Hawaii 5-0

On July 5th, the Scouts tackled the infamous Pihea Trail and the Alakai Swamp Trail. Here's what a couple of Gib's friends looked like. There wasn't a photo of Gib :( Apparently it rained cats & dogs on them, but cleared just enough for the view. Rain on the swamp trail just makes the boys that much more happier!

From all accounts, the Pihea Trail and the Alakai trail are harder than they look, muddier than you expect, and a total immersion into the Rainforest.

Here are some images and trail notes from the internet:

Pihea Trail is located at the end of the road at the top of Waimea Canyon past Kokee State Park and by the Pu’u O Kila Lookout. There is a trail sign along with a well faded sign saying - ”Mt. Waialeale Wettest spot on earth”

(this pic taken by the Scouts)
The Pihea Trail is among the premier hiking paths in the Kokee/Waimea Canyon area. The trail traverses the narrow ridge in the Na Pali Kona Forest Reserve between the Kalalau Valley and the Alakai Swamp. The views extend 4,000 feet down the mossy, fluted cliffs of the Kalalau Valley, which drops sharply into the ocean. The views inland extend over layers of folded forested canyons and ridges to Mount Waialeale, the wettest spot on earth with an average of 450 inches of annual rainfall. Alakai Swamp is an incredible, atmospheric area like nowhere else. Swamp weather can cause no views at all and is typical weather.

The trail begins as an old red clay road which is now well rutted and in sections and very muddy. In spots the trail rises and you have to climb using roots and worn foot holes. At the first junction there is a sign to follow the trail or go left to the Pihea Vista. If the valley has already started to fill with clouds, skip the vista because you won’t see anything. Continuing a short distance on the Pihea Trail you will reach the boardwalks. The boards are raised, 2 abreast, connected with a wire mesh. The boardwalk makes for an easy hike and was built in the late 90’s. There are sections that have numerous steps.