HAWAI'I LIFEHiking the Sleeping Giant Trail on Kauai’s East Side
After a little arm twisting by family members a couple of weeks ago, I hiked up what Kaua’i residents and visitors refer to as the Sleeping Giant. It had been some time since I’d hiked this ‘moderate’ east side landmark…or done much physical exercise…so the 3 mile trail that I took was a bit of a mental and physical challenge.
The trail took me through Norfolk pines, strawberry-guava trees, and a variety of other trees that were planted back in the 1930′s, reportedly by the Civilian Conservation Corp.
The Sleeping Giant
After some heart-pumping action, I got to the picnic area at the top, and I have to say…my effort was all worth it! The views of the Wailua Houselots, Wailua Bridge, the famed Coconut Coast, and the Wailua Homesteads (Wailua Real Estate) were breathtaking.
What I am reminded of by my hike is this…I work hard to keep promises to others, but fall short on keeping promises to myself…to eat well, drink more water, and get enough sleep and exercise. After the hike, I felt a sense of accomplishment…like I was on the path to becoming my best self. I hope to do more of these types of hikes, or at least more physical exercise…
Kaua’i is truely the Garden Isle, and the opportunity to hike, swim, bike, standup paddle, play in the dirt, and smell the plumerias are all here…and I plan to put my best foot forward and get outdoors more often.
Love this Judy! I couldn’t agree more. Seems like when we were younger, we ran up “The Giant” just for fun, hardly breaking a sweat. We are truly blessed to live in a place where beauty and outdoor adventure surrounds us. Gotta get dirty once in awhile, right?
You did it Judy! Tap yourself on the back a few times, what an accomplishment, again! Kauai is such a beautiful place, and getting out in nature is so good for the soul! You go Girl!
Judy, this was a enjoyable blog! I have similar issues with work consuming my day & my plans to dedicate more time for my health slipping by unmet. I like your goals to do more of the outdoor exercise and after reading this blog I too will reset my goals. Heres to our success! Mahalo for sharing a great inspiring adventure!
What a great blog! Also a perfect reminder for all of us!
Love it, Judy – that’s what living the Hawaii Life is all about!! Way to go!!
Good work, mama! I too feel extremely compelled to exercise daily and eat well. It is a daily challenge to keep ourselves healthy in order to better serve those around us. But absolutely worth it. And nature inspires us all! Keep up the good work :)
My daughter and her friends like to take this hike a few times every time they come home!
Aloha,
Carol