I’m still exploring my new island and decided on my day off to take a late afternoon hike through the State Reforestation Project which is open to the public. It is in the beautiful and rural upcountry of Olinda, Maui. The weather was cool and while I usually don’t like the idea of hiking alone, the trail was wide and flat and inviting. So, off I went.
When I got to a junction of intersecting trails, I decided to take the Spring Trail. I saw the word Loop Trail below, but in my mind I connected the two. The Spring trail is .8 miles and was relatively easy.
However after about .3 mild all of a sudden it started going precipitously downward at a fairly steep angle. The trail narrowed to just a path with angles that traversed across a rather steep cliff. After about 10 bends I was going at a good pace when I looked down and noticed my camera was hanging by its strap, but the case with my car keys and ID were no longer attached. Oh no, I would have to go up the trail to find it which I did about three traverses up. At this point I thanked God I wouldn’t have to go up this again as, yes, this is a loop trail. So, I retraced my steps and continued on my way down.
I was not wearing hiking boots. I had on my walking shoes which have a flat sole and it started to get a little slippery and every time I saw the “Hazardous Cliff” sign, I gave pause, but it was such a lovely day and I would be coming to the loop soon enough and would wend my way back to the beginning.
No sooner had I thought this I reached the bottom which led me to a rock bowl and a sign that said “End of the Trail”. It was then I realized the Loop Trail was entirely separate and I would have to climb upwards across all those traversing angles and steep cliffs. After about 5 or 6 diagonal treks I was out of breath and wondering if I could possibly suffer a heart attack alone on the trail. It has been a while since my heart beat was up in the high range and it felt like my shirt was lifting off my skin with each beat. But, with occasional rests, I made it back to the junction and was never so happy in my life to see flat ground again!
The reforestation apparently is going well. The pines are about 80-100 ft. tall and straight as an arrow. And, they have planted a few native Koa trees as well.
On my way back home I stopped to take a couple of pictures of upcountry rural Maui…
I am trying to take the time between working full time and trying to keep my business afloat to document my newest adventure. I think the next time I take a hike, I will do so with a partner!
Sew Me Hawaiʻi 