JE 86

Thursday, March 10 – Hilo

I’ve been doing a lot of driving lately, so I think I’m just going to stick around Hilo today.

After a somewhat leisurely early morning, my first stop is the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens.

Next on the agenda is the Lyman Museum and Mission House.

Advance booking is required, and only 5 visitors are allowed during a two hour reservation window. These conditions are in response to Covid.

The museum highlights the culture and history of Hawaii.

This part of the museum was just redone last year and includes many interesting interactive displays.

This area highlights the indentured workers used in the sugar industry

The cost for the museum entry and a guided tour of the mission house was $10

Built in 1839 by the Lymans, a missionary couple from New England, this is the oldest remaining wood-frame building on the island. The guided tour was very interesting. Unfortunately, no photography was allowed inside.

Price Check: There is a McDonald’s close to the museum, so I had to stop in for a cone. But wait, they’re sold out! What?!? The price of $1.69 though would have placed this location near the least expense on my Hawaii survey.

Friday, March 11 – Hilo

I’ve got a fair amount of driving ahead of me today, as I’m going to explore the south of the island and then loop around to the west to finish up around Kona. So another early start is in order!

Wow, quite the signage! I guess I won’t be bringing any sand back home with me!

I’ve read that normally this beach is packed with tourists and locals; I just happen to be here at 8am!

Travel Note: As I made my way south, my next planned stops were going to be to Ka Lae (South Point), followed by a hike to Papakolea Beach. Ka Lae is the southernmost point on the island, and thus, in the United States as well. Papakolea Beach is known for its unique green sand. Access to both from the main highway is via South Point Road. However, just before leaving the hotel this morning I happened to glance at the map provided to me by the rental car company. There in bright red letters is the notation that it is forbidden to drive rental cars on South Point Road! It’s a paved road, but apparently in rather rough condition. Oh well…

As a substitute for the planned visits that were now sadly off limits, I inserted into the itinerary a nearby park that happens to include a hiking trail. Let’s check it out!

There were a few interesting sights though!

Making my way now around the southern tip and traveling north on the west side of the island, the last stop of the day is Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Up until the early 19th century, a puuhonua (place of refuge) provided a safe haven for those Hawaiians fleeing for safety or seeking absolution after breaking kapu (laws), and this one is the best preserved in the state.

A small reconstruction of a Hale O Keawe (Temple)

These are ki’i, representing Hawaiian gods

This wall was constructed over 400 years ago and defines the space of the puuhonua

The park also included this short out-and-back coastal trail

Of course, a pin and sticker were purchased! ($8)

Instead of making the loop back to Hilo, I cut across the middle of the island (the same route I took from the airport last Sunday). The drive took about 90 minutes.

Saturday, March 12 – Hilo

I’m making a return visit to Volcanoes NP this morning, to take a hike I didn’t have time for on my first trip.

A surprise is awaiting me at the park! The rangers have posted notices indicating that there is a slight eruption occurring in the Halemaumau Crater. And a viewing area has been established. Awesome!

It was about a 1 1/2 mile hike to the observation area

Some red lava is visible, but was hard to pick up with my camera

A slight rainbow forming off to the side!

I’m hiking the Mauna Ulu Trail this morning. It’s a 2 1/2 mile round-trip that features a diverse landscape that was created during the 1969-74 Mauna Ulu flow.

The Mauna Ulu flow featured “lavafalls” the size of Niagara Falls!

Steps Milestone: Today I eclipsed the 1,000,000 step mark for the trip. Nice! And how appropriate that it occured while I was hiking in Volcanoes National Park!

I purchased these shoes specifically for the trip ($45). It’s the only footwear I brought with me. I think they’re holding up pretty well after 1 million steps over some dodgy terrain!

In celebration of my milestone, I decided to enjoy a proper sit down meal!

JE 86

JE 86

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