Hiking the Z-Trail

The Z-Trail is a steeply graded hiking trail switching up the western wall of Waipio Valley. Several people from our group decided to experience the Z-Trail challenge and trekked it up this strenuous ascent. With 6 major switchbacks and about a 1,200-foot elevation gain in less than a mile, our hearts were pumping, the lactic acid was burning, and the sweat was pouring. But wow, what a view!!!

Our initial intimidating views of the Z-Trail

Linda and Jen hiking up the steepest stretch of the trail.

A view looking back into Waipio  Valley. Hi'ilawe Falls is in the top left and the taro fields are visible on the valley floor.  The valley extends back up to 6 miles, ending with an amphitheater-like headcut.  The entire shape of Waipio Valley resembles a light bulb (versus elongated), indicating a mature phase of valley development.

A view of the ocean and the other side of the valley taken half way up the Z-trail.

Jen, Britta, Linda, and Sarah conquering the Z-Trail!            Harry reflecting on the fantastic view.

The entire group of Z-Trail attempters made it to the top successfully.  Throughout the hike up, we passed through changing vegetation zones from base to top.  The base was vegetated with a thick tropical canopy of trees.  As we ascended, the next zone we encountered was a scrubby grass vegetation intermixed with other low growing plants and shrubs.  With more elevation gain we transitioned into bigger deciduous trees and eventually became surrounded by a coniferous forest at the summit.  In the picture above a thick layer of pine needles on the ground is visible.

Our descent down the Z-trail.

Day 4: Waipio Valley Main

Hawaii Field Study 2005 Main