Waimano Tunnels -- HTMC

One of the Waimano tunnels

We had a pretty big turnout for today's HTMC outing (29 May 2004), which I coordinated, over 60 folks in all. The weather was mixed, with sunny skies most of the way and a few drizzle showers now and then.

We did the hike as a loop of about five miles, using the rough trail that skirts along the fenceline of the Waimano Home grounds, then continuing mauka along the dirt road behind the Home (maintained by HECO for powerline maintenance, methinks), then descending the not oft traversed (but quite lovely) switchback trail to Little Waimano Stream and the tunnels. Since these sections were new to most, it was interesting and enjoyable, at least based on the comments I heard.

Also enjoyed was the traverse thru the two long tunnels (each about 100 meters). Personally, I dislike the tunnels and in fact did not follow the big group through them. Not to worry, though, since there were ample HTMC vets on hand to make sure all went well with the hunched over, flashlight-toting masses. Instead of hiking thru the tunnels, I hiked up the regular Waimano trail and waited for folks at the picnic shelter at the ridgetop. There, once all were accounted for, we ate lunch and rested. Very nice interlude.

Joining me today was my wife-to-be, Jacque, who thoroughly enjoyed herself, chatting amiably with everyone she happened to be hiking with. Fred Boll joked that she invited everyone on the hike to Jacque and I's wedding and reception next Saturday (654321), to which I replied, "I wouldn't be surprised."

Getting back to the hike, we finished off the outing by hiking along the main Waimano trail back to the cars. No problems on the way out, with last person arriving back at the trailhead before 1:00.

In all, an enjoyable hike, my last one before entering the state of "M".

Go HTMC!

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