We flew over to the Garden Isle to do another of my favorite activities, waterfalls! Actually it was on the bucket list for some of our friends who had never been to this particular watering hole.

HNL

Entertaining ourselves as we waited to board our twilight flight. We are easily amused.

Pacific Ocean

Flying the friendly skies. Wrong airline.

Kauai

Landed in Lihue, picked up our black jeeps, had dinner at a popular eatery and then checked in at Banyan Harbor Resort for the night.

Lihue

Day 2
Woke up before the crack of dawn, packed our stuff and made a quick pit stop to pick up food for the day. Too early for poke.

Wailua

Traversing the multiple stream crossings were a breeze now thanks to the improvements made on the Loop Road back in 2024-2025.

Wailua

Capturing the sunrise being filtered by the trees.

Wailua

It was a bumpy and muddy ride as we passed the Jurassic Park Poles on the roughly five mile unmaintained road. Contrary to popular belief, these are simply markers and are not leftovers from the original set. The actual gates were farther up the road and were demolished after the filming was done. No souvenirs for Hawaii.

Blue Hole Trail

Eleven clean shoes at the start of the trail.

Blue Hole Trail

Somebody was really excited to be here.

Blue Hole Trail

Our first stream crossing. One of many more to come.

Blue Hole Trail

Slipping and sliding through the mud.

Blue Hole Trail

Passing a flowering Nun’s Orchid on the trail, it was the first tropical orchid to flower in England as it’s native to Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Blue Hole Trail

“What you doing in the water, squatting like that?” Based on the popular myth, the stream water would be turning a bright blue, much like her shade of beet red.

Blue Hole Trail

Leaving the urine soaked water behind us.

Blue Hole Trail

Morning mist.

Blue Hole Trail

Kenny washing his face with the urine water. Oh wait, we are upstream, so he’s safe. Feel sorry for the rest of the group that were downstream.

Blue Hole Trail

Bible studies with the annoying church slut on the trail.

Blue Hole Trail

Matt looking for the waterfalls at the end of the tunnel.

Blue Hole Trail

Taking a break as we waited for the rest of the group to catch up. No bathroom breaks.

Blue Hole Trail

Approaching the first major waterfall of the day.

Guardian Falls

Checking out the gatekeeper falls on the trail. Nobody took a dip.

Blue Hole Trail

The rest of the group were enjoying the stream life.

Guardian Falls

Some of us explored a side waterfall. Slippery when wet.

Guardian Falls

Making my way back to the group as I was feeling lonely, wet and cold.

Blue Hole Trail

Roger showing off his rock balancing skills.

Blue Hole Trail

We contoured to the left of the falls to regain the trail.

Blue Hole Trail

Following the stream into the canyon.

Blue Hole Trail

Matt looking at a small waterfall.

Blue Hole Trail

So he decided to make a smaller one himself.

Blue Hole Trail

Kenny didn’t feel the need to add any more waterfalls.

Blue Hole Trail

Rock hopping and scrambling our way up the stream.

Blue Hole Trail

The waterfall walls began to constrict as we hiked deeper into the canyon.

Blue Hole Trail

We left the stream as we climbed up to get back on trail. Matt boosted the rest of the groups confidence as he said this is where he almost died. Climb on!

Blue Hole Trail

The steady stream of pulsating helicopters above our heads became more incessant and irritating.

Blue Hole Trail

Chico making his way up the slippery rocks.

Blue Hole Trail

Going through the gate. Almost there!

Blue Hole Trail

Going down the hill as we could see the Blue Hole for the first time.

Blue Hole Trail

Allison using both ropes as she climbed her way down the slippery rocks.

Wailua Headwaters

Exploring this water soaked and moss carpeted canyon that was carved from constant rainfall from what was once the wettest spot on Earth, Mount Wai’ale’ale. Pictures don’t give scale to the canyon walls that soar thousands of feet to the summit. Something that must be experienced in person through hiking or riding in a tour helicopter. This was the first time seeing this place for Chico, Edgar, Kenny, Marilyn and Sandra as well. It did not disappoint.

Weeping Wall

Drone view of our partial group photo against the backdrop of the canyon walls weeping with waterfalls.

Blue Hole

This angle illustrates the reason why some people call it the “Blue Hole.” However, the weather was not cooperating by providing us with blue skies today. Instead it provided us with greyish-whitish skies and a steady diet of vertical-lift aircraft carrying tourists who only caught seemingly seconds of the Blue Hole. Hope it was worth it.

Blue Hole

Getting close to the base of the falls.

Weeping Wall

Matt getting real up close and personal.

Blue Hole

Time to take our leave of this natural waterpark that Mother Nature has gifted us.

Weeping Wall

Not so fast. Aida, Ferlino and Roger caught up to us and had to have their round of picture taking as it was their first time here as well.

Blue Hole Trail

Climbing our way back down to Wailua Stream.

Blue Hole Trail

Kenny showing us how it’s done.

Blue Hole Trail

Passing a stand of ornamental banana trees. Not to be confused with Orientals. We also crossed paths with a pair of hikers who had started late and assured us they could hustle to make it back out before dark.

Blue Hole Trail

Somebody was glad that we had brought webbing on the trail.

Guardian Falls

Can this picture go on the blog? I guess.

Blue Hole Trail

You go that way and we’ll go this way.

Wailua

We drove out of the unmaintained road and switched Kenny with Mari at the airport. Post hike meal was at Hukilau Lanai where our group was split into two tables and checked out with fine dining prices. Overall despite some in the group getting lost, two hiking poles wrecked and Chico suffering a couple abrasions and cuts, the day went swimmingly. Our total mileage for the hike came out to a little more than four miles round trip, some others have quoted eight miles round trip. Whatever the exact mileage was, it sure felt like the latter one at the end of the day.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ced84n5DHWs

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our Blue Hole hike.

Lihue

Day 3
Checked out of our Airbnb, stopped at the local bakery that has been around since 1965 to fuel up for the day and drove to Waimea.

Waimea Canyon

Looking into the Grand Canyon of the Pacific where the distant Waipo’o Falls could be seen.

Hale Manu Valley

Getting our bang for the buck out of our rental jeeps.

Hale Manu Valley

Matt grooming another Princess in the group.

Hale Manu Valley

We’re not getting muddy, right?

Cliff Lookout

Our muppet group photo. Who’s who? Rijah Dat! Something got lost in the translation.

Canyon Trail

You guys want to see a better view? Rajah Dat!

Canyon Trail

Running commentary. Do you want my spikes? No. I have webbing. No need. It’s all for the gram, right? No. Does he have insurance? Yes. Can I get a ride from the airport? Yes.

Canyon Trail

There’s no “I” in team. In this case, I guess there is.

Canyon Trail

Group photo with the backdrop of the canyon that was formed over 4 million years ago when the shield volcano collapsed and the river and rain did the rest.

Canyon Trail

Synchronized spinning.

Canyon Trail

Ascending hikers have the right of way over descending hikers. It’s not always true, but normally?!?

Canyon Trail

Descending towards the falls. I didn’t have to yield to any ascending hikers.

Canyon Trail

Scenic spots.

Canyon Trail

Climbing down the direct way to the falls.

Waipo’o Falls

The girls standing at the top of the head-water falls before it plummets down the canyon walls.

Waipo’o Falls

Matt trying to thread his drone through the arch. Close but no cigar.

Waipo’o Falls

Getting all wet on the second of the smaller upper tier of the falls fed by Koke’e Stream.

Waipo’o Falls

Matt’s dramatic drone shots of the two-tiered 800′ waterfall.

Waipo’o Falls

On the way out, some of the group checked out the first of the smaller falls with a plunge pool. No plunging today.

Hale Manu Valley

Looking up into the pear or plum blossoms may result in a bug falling into your eye. Luckily our resident RN was able to fish it out of Mari’s eye on an out-patient basis.

Waimea Canyon

We drove over to the lookout to take the typical tourist photos.

Waimea Canyon

Spotting two feral goats climbing the rocky cliffs of the canyon. These invasive species were introduced in the 18th century by Captain Vancouver in 1792 on Kauai.

Waimea Canyon

Goat see, goat do.

Waimea Canyon

Running commentary. Those are idiots! I won’t disagree with you on that. One idiot is one idiot. Two idiots are two idiots. Four idiots are a hiking group.

Waimea Canyon

Birds eye view.

Waimea Canyon

Drone views of the canyon that plunges over 3,000′ deep.

Waimea Canyon

The unofficial mascot of Kauai clucking their way around the parking lot and everywhere else, as the feral population exploded due to chickens being released during Hurricanes Iwa and Iniki.

Hamura Saimin

We drove over to Lihue to eat at the local saimin stand that has been operating since 1952. It even received a James Beard award, believe it or not.

Scotty’s Car Wash & Detail

Cleaning our jeeps in Kapa’a, where we even had City & County supervision to ensure that we didn’t miss any spots before returning them back to the airport and catching our flight home. Thanks to Scotty for letting us wash our jeeps at his place. Mahalo to Edgar for booking the Airbnb and Chico, Edgar and Roger for getting the jeep rentals. Amazing weekend with a fun group that was made even better as the forecasted rain failed to make its appearance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoDUOkIHyeY

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our Waipo’o Falls hike.

Photos/Crew taken by Aida Gordon, Allison Banks, Chico Cantu, Edgar Gamiao, Ferlino Carinio, Kenny Lui, Marilyn Bermudez, Mari Saito, Matt Vidaurri, Roger Schiffman, Sandra Walter and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

We gathered Mateo from the house and picked up Mari at the airport to continue our holoholo weekend.

Shipwreck Beach

Approaching the 40′ cliff as we walked on Keoneloa Beach which got its more popular nickname from a wooden boat that was wrecked at the water’s edge until Hurricane ‘Iwa destroyed the shipwreck in 1982.

Shipwreck Beach

We take such signs very seriously. Do we have our serious faces on?

Shipwreck Beach

360 view of the group on top of Makawehi Point.

Shipwreck Beach

I briefly considered taking the plunge but forgot my speedos at home. My name is not Harrison Ford.

Shipwreck Beach

Hope the sandstone cliff doesn’t collapse due to our combined weight. Some of us could stand to lose a few pounds. Not pointing fingers.

Shipwreck Beach

Going back down the cliff or we could have opted to take the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail that meanders two miles along the coastline towards Punaloa Point and is punctuated by rugged sea cliffs, secluded coves, dunes, tide pools, sculpted lava formations, native plants, and petroglyphs.

Shipwreck Beach

Quan found a tunnel but failed to connect it to the end.

Shipwreck Beach

Walking the “long sands” back towards our cars.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Parked our cars on the muddy road and walked clockwise to the cave.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

We stayed on the foot trail to avoid the horse droppings which were quite unavoidable after all.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

The bridge that leads to a farm of African tortoises, which ironically are used to control non-native weeds.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Low crawling on plastic sheets was the price of admittance.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Standing up in the largest limestone cave in Hawaii.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

The group standing at the entrance to the sinkhole which was once a lake and is now a repository of over 10,000 years of island history.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Scott pointing out the banyan tree that used to be against the cliff that they used to climb down back in the “old” days.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Entering the South Cave, that took over 400,000 years to develop from a sand dune into stone.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Further passage was restricted to permit certain endangered species to thrive and flourish, such as the blind Kauai cave wolf spider.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Providing illumination on the “bacon” stalactites on the cave’s ceiling. The docent informed us that many of the stalactites were broken off by free love hippies that used to inhabit this area years ago.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Looking out into the sinkhole that has served various purposes over the years from graveyard, farm and now being restocked with native plants. The only thing missing is the kanaka maoli.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

What goes in, must come back out.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve Trail

Group photo at the top looking into the emerald amphitheater.

Waipo’o Falls

Catching a view of the two-tiered falls dropping 800′ into Waimea Canyon on our way up to Koke’e State Park.

Sloggett Road

We all piled into Scott’s truck and took off on the jeep road not meant for AWD cars. The girls riding in the back of the pick up truck, if Senate Bill 1410 passes, will be a thing of the past.

Sloggett Road

It’s amazing what a non-working amber light can do to blur the line between official and not official.

Sloggett Road

Look at the little one! Another one bites the dust.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Praying for clear skies and no rain on our hike to the swamp. It would be answered for the most part, in our favor.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Walking on the composite planks which served to keep our feet relatively dry and insulate our mark on the environment.

Alakai Swamp Trail

The group passing through the crossroads.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Stepping down into the worlds’ highest rainforest fed by the runoff from Mount Wai’ale’ale, one of the wettest spots on Earth.

Alakai Swamp Trail

One accepted the inevitable while the other chose to delay it as long as possible.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Quan offering a helping hand to Mari to cross the tributary. She still got wet.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Where is that boardwalk when you need it?

Alakai Swamp Trail

The original redwood planks that were laid down in 1991 have seen better days.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Tessa reaching the limit of her flexibility in an effort to stay dry.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Jen decided to test the waters so to speak. Unintentionally. Now we all know how deep the mud in the swamp is.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Quan offering a helping hand. Does she work for First Insurance or Allstate?

Alakai Swamp Trail

Walking across the shallow bog.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Everybody finding their own way as they navigate around the open mud pit. Nobody wanted to pull a Jen.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Walking through the montane wet forest that are home to 21 endemic species found only in the center of this plateau.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Group photo at the Kilohana vista which sits at an elevation of 4,030′.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Waiting and watching the clouds drift in and out of the views of Hanalei and Wainiha Valleys.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Running reflections.

Alakai Swamp Trail

The group washing off in Kawaikoi Stream.

Alakai Swamp Trail

What goes down, must go back up.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Catching the sunbeams filtering down into the forest.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Who needs the boardwalk?

Alakai Swamp Trail

Going up the last hill to finish our 6.6 mile hike in this ethereal and enchanting place. Post hike meal at Wong’s Chinese Restaurant, home to the original Lilikoi Chiffon pie.

Kountry Kitchen

Day 3
We woke up with the chickens to eat chicken poop. Memorable way of remembering our breakfast.

KFD

The new recruits of Engine 2. God help us all.

Wailua River Overlook

Feed them and they will come.

Wailua River Overlook

Group photo with the largest navigable river of the island behind us.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

We tagged along with Engine 2 to get a sneak peek at the temple that has been 29 years in the making.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Looking out at part of the 328 acre sanctuary that was founded in 1970.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Touring the grounds and seeing a monk on his way to smash non fruits into juice.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

We all were graciously gifted a 32 ounce bottle of Indian mulberry juice. Studies have shown that noni juice may improve joint health, increase physical endurance, increase immune activity, inhibit glycation of proteins, aid weight management, help maintain bone health in women, help maintain normal blood pressure, and improve gum health. If you can get past the smell and taste.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Farm to table. Everybody also got an organic heirloom tomato. This was better than a farmer’s market. Of course a boomerang video had to be made of our free edible berries.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Walking in the drizzling rain to the San Marga Iraivan Temple.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

The temple is constructed entirely out of white granite that was imported from India. The details that the craftsmen carved from blocks of granite are simply amazing. We were told this is the first all granite temple being built outside India in 600 years.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Piece de resistance: It took them three months to carve a rolling ball in this creature’s mouth from a single block of granite.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Walking outside to view a family of elephants carved out of black granite. These animals are sacred to the Hindus as they are a living incarnation of Ganesh, one of their most important gods.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Mirror reflection or just got the legs crossed the other way?

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

The drizzling rain made the statues of the temple builders “sweat.”

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

Our guide holding up a chain that was carved from a single block of granite.

Kauai’s Hindu Monastery

The actual crew of Engine 2 with our gracious host, Yoginathaswami at the conclusion of our very informative and enlightening tour. Wait, who’s minding the store?

Kapaia Suspension Bridge

We grabbed bites to eat from Konohiki Seafoods and made our across the 125′ suspension bridge that was first built back in 1948 and rebuilt in 2018.

Kapaia Suspension Bridge

The bridge used to connect the plantation camp with the shops, schools and churches on the other side of Kapaia Stream.

Kapaia Suspension Bridge

Shadows in the sun.

Kapaia Suspension Bridge

A small micro man-made earthquake shook the bridge on our way back out. I think only the gecko got scared off.

Ahukini Recreational Pier State Park

We pulled up to the pier just as a local fisherman pulled a 25 pound Kahala out of the water using akule as bait. Ciguatera toxin anybody?

Ahukini Recreational Pier State Park

Group photo at the end of the cement pier that was constructed back in 1920 to help facilitate the transfer of sugar from the mills to the ships that was transported here on railroad tracks that terminated at the pier.

Ahukini Recreational Pier State Park

Shut down in 1950, the pier is now used by fishermen and out of island people testing to seek their balance on the concrete beams.

Ahukini Recreational Pier State Park

Waiting for the airplane to fly over. Timing is everything.

Hokuala

Is it Kapa’a or Kapaa’a? Who wants to reenact the scene with Nicolas Cage and James Caan from Honeymoon in Vegas? Better luck asking the Nenes.

Hokuala

Rocking in paradise.

Hokuala

Statue don’t hit back.

Hokuala

Quan in the nosebleed section. I think they would attract more spectators if they clean up the place a bit.

Hokuala

Love hurts. Especially when you score zero in the game. I don’t think we will be invited back.

Menehune Fishpond

Group photo in front of the largest fishpond on the island that was thought to have been built back in the 15th century. Alakoko Fishpond is being gradually restored back to its native state by eliminating the invasive mangrove trees and reintroducing native fish back into the ecosystem such as ‘ama’ama (mullet) and awa (milkfish).

William Hyde Rice Monument

We stopped nearby Kipu Ranch where a monument to Mr. Rice, born in Hawaii from missionary parents and was later appointed Governor of Kauai in 1891 by Queen Lili’uokalani and ironically helped to overthrow her monarchy two years later in 1893. I inquired at the nearby Outfitters Kauai office whether the high peak of Haupu in the distance is hikeable. The answer was it’s too steep and crumbly. Hold my Coca-Cola.

Kukuiolono Park

Our last stop on our whirlwind tour was at a park and golf course in the town of Kalaheo.

Kukuiolono Park

We were being stalked by a chicken that followed us through the Japanese Garden.

Kukuiolono Park

Need to eat my Wheaties.

Kukuiolono Park

Dry fountain makes for a good photo shoot.

Kukuiolono Park

View of the South and West shores from the bluff overlook.

Kukuiolono Park

The Hawaiian guillotine.

Hamura Saimin

We dropped in at the landmark restaurant to get a hot bowl of noodles and split a whole lilikoi chiffon pie. Much better than the last place. The flight back home was hit hard by a triple whammy of heavy rain, lost cargo documentation and a missing ground crew. Should have flown Southwest. A big thanks to Scott for his gracious hospitality during our amazing weekend and everybody for their fun company.

Photos taken by Jen Odence, Mari Saito, Quan Haberstroh, Scott Dea, Tessa Bugay and yours truly. Not necessarily in order.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers. One should also always let somebody know of your hiking plans in case something doesn’t go as planned, better safe than sorry.

The next day, we all woke up refreshed, but apparently not refreshed enough to catch the sunrise this time around.

Ono Family Restaurant

We all ate a hearty breakfast and nobody got left behind this time for going to the bathroom.

Kauai Shores Hotel

Hiking gear comes in handy when somebody can’t figure out how to get back to the room.

Kamalani Kai

Exploring the climbing and bridge structure built back in 2001 by Tim Bynum.

Kamalani Kai

Going down the slides built for kids and kids at heart.

Kamalani Kai

Jump shot.

Hanapepe Swinging Bridge

We joined the rest of the disappointed tourists to find out that the century old suspension bridge was closed for visits.

Polihale State Park

Panoramic view of the Na Pali Coast Mountains at the most Western point in the islands that the public can visit.

Polihale State Park

Panoramic view of the unprotected shore.

Polihale State Park

Group shot on the sand dunes populated with pop up tents and frisbee throwing beach goers.

Bobbleheads

Bill made sure that he got his money’s worth out of the rental Jeep as we bounced down the road much to the astonished surprise of an older couple driving past us.

Waipo’o Falls

We drove to a less crowded spot to take in the vast views of Waimea canyon and her cascading waterfalls.

Waipo’o Falls

Group shot with the 800′ double tiered waterfall in the background.

Pu’u O Kila Lookout

Looking out towards the highest spot on the island that feeds the waterfalls that cascade down to the Blue Hole. Photo by Cisco Quintanilla.

Kalalau Lookout

Chris looking out towards Kalalau Valley. Photo by Mia Garrison.

Red Dirt Falls

The falls had run dry so we just enjoyed the scenic views on the other side of the road. Photo by Bill Yogi.

Tree Tunnel

We even had time to drive down the tunnel of Eucalyptus trees that were planted back in 1911.

All pau

The day was drawing to a close so we had our last meal in the overpriced town of Poipu before heading back home to reality. Thanks to everybody for making it another great weekend well spent.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers.

Our hike only burned about three hours of daylight, so we headed up the road to explore another part of the canyon.

Trailhead

The parking lot at Pu’u Hinahina lookout was teeming with cars, which forced us to park on the road. We were used to it already.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Making our way down the heavily rooted and trafficked trail.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Passing underneath one of many fallen trees on the trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

We found a rope on the trail.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

The junction signs were weathered beyond legibility. Luckily, the trail was pretty straight forward.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Detouring off the main path, as we climbed up the cliff trail.

Cliff Trail

At least this bird yielded to hikers. It knew its place, otherwise it would be at the table.

Cliff Trail

Sharing our group photo with the backdrop scenic view looking into the canyon.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

We soon dropped back down to the main trail.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Heading up the trail as exposed rocks became more prominent.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

What is everybody looking at?

Waimea Canyon

Oh the view. Not bad.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Passing other hikers on our way down as they were making their way back up, where we soon took the trail to the left.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Our first waterfall on the trail, where some hikers were frolicking in the water to beat the heat.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

We followed the stream down hill …

Waipo’o Falls Trail

… until it stopped at the cliff where it cascaded further down before plunging over another cliff to form the two-tiered 800′ Waipo’o Falls.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Passing a hiking memorial on our way back up. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Spotted the Filipino cross as well.

Waipo’o Falls Trail

A parking lot full of jeeps. You mean we could have drove up here?

Waipo’o Falls Trail

Switch backing our way up the trail.

All pau

Our canyon waterfalls hike covered 2.95 miles, that was by far the most crowded trail that we experienced this weekend.

GPS Tracks

Post hike meal at Wong’s Chinese Restaurant where it was the wrong place to eat oxtail soup but the right place to get Lilikoi Chiffon pies to take home before being scrutinized by the TSA. Another weekend well spent adventuring on the Garden Isle.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers.

Analyn, Ferlino and myself flew over to the Garden Isle to get in some hiking this weekend.

Trailhead

We picked up our rental car, stocked up on water and snacks at Walmart and drove to the end of the winding road to Waimea to begin our hike.

Pihea Trail

Descending down the seemingly solidified eddies and currents captured on the trail. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Pihea Trail

Analyn going up the fern lined trail.

Pihea Trail

Stopping to gawk at one of the many jaw dropping views of Kalalau Valley along the rim. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Pihea Trail

Making my way down the tree lined trail.

Pihea Trail

Ferlino walking the planks over the muddy section.

Pihea Trail

Leaning trees and sprawling roots soon dominated the terrain.

Pihea Trail

Analyn and Ferlino making their way up the heavily rooted trail.

Pihea Vista

Group photo at the 4,284′ summit left to right: Analyn, myself and Ferlino. Where is the trail? Don’t trust the book, listen to the locals.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Going down the boardwalk. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Alakai Swamp Trail

The forest canopy filtered and spackled the sunlight reaching the redwood planks. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Alakai Swamp Trail

The State has begun to replace the rotting planks with recycled plastic ones. Is this where all the plastic bags went?

Junction

We turned left at the junction to head towards the Alakai Wilderness Preserve, better known as Alakai Swamp.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Descending lower and … Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Alakai Swamp Trail

… lower into the native forest.

Alakai Swamp Trail

The sounds of surface water flowing soon reached our ears.

Kawaikoi Stream

Watching the water stained by the forest floor as it coursed its way down stream. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Stepping foot on the plateau that is filled with overflowing water from Mount Wai’ale’ale, one of the wettest spots on Earth. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Alakai Swamp Trail

We bumped into another group making their way through the swamp as we saw windows of blue skies peeking through the clouds.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Passing one of the remaining telephone poles that were built by the US Army during WW2 to serve as backup communications in case the Japanese invaded and captured Lihue.

Kilohana Lookout

The clouds drifted in and out at the 4,030′ uneven platform overlooking the northwest coastline.

Kilohana Lookout

Ferlino set up his hammock and we commenced the hour long photo shoot. Photo time is more important than eating time for some people.

Kilohana Lookout

These scurrying rodents threaten the native bird population that inhabit the wetlands.

Kilohana Lookout

One last sweeping view of Hanalei Bay and Wainiha Valley. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Leaving the lookout behind us, so that others waiting could enjoy it as well.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Reflections at the world’s highest rainforest.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Chicken wire would be a nice touch for additional traction. Slippery when wet. Photo by Analyn Baliscao

Alakai Swamp Trail

Despite the name; Alakai Swamp is not technically a swamp, but rather a montane wet forest. Don’t ask me to explain the difference. I couldn’t for the life of me. Analyn Baliscao

Alakai Swamp Trail

The boardwalk that was built in 1991, has seen better days.

Kawaikoi Stream

Analyn rock hopping across the stream.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Climbing the hundreds of steps out of the forest.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Where were these railings back when we needed them? Photo by Analyn Baliscao

Junction

If we had more time, we could have explored the other two trails. But alas, waterfalls were waiting to be photographed down the road.

Alakai Swamp Trail

Walking up the stairs that are short a few steps.

Alakai Swamp Trail

We were fortunate enough to see the lobelia flowering with its purple and white buds.

Junction

The fence line soon lead us back to the Pihea Trail.

Pihea Trail

Rooting our way back down. Photo by Analyn Baliscao

Pihea Trail

Looking across the valley towards the radome perched near the Kalalau Lookout.

Kalalau Valley

Nature’s open air venue bordered by sheer cliffs that contain a valley filled with waterfalls, hippies and magical sunsets. Or so I’ve been told.

Pihea Trail

Climbing back up the roughly textured trail.

Pihea Trail

Looking back at Mount Wai’ale’ale, the spigot that makes the Alakai Wilderness Preserve so swampy.

Pu’u O Kila Lookout

Ferlino’s balancing act at the end of our hike. Photo by Analyn Baliscao.

Waipo’o Falls

We pulled off the highway in order to soak in the views of the two-tiered 800′ waterfall cascading down to the canyon floor.

Waipo’o Falls

Wait for it. Patience is a virtue.

The bee bit my bottom!

The moral of the story is always look before you sit down for your photo shoot.

Red Dirt Waterfall

Pulling off the highway again to catch another pseudo-waterfall. I have heard others call this place Dr. Seuss Falls, whatever it is, it’s not technically a waterfall but most likely part of the irrigation system that once fed the farms.

Sunset

Catching the fiery sunset on our way down from Waimea.

Wrangler’s Steakhouse

The wait was inordinately long at our post hike meal, but at least it was all you can eat salad and soup bar. The steak and fish wasn’t that bad either. Photo by Ferlino Carinio.

Kauai Shores Hotel

Some people like to hit the sack after a long day. Others like to hang upside down and then listen to live music and witness a natural crack. Good night from Kapaa.

Note: I have been made aware that some hikers have been using my blog as a hiking guide and getting lost on the trails. Please note that this blog was made to document the hike for the crew(s) that did it. That is why some of my comments will seem to have no relevance or meaning to anybody outside of the crew(s) that hiked that trail. My blog was never meant as a hiking guide, so please do not treat it as such. If you find inspiration and entertainment from these hikes, that is more than enough. If you plan on replicating these hikes, do so in the knowledge that you should do your own research accordingly as trail conditions, access, legalities and so forth are constantly in flux. What was current today is most likely yesterdays news. Please be prepared to accept any risks and responsibilities on your own as you should know your own limitations, experience and abilities before you even set foot on a trail, as even the “simplest” or “easiest” of trails can present potential pitfalls for even the most “experienced” hikers.