Chapter 112: Na Pali Coast

We headed out at 5:20 AM this morning with a 15 lb. pack filled with 6 water bottles, 6 PB&J's, and 2 granola bars. As we drove the hour and a half to the north part of the island, we had the sun rising over our backs. The sun was fully risen when we arrived at Ke'e beach - the starting point of the Kalalua trail. The trail goes 11 miles along the Na Pali coast. The path we took, followed the Kalalua coast trail for 2 miles (huge cliffs but breathtaking vistas) and then we turned inland and headed to the Hanakapi'ai Falls.

The first 2 miles along the coast is well maintained since many people make the trek to the Hanakapi'ai Beach. There we took a short rest to watch the thunderous waves pound the shore. You can't swim at this beach - there is a killer undertoe (literally, it has killed 87 people over the years). After that, the path inland becomes more narrow but is relatively easy until the last mile. The last mile has rocky undulations, slippery river crossing, and even a few rock climbing type of obstacles. Not to mention it became harder to identify the trail.

Despite the arduous terrain, we made it! And we were rewarded with a 300-foot ribbon of water delicately cascading down a rugged volcanic wall and tumbling into a tranquil pool. We sat down and enjoyed a gourmet PB&J while enjoying the mist of the waterfall on our faces. After 20 minutes of taking in the scenery, we headed back into the jungle. This was worst since we no longer had the waterfall to look forward to.

On the hike back, the sun rose high enough over the mountains and the trail started to get hot! We were glad we started early and felt bad for the numerous hikers that we passed. Overall, we finished the 8-mile trek in about 5 hours (before noon!).

Unfortunately, my camera battery died on the hike back and I didn't bring my charger (the reason there aren't more pictures posted). I, who is usually over prepared in most situations, forgot my computer charger, phone charger and now, camera charger. Way to go me!