Nestled within the lush tropical paradise of Hawaii, Iao Valley State Park boasts a stunning natural wonder: the Iao Needle, also known as "Kuka’emoku." This peak, towering 2,500 feet above sea level, is the result of millennia of erosion on the softer rock around it.

However, the Iao Valley is more than just a picturesque landscape. It holds significant cultural and historical significance for native Hawaiians. In the past, the valley was off-limits to all except Hawaiian Royalty, and its inaccessible cliffs served as burial grounds for centuries. The Royals believed that their divine power rested within their bones, making this sacred land a crucial aspect of their beliefs and traditions.

Today, visitors can hike up to the Iao Needle observatory, but the journey is not for the faint of heart. As the second wettest place in Hawaii, the valley receives an average of over an inch of rain per day, making the trail muddy and treacherous. Despite the challenging conditions, the breathtaking views from the top are well worth the effort.

On my own trek up to the summit, I was unprepared in my flip flops and had to complete the hike barefoot. By the end, I was completely covered in mud, and my camera had seen better days. But when I reached the top, I was awed by the steep, rugged terrain and the stunning beauty of the valley.

March 21st 2018 1/40sec f/5.6, ISO 100 50mm (EF50mm f/1.8 STM) Canon EOS 5d Mark II

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