“You’re not the first person to have a cold, you know. So, wipe your nose and stop sniveling. We’ve got a great hike planned,” our editor told us rather firmly. After that dressing down, we had to wipe our eyes, too. We’re not looking for sympathy. We thought it a good idea to spend the day bathing at the black beach while in recovery mode. Hold it. Let’s not give anyone the wrong impression; the sand is black but all are welcome. Whew! For a minute, we nearly blew all our sensitivity training.
Lasting first impressions. (Click for larger pictures, a must)
Sunshine filters through to the waterfall
"Yes, your majesty"
We arrived at the ‘trailhead’ and noticed that not only was the car park empty but that one did not exist. Signs boldly proclaimed the trail closed because of falling rocks, earthquake damage and other dangers. Locks barred further entry. What to do after an hour drive north from the Kona district? The black beach sand was looking very attractive at that stage. “Let’s do it,” announced our editor. We scaled two fences and looked the other way when passing three other ‘no admittance’ signs. “How do we justify such behavior?” We asked our dear editor. “Simple,” she replied. We looked forward to the explanation with much interest.
Into the spirit of the hike...forest
When clouds get in the eyes
“Firstly, we have a ban on cell phones while driving and this is not enforced. Secondly, there exists an immigration law to prevent illegal immigrants from living in the country. Not only is it half-heartedly enforced, but the ‘illegals’ receive many benefits that citizens don’t. Therefore, get your butt over that gate.”
“You do know,” we retorted with the wisdom of a learned senior, “this concept is the beginning of the notorious slippery slope.”
“Wise guy! The slippery slope begins when you reach the peak of the mountain in front of us. Let’s go.”
Overwhelmed on rim
View looking the other way
the summit, we were overwhelmed. The dramatic effect of these incredible mountains, waterfalls and the view of the rim across the way from our position was overpowering and instant. We were spellbound. We then continued on a very narrow, somewhat slippery trail along the edge of a 2,000 feet drop-off; it was spectacular. We climbed further before sitting and gazing at choreography of the Master as the clouds moved subtly, at first, before covering the peaks in shades of grey and of course, white. It is a remarkable place and unfortunately, we had nobody with which to share such magnificence.
Hey Jen, is this the slippery slope?
Hope that's not waiting to 'pop'
First impressions last until the end
We did miss the beach, though.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
We're going to lose that fella, soon
What? How could you forget the lock-pick
This fellow has authority issues
Flowering Mountains
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