3-12-2003 Kalalau trail and kee beach:

 BAck to the North shore.  This time to do the Kalalau trail.  It is an 11 mile trail that leads from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach.

 The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys.

 The trail has been named one of the most beautiful, and dangerous, hikes in the world

 I would think this is impossible to do when it's wet!

 Looking back towards Kee Beach

 It there aren't rocks to climb over, there are roots!

 Our reward was an occassional flower

 The first 2 miles of the trail is moderately strenuous and doesn't require a camping permit. After that, a permit is required.

 We had planned to do the first 2 miles to Hanakapiai stream and beach, but Ken's knees weren't having it. 

 Definitely not a moderate hike if you have bad knees.

 We made it about a mile before turning around and going back to Kee.

 The narrow trail, three major stream crossings that can rapidly rise when raining, and falling rock have been cited as reasons for why the trail is one of the most dangerous in the world.

 More pretty wild flowers.

 and gorgeous vistas

 Would liked to have made it to the beach 2 miles in, but Ken was afraid his knees wouldn't get him back.

 another interesting plant along the way

Looking down on Kee

 After our hike, we were happy to jump in the water and snorkel a bit.

 Such a beautiful place to snorkel

 and much easier on the knees

 yours truly

 some residents of Kee

 Yellow fin surgeonfish

 one last picture of Kee

Another wonderful day!