The third peak, beyond and below our target, see next picture down.
The target, Olomana, far left corner and beyond.
Half-way down, Jenni pauses in a terrific frame, on the edge of a cliff.
Using ropes, feet and other parts of the body to ascend...safely.
Looking down at the third peak, an incredible place, a fascinating visual, perhaps majestic.
This conversation took place immediately before the hike, although it would be more accurate to call
it a mountain climb. The trailhead is positioned inside the grounds of the Royal Hawaiian Country Club, a
rather exclusive place. Although by the end of the hike we were covered in mud, sweaty, boots only resembling
footwear because they were on our feet, the editor suggested we take a shower at the country club. We do like
her spirit. Back to the conversation with the gate-guard:
“You do know this hike is extremely dangerous when the trail is dry. When wet, it is treacherous. You should
know it has been raining for the past weeks.”
‘Yes, sir,’ we answered because he paused to take a breath.
“Last month a fireman fell to his death and two others were seriously injured.”
‘We read about that and we’re very sorry,’ we said. We already had a serious debate with the editor on the subject.
Our plan was unravelling quickly thanks to the guard.
“This climb causes many casualties,” he passed for effect. We know people take one look at the editor and
underestimate her just because she is young and pretty…well, old and pretty...definitely not pretty old.
We nodded our heads again. We thought of raising a hand and asking whether we could take a bathroom break.
“There are a number of areas where the use of ropes is necessary. However, some of them are not in serviceable
condition. Recently, one snapped and a climber fell and was seriously injured, another was less fortunate,” he
looked us directly in the eyes.
We were now very worried that he had alienated the editor and we were not excited either. Nevertheless, we
assured him that we would not get up to any mischief, which was disappointing. He, of course, didn’t understand
what we meant by ‘mischief’. We don’t think the editor knew what was on our mind either.
Descending with some caution. Oh! Ruined another pair of pants.
An ocean view towards Rabbit Island.
Anyway, there we were, full of confidence having being prepped for the hike which was more akin to
an adventure. We picked up our bags, hoisted a crying editor over our shoulder, quite a pathetic sight
actually, and headed for the trailhead which was another half-mile further inside the club’s boundaries.
Of course, they don’t allow hikers’ vehicles onto the premises, thus not making anything easy for us.
You'd think they might 'blow-dry' the trail as they seem so concerned about our health.
At the peak of Olomana, a breathtaking climb with outstanding views, third peak at rear.
The surrounding mountains, most with a little cloud cover, are outstanding and overpowering.
The city of Kailua below, a particularly lovely spot. Outside of Honolulu, this is a delightful island.
The climb is rated difficult, (we won’t argue); in a few places the ascent/descent takes place
over vertical walls and is exciting but dangerous. It is rated as a technical climb. The second last
section is a nice challenge but the final ascent to the peak is extremely narrow, drop offs on both sides
and in places, slopes the wrong way, that is, to the open side. The elevation gain is 1,700 feet but of
course, the key is the obstacle-filled path and rate of ascent. Fortunately, on only one occasion did real
fear arise, occurring during the last few steps before peaking. One stares it (fear) in the face and thinks
of either turning around or continuing. Truth be told, usually when one reaches that point, the fear does not
recede just because of a thought or changed strategy—it's too late by then.
Here comes the editor, with a flimsy looking rope as an 'incentive'.
Couldn't help thinking of the song, "You keep me hanging on."
Nearing the peak, the section out of view, near the top, got the adrenaline pumping.
We focused on three things during the tricky stages: Make every toehold count, don’t think of the
return journey down (we felt it would be intimidating) and worry about one’s partner. The ropes are helpful
but knowing they might not be in good condition, creates a level of uncertainty. Often, one relied on other
means of support but there were times all risk depended on the strength and 'health' of the roping.
It is an amazing place with an abundance of incredible views, unfortunately muddy but that’s
Hawaii, and surprisingly, a relatively busy trail.
Wispy clouds, as they constantly do, move over the peak briefly.
Jen deals with the 'mud-flats' during the three-quarter mile route to/from trailhead.
On our safe return to the gate-guard, we stopped in to say 'hello' and confirm that his warnings
were apt. We cemented our relationship with the air force veteran and exchanged pleasantries. We did
confirm with him that we are in the winter season as the temperature has reached the nineties on Oahu.
One can only wonder about mid-summer.
After the early stage, the trail leaves the forest and provides beautiful views.
Both literally and figuratively, not the fellow's best angle. We 'probably' need to do laundry
on our return to the apartment-hotel. Great thinking!
Being within days of the completion of Hike-about 16, it was most appropriate that we close with
an adventure (couple still to go) of this caliber.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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