Day 5: Attaining High Ground

Wow! Today was another full day of adventures. We first headed northeast to the Waipi’o Valley Lookout. 

This amazing view looks a lot like the Pololu beach we visited yesterday, black sand and all. That is because the points are less than 10 miles apart. However because there are no roads that connect them, you have to drive around to get to each point! 

A beautiful view of Maui in the distance. 

We then turned south and headed in the direction of Hilo along the coast. We stopped to enjoy the beauty of ‘Akaka Falls State Park. 

Giant bamboo!!!

A huge banyan tree! It had to have been at least 30 feet across at the base. 

‘Akaka Falls- a 442 foot drop. 

Can you see the rainbow? 

We then drove down to Hilo and visited the Pacific Tsunami Museum. Very educational! 

The museum building used to be a bank. The theater presentation was given in the old bank vault! 

We then went to Pineapples for dinner. Another great meal! 

Pineapple burger! 

The Lava burger! 

Derek shows his real red tomato. No joke!!!

Coconut crusted Ono served with grilled pineapple, jasmine rice, and veggies! 

Fresh catch sandwich! 

After eating, we enjoyed a stroll around Wailes River State Recreation Area. 

We took a spin around the famous Banyan Tree Drive, then went to view Rainbow Falls. 

And as of the day could not get any better, we decided to drive the Saddle Road from Hilo back to Kona with a detour up to the summit of Mauna Kea. 

At first we were concerned that the road would not be open due to the fog when we reached the visitor’s center. 

However, as we waited and acclimated to the altitude (the visitors center is at 9200 ft), the sun broke through the clouds and burned off the haze. The park rangers cleared our vehicle to travel up the mountain (you have to have 4WD) and we were off! 

The views of Mauna Loa (elevation 13,677 ft) were stunning as we ascended through the clouds. 

Telescopes at 13,796 ft!!!! (Thinking of Greg the entire time!) 

Party at almost 14,000 ft!!! (Yes we are all channeling our inner Zach and wearing shorts despite being only 41 degrees!) 

The sunset was fabulous! 

Ashton made us smooch!

Maui in the distance and a break in the clouds where you can see the ocean. 

Yes! That white stuff is SNOW!

The full moon peaking through the clouds. 

Another look at Mauna Loa. 

Simply wow!!!

Mauna Loa again as we descended back to civilization. Derek got kudos and a fist bump from the park rangers for having the lowest break temperature of all the cars exiting the park!! (They do a brake temperature check after descent. Cars are supposed to be in second gear during descent and minimally use breaks. Derek gets the prize for least break wear and tear!!!)