Awa'awapuhi Trail in Koke'e State Park

This photo was taken at the summit of the Awa'awapuhi Trail in Koke'e State Park. This trail begins at 4,120 feet elevation and goes steeply downhill, ending at about 2000 feet elevation with a sheer cliff drop-off and panoramic views of the valley below. The hike is out-and-back, meaning even though it's downhill, you'll have to hike back uphill the way you came — make sure you are physically fit enough to handle the steep elevation gain, especially in the hot Hawaii weather. To get here, navigate to the Awa'awapuhi Trail parking area (22.141369, -159.648628), directly next to the 17 Mile marker on Highway 550. After parking, follow signs for the Awa'awapuhi Trail. The trail begins gradually but eventually begins to get steeper downhill. Take caution and go slowly, especially after a rain, as it can be extremely slippery and easy to fall. Continue on for about 3.1 miles until you reach the end of the trail, which will open up to incredible 360 degree views of the Awa'awa'puhi and Nualolo Aina Valleys below. At this point, there are railings — if you're not an experienced hiker with proper gear, it's recommended you stop here. If you'd like to continue beyond to the point where this photo was taken, walk past the railings and head down the ridge for even more dramatic views. Be extremely careful here — the ridgeline is quite narrow and there are steep drops on both sides. The ground can be unexpectedly slippery even when dry, as the small red rock scree erodes easily. To take this photo, my subject walked further out on the ridgeline in front of me, while I positioned myself facing northwest to capture my model and the ocean and valley below.