HI Geocachers: Kaumana Trail Traditional Cache
HI Geocachers: Kaumana Trail
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing. - Helen Keller
The Kaumana Trail is a nice, short hike off of the Saddle Road that offers a great way to explore the lava and rainforest in the area. If the weather is clear, you get big views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. This trail, part of the state's Nā Ala Hele system, is a remnant of the old Puʻu ʻŌʻō Horse trail that once carried supplies and cattle from Hilo to the defunct Puʻu ʻŌʻō Ranch high on the slopes of Mauna Kea. (The name of this ranch has nothing to do with the site of the current eruption of Kīlauea, also called Puʻu ʻŌʻō). Kaumana is a much shorter segment of the old ranch trail than the Puʻu ʻŌʻō Trail in the same vicinity. It follows an 1855 lava flow from Mauna Loa through and area with several kīpuka, which are areas of old-growth forest spared between newer lava flows. These islands of old-growth forest provide a unique habitat for endemic birds and plants. The Kaumana Trail is always open. Hunting is allowed, so you may want some bright clothing for the hike.
This hike is near an elevation of 5000' above sea level off of the Saddle Road, so it's much cooler than coastal destinations. Bring your raingear. You'll appreciate sturdy shoes or boots on the rough trail.
Getting to the Trailhead(s): From either side of the island, drive to Hwy. 200, the Saddle Road that bisects Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. There are two trailheads to choose from. Both are between mile markers 18 and 20.
Western Trailhead: This parking area has a large paved pullout on the side of the road. It is located between mile markers 19 and 20, closer to mile marker 20. The trail has a brown sign with yellow lettering from the state Nā Ala Hele system.
Eastern Trailhead: This parking area is big enough for 3-4 cars and has a gravel parking area off the main road. It is located between the 18 and 19 mile markers on Hwy. 200. It is also marked with a brown sign with yellow lettering from the state Nā Ala Hele system.
This cache is located about 0.3 miles from the Western trailhead. the trail is clearly marked with piles of lava rock to keep you on course. Here you will see ohia and ohelo growing all around you,Uluhe ferns and hapu surround you on your quest.
Litter was almost absent at the time of placement ,so CITO when possible. Malama the land and please place the cache back as you found it.. this is not a difficult trail, but take your time, and come prepared. PLEASE NO SPOILERS! Happy hunting...aloha!
Mahalo to 4BOhana...FTF!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Ybbx sbe n cvyr bs ebpxf arne n buvn ybt
Treasures
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