We explored a nature reserve in the Hanalei River valley today. The access to this trail is through a private property. After being charged by a pitbull at the start of the hike (the dog’s mouth actually came into contact with Tee’s calf before I managed to chase it off with a primal scream and a charge) the hike became quite nice. The trail loosely followed the Hanalei River through the thickest bamboo forest we have ever seen. Very fun and novel environment for a couple of snow and ice dwellers like ourselves. At times the bamboo growth was so thick it filtered most of the bright daylight. Even with bright mid-day light above the bamboo forest it was dark enough here that I shot this handheld at f/2.2 at ISO 800.

Along the trail we encountered a few wild citrus trees, mud, spiders and boar hunters.

After about three miles the trail narrowed to a barely discernible track through the jungle. Eventually we came to a place where the trail appeared to cross the Hanalei river and continue up the valley. We decided to turn around here.

Armed with two bamboo sticks each, we braved the pitbull infested private property section on our way back. Luckily, the dog was tied up to a tree this time. Maybe the owners heard me yelling at the dog on our way in.

photography:  eyebex

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