Hers and his

Sunrise as the state park was beautiful and peaceful. We headed out early for our adventures. 

Alon the way we drive through this tiny hippy town that was had a very Asheville feel. Hawi. We were Able to visit a music shop and try out instruments.  

Our first objective of the day was the Pololu lookout and trail. They wanted to make sure u knew what you were getting into. 

Along the way there was a new kind of tree that took like a hose tail rush and a pine. 

The valley, plants and beach were among the richest we have seen. 

Our first sighting of stream in 8 days. This on this brackish running into the ocean 

A very slippery hike to the second, less well known overlook bought us this view. 

Folks were camping behind the main beach on these hills. 

Valleys extending like fingers form when the very erodible lava wears away.   

While talking to a local about how hard all the names are he said the have all the vowels and 7 consonants. 

This giant was off the road out. Notice the man in the corner for scale. 

We were surprised by the silver grass made more stunning by the storm. 

On the way up Mauna Kea we stopped at 10,000 feet to acclimate and have boxed Mac and cheese - now that is adventure. 

The highlight of the trip in many ways (especially for Chris) was the summit of Mauna Kea, most massive mountain and largest volcano on earth. 13,796 feet. Alpine desert above the clouds and feels like another planet. 

International telescopes seen in the background. The road up and down was terrifying. 

Extra long shadows. 

Mauna Kea casts a shadow as sun sets. 

A drone over the endless sky. 

 

After this we defended for telescope views of stars, nebula, Jupiter...

Camped in the good old truck who has proved its metal today.