It happened again. According to The Honolulu Advertiser (7/10/07) a hiker fell off a cliff while hiking, here in Hawaii. The headline says it all: Fall Victim Wasn’t On Designated Trail.
Here is what happened. A sixteen year old, was hiking with some friends when he decided to waunder off the trail. He ended up falling off a cliff. He fell 25 feet and landed on some rocks. Luckily, a doctor who had been hiking nearby, was able to assist him until help arrived.
I have hiked dozens of trails on Oahu. I am not an expert by any meands, but I do know the trails. Here are two bits of advice for anyone hiking in Hawaii: 1) Make sure you bring plenty of water and 2) Stay on the trail. This is essential advice if you are going to hike in Hawaii.
I can’t emphasize enough the importance of staying on the trail while you hike in the islands. For one, the foliage can make it seem you can safely step off the trial, but do not be fooled. You could be stepping into outer space. Be careful.
The victim in the story was hiking at the Makapuu Lighthouse. This hike is very atypical from most Hawaiian hikes. Most Oahu trails, are on dirt. The Makapuu trail is on rocky cliffs. The trail may be marked by guides painted on the rock. This is one hike where you do not want to take chances. The cliffs are high and steep.
The lighthouse itsef is worth a look. You will see sweeping visitas of the entire windward coast. You can also get a clean view of Rabbit Island off the caost of Waimanalo. On a clear day you can see Molokai and Maui. If you hapen to be hiking between November and April, you may be lucky enough to see Whales blowing and breaching right off the coast.
NPS photo by James P. Delgado, 1989
Past the lighthouse you will find an access road. Follow this road and look for a hidden fishing spot below you on the ocean. Follow the trail down to the ocean and you will be rewarded by an amazing sight. In addition to the views, you will be able to experience what few tourists ever experience. You will be able to see an incredible lava tube which forms a blow hole. Be careful and don’t get to close. Remember to be careful as you hike.
If you hike on Hawaii, always remember: take plenty of water, stay on the trail and always have fun! Happy, trails!
Aloha,
Albert Grande
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