Kona, Hawaii 2019
Trek to Black Sand
It was a very comfortable day near Waimea, on the big island of Hawaii, December 20, 2019. We drove from Kona on the west end of the island, taking about one hour, and ending up at the trailhead/lookout of Waipio Valley. The lookout was just over 2,000 feet above the ocean below and the almost deserted black sand beach. Only those who chose to hike down or drive a well-equipped 4-wheel drive vehicle would ever visit the secluded valley floor. Fascinated with the powder white sand in Cancun, Mexico, I’ve always wanted to enjoy the polar opposite, black sand beach. We had not rented a 4 wheel drive vehicle, so we began the hike, walking the 2000 foot decent. So steep was the decent that after about 40 minutes, my legs were beginning to tremble. Several stops to rest made no difference for my aching thighs and calves. My Ever-Ready Bunny wife, Andrea and daughter, Sydni recommended I squat as I descend to reduce the shock of each step. When that didn’t help, they recommended a zigzag pattern, but that only heavily taxed my ankles and I was very careful not to roll an ankle and really injure myself! Never had I become drenched in sweat in 70+ degree weather while walking downhill! With each painful step, built the concern of how I was going to escape this valley!
After close to an hour, we reached the almost jungle valley floor with a long path along a river toward the sound of the crashing surf. My legs were still suffering as we zig-zagged around large muddy puddles on the narrow path. Finally, we walked onto the gorgeous black sand beach with the striking blue and white waves rushing to meet our feet. We spent another half hour drinking in the beauty and grandeur. When I had tremendous difficulty standing up, I knew I probably would not make the hike back to the top. I was so bad off, I began thinking of rescue options. I knew 911 was not an option, in fact, help in any form would have to come from someone already near the beach.
There was no one on the path I could perform for during the first 15 minutes of the hike up the ridiculously steep hill. I did my best to maintain the pace set by Andrea and Sydni, but I began to realize the chances of a pity-payoff would be less likely as a group. I had to be alone and distressed. As they continued about 20 yards ahead of me up the hill, I finally had my first opportunity. I sat against the guardrail with head in my hands and elbows on my knees, looking really pitiful. The truck, straining to climb the one-lane trail, slowly passed me! I continued to climb knowing I must step up my game! Another 10 minutes of climbing and resting until my next opportunity. This time I went down on one knee in a position that required the driver to go around me! It worked, the “Want a ride?” was like music to my ears! What seated two in the back seat was now THREE. We eventually passed Andrea and Sydni as I waved to let them know I was okay since they were already out of sight when I caught the ride.
It took another 45 minutes for them to make it to the top. Once again, I bit off more than I could chew. It’s been two days and my legs are still killing me, but in a couple of hours, we are taking a night-time snorkel dive with giant manta rays! They say they can be as large as a car but are harmless. Stay tuned, as I plan to shoot video! An experience I probably won’t have again. Another item checked off the bucket list!