On Saturday, January 17, 2009, the Kona Hiking Club will hike through Kahalu’u Forest Reserve, a pristine forest on Hualalai Mountain. The region will be accessed via Donkey Mill Rd., and we will drive to the Forest Gate, hike uphill to the Ho’olohe Gate and return on the same road. The hike will be about 4.5 miles total with an elevation change of about 1,400’. The surface is a relatively good four wheel drive road.
We will be escorted by a Kamehameha Schools representative who is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Hualalai Mtn. and the Hawaiian culture, so this will be an educational hike as well as a truly enjoyable one.
This hike will be strictly limited to five 4WD vehicles and a total of 30 people, of which at least three will be Kamehameha Schools representatives. As a result, advance reservations for this hike are required. Hikers who can provide a large 4WD vehicle able to carry at least six people will be given preference.
Hikers should meet in the parking lot makai of Long’s Drug Store in the Keauhou Shopping Center at the intersection of Ali’i Dr. and Kamehameha III Rd. at 8 am.
From there we will carpool up Donkey Mill Rd. to the Forest Gate. While there is no charge for carpooling, anyone doing so is encouraged to chip in for gasoline.
The weather on the mountain is somewhat unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, although sunny weather is possible as well. Hikers should wear closed toed shoes, carry a hiking stick, bring at least two liters of water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Visitors as well as residents are welcome to participate, and members are welcome to being guests. There is no charge, but guests should be provided with a copy of this announcement or referred to the website to review the announcement and description. We wish to make sure everyone is prepared for the specific hike we are doing that day. Mahalo for helping us keep everyone safe.
To make a reservation or for additional information, contact Alice Walker at 322-6481.
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