Initially I was amazed by the beauty of this area and in awe at the amount of work it took to build and maintain. Looks like a 3-D mural on the side of the road. I don’t know who the artists are but I think it is done by “Locals” because of the “KAPU” sign. The Hawaiian word kapu is usually translated to English as "forbidden", though it also carries the meanings of "sacred", "consecrated", or "holy". So please do not touch. Just enjoy the beauty, grab the cache but heed the warning.
As I researched rock stacking, I learned a lot and found it very interesting and enlightening. Thought I would share it with fellow cachers.
Rock stacking are piles of three or more stones in graduated sizes and can be seen at scenic and historic sites throughout our State. It is unclear how this practice started.
This phenomenon is seen on the island of Hawaii at the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Visitors build small rock stacks as a show of respect for Hawaiian deities or the power of Kilauea. This triggers an obvious “copy cat” effect.
Volcano Scientist believe this practice should stop because they are tampering with potential scientific evidence of long-ago eruptions and National Park Rangers believe it alters the natural setting. The elderly Kupuna’s view this practice as disrespectful to the Hawaiian culture.
The Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is planning a campaign to educate visitors and tour operators about the importance of preserving the area's natural beauty. Advisory signs prohibiting rock stacking will be posted where rock piles are most common. Park Officials also warns that those who insist on stacking rocks could be charged with a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Yikes! No rock stacking for me.