Hiking Madness

During our last week with Gabe and Leo in town, we took on two challenging hikes. We headed to the Southeast corner of O'ahu for both. The first hike was to Makapu'u Point. Makapu'u Point is the Eastern-most point on the island. From the Point you can actually see the islands of Moloka'i, Lana'i, and Maui on a clear day. In the winter, Makapu'u Point is also a great spot to watch the migrating great blue whales. On any day, however, there is a beautiful view of the channel, the mountains, and the valley below.
Our second hike, to the top of Koko Head Crater, was one of the most grueling hikes I've undertaken. I usually think of myself as fit and able to tackle most any physical challenge, but Koko Head reminded me that I have room for improvement! Gabe decided he didn't want to do the whole hike, so he and George headed back down mid-way. I wonder if I should have joined them!.The path to the top was no joke. In some parts, it was more of "climb" than a "hike". The whole trail is an old railway path that was formerly used by the military to hoist supplies to the top of the mountain. The old wooden railroad ties still remain and serve as steps along the path. Despite the mild heat-exhaustion I suffered, the views from the top were amazing. The top of the mountain also provided a great resting and recovery spot before undertaking the trip back down. After the hike, we grabbed lunch at one of our favorite spots, Kona Brewing Company, and headed over to Hanauma Bay to cool off with some well-earned snorkeling and swimming.

Pictures of our Koko Head hike can be seen here. Pictures from Makapu'u Point are here.