0whShXRP_AKXm9Y3ciSHhPFNkt8woJRnXnakh6e6iavbFkVZLSWz3lOeNynVwxDqTaLm4jStRDegMLjiUXxGXTnEB4oJuF3hlgHjoFvyidcD68nBWuZ9b2A8GAOo4h61anKU/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTAMANLZ0whShXRP_AKXm9Y3ciSHhPFNkt8woJRnXnakh6e6iavbFkVZLSWz3lOeNynVwxDqTaLm4jStRDegMLjiUXxGXTnEB4oJuF3hlgHjoFvyidcD68nBWuZ9b2A8GAOo4h61anKU/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCZcKXoZ-dMV7WXqL7G_Ee1scYmrId6NfeR_qILnTzG4IAqdEOBIaRS8emN3S3d16r3k2A7pQL38m5IvoYEGVXONqiQvbRf-ICPbHqesHWsGtGWfJfHnZ8JtTaNPDyhmYTUWsOnN2Y0Q/s1600/8a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCZcKXoZ-dMV7WXqL7G_Ee1scYmrId6NfeR_qILnTzG4IAqdEOBIaRS8emN3S3d16r3k2A7pQL38m5IvoYEGVXONqiQvbRf-ICPbHqesHWsGtGWfJfHnZ8JtTaNPDyhmYTUWsOnN2Y0Q/s400/8a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking back at the 1st notch. (photo: C. Borja)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LW1O-1tU6JaFUd1h5d74_OY9I_knKHbYfPFAZwSRDejDrjtE5JdTpFiNYhspRth1XJh38w1MxeD6GaI63MbPvgwBN0ToSW33BUGaWHk0kQXfWCQF6rv2KcTQSeXFO4NpSAxT527e54w/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LW1O-1tU6JaFUd1h5d74_OY9I_knKHbYfPFAZwSRDejDrjtE5JdTpFiNYhspRth1XJh38w1MxeD6GaI63MbPvgwBN0ToSW33BUGaWHk0kQXfWCQF6rv2KcTQSeXFO4NpSAxT527e54w/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Laredo, negotiating the downclimb from 2nd notch.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiJ-Kvtjfg1ttXHvbmj1ypWYZHZ7IU0hO-eU41mCuj4X8Gq6A2tZHLoYNhlYn8tceIbg4Cyxr6WVh2-ZR9pqu2sam22QOW_TJZ-h2kh-MHL5tg1xZcroh8-fDxl3ivj6Y8jWm2nj4jQb4/s1600/9a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiJ-Kvtjfg1ttXHvbmj1ypWYZHZ7IU0hO-eU41mCuj4X8Gq6A2tZHLoYNhlYn8tceIbg4Cyxr6WVh2-ZR9pqu2sam22QOW_TJZ-h2kh-MHL5tg1xZcroh8-fDxl3ivj6Y8jWm2nj4jQb4/s400/9a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking back at the 2nd notch. (photo: C. Norton)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUFYvTq3Wv6EO33tTh55RdZI9ESzHf7Cv_-Pof9VQTi-0-Ao8-oJ500oGXtMgznoXin7KB6II2X2StY-9lheYa2LNLrUYwb2g5iSVo1vwrQDh0jIQe-ufXFNFFccOXZHydt-34Z_PUe-4/s1600/9b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUFYvTq3Wv6EO33tTh55RdZI9ESzHf7Cv_-Pof9VQTi-0-Ao8-oJ500oGXtMgznoXin7KB6II2X2StY-9lheYa2LNLrUYwb2g5iSVo1vwrQDh0jIQe-ufXFNFFccOXZHydt-34Z_PUe-4/s400/9b.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Clinging. (photo: C. Borja)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlwD3vNSiXM_KpgI-opnfvtuYeDBFYCIXmh0l87zqeq5wzUOXRQwiMa088D3-bfMlBre9x2qxWW83XAxdd6r9iCAScD9CK18I7wbcoiEgkqsOfhRLVNRz2reJXHMn9XQUYNQrwe8Ce2g/s1600/9ba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlwD3vNSiXM_KpgI-opnfvtuYeDBFYCIXmh0l87zqeq5wzUOXRQwiMa088D3-bfMlBre9x2qxWW83XAxdd6r9iCAScD9CK18I7wbcoiEgkqsOfhRLVNRz2reJXHMn9XQUYNQrwe8Ce2g/s400/9ba.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The hardest part behind us. (photo: C. Borja)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWSYuE6t5ECCV_kOgfRVPawTKNqNkokZXx_-A7F9JQFn1hAHVWqNTcVWAOuyZTdBWNexbIZ2hJdsWS0VpqpddMQdoX-Fo5cbcz_2R2Ouf0vNtTs7Q9r2d0a9Xl87WI9KUgnqh06dJgWPk/s1600/9c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWSYuE6t5ECCV_kOgfRVPawTKNqNkokZXx_-A7F9JQFn1hAHVWqNTcVWAOuyZTdBWNexbIZ2hJdsWS0VpqpddMQdoX-Fo5cbcz_2R2Ouf0vNtTs7Q9r2d0a9Xl87WI9KUgnqh06dJgWPk/s400/9c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ryan on the ridge. Chase in the distance on the broad crag. (photo: C. Borja)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-1qzcysDqJzXfsVR4VWacQG8vLHm6IducC3mnibMTKrlVhzZT6_De5xCH46eQMXv4B1swrkxxNQBDJUvxeKdN6w8YCiYfN9rj-2BihK1QJgZXaxzEZtZ_XifvlTK9M2QgxNeoBiehqg/s1600/9d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-1qzcysDqJzXfsVR4VWacQG8vLHm6IducC3mnibMTKrlVhzZT6_De5xCH46eQMXv4B1swrkxxNQBDJUvxeKdN6w8YCiYfN9rj-2BihK1QJgZXaxzEZtZ_XifvlTK9M2QgxNeoBiehqg/s400/9d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Heading to the last crag. (photo: C. Borja)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioj_dZq5d2r7v-CqExTWYRbx7Poos25TBK487juac47cVV4dF0Edk9Yji4_sbwSmwNHOrjOTi7zqCpk1RpaHUBlxMhIIUiHwg8ngVYAiKdv47HKjdIOdWLbH3kkuOcc1HmzQ8O4l4JPhw/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioj_dZq5d2r7v-CqExTWYRbx7Poos25TBK487juac47cVV4dF0Edk9Yji4_sbwSmwNHOrjOTi7zqCpk1RpaHUBlxMhIIUiHwg8ngVYAiKdv47HKjdIOdWLbH3kkuOcc1HmzQ8O4l4JPhw/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ryan, downclimbing one of the smaller notches.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27WFifFVdbanqcfU1WO3KgQJda-P2W1oQUUzzYZ1wG1jLWotYWJatE2lmImsYGJADevmM0DRX9SMxIBYQLcTYutO1aDNc_-cBugp5dRxhKYibPoPIXaJJobd7xL3qrVUMNQKCM9gr3YM/s1600/10a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27WFifFVdbanqcfU1WO3KgQJda-P2W1oQUUzzYZ1wG1jLWotYWJatE2lmImsYGJADevmM0DRX9SMxIBYQLcTYutO1aDNc_-cBugp5dRxhKYibPoPIXaJJobd7xL3qrVUMNQKCM9gr3YM/s400/10a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Piei teeth. (photo: C. Norton)</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_-txuaRzv9oEhzJSvx-SH5WdpEnDHsIUYPasCUYxtwX-jC162OMChKVzLHgB6cicWWPkHczEUXdUIZqiosQ3tLzhsQO7745hBCODV8zDkj5ECoKC-7WM_sw_889EluHYHnq-fKXecZo/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_-txuaRzv9oEhzJSvx-SH5WdpEnDHsIUYPasCUYxtwX-jC162OMChKVzLHgB6cicWWPkHczEUXdUIZqiosQ3tLzhsQO7745hBCODV8zDkj5ECoKC-7WM_sw_889EluHYHnq-fKXecZo/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIBHHZZJrWX1rs8CvOEFoQvn2UJCMSdx-2wOVOCiyBQBF_9IC6kTGjJK5imWCfCdsrTpL5utsBnV8GNY6xf3hSzRcRaJqfA2kzGY6HmMvNI92WlIQDNXMwn4RRQk4RWXkO2FYerJ1WdE/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIBHHZZJrWX1rs8CvOEFoQvn2UJCMSdx-2wOVOCiyBQBF_9IC6kTGjJK5imWCfCdsrTpL5utsBnV8GNY6xf3hSzRcRaJqfA2kzGY6HmMvNI92WlIQDNXMwn4RRQk4RWXkO2FYerJ1WdE/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhko6MitQUtRVNNkjYRhce9K_fAYolSp0qH4-lJWuxy0q2M-0YNQxHuAND92KNgw4mWvpo848aNWZLBP8wEuxDG4yjjpBM0P5Ps5n-SEAdINmD9AjnaD_btJoRzPyQ5XQsaCpk4ZHEE2YU/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhko6MitQUtRVNNkjYRhce9K_fAYolSp0qH4-lJWuxy0q2M-0YNQxHuAND92KNgw4mWvpo848aNWZLBP8wEuxDG4yjjpBM0P5Ps5n-SEAdINmD9AjnaD_btJoRzPyQ5XQsaCpk4ZHEE2YU/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Heading down the makai-most spur ridge to Kamehameha Highway.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtmKCqf8fV5H9ZJ1ijPKbPAzQ27bDqhhswaP5hjGMzLw-sOHtdNAuSm42nvi3SlIm5mtKXG5PLraxV0NvYKoUM3UUQyY0oCAwlJv13_1KLybUE30Lzdhovc_-VbA6sAG_2T4_nbsNjDc/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtmKCqf8fV5H9ZJ1ijPKbPAzQ27bDqhhswaP5hjGMzLw-sOHtdNAuSm42nvi3SlIm5mtKXG5PLraxV0NvYKoUM3UUQyY0oCAwlJv13_1KLybUE30Lzdhovc_-VbA6sAG_2T4_nbsNjDc/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="224" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/32174507?title=0&byline=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="398"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-33354872440017536082011-10-26T18:41:00.000-10:002011-10-26T18:52:10.386-10:00Kahana to Wahiawa - October 8, 2011<br />
Hike long enough on Oahu and you begin to notice that the island is small. It also becomes obvious that you can hike trails -- or blaze your own -- and find yourself in another town on the other side of either the Ko'olau mountain range or the Waianae mountain range. And if you plan accordingly, a lot of those "over the mountain" treks can actually be done in a day.<br />
<br />
In my pre-hiking days, if someone told me, "Yeah, you can walk over that mountain range to your house in a day," I wouldn't believe it. Take Kahana Valley to Wahiawa for example? I'd think, "Yeah, right!" "How is that possible?" "Who in their right mind would do that?" Well, a bunch of my friends and I did it for my birthday, and it was long, wet, muddy, and cold as fuck.<br />
<br />
Hiking with me was Kelven Del Rosario, Johhny Martin, Daniel Napoleon, Lei Yamasaki, and Ryan Chang. We started around 8am in Kahana Valley, a massive valley situated on the northeastern side of Oahu. From Kahana, we ascended the recently cleared Pauao Ridge trail to the Ko'olau summit. From there we hiked southeast along a short, beautiful stretch along the KST to the Schofield-Waikane trail. Upon reaching the Schofield-Waikane trail, we descended it all the way to California Avenue to Wahiawa Heights. A half-mile walk down California Avenue, and we ended at my house.<br />
<br />
The day started off perfect for hiking: clouds were high, the tradewinds were blowing, and an intermittent drizzle would cool us down. It was whole different story along the KST and down Schofield-Waikane. The KST jaunt had its fair share of no-rain moments, but the majority of it was spent in clouds and being pelted by heavy downpours, especially coming down the Schofield-Waikane trail. Almost the entire time coming down Schofield-Waikane, we were getting pummeled by endless amounts of rain to the point where we just took off our shirts -- not Lei -- and jetted down the trail to keep our body heat in check. A little after 7:00pm, we were at the water towers at the top of California Avenue. From there we walked to my house and finished around 7:30pm. Drove Kelven's car all the way back to Kahana to drop Lei, Ryan, and Johhny off at their cars; arrived in Kahana a tad before 9pm. Long day, but well worth it.<br />
<br />
To see previous write-ups, pictures, and videos of the trails mentioned in this blog post, check out the following links:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2008/10/pauao-ridge-october-18-2008.html">Pauao Ridge - October 18th, 2008</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/07/schofield-waikane-trail-july-5-2009.html">Schofield-Waikane Trail - July 5th, 2009</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/08/pauao-ridge-trail-clearing-july-10-2011.html">Pauao Ridge (Trail Clearing) - July 10th, 2011</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2011/08/poamoho-to-wahiawa-july-24-2011.html">Poamoho to Wahiawa - July 24th, 2011</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTogLh4mcE8OA8MKi3LmXUdEipKA01SjCqK9F8jmKBqSmArCfjvpG9EXuLDYXbqcPZNv_ZgPRTLjI-SBV4xMBHFOQ_8TyK04NKHjhuV9HveKgJS4I2wBwy9tuUihyphenhyphentNAbXh12RwXnFfM/s1600/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZTogLh4mcE8OA8MKi3LmXUdEipKA01SjCqK9F8jmKBqSmArCfjvpG9EXuLDYXbqcPZNv_ZgPRTLjI-SBV4xMBHFOQ_8TyK04NKHjhuV9HveKgJS4I2wBwy9tuUihyphenhyphentNAbXh12RwXnFfM/s400/0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko6T9k4DxUQCTS80YA-Gx-2jSeKbGywjlQO9gBvSwyNx-S-yXPHjwL84ofGJfUscDSn31QQr_cPchNBVdI7dNrREDSyNAdir-rlCAkHYjIKovYMwDYFzm8mDsqbHGPbG-wWs6EGxHpf4/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjko6T9k4DxUQCTS80YA-Gx-2jSeKbGywjlQO9gBvSwyNx-S-yXPHjwL84ofGJfUscDSn31QQr_cPchNBVdI7dNrREDSyNAdir-rlCAkHYjIKovYMwDYFzm8mDsqbHGPbG-wWs6EGxHpf4/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: L. Yamasaki</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE42sEAHyU14M9B_jrdeP-LRgoFSbS-CRuxGZeSK5RoCQ2gbQkKKKJ9I_pvbKRk-lMWjpz3_tBGCwd0lrSIL5BCJgQ-NallaCjis-Xlg2SRnLXd5npWaCfX759xhQY_tJHkSpLjOTtOY/s1600/1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE42sEAHyU14M9B_jrdeP-LRgoFSbS-CRuxGZeSK5RoCQ2gbQkKKKJ9I_pvbKRk-lMWjpz3_tBGCwd0lrSIL5BCJgQ-NallaCjis-Xlg2SRnLXd5npWaCfX759xhQY_tJHkSpLjOTtOY/s400/1a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIZTGq33b9BzYp8jYB4Zr3FOwQfxhT4lQOS1X-Qh2EuXNifLBW5hiREPlyDcDq_turz6IH7gZMFuu_IF-FJw2JrdoLrOfv1O1Ec1TzkL6scLZmK1h-urSGT22CQqiPDwxEi44VSbVBbI/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIZTGq33b9BzYp8jYB4Zr3FOwQfxhT4lQOS1X-Qh2EuXNifLBW5hiREPlyDcDq_turz6IH7gZMFuu_IF-FJw2JrdoLrOfv1O1Ec1TzkL6scLZmK1h-urSGT22CQqiPDwxEi44VSbVBbI/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looking toward Punalu'u Valley. The prominent peak near the middle of the photo is Pu'u Piei.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnWW9JNOIEw9f1VidpgZ4HHFtK1JjNIRHModwaxUA6-89R3vTCwlY8NYYINIdvS77vhZV8VEdz1vaPzoI-c8PwIahc6s2q7l6Ogbz1bed6VV5WI_a46rB2DECJq0drqZlpT7k9gUnA5A/s1600/2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnWW9JNOIEw9f1VidpgZ4HHFtK1JjNIRHModwaxUA6-89R3vTCwlY8NYYINIdvS77vhZV8VEdz1vaPzoI-c8PwIahc6s2q7l6Ogbz1bed6VV5WI_a46rB2DECJq0drqZlpT7k9gUnA5A/s400/2a.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0_qUP9rMq2xYYAm-4aU5w1OV0UZjAx78XMZvCjU_SFo_G4gDJHibOilMoZWlf2RVukqWwWEt3Wv5zBfwKkw4v5FvImaqZYqlgB-8qecRV24pkE5ZJdKH3OubliLLQFWUsp3ewKqRUIw/s1600/2aa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0_qUP9rMq2xYYAm-4aU5w1OV0UZjAx78XMZvCjU_SFo_G4gDJHibOilMoZWlf2RVukqWwWEt3Wv5zBfwKkw4v5FvImaqZYqlgB-8qecRV24pkE5ZJdKH3OubliLLQFWUsp3ewKqRUIw/s400/2aa.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: L. Yamasaki</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9vF6rnla-R3BTUX7T7-yBG5mJGghpqq3Lti_UJYMSpEDF01fMpcL5BmKpoU1JVyLdTfRMwTFFt9f6unVHGCvUwFo3hEEZv6OO9Otk7zxOmlB9YxUc7u25HkXi07rtH7PU5XV_JlPHM4/s1600/2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd9vF6rnla-R3BTUX7T7-yBG5mJGghpqq3Lti_UJYMSpEDF01fMpcL5BmKpoU1JVyLdTfRMwTFFt9f6unVHGCvUwFo3hEEZv6OO9Otk7zxOmlB9YxUc7u25HkXi07rtH7PU5XV_JlPHM4/s400/2b.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdSpj5zghGTsX5y48Rmfa6Qs8YPj23qdUPvRjEHwQqkhlGvFk-AXIQPTtFXfguvj6NOoK_DkrfJgI-JTgEhmWURxzvvfOvP_0xeXk_spNvhgaAaV6MRRyzFmeOM8HHrxHYYmacu6YXJE/s1600/2c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdSpj5zghGTsX5y48Rmfa6Qs8YPj23qdUPvRjEHwQqkhlGvFk-AXIQPTtFXfguvj6NOoK_DkrfJgI-JTgEhmWURxzvvfOvP_0xeXk_spNvhgaAaV6MRRyzFmeOM8HHrxHYYmacu6YXJE/s400/2c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View of Kahana Valley and its bay through the bushes. (photo: D. Napoleon)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzhjcXU-t7QHbijXm2ivPdRcQNhNE7vmHJU2NhWb_NIez55kPwk-pcdCNhKQ_oEzMMQttbFrxh5XXXhpjaSg03WUHxDJOKm7jbRSjnGy0AEyhXcmvenc9xP9aPDYkEMvbflXRTvEM8j4/s1600/2d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzhjcXU-t7QHbijXm2ivPdRcQNhNE7vmHJU2NhWb_NIez55kPwk-pcdCNhKQ_oEzMMQttbFrxh5XXXhpjaSg03WUHxDJOKm7jbRSjnGy0AEyhXcmvenc9xP9aPDYkEMvbflXRTvEM8j4/s400/2d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFpdDXvue6TsjH_8U_xiVSoG0y8V_-dKmPM6467gKQiTc9fHVKqOsPIhYu_jXAdkaPJqfGB9kEvszviCR4GkogoOBmZGM3XCMgeTGcNIQA-BT7a9wXD6OEmx6Q3liQFsZPcbwhyphenhyphenlyzy0/s1600/2e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFpdDXvue6TsjH_8U_xiVSoG0y8V_-dKmPM6467gKQiTc9fHVKqOsPIhYu_jXAdkaPJqfGB9kEvszviCR4GkogoOBmZGM3XCMgeTGcNIQA-BT7a9wXD6OEmx6Q3liQFsZPcbwhyphenhyphenlyzy0/s400/2e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Heading toward the Schofield-Waikane trail along the KST. (photo: D. Napoleon)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXqELg7IR6_fxe9MIFmyF0Jfjc8rhOZpXyWe8yNAJzCYk2O3u9fysbFkoBFxxrS9nNtOvCPalhYaT0Hw9k_gLwoRNzwGtfeNfyzgdtEfhhhdtWlpiew8IjSsgWCW4S4Fx5QlG7Qhpa2Pw/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXqELg7IR6_fxe9MIFmyF0Jfjc8rhOZpXyWe8yNAJzCYk2O3u9fysbFkoBFxxrS9nNtOvCPalhYaT0Hw9k_gLwoRNzwGtfeNfyzgdtEfhhhdtWlpiew8IjSsgWCW4S4Fx5QlG7Qhpa2Pw/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPeTEZC_IhZDUcrQWJci32g2OMIAo6Rg9mCxDPVQPZZLO2Nthjma9EcXhVSM4CTNcH-UC8q5ygcyc4jsm-L-nC6rFTLqRFibuxOxDa0p4NNcdTN80AIohnxdv2lJ1tML6jmflIZc_xWeU/s1600/3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPeTEZC_IhZDUcrQWJci32g2OMIAo6Rg9mCxDPVQPZZLO2Nthjma9EcXhVSM4CTNcH-UC8q5ygcyc4jsm-L-nC6rFTLqRFibuxOxDa0p4NNcdTN80AIohnxdv2lJ1tML6jmflIZc_xWeU/s400/3a.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: L. Yamasaki</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSVZtRjyrlpNSFB_1kKemjxAx1GGPFTa_TfyBTTHf33-LPaf1seRD529hKOOs3P2zlyDRN17ZXKdGl97VfHqgNd8yB1XFuZKNTFRRtYnfoXKvrp4vHmSKUlUiOw-nz0zWIW72lzo9T1c/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHSVZtRjyrlpNSFB_1kKemjxAx1GGPFTa_TfyBTTHf33-LPaf1seRD529hKOOs3P2zlyDRN17ZXKdGl97VfHqgNd8yB1XFuZKNTFRRtYnfoXKvrp4vHmSKUlUiOw-nz0zWIW72lzo9T1c/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: L. Yamasaki</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTL0-i_bYi23_7Q0yaHoEkRO-kiUXhTaEJ7J1g7WZyJwIQCcqDS8q0qG522XWThKg41bDX5P6n3yKUfRlG1nUCKmjJjL4Q-hFuw8o2KksU7w6LAHsmYWscP5uMSrWmOrg8IKGX2wckb8/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTL0-i_bYi23_7Q0yaHoEkRO-kiUXhTaEJ7J1g7WZyJwIQCcqDS8q0qG522XWThKg41bDX5P6n3yKUfRlG1nUCKmjJjL4Q-hFuw8o2KksU7w6LAHsmYWscP5uMSrWmOrg8IKGX2wckb8/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPVoeXS3ii03x_ezMPvKR-G09tzeX_W9WbXMsN1OeeOMxR8VdJvKS1Xgd022-XbbMAOAblcGnKcXC0rAWhQmoeP16GnLnKMFsXmxFqmYqED6S4-NsX1yuwlsvch8BdHTV1xfrzpnBh0Y/s1600/5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPVoeXS3ii03x_ezMPvKR-G09tzeX_W9WbXMsN1OeeOMxR8VdJvKS1Xgd022-XbbMAOAblcGnKcXC0rAWhQmoeP16GnLnKMFsXmxFqmYqED6S4-NsX1yuwlsvch8BdHTV1xfrzpnBh0Y/s400/5a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Finally at the road and Schofield-Waikane trailhead. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii28_G5aeP6GcXSjdGZgDLYNkwQvZ_-A41YkH4RKC56NovGh_R9u1uPjVn_G1uiovltk5qtQVbgvhyaUj_XeCtBf_SshSF_h1EYEkhFplqwRrL42uiLGvhD7b-89cFj9N6k4-EW9g3FLA/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii28_G5aeP6GcXSjdGZgDLYNkwQvZ_-A41YkH4RKC56NovGh_R9u1uPjVn_G1uiovltk5qtQVbgvhyaUj_XeCtBf_SshSF_h1EYEkhFplqwRrL42uiLGvhD7b-89cFj9N6k4-EW9g3FLA/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Walking down California Avenue. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="224" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/30357612?title=0&byline=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="398"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-34168261531918382232011-10-20T21:25:00.000-10:002011-10-20T21:25:42.052-10:00Missile Flats (Kaukonahua) - September 18, 2011Big mahalos to Jason Nakasato and Shannon Shimata for giving me directions to this jump spot. And also thanks to Melissa Hernandez and Tony Mercado for identifying it. I've lived in Wahiawa for the majority of my life, and I had no idea this existed.<br />
<br />
Located in upper Wahiawa, there's a 35-foot jump spot into Kaukonahua Stream known as Missle Flats. The trail is easy, short (about two miles round trip), and offers a great workout, but it can get you lost fast. The trails above Wahiawa are endless, with numerous junctions and side trails. If you don't know where you're going, you can get really disoriented. Tall trees and a vast undeveloped landscape will make a dummy out of someone who is not familiar with the area. Directions to this spot are even more confusing to put on paper, or on the internet for that matter. So, if you're looking for directions here, I can't help you. My directions will make no sense, and it probably won't be correct. I know how to get there if I'm actually hiking there. Sorry.<br />
<br />
On this outing, we were greeted to a raging stream, all due to the constant rains a couple days prior. The water was brown as brown could get, but we jumped in anyway. (Can you say "lepto?") Kinda gross, but we had a blast. Definitely gonna come back when the water level drops a bit and the stream color gets back to normal. A portion of this hike uses the Wahiawa Hills trail.<br />
<br />
For more info on the Wahiawa Hills trail, check out the following links:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/04/wahiawa-hills-april-25-2009.html">Wahiawa Hills - April 25, 2009</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2010/08/wahiawa-hills-august-20-2010.html">Wahiawa Hills - August 20, 2010</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBSOPdakdfp5_nmyftMIKoySdBVKJSotOQed0eT2waZUdAoM3yVRebWawgaiaug00aM8VUSOp0bQ0Id13pphNZOuUa3vfoEH9y0UdrxuApBdW6-4k5J_gGl2ERBKCN85753VnOSdsNsyw/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBSOPdakdfp5_nmyftMIKoySdBVKJSotOQed0eT2waZUdAoM3yVRebWawgaiaug00aM8VUSOp0bQ0Id13pphNZOuUa3vfoEH9y0UdrxuApBdW6-4k5J_gGl2ERBKCN85753VnOSdsNsyw/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFkpxgzi27PJcf7fIz5YIdJ910i8S8myd6kxejL7KoRpLY2ljWleTabNgl4v6cP2C6S_jmmnv4PIszmBx2fjsUwzEA1MfIa9gksSivAh5m8qWdD0Q98pfYrqE_5GggeV6obVk7ebO9itA/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFkpxgzi27PJcf7fIz5YIdJ910i8S8myd6kxejL7KoRpLY2ljWleTabNgl4v6cP2C6S_jmmnv4PIszmBx2fjsUwzEA1MfIa9gksSivAh5m8qWdD0Q98pfYrqE_5GggeV6obVk7ebO9itA/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKBMAt-WBdE_fUJdZ6UY0rMoynvq7Rrt5kTDN_78cV-6X7itt7IetfjzkgECD-dCxvFrIOatW651ZpiQXkcWJcXhyphenhyphenokzK5p4xFp_Cqwgs9XXXr0TOsJOVwqk54HZ26qZlpgt0bx5fXAA/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKBMAt-WBdE_fUJdZ6UY0rMoynvq7Rrt5kTDN_78cV-6X7itt7IetfjzkgECD-dCxvFrIOatW651ZpiQXkcWJcXhyphenhyphenokzK5p4xFp_Cqwgs9XXXr0TOsJOVwqk54HZ26qZlpgt0bx5fXAA/s400/6.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kaukonahua Stream. As brown as it gets. (photo: D. Napoleon)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWuKwrsu-lVWLby74RyhwBfcIIvyHbCiyiGZicrnwak4iph3vp4qTKYpZg9IkLVSOzfC5DeBiJrZLHefN7K5AoU6RbzE4kljqTFw3E21ZxD1MjDU4b_Vjh8IuwMeo8zqDxPXGxYXgHYqU/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWuKwrsu-lVWLby74RyhwBfcIIvyHbCiyiGZicrnwak4iph3vp4qTKYpZg9IkLVSOzfC5DeBiJrZLHefN7K5AoU6RbzE4kljqTFw3E21ZxD1MjDU4b_Vjh8IuwMeo8zqDxPXGxYXgHYqU/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_QVlFWryDKQNF4OioKFEl8VC55CW_4Bm0bQVZeul7iCjUmPanq2zX9UdNJvN52ELiNRnqUvV3xeZdcfG_gotAV8qLpUAkO8IqfqT2d8aoRNzdCkiY6b1CGM1WTuH07HnrHMR7dN6jy4/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_QVlFWryDKQNF4OioKFEl8VC55CW_4Bm0bQVZeul7iCjUmPanq2zX9UdNJvN52ELiNRnqUvV3xeZdcfG_gotAV8qLpUAkO8IqfqT2d8aoRNzdCkiY6b1CGM1WTuH07HnrHMR7dN6jy4/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ryan Chang, taking the leap. (photo: D. Napoleon)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH57hhhtDRMtVXxCk0PD9Pm4A0w79GP-ZZt8SokavcSZsGVZ1XOVaAoLJohQUGt4joLu6WOl2AE9aiOtz5uTiPY7iRK0XRZKNNXcIkOzM_dzk6vU29rHtNA8gkO9B2YVdNprJDO33-8w/s1600/ryan-stillshot-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH57hhhtDRMtVXxCk0PD9Pm4A0w79GP-ZZt8SokavcSZsGVZ1XOVaAoLJohQUGt4joLu6WOl2AE9aiOtz5uTiPY7iRK0XRZKNNXcIkOzM_dzk6vU29rHtNA8gkO9B2YVdNprJDO33-8w/s400/ryan-stillshot-small.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
View of Ryan jumping from the water.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="224" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/29361580?title=0&byline=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="398"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1030381026504940207.post-39011232272338832262011-10-18T17:04:00.000-10:002011-10-18T17:26:39.655-10:00Piliwale to Lulumahu - September 10, 2011<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/10/piliwale-ridge-october-11-2009.html">Last time I did Piliwale</a>, I fell off. The trail leading to the notch was overgrown then, and beyond the notch there were very little ropes affixed for assistance. There were also a ton of bees that set up camp along the southeastern side of the ridge which weren't very happy of us being there. To make a long story short, the bees attacked and won, forcing me to fall head first off the ridge, with a <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPaTB3-hED6JbIoP2hXg8zo5O2urALDyIFbQPvcSKlsLcan6EM_DW-tnXv1S5Qxw0y7__qLhwRa5fXgtEdxqd4tqqyMQGP_ZrJveG_zTi52WcY9MCx4gDdHzO-_BUyJXXGEj8PvesVXGw/s1600/8.jpg">scar left on my head</a> as a reminder to never do it again. Yeah, well, actions speak louder than words.<br />
<br />
Fast forward to 2011 and I found myself back on the ridge that almost took my life. Only this time the trail and ridge was way different from how I remembered it. The trail leading to the notch was pretty well paved, there's a contour section around a rock face just before the notch that I had no idea existed the last time I did it, and the ridge is littered with rope, some of which is not even needed, but that's besides the point. The point is I finally got to complete it. Joining me was Lei Yamasaki, Ryan Chang, and Daniel Napoleon. Daniel was with me on the last attempt, and he, too, fell off, tweaking some back muscles and getting some awesome muscle relaxers as a plus. But now, since completing Piliwale, I've come to realize that it really isn't that bad. It just climbs, climbs, and climbs constantly to get the top of the highest peak in the Ko'olau mountain range, Konahuanui (K1). Don't get me wrong, though. Piliwale is not for beginners. The ridge is narrow, crumbly, and very steep, with large drops on either side of the ridge. One for the books, I must say. Because we didn't only do Piliwale: we descended Lulumahu Ridge on the other side, too. No bees this time either. Hallelujah.<br />
<br />
Lulumahu Ridge is a little-used ridge jutting south from Konahuanui (K1) to Nu'uanu Valley. Near the summit of K1, the trail is very obvious, then disappears as the elevation decreases. And when I mean "disappears", I mean that there is no trail at all until a large saddle in the ridge is reached. The upper portions of Lulumahu Ridge are loaded with native Hawaiian plants that are only found on Oahu and nowhere else in the world. Had we had known this before the hike, we wouldn't have descended it.<br />
<br />
After the saddle, the trail was still partially overgrown but in way better shape. We reached an old rope at a steep section (Dayle Turner?) that aided our descent to a spot on the ridge that indicated we were almost finished. Following the ridge further, our hopes that it's direct route would eventually bottom out somewhere in Nu'uanau Valley was botched. We encountered an insanely overgrown section where the ridge dropped off into oblivion. Ryan was the guinea pig, tying a rope to a tree, and then jumped down into the "oblivion," only to disappear in the thick uluhe brush. After a short scare, Ryan called out that he was okay, so we then backtracked, brainstorming other options as to how we were going to get down into Nu'uanu without another mishap.<br />
<br />
Two ridge spurs to the west were obvious escape routes. One was higher up, which meant we had to go back upridge to the steep rope section. That option seemed pointless considering that we were at the apex of another side ridge that was broad but looked to be choked with vegetation. We opted to descend it, with Daniel leading the way. Lower and lower we went, eventually hitting a wide swath marked with pink ribbons. It was the recent work of <a href="http://truffleshuffle808.blogspot.com/">Josh Serrano</a>, who has been clearing Lulumahu Ridge from the bottom-up. Relieved, we pushed on, following Josh's ribbons all the way to Lulumanu Stream. Exhausted and hot, we headed toward Lulumahu Falls to cool off. After a quick rinse, we headed out the stream trail towards the Nu'uanu Reservoir and out onto the Pali Highway. Waiting for us was Keahi Ka'a'awa with drinks and food. It was an awesome day hike: all nine-and-a-half hours of it.<br />
<br />
To see my previous hikes up Piliwale Ridge, check out the following links:<br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/05/piliwale-ridge-trail-scout-may-8-2009.html">Piliwale Ridge (Trail Scout) - May 8, 2009</a><br />
<a href="http://kaleolancaster.blogspot.com/2009/10/piliwale-ridge-october-11-2009.html">Piliwale Ridge - October 10, 2009</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB3Flk7K2WXSVpPHubTEFY-_xc5dJtSUPVYdNOoWzIJe8q1dMqYZ5CfZlUOmpSd5wJ7zAyYPVbLaC1g8nCszEwK8J2CeJTCt5_yCOCArmizkpr9DJsSMpv0pawNbH0UI6FnKXQUZPECw/s1600/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcB3Flk7K2WXSVpPHubTEFY-_xc5dJtSUPVYdNOoWzIJe8q1dMqYZ5CfZlUOmpSd5wJ7zAyYPVbLaC1g8nCszEwK8J2CeJTCt5_yCOCArmizkpr9DJsSMpv0pawNbH0UI6FnKXQUZPECw/s400/0.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SeyN2xzlrb4JbV_OF4Szj4dRH329xh2BKp0ukJN4m0IU6uW40Y69R1Pi24Fp_xhvqTxBPOqPhM18qd6MKIQSCHqX8XHjXPxIC6Bsouxww7QKvocWs-8aCqzr9P2WOar9ETe9nu4GYTQ/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SeyN2xzlrb4JbV_OF4Szj4dRH329xh2BKp0ukJN4m0IU6uW40Y69R1Pi24Fp_xhvqTxBPOqPhM18qd6MKIQSCHqX8XHjXPxIC6Bsouxww7QKvocWs-8aCqzr9P2WOar9ETe9nu4GYTQ/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh172cwvuXPbrPOx9KgtMr8FJyzZFd9IFkMtPWTn6OSaNRAtnID6wVprUSDw_JRsD2XByRu9VDseeJqtDFZt1O1zMRIrR7QcTs4E921eAQ1fZLnV3cwEEEL09o6OE8jhyq9eFkrAymEmBI/s1600/1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh172cwvuXPbrPOx9KgtMr8FJyzZFd9IFkMtPWTn6OSaNRAtnID6wVprUSDw_JRsD2XByRu9VDseeJqtDFZt1O1zMRIrR7QcTs4E921eAQ1fZLnV3cwEEEL09o6OE8jhyq9eFkrAymEmBI/s400/1a.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: D. Napoleon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisycng2jsbM7RsVBoW6mr3Uu03uP8uikUrL3j_EzpXQ_vuBJ-JlAiKCsXYc43PLHeNojMmvFUX992jfirej-jy50ffAStXv_GgPLnL0Kla0pl-x1gGjnSl2obi_AeH1RdcdeBPwWG1DLw/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisycng2jsbM7RsVBoW6mr3Uu03uP8uikUrL3j_EzpXQ_vuBJ-JlAiKCsXYc43PLHeNojMmvFUX992jfirej-jy50ffAStXv_GgPLnL0Kla0pl-x1gGjnSl2obi_AeH1RdcdeBPwWG1DLw/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrifhWTJpq0jTZH_vMz2i2nxCO7pA5Pc2NFExA1HepoUoIeDJw_bhOxhK6kwRG-fNhd1BREpCWZBg2BeVSgMmnMpjvBU8f3D7N3anNUVNZqR5wKQf_epAfbmAhgStQR-RL-hr05_KLZ8/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYrifhWTJpq0jTZH_vMz2i2nxCO7pA5Pc2NFExA1HepoUoIeDJw_bhOxhK6kwRG-fNhd1BREpCWZBg2BeVSgMmnMpjvBU8f3D7N3anNUVNZqR5wKQf_epAfbmAhgStQR-RL-hr05_KLZ8/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpbg0fUf1wnU0ptPXMQpATnvAF42GpHVoBcvvxi-03HSEQY-WPbYz7KOzcRbTSlETYf8pfG4ToJP-ttw4k6A5OFkL0iAuKsabR2RMDPre9VwZNXeM5twB5rJFKW_cIkXTLNJxSZK-N9w/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpbg0fUf1wnU0ptPXMQpATnvAF42GpHVoBcvvxi-03HSEQY-WPbYz7KOzcRbTSlETYf8pfG4ToJP-ttw4k6A5OFkL0iAuKsabR2RMDPre9VwZNXeM5twB5rJFKW_cIkXTLNJxSZK-N9w/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMDnKvALd1A-OE1Cmxf9tpFZq6gXdT8CtOiAaH8WbeBHesIReVSOgGoxBUUWGyaFXVRokIqbaBa44ZFmvJ3TVXhnMCsWdKRoiPHVaDq-nsnDVkJwHgmC4ZMqk-s0upjvwl7fGcJpKTG0/s1600/4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTMDnKvALd1A-OE1Cmxf9tpFZq6gXdT8CtOiAaH8WbeBHesIReVSOgGoxBUUWGyaFXVRokIqbaBa44ZFmvJ3TVXhnMCsWdKRoiPHVaDq-nsnDVkJwHgmC4ZMqk-s0upjvwl7fGcJpKTG0/s400/4a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looking toward the Konahuanui Windward route. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwvN7yLQxkwmrnSsA-Q7yPTgnRV9WVRMDnbDjLSx1Ghi4w0FqnSOsO13umXXB-KX5NzDG0n9R8MZGyewXqVOBbzfEBnhPPjDQ_y5vUAJKi_HfXnFcIDfQQECDriIyuZfgElh1J6Bo7t7k/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwvN7yLQxkwmrnSsA-Q7yPTgnRV9WVRMDnbDjLSx1Ghi4w0FqnSOsO13umXXB-KX5NzDG0n9R8MZGyewXqVOBbzfEBnhPPjDQ_y5vUAJKi_HfXnFcIDfQQECDriIyuZfgElh1J6Bo7t7k/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUuAluBuuEGp0_OXXjC2yoYaPd3Y0IJuas_gmSNXAM8fQenLgZoaiEeQbWsQd7Xjaa1kHQ2H35CcIJIu6D6_M17FNuHVpnJWnr5QxpiEL0srexjuDRrljkIOwCMQRxYAOB69GLPNWCKY/s1600/5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUuAluBuuEGp0_OXXjC2yoYaPd3Y0IJuas_gmSNXAM8fQenLgZoaiEeQbWsQd7Xjaa1kHQ2H35CcIJIu6D6_M17FNuHVpnJWnr5QxpiEL0srexjuDRrljkIOwCMQRxYAOB69GLPNWCKY/s400/5a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Descending Lulumahu Ridge looking toward K2. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodN3XRR3bwlH_cHisjRdDKZ_ZKS1KDsaYiH9ctgbNvec_ibSIi1gv8fjTnZfu84zNtKwWn39piS3-MCzNmi07PQOT3WSbfOwi7vevC1pl-kLx5vnVBN70ziHN7NJiG1CWIKg-7xD4DAA/s1600/5b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodN3XRR3bwlH_cHisjRdDKZ_ZKS1KDsaYiH9ctgbNvec_ibSIi1gv8fjTnZfu84zNtKwWn39piS3-MCzNmi07PQOT3WSbfOwi7vevC1pl-kLx5vnVBN70ziHN7NJiG1CWIKg-7xD4DAA/s400/5b.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
photo: L. Yamasaki</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuFHvRaIjcuuz-PuM8l3qhX6HsHNar2XeDtVwWd4Om2mL2BfO6MK12kIaa8D6PnT0oRsjaIXb2SgyH1_3HjxkE03lWlEunWKlU9ft39t95oFSzYBDviEkaW_oeAVxEWTg_n9fQIXbeuY/s1600/5c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuFHvRaIjcuuz-PuM8l3qhX6HsHNar2XeDtVwWd4Om2mL2BfO6MK12kIaa8D6PnT0oRsjaIXb2SgyH1_3HjxkE03lWlEunWKlU9ft39t95oFSzYBDviEkaW_oeAVxEWTg_n9fQIXbeuY/s400/5c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cyanea koolauensis. (photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHD16pdu_cLyEXTARPBBCY0HU0kBrUBqBQ2nI6FqSB6syOl3lejkJBpVlvbcOOWIOAwQ8mBej1ZlBMWDt1sEOZPNcj9-3qQqXLlPXomKoO04CONp13_1O1cL-ajaBWr40d3ETczoKM4D4/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHD16pdu_cLyEXTARPBBCY0HU0kBrUBqBQ2nI6FqSB6syOl3lejkJBpVlvbcOOWIOAwQ8mBej1ZlBMWDt1sEOZPNcj9-3qQqXLlPXomKoO04CONp13_1O1cL-ajaBWr40d3ETczoKM4D4/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4Fu_GGO-d3BqVHelw6eizBovIUu0d9ZW1PUnIDhKK3TxIieVexlyLZrOiRb6isfDGQ5mC_BUDs4zerMROV-B_APJoPg8qkzQwKeigpXVdMNF_h70bJ1jDD0xrqDkDdzf2_s_d_l3PPE/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs4Fu_GGO-d3BqVHelw6eizBovIUu0d9ZW1PUnIDhKK3TxIieVexlyLZrOiRb6isfDGQ5mC_BUDs4zerMROV-B_APJoPg8qkzQwKeigpXVdMNF_h70bJ1jDD0xrqDkDdzf2_s_d_l3PPE/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looking back toward Konahuanui.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhsMBKz2M1uZ-vwnK1NH3xGMnjwegDrEcQm3th5ZcDqEHADIlszSi07srKt84KqE8NtlvAc8S36VWlr4L9hUarDafqOmsmNf8zpnoTnlongqJd7Zffuc1VnnCNL8rbASbORMdUOx127s/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhsMBKz2M1uZ-vwnK1NH3xGMnjwegDrEcQm3th5ZcDqEHADIlszSi07srKt84KqE8NtlvAc8S36VWlr4L9hUarDafqOmsmNf8zpnoTnlongqJd7Zffuc1VnnCNL8rbASbORMdUOx127s/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfuvHihFB5qudpQKiq5ZFPqpwQaau5xN3VTVvQRYzNf4pg5rfjhMOSmpJmXSXUaklX8DXxhSakRVha2qAYAcGlLsHOea_sJ7l5uA4wzYtwspIh9pW7TKFKMtw2dG8WJ0BjluzLpWX5i4/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfuvHihFB5qudpQKiq5ZFPqpwQaau5xN3VTVvQRYzNf4pg5rfjhMOSmpJmXSXUaklX8DXxhSakRVha2qAYAcGlLsHOea_sJ7l5uA4wzYtwspIh9pW7TKFKMtw2dG8WJ0BjluzLpWX5i4/s400/9.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(photo: L. Yamasaki)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="224" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28972213?title=0&byline=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="398"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>kaleohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07786812574368047860noreply@blogger.com0