CNN iReport

The Kalalau  Valley

          The lush valley shielded by three thousand foot cliffs that rose out of the Pacific Ocean was once only accessible by sea, which made it an even more desirable paradise for a generation that is desperate for such a place.  Some travelers kayayak the fifteen mile stretch of cliffs, sea caves, and vacant beaches when the seas are calm in the summer, others make the trip in “extreme rafts”, durable watercrafts that can sustain the wild, white-capped ocean,  but most only take the hour long Jurassic Park themed helicopter tour.  (The Na Pali Coast was the backdrop for the movie, as well as King Kong, South Pacific, and many other Hollywood films that only added to the allure of the fantasy land.)

          We choose to hike the challenging, dizzying, twenty-one mile trail, hugging the cliffs,  to the largest of the valleys, the Kalalau, where most travelers who were strong enough to make the hike would often overstay their five day camping permits for weeks or even months, infatuated with the powerful sense of peace and serenity that the valley provided.  Misty days endowed the valley with a perfect dawn of creation look. 

Occasionally, helicopters would fly overhead, looking for hikers without their permits.  As soon as the helicopters were spotted, everyone would scatter instantly.  No one wanted to go back to civilization.  No one wanted to give up their piece of paradise.