16.17 Mauna Loa revisited, this time in snow. Hike number 500 and most apt.
For the record, this is our 500th blog, many pictures and words. There is no real significance to the number although it's a large one as well nicely rounded. More importantly, in our opinion, is that we believe this hike was a particularly good experience with some worthwhile pictures—some of our favorites. The dawning of a new day, taken at over 11,000 feet on Mauna Loa, at 6:20am. Clouds fill the valley between two giants. (Waited many month to capture fiery-edged clouds) You might have noticed that we have a particular affinity for the Maunas, Loa and Kea. The Long Mountain and the White one make this island particularly special for us. Mauna Loa dominates Hawaii with it presence; its sheer volume including height are incredible. We mentioned before that although it protrudes more than 13,600 feet above the ocean surface, it’s true height measured from the depressed seabed, is an amazing 56,000 feet, twice that of Mount Everest. When we get our snorkeling gear o...