Beyond Pololu Traditional Cache

This cache has been archived.

MedicOne: Sadly this has to be archived. I hiked down to the Pololu Valley today and see that the valley has been “hawaianized” replete with Kapu and no trespassing signs everywhere. So Aloha to this cache.

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Hidden : 12/19/2006
Difficulty:
5 out of 5
Terrain:
5 out of 5

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:



This cache affords a spectacular hike to my favorite location on the Big Island. If you're a backpacker both the first and second valleys offer fantastic pack-in camping.

The Pololu Valley is one of, if not THE, most scenic attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii. Pictures of this area are included in nearly every Hawaii brochure/calender printed. The only way to find better scenery is to rent a helicopter! To get here take Highway 270 east from Kapa'au. The beach is located below the Polulu Lookout at Mile Marker #28 (the second sign!)Located at the very end of Highway 270 (N20 12.241 W155 44.032). Pololu Valley Beach provides an excellent view of the rugged Kohala Mountains and coastline. The small black sand beach can be reached after a strenuous hike from the 400-foot lookout area. Twenty minutes of walking down steep steps lead to the beach area. Swimming and snorkeling are not recommended in this area due to strong currents and high surf conditions. However, the view from the beach is worth the hike. When you reach the Pololu Valley floor ford the river (not a big problem at all!) and take some time to enjoy the fabulous black sand beach. The well marked trail continues east to the next ridgeline which is where you'll be going. The climb to the top of the second ridgeline is a bit steep and can be muddy. That ridgeline tops out at about 750 feet. You'll then descend into the next valley where the cache is located. There are some (ancient?) rock walls located in the valley floor which I suspect were fish wiers or fish ponds. Proceed toward the rocky beach to find the final cache location.

Cache container is a US military waterproof match container about two inches in diameter and two inches high necessitating small trade items. I placed it in the fork of this LARGE BANYON TREE about six feet above ground. The satellite coverage can be a little iffy in this area (although I had good coverage) since you're only looking at the North horizon. When you arrive at the coordinates look west and you'll see the largest Banyon tree in the area. That's it! If you're a backpacker this little valley is Nirvana! I'd suggest a light three season tent as mosquitos can be a problem depending on wind. Water is available but I'm not sure of the quality so rather than filter I packed in a couple gallons. You'll most likely have this valley to all to yourself.

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