Palikea Hike

Palikea Hike

The Palikea Hike was the first field trip for Malama 'Āina Field School. The journey began at 9:00 in the morning on the mountain of Mauna Kapu where the Nanakuli oli was recited to ranger Thomas Anuheali'i (a.k.a Anu) to ask permission to enter. 

The trek across the Palikea trail was strenuous but it was worth the view. We learned many new things about our valley that we never knew before- like the legend of Maui pulling up the sun on our Heleakala mountain. This trip opened our eyes to the historical culture of our beloved place and how blessed our Nānākuli people are.

Along the way, we were able to learn about many plants, both native and invasive. The 'Ōhi'a Lehua tree (bottom) grows vibrant red flowers and is native to Hawai'i. The Uluhe (top right) is an invasive plant which grows layers of intertwined branches.