After spending two nights in the Haleakala National Park, more specifically, in the crater, we found
ourselves in constant wonder. At the scene of natural destruction many years ago, whoever is prepared to enter
the crater is more than rewarded for the effort. We will go into further detail of the experience in the
following missives but will limit this one to these opening words and a few pictures. We have so many photographs
that it is almost impossible to relegate any to the sidelines. Finally, on Friday morning, the third leg of the
hike, we left the eastern border of the park and trekked over nine miles to the western side, gaining 3,500 feet,
much of it over the last three miles. The Sabbath arrived appropriately and just on time for our weary
bodies and elated souls.
Diversion to high ground on Halemau'u Trail.
We descend into the crater on the first afternoon in light rain; hiker wanders among rocks.
We wonder why our cheeks were damp after watching the moon rise, January 15th (full moon)
On the third day, we look down into the crater where we were a couple of hours earlier,
on the colorful Sliding Sands Trail.
The moon descends as the sun rises and shines on the mountains along the eastern border.
After six miles, Jen faces more than a couple of thousand feet climb ahead. (Note observatory on ridge
which is our destination).
Looking back to see the mist filling part of the crater we passed through.
Red Crater in distance as we focus on flowers near the trail.
Silverswords spread randomly about Haleakala. Note soft sand on trail that acts as an extra drag.
We diverted along a secondary trail up to a peak. We left our bags at bottom left (in picture).
To be continued...
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
A farewell until next time from Haleakala
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