5:30 AM
Little sleep as I am too excited for this adventure. In the Jeep, drinking ice coffee and listening to audio book Buddhism by the Dali Lama. Priorities are to pick up fuel and call Friedman. Weather is holding well, check the website and trail is open. I am committed.
On the road
Pitch A Tent Kauai location in Kapaa was easy to find and not too far off the main road. Canister was in the bin, instructions on accessing was simple.
I am about 10 minutes behind based on Maps. Called Friedman and it was a good thing I did; he was asleep. We confirmed our pick-up locations and adjusted the time. The coast is beautiful, running late but stopped at Kealia Beach, watched the dawn patrol surfers and use the bathroom. I love Kauai, such a old school feel and the countryside is absolutely beautiful. Back on the road.
Ali’ Kai Resort and Friedman
Glad to have Maps as I would have gotten lost as the resort is back off the main road. Once I found the resort, finding the parking was simple. Friedman carries within minutes and we load my stuff into his car. He is a friendly older man with lots of salt and pepper hair and a German accent. Light friendly conversation, he describes ending up in Kauai, living on the north shore and driving cab. His cab is exactly what you’d expect. Reminds me of my 1976 VW Rabbit that was my beach mobile while living on Oahu; tinted red from the local dirt, faded paint and casual. I left at home.
I got the impression that Friedman has embraced the Hawaiian Style of life and living. Laid back, not in a rush, not much bothers him and he goes with the flow. The kinda guy you could grab a beer with and listen to his stories. He confirms that he only takes cash. I would highly recommend him. Email me if you would like his information.
Waipa Park and Ride
Easy trip to the park and ride, lots of vehicles in the parking lot and the lot is marked that no overnight parking. The shuttle is waiting, people climbing onboard. Hope to make this trip. Show the shuttle attendant the QR code and board the shuttle. There is room but sound like I got the last seat. Huston we have a problem: So I purchased a shuttle ticket “round trip” however I did not read the small print. The pass is round trip but only same day. I did not purchase a return ticket. Shuttle attendant cannot sell me a pass and there is no internet or time now to purchase a return ticket. Wiapa Park and Ride is six miles from the trailhead. I explain my dilemma to the attendant and thankfully he say “No worries Brah”. “Mahalo’s Brah” I respond shaking is hand as I would one of my braddah’s. I am probably not the first to do this and will not be the last. I board the shuttle.
It is packed. Quickly pick out a solo traveler and a couple that appear to be heading out for overnight, the rest of the shuttlers have day packs or nothing, some wearing flip flops. Casual conversations fill the air, lots of smiles, the energy is positive and the vibe is great.
I take my place at the back of the bus next to a nice couple traveling out for the day. We discussed the trail conditions, solo hiking and Crawler’s Ledge. This is getting real, really fast and I can’t wait to begin.
