A Little Mountain Exploration

It's still hot down here so Chris and I headed up Mauna Kea for a Labor Day hike. We were met by clear skies, cool mountian air and unbelievable views. We stumbled around at 12,000 feet for a while looking for an ancient adze quarry. Hawaiians discovered this patch of lava that had no bubbles in it, which made it the best substance they had for constructing tools. However, we did not find it before lunch time, so we retreated to 9,000 feet so we could catch our breath and eat under a shade tree.

The next hike was a favorite of mine- to a red rock canyon Chris found during his days as a soil scientist. We did this hike when we first started dating and it has always been a memorable one for me.

Chris and I pose with the Red Rock Canyon behind us.

Checking out an incredible view of Mauna Loa.

Hiking above the clouds at 12,000 feet. Note the volcanic cinder cone in the background.