Our perimeter walk got washed out due to the heavy storm activity over the weekend, so it was off to chasing waterfalls again. Yay! The original group of 17 people shrank to only seven peeps when all was said and done. They were dropping like flies. I think they all went to go eat at The Beach House by 604 with the rest of their friends.

Pali Lookout

What remained of the group met up at the lookout where we skipped the panoramic views and made our way down the rain soaked road that was blocked by a fallen tree that was being quickly disposed of by HFD who questioned our mental capacity for being out in the storm system that was currently thrashing the islands. I’m pretty sure some of them were making side bets if they were going to be called back later to rescue said hikers.

Nu’uanu Valley

The group crossing the irrigation ditch.

Nu’uanu Valley

Passing over one of multiple swollen streams in the valley.

Nu’uanu Valley

We navigated our way through the forest through the diluted smell of the bloodhound and Val’s tracks and ribbons.

Nu’uanu Valley

Ferlino crossing a stream and taking a selfie. That man loves his selfies. Not to be confused with self love.

Nu’uanu Valley

The rest of us just stuck to hiking the trail. Stay focused.

Nu’uanu Valley

We soon spotted the waterfalls in the distance. Now we just had to get to it.

Nu’uanu Valley

Somebody said there was cardio involved in today’s hike?

Nu’uanu Valley

It looked like we were going further away from the falls as we got higher on the ridgeline as the footing became less secure and sure.

Nu’uanu Valley

We scrambled and slid back back down to relative safety.

Z Falls

Making our way to the base of the waterfall.

Z Falls

Like its neighboring cousin, V Falls, this dry chute only carries H2O during heavy rainfall.

Z Falls

Group photo at the lower tier, where is Ferlino?

Z Falls

He had climbed up and lowered webbing down the falls. Is that for ascent or descent? Or both? We would never find out.

Z Falls

We soon followed him up to the second tier of the falls by climbing and contouring the ridgeline, all except one. The very one that orchestrated this waterfall hike. The wet irony.

Z Falls

Looking up at the second tier as the winds were whipping something fierce and were flying most of the water into the air, rendering the waterfalls less voluminous in appearance.

Z Falls

Group photo at the base of the second falls.

Z Falls

Val looking up at the waterfall. There was probably a third tier, but no discernible means of approach. Plus, we were getting cold. Hawaii people and all.

Nu’uanu Valley

Leaving our precarious perch on the hill as we scrambled our way back down the soft and slippery slope.

Nu’uanu Valley

Edgar following the stream as we made our way back out.

Nu’uanu Valley

Passing underneath a fallen tree which answers the philosophical question. If a tree falls in a forest, just make sure you get the hell out of the way.

Nu’uanu Valley

Passing by the former Mosquito Bucket Junction, now seemingly taken over by the Hunter Bucket Association.

Nu’uanu Valley

And then our group shrank by three, as Allison, Edgar and Joyce parted ways and went back to their cars.

Nu’uanu Valley

The group going through the bamboo grass forest, whose underground root system ensures that the plants are perennial.

Waipuilani Falls

It’s been a hot minute since I last visited these falls over 10 years ago and they were trickling as compared to today’s flow.

Waipuilani Falls

End of the line for us in the roughly 100′ deep cave. Opinions have been tossed out as to the nature of the cave, whether it’s man-made or natural. There is an irrigation pipe that runs the length of the cave and another albeit short tunnel that branches off from the main one towards the end. Both dead end into the rock.

Waipuilani Falls

Group photo from the cave between the twin waterfalls.

All pau

Where’s HFD when you need them?

Kaneohe

The group retired to Chico’s house to change into dry clothes where we were joined by Anne-Marie, Herb & Shirley, Mari, Marilyn, Robin, Susan & Andrew, Tessa & Akira. We all ate a hearty meal from the potluck spread and celebrated Lilia’s Birthday. Happy Birthday and many more!

Kaneohe

Recreating the group photo from last year, albeit with a couple stand-ins and missing people.

Kaneohe

Let it rain dollars. Next stop, Club 939.

Kaneohe

One for the road. Maybe a couple more.

Our waterfall exploration hike that was lead by the annoying church slut measured roughly 3.7 miles that bore witness to a “new” and old waterfall. Thanks to Chico and Lilia for hosting the Super Bowl/Birthday party at their house and everybody for the fun company on and off the trail.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI_GN9ErxqE

Video by Edgar Gamiao of our waterfall day.

Photos/Crew taken by Aileen Agustin, Allison Banks, Edgar Gamiao, Ferlino Carinio, Joyce Uhlmer, Val Wang, 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.

Soaking rain derailed our saddle plans so off we went to explore waterfalls. Yay!

Windward

We piled into CB and Chico’s cars and drove over to the Windward side where we left civilization behind us as we drove into Ferlino’s sister-in-laws lush and verdant jungle property. Lucky nobody changed the lock like last time.

Windward

It was a short ten minute drive up the jeep road before we parked in front of the towering dead tree that was our landmark.

Windward

We plunged into the ditch trail to start our hike to the waterfalls. Anybody bring bug spray?

Windward

The group crossing one of several stream crossings. And here I am without my spikes!

Windward

Is that our first waterfall ahead of us? Pretty disappointing to say the least.

Windward

Checking out one of multiple CMU shelters on the trail.

Windward

We arrived at the first waterfall in around 15 minutes. It was a sliver of water coming down the roughly 80′ cliff. Our bodies were already drenched in perspiration. Oh wait, that’s the rain and there’s more waterfalls around the corner.

Windward

No permit. No entry.

Windward

Climbing up the three-tier waterfall. The lower fall was shorter but more voluminous in flow. Rain helps.

Windward

CB following me up the falls.

Windward

The rest of the group wading their way upstream to the next waterfall.

Windward

Checking out the possible routes to climb up.

Windward

CB assuring he got me if I slip and fall. Let’s not slip and fall shall we.

Windward

The rest of the group climbing their way up the fall with the assistance of webbing. Somebody chose to rely wholly on the roots. Roots break. Webbing doesn’t. Tessa would find that out later going back down.

Windward

Ferlino scouted up to see if it was feasible to climb to the top of the third tier. Crumbly and pointless. Come on back down.

Windward

Group photo in front of the third tier. End of the road.

Windward

If you’re wet, might as well get all wet.

Windward

Somebody else thinks the same.

Windward

What goes up, must come back down.

Windward

Group photo in front of the second tier.

Windward

Following the stream back down.

Windward

Team work gets everybody back down safely.

Windward

The boys having fun.

Windward

Searching for another waterfall.

Windward

Group photo in front of the third and smallest waterfall.

Windward

Heading back to our cars.

Windward

CB checking out the first waterfall whose flow had increased somewhat due to the ongoing rain.

Windward

What is the common denominator here?

Windward

Ferlino wanted to explore the upper waterfalls he had seen earlier. We’re hikers, we don’t walk, we just catch a hot minute ride up the road. I don’t think that’s OSHA approved.

Windward

I don’t know what’s worse. Scrambling uphill on hala leaves or pine needles and cones.

Windward

Ferlino demonstrating how thick and deep the uluhe ferns were on the ridge.

Windward

The two upper falls in question. We figured one of them fed the lower falls we had just visited and the other one was too far away. Time to eat lunch.

All pau

Climbing back down to the changing room. Thanks again to Ferlino for showing us the “private” waterfalls tour. Post hike meal at Saito and Pho where Aida joined us for lunch. No family discount. I guess blood is not thicker than water. Some of us then retired to Ferlino’s house where Akira was pressed into service to help make bilo-bilo dessert.

Photos taken by Akira Suzuki, Chris Bautista, Chico Cantu, Ferlino Carinio, Roger Schiffman, 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 Kona Low pressure system was still lingering around the islands like a bad cold, so I decided if you can’t beat them, might as well join them.

Makaha Valley Plantation

We all met up and parked at Lilyn’s friends place and took a group photo with the resident peacock perched in the tree behind us. These birds from India, first arrived to Hawaii during the mid-1800s and has since established feral populations on all the major islands. In 2009, a woman beat a peacock to death with a baseball bat in this same area. She was found not guilty. If you ever heard a peacocks assortment of sounds which ranges from screams, honking, cawing, calling, squawking, clicking, screeching and cooing, you would understand.

Makaha Valley

Waterfalls spilling off the mountains all around us. It was going to be a wet day.

Makaha Valley

Approaching the gated community of Mauna Olu Estates in the shadow of Kamaile’unu Ridge.

Makaha Valley

Fording the swollen stream.

Makaha Valley

The firefighter assisting the barefoot hikers who threw their shoes on the opposite bank so that their shoes and socks would stay dry. On a waterfall hike. Things that make you go hmmm.

Makaha Valley

Somebody was excited to find paria leaves in the wild.

Makaha Valley

Passing a lo’i kalo.

Makaha Valley

The nearby creek was cranking.

Makaha Valley

What lies behind that gate and can somebody grab my sunglasses?

Kane’aki Heiau

Group photo in front of the best preserved Hawaiian temple on the island.

Kane’aki Heiau

Wat? Just taking a picture of the colorful bird of paradise flower native to South Africa.

Makaha Valley

The running water was making deep cracks on the service road.

Makaha Valley

Straight from the tap. Unfiltered.

Makaha Valley

Holding hands so that if one gets swept away, they all go together. Teamwork.

Makaha Valley

Intro to mycology 101. Tremella fuciformis or snow fungus.

Makaha Valley

Waiting at the BWS pumping station.

Makaha Valley

One would be hard pressed to not find any manmade structure, active or abandoned, that has not been touched by graffiti. Scott would beg to differ.

Makaha Valley

Not taking our shoes off again?

Makaha Valley

I guess not.

Makaha Valley

This particular tree serves as a marker to turn up towards the ridge named after a primate that made it big in Hollywood.

Makaha Valley

Some stream are for crossing. Some are for sitting.

Makaha Valley

Crossing another stream. Who said there were only a few?

Makaha Valley

How do mushrooms grow? I’m glad you asked. Fungal colonies composed of mycelium, which are root like threads, are found underground and in decaying matter like dead trees. Damp and dark conditions promote the growth of mushrooms on the surface which releases spores to spread more colonies of mycelium. You didn’t ask?

Makaha Valley

Somebody earlier was worried that the falls might be dry upon arrival. Losing bet.

Makaha Valley

More stream crossings than you can shake a tabi at.

Makaha Valley

Dry.

Makaha Valley

Wet. Rinse. Repeat.

Makaha Valley

Fleshy shelf tree fungi.

Makaha Valley

Sighting of fungal fruiting bodies perhaps Marasmiellus hapuuae.

Banana Falls

No pooling or harvesting of bananas today.

Makaha Valley

Looks like the same mushrooms you can find in your local supermarket. Don’t know if it’s edible though.

Makaha Valley

There’s more than one way to climb a tree. Some chose easy. Some chose hard.

Makaha Valley

Or don’t climb at all.

Makaha Valley

Not all those who wander are lost. But it sure looks like it. Let’s turn around. Besides, I’ve got a Dyson Vacuum to buy!

Makaha Valley

Scott scrambling up the moss and rain slicked rocks.

Pueo Falls

High pitched voices announced that the flowing falls was near. Two got lost. One stayed behind as falling rain in a confined space was not always conducive to a waterfall hike.

Pueo Falls

Approaching the roughly 1,000′ multi-tiered waterfall cascading down from Mount Ka’ala.

Pueo Falls

Following the rapidly moving stream as we made our way up the slippery slope.

Pueo Falls

Getting closer to the roughly 300′ base tier of the waterfall. The spray and force of the water was very palpable.

Pueo Falls

Brown water was less than white water.

Pueo Falls

Everybody got their 15 minutes of photographic fame.

Pueo Falls

Group photo at the base of the thundering waterfall.

Pueo Falls

The unrelenting rain forced our early departure so we made like the red sea and split.

Pueo Falls

Getting out of the stream and back onto the trail.

Makaha Valley

What goes up, must come back down faster.

Makaha Valley

Back and forth stream crossings.

Makaha Valley

Walking through coffee plants that were left behind by the former Waianae Coffee Plantation.

Makaha Valley

Must be a female thing.

Makaha Valley

Colony of fungi that seemed to almost completely cover the bark of the tree.

Makaha Valley

Wash day. Just don’t get washed away.

Kane’aki Heiau

360 degree view of the 16th century Hawaiian temple that was dedicated to Lono, the god of Agriculture and Fertility.

Makaha Valley

Not the view you would want.

Makaha Valley

The sign marks the spot. Harvest time!

Makaha Valley

Last stream crossing of the day. Wet from top to bottom.

Makaha Valley

Walking out towards civilization. Playtime was over.

All pau

Somebody ruffled his feathers and she still wasn’t impressed. Our waterlogged hike in every sense of the word, covered a little over ten miles with a fun group. Post hike meal at Coquito’s. Hearty food for a hearty hike.

Photos taken by Chico Cantu, Jen Odence, Lilyn Avendano, Marilyn Bermudez, 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.

Somebody waited for four years to visit this place, might as well grant her birthday wish.

Poamoho Road

Chris opening the combination lock. Adventure awaits.

Poamoho Road

Trying to fit four off-road vehicles in one muddy parking spot.

Poamoho Road

A rather large group of 17 friends gathered to celebrate not one but two birthdays, Allison and Mona’s special days.

Poamoho Road

The birthday girls getting lei’d by Agnes and Sandra. The original lei was introduced by the early Polynesian settlers who originally used flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, nuts, feathers, and even bone and teeth of various animals. The tradition of giving and wearing leis boomed with the advent of tourism in the islands and a cottage industry developed around it with lei stands and shops that populated Chinatown and the Airport areas.

Poamoho Road

Chris and Mona modeling the latest in fashionable life vests.

Poamoho Road

Matt getting muddy. Before the trail even started. He just wanted to get it over with.

Poamoho Trail

The start of the trail with everybody still dry and relatively clean.

Poamoho Trail

Hiking on the cleared corridor of uluhe ferns.

Poamoho Trail

Passing one of recent landslide areas that are still denuded of vegetation.

Poamoho Trail

Looking down into our destination – Poamoho Stream.

Poamoho Trail

Time to put on our micro-spikes for that extra traction.

Poamoho Trail

Leaving the trail.

Poamoho

Going down the short and slippery slope.

Poamoho Stream

We soon hit rock bottom. Stream bottom.

Poamoho Stream

Once the group was collected, we all started wading into the swollen stream.

Poamoho Stream

Matt opened the floodgates, much to the delight of those below him. Little did they know, he was holding it from last night.

Poamoho Stream

Poised and posed in the stream waters.

Poamoho Stream

Staying dry and then getting wet again. Rinse and repeat.

Poamoho Stream

Going upstream like so many spawning hikers.

Poamoho Stream

Saved Sandra from getting swept downstream by the strong current. Slight exaggeration.

Poamoho Stream

Weekend warriors. Water guns have existed since the 1860s when they were made out of metal and eventually into the clear plastic ones we use today.

Poamoho Stream

Stopped at a side waterfall that was flowing due to the generous rain the area had experienced the past few days.

Poamoho Stream

Back to playing in the water.

Poamoho Stream

Matt and Tessa sitting in a tree. Wait, where’s Akira?

Poamoho Stream

Are we going to Sacred Falls?

Poamoho Stream

Matt hydrating while being hydrated in the turbulent waters. The impermeable stratified squamous epithelium says otherwise.

Poamoho Stream

Fighting water with water.

Poamoho Stream

Akira playing in the deep end. Swimming against the current.

Poamoho Stream

Rock hopping galore.

Poamoho Stream

Plunging into “The Narrows.” Ice cold.

Poamoho Stream

Most of us crabbed, floated, swam or walked. One special person got carried through the water. It must be her birthday.

Poamoho Stream

Pool after pool.

Poamoho Stream

Approaching the lower waterfall.

Poamoho Stream

Finally some climbing! The rock hopping was getting old pretty fast.

Poamoho Stream

One by one, we all got up with a little help from our friends.

Poamoho Stream

Matt demonstrating his flexibility.

Poamoho Stream

Going over one of many fallen trees in the stream.

Poamoho Stream

The canyon walls narrowed through some of the stream corridors.

Poamoho Stream

Contouring our way around the cascading water.

Poamoho Stream

Drinking directly from the source. No filter needed.

Poamoho Stream

Are we there yet?

Poamoho Stream

Rock stacker. Caveman would be proud.

Poamoho Falls

We have arrived!

Poamoho Falls

A watering hole in every sense of the word.

Poamoho Falls

Mud of Mountain better than Oil of Olay. Preferred by Weekend Warriors.

Poamoho Falls

Splish splash. The recent rain had increased the flow and volume of the falls much to the delight of the group.

Poamoho Falls

Happy Birthday Allison and Mona! We sang the most recognized song in the English language to the pair, the song was produced in 1893 under “Good Morning To All” and the birthday lyrics were added later. Music publisher Warner/Chappell claimed copyright ownership and demanded royalties if used commercially or sung in public since 1949. In 2016, the courts ruled that the song belonged in the public domain. Sing it loudly and freely.

Poamoho Falls

Group photo in the pool with the 40′ falls behind us.

Poamoho Stream

Going with the flow.

Poamoho Stream

Akira skirting the rushing waters.

Poamoho Stream

The stream feeding hikers into the narrow slot of the canyon.

Poamoho Stream

More fun than Wet’n’Wild Hawaii.

Poamoho Stream

Climbing down to the pool while Matt ensured that I remained wet. That’s what friends are for.

Poamoho Stream

Looking at a side stream. Another waterfall perhaps? Another day.

Poamoho Stream

Chris spotted a webbing hanging off the hill and gambled that it was a trail back to the trail. Good call.

Poamoho Trail

Back on terra firma after some minor scrambling up the hill. Saved us over an hour rock hopping in the stream.

Poamoho Trail

Ambushing the weekend warrior. Must be a REMF.

Poamoho Trail

Going through the gates and back to our trucks.

Poamoho Trail

Champagne toast for the birthday girls. Prost. Kanpai. Cheers. Tagay.

All pau

Akira saying his goodbyes to the large, domesticated livestock. Cows despite being herbivores, will eat meat and other animals.

GPS Tracks

Our semi-loop waterlogged birthday hike covered 6.17 miles through a canyon filled with rocks, pools and waterfalls. Fun day all around with good friends. I tried to make phoking reservations at the phoking restaurant but they didn’t take phoking reservations for our phoking post hike meal. Hot soup does a wet body good. Happy advance birthday wishes to Allison and Mona, excuse the ghetto birthday cards. It’s the thought that counts.

Photos taken by Agnes Bryant, Aida Gordon, Akira Suzuki, Allison Banks, Brian and Kilani Hudson, Chico Cantu, Chris Bautista, Dave and Susan Katz, Jimmy Hernandez, Lawrence Murray, Lilyn Avendano, Matt Vidaurri, Monaliza Guillermo, Samantha Taylor, Sandra Walter, 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.

Met up with Chico, Ferlino, Jason, and Matt to rappel some waterfalls in a Nu’uanu Valley.

Pali Highway

We dodged cars traveling on the highway, crossed over the shallow drainage ditch and entered the forest through an unlocked gate.

Mo’ole Valley

Stepping foot in a valley that I haven’t visited in over seven years.

Mo’ole Valley

The trail and terrain have changed significantly.

Mo’ole Valley

Finding our way through the valley also known as Hillebrand Glen.

Mo’ole Valley

Climbing our way up as we approached our waterfall destination.

Mo’ole Valley

Chico squeezing through one of the blowdowns that littered the valley.

Mo’ole Falls

We soon dropped down to the top of the first falls and began gearing up.

Mo’ole Falls

Jason throwing out the rope as he set up the equipment for us to rappel.

Mo’ole Falls

Chico was the first to drop down the 20′ waterfall.

Mo’ole Falls

Matt wishing for more flow.

Mo’ole Falls

Am I doing this right? It’s been over seven years since I was a dope on a rope.

Mo’ole Falls

On belay.

Mo’ole Falls

Easy peasy.

Mo’ole Falls

Jason and Matt, another prolific rappeler, setting up the anchors for two ropes.

Mo’ole Falls

Just before I was set to go down, Jason and Matt decided to add a safety brake called VT Prusik to my harness. Turned out to be a lifesaver. Literally.

Mo’ole Falls

Going down the 120′ waterfall after my unexpected fall with the VT Prusik arresting my fall. Look Ma, no hands!

Mo’ole Falls

Chico rappelling down with his GoPro ornament on his helmet.

Mo’ole Falls

Is that a GoPro stick in your hand or are you just glad to see me?

Mo’ole Falls

Jason bouncing down the wall.

Mo’ole Falls

Matt climbing back up the waterfall with his ascenders. Practice makes perfect.

Mo’ole Valley

The group climbing up the steep hill to get back to the waterfalls.

Mo’ole Falls

The guys checking out Chico’s Prusik Knot to make sure it was tied correctly.

Mo’ole Falls

Lean more back. Drop that ass. Like you gonna make dodo on the waterfall. Words of wisdom to rappel by.

Mo’ole Falls

Trying my hand using the ascenders on the shorter wall.

Mo’ole Falls

Squat. Stand up. Pull up. Repeat. Not easy on your first time around.

Mo’ole Falls

Jason and Matt keeping an eye on us novices.

Mo’ole Falls

Going down a different rope. Have VT Prusik. Will rappel.

Mo’ole Falls

Ferlino and myself going down the wall.

Mo’ole Falls

Chico coming down. Is my GoPro on? I have it on my helmet.

Mo’ole Falls

Matt making his way down. He didn’t want to make waves this time around.

Mo’ole Falls

Splish.

Mo’ole Falls

Splash. No wetsuit needed.

Mo’ole Falls

Ferlino coiling the climbing rope.

Mo’ole Falls

Group photo at the base of the second waterfall, left to right: Ferlino, myself, Jason, Chico and Matt.

Mo’ole Valley

Man down. Should’ve been locked in.

Mo’ole Valley

Going back through the valley.

Mo’ole Valley

The irrigation tunnel that nobody wanted to enter.

Mo’ole Valley

Man in a tree. Surprised it wasn’t Ferlino.

All pau

Many thanks again to Jason for taking us rappelling and Matt for his assistance. Fun day. Post hike meal at Alejandro’s. The food did not live up to the hype. Should have gone to El Mariachi instead.

Photos taken by Chico Cantu, Matt Vidaurri, 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 met up with some mutual friends the second day when we found out they were also on Kauai.

Tip Top

Sunday September 3, 2023

Group photo in front of Tip Top Motel, Cafe, & Bakery that was started back in 1916 by Denjiro Ota, left to right: Ferlino, Val, Aileen, Scott, myself, Cinja, Mateo, Krissy and Alex.

Indy Falls

Walking down the road as Krissy was prepared to make a quick getaway if so needed.

Indy Falls

Bushwhacking our way through the overgrown trail dominated by Guinea grass.

Indy Falls

Cinja crossing Huleia Stream. Slippery when wet.

Indy Falls

The water going over the roughly 15′ drop was not of a voluminous flow.

Indy Falls

Looking at the falls from across the swimming hole.

Indy Falls

Krissy crossing over the falls.

Indy Falls

Standing on top of the falls.

Indy Falls

Climbing down to get a better vantage point.

Indy Falls

Aileen with a more picturesque backdrop.

Indy Falls

Ferlino hanging off a tree. No surprise.

Rice Monument

Group photo in front of the structure erected in 1925 for a man that was appointed the last Governor of Kauai by Queen Lili’uokalani in 1891 and two years later he helped to overthrow her and the Hawaiian monarchy. With friends like that …

Lawai Kai

Our next stop, we parked at a dead end street and dropped down to the crescent shaped beach.

Lawai Kai

The group practicing LNT and just leaving our footsteps.

Lawai Kai

Group photo at the beach where the rich and famous used to come and play. We were neither.

Lawai Kai

Mateo doing a handstand at the secluded and scenic beach.

Poipu

We took a break at the nearby shopping center after being diverted due to a run being held that day. Shrimp and shave ice filled most of our tummies.

Heritage Trail

Our next stop took us to Shipwreck Beach where we took a group photo on top of the 40′ cliff. No jumpers today.

Heritage Trail

Aileen looking for the shipwreck that reputedly disappeared back in 1982.

Heritage Trail

Stepping foot on the Mahaulepu Coastal Trail.

Heritage Trail

We soon dropped down to explore the sand-dune cliffs.

Heritage Trail

Standing in one of the erosional “caves.”

Heritage Trail

Alex peeking around the corner. Nothing to see. Move along.

Heritage Trail

The group making their way out.

Heritage Trail

Aileen climbing back onto the trail.

Heritage Trail

Scott traversing over the edge of the trail that is being constantly eroded and shaped by the winds and waves.

Heritage Trail

Ferlino balancing on the branch. Everybody else just hung from it. Strive to be different. Strive to be Ferlino.

Heritage Trail

Mount Haupu loomed in front of us.

Heritage Trail

Looking out at the cluster of spires composed of limestone and sandstone.

Heritage Trail

Reminds me of the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon in Utah.

Heritage Trail

Ferlino standing amongst the razor sharp pinnacles.

Heritage Trail

Walking around a cove on the beach.

Heritage Trail

Keeping a respectful distance from the Waiopili Heiau.

Heritage Trail

Looking out towards the sea cliffs that are bordered by the Poipu Bay Golf Course.

Heritage Trail

We came across a bunch of Nene or Hawaiian goose at the end of the trail. Kauai is home to roughly 2,400 of these rare birds.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve

Some of us went to get our cars and the rest explored the cave system and also decided to see the imported African spurred tortoises that were brought in to keep the weeds under control.

Makauwahi Cave Reserve

We spotted some that were using the vegetation as cover from the sun and seemingly eating coconut meat. The group split into their separate ways at the end of the day and we picked up Mari from the airport and had dinner at Bull Shed, a steak restaurant by the water.

Kountry Kitchen

Monday September 4, 2023

We woke up on our last day on the Garden Isle and had chicken poop for breakfast before heading out.

Boroboro Bridge

Getting our feet wet. No other way around it.

Boroboro Bridge

We soon came to a gate that was there to block unauthorized motor entry, a couple ATVs roared up behind us and quickly turned around.

Boroboro Bridge

Second stream crossing.

Boroboro Bridge

Our last stream crossing and the bridge that served as passage to higher ground in the event of flooding stood before us.

Boroboro Bridge

Ferlino was the first to cross the dilapidated plantation foot bridge that had snapped guide wires and missing or questionable planks.

Boroboro Bridge

Crossing over the Waimea river as raindrops kept falling on my head.

Boroboro Bridge

Don’t push me!

Boroboro Bridge

We saw a pair of horse riders going back on the trail.

Boroboro Bridge

The raindrops soon increased in intensity and size, so Aileen aborted her bridge crossing. A bridge too far.

Boroboro Bridge

Going back or so we thought. The rain soon stopped falling. That only meant one thing.

Boroboro Bridge

Aileen successfully crossing the bridge as two passing hikers going deeper into the valley looked up and said “No way.”

Boroboro Bridge

Making it back to our car in one piece.

Kalalau Lookout

Group photo at the socked in 4,000′ lookout that was blanketed by clouds.

Kalalau Lookout

I think Ferlino used to be a tree in his former life or a primate that used to climb trees.

Waimea Canyon Lookout

Climbing up to get a better vantage point than the roadside.

Waimea Canyon Lookout

Looking into the vastness and splendor that is the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

Aloha!

We left Kauai with fun memories and a bag of frozen Kauai shrimp that was bought in the Walmart parking lot. Felt like a bad drug deal. Many thanks to Scott again for his generous hospitality this past weekend and the fun company that made the trip worthwhile. A Hui Hou!

Photos taken by Aileen Agustin, Ferlino Carinio, Mari Saito, Scott Dea, 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.

Joined Dale’s group to end the year with a roaring waterfall that was once a highly kept secret which backfired and is now widely known in the community. It’s even on AllTrails.

First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu

Met up with Chris, Dale, Lilyn, Quan, Sally, and Terri at the church parking lot that used to be home to the Ko’olau Golf Course, that was once considered one of the toughest in the country to play, and is now shut down for good due to the covid pandemic. Somebody decided to save an Alexander Hamilton by walking up the road instead.

Trail

Detouring off the trail where we picked up a couple of lost hikers.

Likeke Falls

Following the rocky stream toward its source.

Likeke Falls

Group photo in front of the falls named after Richard Davis, the legendary hiker that created and maintained the trail that bears his name (Likeke means Richard in Hawaiian).

Likeke Falls

The easy part was getting on the branch. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

Trail

Going down the watery trail in search of another raging waterfall.

Trail

Meandering our way through the foothills until we came to this large boulder which marked the way to the falls.

Trail

Looking at another waterfall in the distance.

V Falls

Climbing up the stream to the waterfall that only flows during periods of heavy rain.

V Falls

Terri scrambling up the wet rocks.

V Falls

Standing on one of the multi-tiered falls. Photo by Dale Yoshizu.

V Falls

The lower falls with its three streams flowing down the rocks.

V Falls

Terri climbing up the last tier to the main waterfalls.

V Falls

Chris relaxing in the waterfall.

V Falls

Group photo left to right: Terri, Lilyn, Sally, Dale, Chris, myself and Quan.

V Falls

My feeble attempt at climbing partway up the waterfall. The water was just hammering me from above and I soon made my way back down. All wet and cold. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

V Falls

Dale using the elephant leaf to balance himself on the rock.

V Falls

Heading back out as the steady rain started to increase the volume of the falls. Photo by Chris Bautista.

V Falls

Chris standing at the top of the tiered waterfalls as the water started to pick up in flow and density. At least the water wasn’t brown. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

V Falls

Looking back towards the impressive falls. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

V Falls

The lower falls had grown by another one due to the increased rain. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

V Falls

Chris at the base of the quadruple falls. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waterfall

Just needed some awapuhi ginger shampoo. Who needs Paul Mitchell? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

All pau

Dale left a late Christmas present for all hikers; old and young, nice and naughty. Thanks to Dale for organizing the sweet, short and wet hike. Post hike meal at Daiichi Ramen where I should’ve got the ramen instead of the mapo tofu. New adventures are around the corner and hau’oli makahiki hou to all!

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.

We dropped in at Zion National Park and secured walk in permits for Left Fork of North Creek, more commonly called The Subway. The Narrows on steroids. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Left Fork Trailhead

Met up with Aida’s friend, Mark who had drove up from Las Vegas to hike with Aida originally as the rest of us had planned to hike from the top down. Plunging temperatures and lack of wetsuits threw that plan out the proverbial window.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Entering a wilderness that is recognized as “an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.”

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Going down the side of the cliffs. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Who brought the 300′ of rope? Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Scrambling down a short section of loose rocks before we hit the creek.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Following the stream like so many spawning salmon.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Now how do I get back down without dropping my phone? Too late. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

One of many creek crossings on the trail. Despite the NPS (National Park Service) stating that there is no trail and that this is an off-trail wilderness route, there is an fairly obvious trail alternating on both sides of the creek bank.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Alternating between boulder hopping in the stream and on the banks.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Trying to stay dry as long as possible. Somebody said we weren’t getting wet today. I also believe Guy Hagi. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Left Fork North Creek

Everybody going their own way.

Left Fork North Creek

Going up a rock and a hard place. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Left Fork North Creek

It can’t be that hard. Let me try.

Left Fork North Creek

I think we missed the dinosaur tracks. 37°17.986 N, 113°04.207 W for future reference. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Left Fork North Creek

Trying not to get my feet wet. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Left Fork North Creek Trail

Quan scrambling around a boulder. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Left Fork North Creek

These trees are made for sittin’ and standing’. And that’s just what we’ll do. So take our picture!

Left Fork North Creek

Quan standing at the terraced waterfall.

Left Fork North Creek

Watching the water flow down the sandstone ledges towards Mark.

Left Fork North Creek

Getting my feet wet at the staircase waterfall. Who said we didn’t need waterproof shoes? Photo by

Left Fork North Creek

Contouring and climbing my way up the first 15′ waterfall.

Left Fork North Creek

Passing a massive alcove carved into the side of the cliff that looks like its painted with natures colors.

Left Fork North Creek

Standing in front of the second 15′ waterfall.

Train track

Lilyn straddling the crack as the water flowed down and then cascaded down the terraced falls.

The Subway

Standing at the entrance to the lower subway, made famous by countless other hikers and photographers before us.

The Subway

Entering the tube that was gouged out of the slot canyon by the power and persistence of flooding waters. I read that rivers on average can cut through three feet of solid rock every thousand years.

The Subway

Passing one of many emerald pools as we walked on the slick rock. Photo by Aida Gordon.

The Subway

End of the road for us. The adults only. Not for one particular kid.

The Subway

Watching a group rappel their way down.

The Subway

Trying to explain how to get to Stairway to Heaven to people from Utah. Thanks Aida! Photo by Aida Gordon.

Polar Bear Club

This kid just took the plunge into the icy pool. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

The Subway

Trying not to slip on our way back out. Photo by Aida Gordon.

The Subway

Lilyn standing next to a deep and cold looking pool.

The Subway

Group photo by Mark Nemenzo at the mouth of the subway.

The Subway

Leaving the curved walls of the subway and into the arms of the warming sun.

Left Fork North Creek

Group photo at our lunch spot above one of the small waterfalls.

Left Fork North Creek

Making our way down the painted alcove.

Left Fork North Creek

Aida stepping her way down the staircase waterfall. Photo by Mark Nemenzo.

Left Fork North Creek

Creek crossing.

Left Fork North Creek

Scrambling up the slippery sandstone.

Junction

We followed the creek until we hit the sign, which marked the end of our relatively flat hike.

Left Fork North Creek

Going up the 400′ slippery slope with loose rocks underfoot. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Left Fork North Creek

Contouring to the left so we didn’t have to hike any unnecessary elevation gain.

All pau

What’s for dinner? The roaming cow gave us an idea. Post hike meal at Zion Canyon Brew Pub where bison burgers and fries hit the spot.

GPS Tracks

Our hike which is the third most sought after hike in Zion National Park, after the Narrows and Angels Landing, covered 8.39 miles through a geologic wonder filled with stunning scenery and vibrant colors. I’ll be back. Top down next time.

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.

We didn’t get to summit one of the world’s largest volcanoes yesterday, so instead we stood underneath a waterfall today. After recovering Quan’s cousins truck from Mauna Loa Lookout and checking out of our restaurant cum hostel, we all piled into the rental truck and began our long drive up North. Many thanks again to Binh and Huy for their generous hospitality. Persistence and perseverance paid off in determining the agenda for our remaining time on the Big Island.

Breakfast of Champions

Having our breakfast under the yellow lehua flowers in the parking lot of McDonalds. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Power Lunch

Eating cholesterol drenched sticks of potatoes underneath the crimson colored stamens of another ohia tree at another McDonalds. Is this a food tour or a hike? Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Parking Lot

We thought we had a spot to park but then the guys truck died. Moving to the next spot where Matt had to reverse the truck just to the point of not going off the road.

Scenic Spot

Group photo with the islands of Paokalani, Mokupoku and Pa’alalea in the background. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Trail

Hiking our way through the grassy fields intersected by crisscrossing roads. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Trail

We all took different paths at times. The paths of least resistance.

Trail

Unwanted hitchhikers attached themselves to us as we pushed through the unkept fields under the sweltering sun.

Trail

A shirtless Matt taking us deeper into the mountains.

Trail

We soon spotted a bridge too far. But first we had to find the trail that would get us there.

Allstate

The princess was in good hands with Matt.

Trail

Going down the trail as it hugged the side of the cliff.

Trail

Quan standing in one of the 57 irrigation tunnels that was built in the early 1900’s by mainly Japanese contract laborers who were paid one dollar a day. Translated to 2021 wages, that still comes out to roughly $29.91 per day. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Trail

Crossing over the bridge that was replaced in 2012 due to the Kiholo Bay Earthquake of 2006.

Trail

Looking out from the back of the waterfalls to the rock bridge to the metal bridge. Past to the present. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Trail

There were multiple waterfalls cascading down the rocks. Photos by Matt Vidaurri.

Trail

Looking towards the waterfalls. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Trail

Following the trail as it continued to hug the side of the cliff. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Trail

The girls crossing over a side waterfall and ruins.

Trail

Crossing over a short patch of loose rocks and low hanging trees. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Trail

Watching our steps as the dirt was soft and unforgiving in some spots.

Trail

The sounds of the waterfall greeted our ears before we saw it. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waterfall

Taking in the roughly 600′ waterfall from top to bottom.

Waterfall

At first glance from afar, the trail looked impassable due to erosion. But on closer inspection, it was highly doable and there were anchored ropes that ran around the waterfall. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waterfall

Standing underneath one of the few waterfalls in Hawaii where you can do that.

Waterfall

Group photo by Matt Vidaurri.

Waterfall

Drone photos by Matt Vidaurri.

Waterfall

Looking out towards the valley from the waterfall. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Waterfall

Exploring the other side of the waterfall that was heavily eroded.

Sunglass recovery

Do I get paid a nickel for dropping into this dank and dark cave? Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Waterfall

Walking underneath the waterfall.

Waterfall

Looking up to the top. Photo by Quan Haberstroh.

Waterfall

Everybody getting in their solo shots before taking our leave of this tucked away waterfall.

Trail

Going back over the shifting and loose rocks that passes for a trail.

Trail

Crossing back over the bridge that the earthquake built. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Trail

According to some people, volunteerism and overbearing go hand in hand. Creepy chuckle at the end tied everything together. Somebody should make a ringtone.

Down to the bone

Somebody was hungry. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

Trail

Walking our way out where we still picked up unwanted hitchhikers. Souvenirs from our hike. Photo by Aida Gordon.

Trail

Valley views. Photo by Matt Vidaurri.

All pau

Island views. We returned back to our truck to find plentiful road parking and a niele person nosing around our business. It pays to know people. Photo by Lilyn Avendano.

The Fish & The Hog

We met up with Grant to have our post hike meal and Father’s Day dinner at this rustic café and bar. Extra tip to the waiter for recognizing the aunteh in the house.

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.

Hooked up with Cathy, Donna and Edgar again for another fun filled day. Rounding out Team Hawaii was Danny, who was nice enough to get us the trail permits.

Permit Kiosk

We were the first car to roll into the town parking lot and showed our permits to the caretaker who gave us miniature maps to guide us on the trail. Found out that it’s too cold for rattlesnakes on the trail. No chance of getting a snake bite, 100% chance of freezing our okoles off. Somebody was also surprised that we were going to get wet on today’s hike.

Access Road

Didn’t we drive here in a 4×4?

Icicle Crossing

Danny lending Jasmin a hand lest she fall into the river and become a popsicle.

Fall Colors

Primary colors. Photo by Edgar Gamiao

Kanarraville Town Lands

Leaving the jeep road behind us as we embarked on the hiking trail.

Kanarra Creek

Danny making his way over one of many creek crossings.

Kanarra Creek

Cathy contouring further up the bank as we followed the faint trail. Photo by Edgar Gamiao

Kanarra Creek

The group hopscotching their way across the ankle deep water.

Kanarra Creek

Climbing our way out of the riverbed and up through jumbled orange-red rocks. Photo by Daniel Garcia.

Kanarra Creek

Passing underneath the fall foliage. Photo by Edgar Gamiao

Kanarra Creek

Still trying to delay the inevitable.

Kanarra Creek

We temporarily left the riverbed to climb up to explore the puka riddled rocks.

Slot Canyon

Danny entering the carved channel formed by wind and water.

Slot Canyon

We bumped into another group who asked if we were going to the second falls as they heard that the ladder has been removed. I guess we’ll find out. Photo by Edgar Gamiao

Slot Canyon

Passing through the sheer, striated rock walls that were shaded with orange, brown and red colors. Photo by Daniel Garcia.

Kanarra Falls #1

We had the rock jam waterfall all to ourselves. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno.

Kanarra Falls #1

Taking our turns climbing up the log nailed with slippery and shaky metal steps.

Kanarra Falls #1

Scrambling up the boulder waterfall. Photo by Edgar Gamiao

Kanarra Creek

Log crossing. Photo by Daniel Garcia

Kanarra Creek

We walked across the top of this small waterfall. Photo by Edgar Gamiao

Kanarra Creek

Danny contouring around a large boulder.

Kanarra Creek

We scrambled up the rooted hill looking for intelligent life in these mountains. Photo by Donna Mae.

Kanarra Creek

All we found was a hiker evolution that were short a couple key primates. Photo by Edgar Gamiao

Poison Ivy

Trying not to make contact with the oily resin.

Kanarra Creek

Traveling along the banks covered in deciduous growth. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno

Slot Canyon

Who wants to go first?

Kanarra Falls #2

The buck stops here as the ladder is no longer there, but a rope was dangling next to the flowing sheet of freezing water. Don’t look at me!

Kanarra Falls #2

I can’t feel my feet! Photo by Daniel Garcia.

Kanarra Falls #2

Group photo as misery loves company.

Slot Canyon

Leaving the knee deep water behind us.

Kanarra Creek

Danny thawing himself out.

Kanarra Creek

Keeping the semi-frozen blood flowing. Photo by Edgar Gamiao.

Kanarra Creek

If a tree falls in a forest, will hikers climb on it? Photo by Daniel Garcia.

Kanarra Creek

Whose bright idea was this? Photo by Cathy Gamiao.

Kanarra Creek

Somebody took a short cut on the way down. Much smarter than monkeying my way back down. Photo by Cathy Gamiao

Kanarra Creek

Danny contouring around the boulder to drop back down into the waterfall.

Kanarra Falls #1

Making our way down the wedged boulder.

Kanarra Falls #1

Danny standing in the narrow canyon as the sunlight illuminated the multi-colored sandstone sculpted walls.

Kanarra Falls #1

Slippery slope. Logical fallacy aside. Photo by Daniel Garcia

Slot Canyon

Leaving the mini-Narrows canyon.

Kanarra Creek

I was thinking we should have kept our waterproof socks and shoes for one more day. Day late and a dollar short.

Kanarra Creek

Looking over the chilly creek, that is best enjoyed from a distance. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno.

Kanarra Creek

Back on dry land. Photo by Jasmin Nepomuceno.

All pau

Our little gem of a canyon hike covered 4.14 miles through jaw dropping scenery and bone chilling waters. Post hike meal at Pho Vietnamese Cuisine. The cook was a genuine Vietnamese. Authentic food just like what you would find back home.
Postscript. I found out a week later that my calves suffered some sort of freezer burns from my creek immersion. Travel souvenirs.

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.