Naftan, What Happened?

We are curious to find out what has happened to one of our favorite trails from Hawaiian Rock quarry to Naftan Point, the southern most tip of the island. On Sunday 10/11/15 five of us gather at the trail head to start another adventure in our continued quest to explore the condition of Naftan trail. 

It begins with a little overgrown grass on the trail, so we are hopeful that perhaps it will continue thus all the way. Chops, Thor, Cutie, and RedEye seem a little bit concerned. 

Soon tall grasses are replaced with an assorted other bushes, and lots of vines. Suddenly RedEye disappears, having tripped over a fallen branch and gotten tangled in vines.  Cutie and Thor wait for him to extract himself and get up.

The amazing vine attack. For as far as one's eyes can see, the trail and all the surrounding areas have been completely overtaken by this most invasive plant. The large clumps on both sides of the trail are actually trees covered and choked by the vines. 

Up to this point, it appears that someone has partially cleared the trail, so Chops, Cutie, and RedEye are able to continue the hike.

A little tunnel is cleared for access. Chops makes it on her hands and knees.

It's apparent that the trail is getting thicker even though it is still passable.

We note a cliff that we have not seen before when the boonies are still thick and well. 

Another little tunnel for a crawl through. RedEye is almost on the other side.

Cutie chooses to employ a squat and walk technique.

After we make it to the other side, we realize that the trail is completely covered and we decide not to risk getting lost into the vine-covered boonies. This area has a large expanse of trees and steep drops. We turn back.

We decide to get back into the car and drive to the top of the Obyan Road, from there we can walk to the beach.

Obyan Road is still very rough and gauged out, but we enjoy walking in the open and anticipate a fun visit to the beach.

Obyan Beach. It is beautiful and quiet. Water is calm, sun is out, gentle breeze is cooling us. It's a nice break from crawling in the boonies! 

Taking a few minutes for snacks and relaxation. We could stay here all day!

Cutie, CC, RedEye, Thor, and Chops satisfied with finding out what happened to the Naftan trail, though not happy about the prospect of a long and difficult recovery process the trail will need.

Cadena de Amor, Chain of Love vines. Beautiful flowers, but very invasive and pesky.  

What is Chops doing? Hiding from the press? No, just confirming that her shirt smells mildewy! :-)

Although we are not able to go through the Naftan Trail, and sadden by the loss of another hiking favorites, we are happy to be able to still enjoy Obyan Beach.