9.07 Turkey Creek Trail, definitely not for chickens

On our recent trip to Hawaii, we met some interesting people, many whose outlook is somewhat different from a typical mainlander. People tend to improvise in earning a living; the opportunities are limited. In addition, the environment makes it attractive to be involved with nature while others opt out of formal lifestyles. Anyway, one of the ironies we enjoyed, well sort of, occurred after we spent some time conversing with our landlord, the fascinating Buddhist minister, Len.

A powerful view by any standards, from peak (Click on picture to get perspective)

Feeling on top of the world

We stayed in Volcano Village for about 17 days at the house and then moved to his cottage near the City of Refuge for another six. “What should we do with the key when we vacate?” We asked the white-bearded gentleman. “Leave it above the stove,” he mentioned, meaning the house would remain unlocked. “What about a key for the cottage?” ‘I don’t think there is a key—it is very safe around both homes,’ he replied. This is the guy, who could not remember the type of car he was renting us, or where he had parked it.

'Edgi Jenni' has front row view into the bowl

We said our goodbyes and about an hour later, a police officer knocked at the door. What could be the problem, we wondered. “Did you hear or see anything suspicious in the area today?” He asked and then continued, “There was a burglary next door earlier.” Did you hear that, Len? We said our goodbyes and about an hour later, a police officer knocked at the door. What could be the problem, we wondered. “Did you hear or see anything suspicious in the area today?” He asked and then continued, “There was a burglary next door earlier.” Did you hear that, Len?

Following the shady curve

Getting up-close view into the bowl, definitely not sleeping

What a fascinating hike. With extras, we calculated it at 9 miles plus change. The latter part took us up a narrow path along the mountain edge and up to the summit. The views are outstanding the whole way. Harsh beauty confronts one, which softens as one gazes into the distance. Effectively, we were the only hikers on the trail today. Having mentioned being alone, the animal droppings attest to the fact that horses and mules probably passed this way at the lower levels. We have put the foot down—not in the droppings, though. After our editor made us test for freshness and warmth one time in Morro Bay, we no longer are accommodating. We like to be a hands-on kind of person but there are limits. Besides, we have retired as a scout.

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Scenes from the Turkey Trail, on way to summit

Time to return from an under-rated peak

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey