For our September hike, the Kona Hiking Club will hike the Pololu (“long spear”) Valley Awini Trail.

We will meet at 8:15 a.m. at the parking area in North Kohala where Hwy 270 ends and Pololu Valley begins. Be prepared for a possible wet, sloppy trail going up the ridge from Pololu (if it has been raining). Dress appropriately: hiking boots/shoes that you don’t mind getting wet are highly recommended, sun protection, rain gear, lunch/snacks, water (2 liters plus), and hiking stick(s) will greatly aid you on this multi-valley hike with loose stones on the downhill sections. It may be wise to leave a set of dry clothes/shoes in the car for after the hike.

This hike is a difficult 4 to 5-plus-mile hike (round trip) with the following elevation changes: begin at 410′, descend to Pololu Valley floor, and then hike uphill 625′ to the Honokane Nui rim.

Only those extremely fit hikers who can handle climbing down and up a series of near vertical ropes can then descend to Honokane Nui Valley floor and then return via the same route. Gloves are required and long pants recommended. The extended hike may take 7-8 hours (~ 4 hours for the short version). Those hikers not doing the extended hike will return to Pololu Valley where we will have lunch and then return to our cars.

We will experience some spectacular views, boulder black sand beaches, possible ruins, bamboo and stream(s). As this is a challenging “all-day hike”, please be sure you are prepared physically and bring adequate provisions.

Participants desiring to carpool from Kailua-Kona may meet at 6:30 a.m. at southeast corner near Swirl Tea at Lanihau Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona and should park well away from the businesses. Carpoolers can organize themselves there and should depart no later than 6:45 a.m.

Visitors as well as residents are invited to participate in this hike. There is no charge, although carpoolers are encouraged to chip-in for gasoline.

Donations toward the upkeep of the website are always appreciated.

To RSVP or if you have any questions, please phone Kathleen 557-9246 or konahikingclub@gmail.com

The Kona Hiking Club will hike to the top of the Pu’u Wa’awa’a (many-furrowed hill) cinder cone located on state Department of Land and Natural Resources property, on Saturday, August 19. This is a challenging uphill hike.

From the summit on a clear day, a visitor may view a panorama of the ocean and five mountains.

Informational markers are placed at points of interest along the trail, and a corresponding brochure may be provided.

The trail is approximately 3.25 miles long and climbs 1,100 feet to the summit at 3,967 ft. for a total hike of 6.5 miles with a steep incline and decline.

Here is the link for the trails we will be hiking.http://www.puuwaawaa.org/files/Ohiacone.pdf

The area is generally temperate at that elevation and has little shade, however, weather can vary and hikers should be prepared for rain as well as sun, carry at least two liters of water per person, wear closed-toed shoes, sun protection, and bring a snack or lunch. Hiking sticks are recommended as well.

Carpoolers will leave at 7:45 a.m. from the Lanihau Center in Kailua-Kona, near Swirl Tea and should park well away from the businesses. No hike leader will be present. Others may meet at 8:30 a.m. at the trailhead. The main gate is between the 21- and 22-mile markers on the mauka side of Mamalahoa Highway. After entering the main gate take the road to the left, stop at the kiosk on the left and sign the park register and then continue on the road and park near the Hunter Check Station on the right allowing space for additional vehicles.

To RSVP or if you have any questions, please phone Kathleen at 557-9246 or email: konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

On Saturday, July 15, 2023, the Kona Hiking Club will visit the Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

The Forested Pit Crater Loop hike is about 4 miles roundtrip in length.
Here is a link to help you with your enjoyment of this newer unit of HVNP: http://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/kahuku_hikes.htm

The trail follows grassy (sometimes deep) pastureland roads lined some native plants with a gradual 400’ elevation increase.

The highlight of the hike will be the very deep Forested Pit Crater that is home to the Amakihi and Apapane native birds. We will have our lunch/snack break at this spot. Hikers need to be prepared for potentially warm, sunny weather and/or rainy weather. Wear closed-toed shoes, bring hiking sticks, binoculars, sun protection, lunch or snack and at least two liters of water per person. NO DOGS ALLOWED.

We will meet at 9:00 AM at the Kahuku gate at Kahuku Rd (mauka) located between 71mm & 70mm and park near the restroom to carpool to the trailhead.

Those wishing to carpool from Kailua-Kona can meet at 7:30 a.m. at Keauhou Shopping Center in Keauhou across from Long’s and depart no later than 7:45 a.m. Their will not be a hike leader at this location. Please park well away from the businesses. Visitors as well as residents are welcome to participate — there is no charge. Carpoolers are encouraged to contribute toward gasoline costs.
If you plan to carpool use the following contact info to let me know you are interested and I will ask if there are other hikers in your location.

For additional information, please phone Kathleen at 557-9246 or at konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to http://konahikingclub.com to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

On Saturday, June 17, the Kona Hiking Club will hike the beginning section of the Mauna Loa Trail.

We will meet at 9:00 a.m. at Kipuka Puaulu (Bird Park), located 1.5 miles up Mauna Loa Road, just past the tree molds. Mauna Loa Road is on the mauka side of highway 11, between mile markers 30 and 31. Park near the Bird Park Trailhead and we will carpool from there to the Mauna Loa Trailhead/Lookout at 6,650 feet elevation (about 13 miles up the Mauna Loa Scenic Road), as parking is limited.  Be prepared to either provide a carpool or ride in another vehicle.

From the Lookout, the trail leads to the summit of Mauna Loa, of which we plan on hiking approximately 6+ miles round trip. If the weather is clear, we will have views of Kilauea Crater, Halemaumau fire pit and the rest of the Volcano area. As we will be passing through some old native dry-land forest, we may see native forest birds.

Since we will be hiking at higher elevations (6,650 – 8,000) and there is less available oxygen encountered at high altitude – it is strongly advised that anyone with high blood pressure, heart or respiratory conditions not attempt this hike. Due to the ongoing activity of Kilauea Volcano, air and vog conditions can be unpredictable.

Temperatures at higher elevations can vary and be unpredictable. Hikers should be prepared for hot or cool weather and/or rain – layering clothes is advisable. Sturdy boots, a hat, rain jacket and hiking stick are recommended as well as sunscreen and sunglasses, as most of hike is exposed above the tree line. Two liters of drinking water plus a lunch is recommended. Drinking plenty of water keeps your body hydrated and helps to fend off the effects of altitude sickness. Binoculars for possible bird viewing are optional. No children or pets will be allowed.

Visitors as well as residents are welcome to participate, and there is no charge. Kailua-area carpoolers should meet at 6:30 a.m. and leave by 6:45 a.m. from Lanihau Center. Please park well away from the businesses, in the corner of the parking lot near Swirl Tea. Hike leaders will not be present at the Lanihau location. Carpoolers are encouraged to chip-in for gasoline. For RSVP and additional information, please phone Kathleen at 557-9246 or email konahikingclub@gmail.com

Saturday, May 20, 2023, the Kona Hiking Club will hike through Manuka Natural Area Reserve on Mauna Loa to a scenic ocean view. The hike on the Kaheawai traditional 12 mile round trip trail to the coast will be about 6 miles round trip total with an elevation change of about 1000’. Starting elevation is 1900′. The surface is relatively good, but rocky. Hike is moderate with a workout on the uphill return.

Meet at Manuka State Wayside Park parking lot at 8:30 a.m. Driving time approx 1 1/4 hour  from Kailua Kona.  NOTE: If you try to call on day of hike, there is usually no cell phone coverage at Manuka.

We will carpool from Manuka State Wayside Park then head south 2/10ths mile past 80mm and park on makai side of road close to trail head. This is a well marked trail: gradual down hill going, uphill return. The hike is through Ohia trees along a large gulch almost the entire way. About 1 1/2 hour into hike, we’ll come upon a view point of ocean and coast line where we can view the distant pu`u. Guesstimated distance: 3 miles each way. Return to cars about 12:30 p.m. Prepare to return to Manuka State Park for our lunch break.

DLNR’s NARS team is working in this area to control high priority invasive species and to restore native species.

Here’s a video of a hike done on this trail:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3czLyBoPsQ

Kona carpoolers can meet at the Lanihau Shopping Center near Buns in the Sun. Please park away from the businesses. While there is no charge for carpooling, anyone doing so is encouraged to chip in for gasoline. A hike leader will not be present at this location. Be prepared to organize your own carpool by 7:00 and leave by 7:15 AM.

The weather is somewhat unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, although hot, sunny weather is probable with hopefully some cloud cover. Hikers should wear closed toed shoes, carry hiking sticks and bring at least two liters of water, snacks/lunch, and sunscreen.

For more info contact Kathleen Johnson at 557-9246
or konahikingclub@gmail.com  

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

On Saturday, April 15, Kona Hiking club will hike from to Kawa Bay to Honu`apo.  Approximately 4 miles one way.

The jet-black sand on the Kawa beach (true black, not gray or salt-and-pepper) was created when the molten lava from Kilauea Volcano flowed into the cool sea causing the lava to break apart into tiny fragments that later washed up on the beach. Plenty of coconut palm trees provide shade and places to relax and enjoy this beautiful beach. One unique feature of Kawa is that the water is often a bit colder, and more exhilarating, than the average beach due to the freshwater springs in the area. The water then rises to the top since it is less dense than saltwater, forming a thin layer of ultra-cool water atop the sea.  

At Kawa Bay, swimming, fishing and surfing are all popular in this spot. Fresh springs feed into the ocean, both from the inlet and the bay itself. Be aware at all times for sharks, which are known to enjoy areas where freshwater mixes with salt water.  The undeveloped shoreline at Kawa protects nesting areas for the critically endangered Hawaiian hawksbill turtle. The land includes the two-acre Ka’alaiki intertidal fishpond, estuary, and spring system-the second-largest on the island.

Located on the ridge just before Kawa Bay is an ancient Hawaiian Ke’eku Heiau (luakini), one of the largest intact heiau in the region. (a protected historical site) located on the ridge just before we reach Kawa bay. Do not disturb the

The Ka’ū District, in this area, is usually sunny and dry. Expect hot, beach-type conditions with relatively little shade. This area can, at times, be quite breezy.  Bring reef shoes for the stream and tidepool crossings or wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet.  Bring lunch or snacks to enjoy a day at the beach.

Participants should wear suitable shoes (both for lava rock surface and water crossings), hats, hiking sticks, carry 2 liters of drinking water, a picnic lunch/snack, and swim gear. This can be a sunny, hot hike so be sure to use sunscreen/sun protection.

Carpoolers will organize their own carpool (no hiking leader will be present) and will leave at 7:00 a.m. from the Lanihau Center in Kailua-Kona, in the vicinity of Swirl Tea and should park well away from the businesses. There is no charge, but riders are encouraged to chip in for gas. Others may meet at 8:30 a.m. at the left side parking lot at Honu`apo (Whittington Beach). We will shuttle from there to Kawa Bay access road.

If you have any questions, please phone Kathleen @ 557-9246, RSVP to konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. We typically hike rain or shine. However, if weather is severe, check the website for updates. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

The Kona Hiking Club will hike part of the Ala Kahakai Trail along the coast from Puako Boat Ramp north to Spencer Beach Park on Saturday, March 18.

The hike will be approximately 4 miles in length one way. Although the hike is considered moderately easy, we will be hiking at medium to low tide over wet coral/lava and across some exposed red dirt jeep trails. Also, we will be hiking the beaches past many major resorts.

For more information about the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail: http://www.nps.gov/alka/parkmgmt/upload/ALKA_CMP_low-resolution.pdf

Hikers will meet at 8:30 a.m. at the first Spencer Beach parking lot directly ahead as you enter the park. Take the Spencer Beach Park Road off Kawaihae Road.

This will be a one way hike so be prepared to offer to be a shuttle vehicle or to transfer to another shuttle car to get to the Puako trailhead.

Hikers should be prepared for both hot and/or windy conditions. Each person should carry 2 liters of water. Also recommended are sturdy boots, sun protection, lunch, and a hiking stick. For those interested in swimming at Spencer Park or at a beach along the trail remember to bring your swim gear. We will take a break partway through for a swim/snack break.

Participants desiring to carpool from Kailua-Kona may meet at 7:00 a.m. at Lanihau Center, in the vicinity of Swirl Tea, but on south side well away from the businesses. A KHC leader/representative may not be present. Be prepared to offer your own car for carpool if necessary. Carpoolers are encouraged to chip-in for gasoline.

For carpool/hike info/RSVP contact Kathleen @ 808-557-9246.
or konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Konahikingclub.com website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

On Saturday, February 18, 2023, the Kona Hiking Club will visit the Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay. RSVP now, hike may be limited to 9! The hike is about 4 mi. roundtrip in length with an additional 1-1/2 mi. oceanfront hike across raw pahoehoe lava for those who desire so.

The trail drops approximately 1,300′ from the trail head to the bay, so the return hike is obviously a long (hot) climb. For the primary portion of the hike, we will be on a jeep road which is part dirt and part small lava chunks.
The hike destination will be the monument and, although the shoreline is rocky, there is access to the bay for swimming and snorkeling. Hikers need to be prepared for potentially hot, sunny weather, especially on the strenuous return uphill climb; however, rain or overcast is always possible in the Capt. Cook area. Wear closed-toed shoes, bring hiking sticks, sun protection, lunch or snack, swim/snorkel gear, and at least two liters of water per person.

We will meet at 7:30 AM at the trailhead located 1/10th of a mi. south of Mamalahoa Hwy. on Napoopoo Rd. Since parking there is extremely limited, it is recommended that everyone carpool who possibly can. If driving yourself, please take extreme care in parking and walking to the trailhead as Napoopoo Rd. is quite narrow and heavily traveled.

By request only, a hike leader can be present the Kealakekua Ranch Center carpool location (This meeting location may change). We will meet in the Kealakekua Ranch Center upper parking lot (near Ace Hardware) at 7:00 a.m. and depart by 7:15 a.m. Contact Kathleen at # below. The Center is located on Mamalahoa Hwy. at the intersection of Kiloa Rd. between the 110 and 109 mile markers. Be prepared to either be a driver or a passenger. Visitors as well as residents are welcome to participate — there is no charge. Donations for the club expenses are always welcomed.

For additional information, please phone Kathleen at 557-9246.
RSVP to konahikingclub@gmail.com

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to http://konahikingclub.com to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!

Aloha! All past, present, and potential future hikers, spouses, etc. are invited to attend the Kona Hiking Club’s annual New Year’s Day potluck brunch/hike.

Bring your favorite dishes and beverages.  Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park offers you the chance to enjoy the culture and natural history of Hawai’i.
Consider allowing time to hike back after lunch for some snorkeling/swimming.

WHEN/WHERE:
Sunday , 1/1/23 at the Kaloko fishpond at the north end of the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. The Kaloko road gate is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 PM daily.  A hike leader will be at the picnic tables promptly at 8:00, so come early to prepare for the potluck/hike.  For those who want to start the New Year with a little exercise, the optional beach wander south to a Queen’s bath begins promptly at 9 a.m. We plan to be back at the picnic area at 10:00. Bring appropriate closed toe shoes for the hike.

POTLUCK ITEMS:
At 10 a.m., the food and drink will begin in earnest (assuming that the non-walkers haven’t consumed it all while we’re gone). Please bring a pupu or breakfast or lunch dish to share. Depending on COVID comfort level we may need to bring only individual items to share or only bring food for our family/friend units. Please respond and let me know your preferences.

AND DON’T FORGET TO BRING:
Your beverage of choice in whatever quantity you plan to drink.
A serving spoon/fork for your potluck item.
We like to keep our potluck more environmentally friendly so we are asking that you bring your own plates, cups, forks and spoons.  We will have some plates, etc. available in case you forget.  The Club leaders will provide napkins and a hand washing station as this area has a composting toilet facility, but no running water.
You may want to bring a folding chair, as seating at the picnic tables may be in short supply.

HELP US OUT: We’ll again be having a suggestion box, so why not give some thought in advance as to what you’d like to see YOUR Club do next year? If you’ve told us about a particular hike you want to do, we may have forgotten it (especially if you told us on the trail and we didn’t write it down). Also, if you have any ideas about how we do things that you’d like us to think about, please let us hear them — we even encourage constructive criticism!

For additional information and RSVP, please phone Kathleen at 557-9246 or email at konahikingclub@gmail.com

A hui hou,
Kathleen
KHC

PLEASE NOTE: All members are welcome to bring guests or pass on information about our hikes to other hikers. However, if you do so, PLEASE make sure that you direct them to the Kona Hiking Club website to review the hike announcement and description. We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day, whether we’re facing mud, heat, cold, steep trails, rocky trails, high altitude, exceptionally long distances, etc. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe!