What a Hawaiian Rainforest Taught Me About The Power of Intention

Hey there, adventure seekers! Today, I'm sharing an unforgettable experience from our epic Hawaiian vacation on the island of Oahu. If you're dreaming of lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and a bit of movie magic, this one's for you.

Setting the Scene: Waikiki Beach to the Rainforest

So, picture this: Babette, my enthusiastic waterfall-loving partner, has her heart set on experiencing the magic of standing under a Hawaiian waterfall. Naturally, I dive into the guidebooks and find the perfect excursion—a hike through a Hawaiian rainforest just minutes from our hotel on Waikiki Beach. And guess what? It's the same spot where they filmed scenes from "The Hunger Games," "Jurassic Park," and "Lost." Talk about a dream come true!

Our tour guide assures us that the hike to the waterfall is less than a mile on a beginner-friendly trail. I'm thinking, "Piece of cake, right?" So off we go, driving up a windy mountain road until we're literally in the clouds, with a light mist making everything damp and slick. And so begins our adventure...

The Hike Begins: Easy Peasy, Right?

The path starts out nice and flat, with jaw-dropping views at every turn. Seriously, just look at these...

I half expect a T. Rex or a velociraptor to pop out from behind the trees. But as we continue, the path gets a bit steeper… and then steeper still. Suddenly, we're scrambling up a very steep, slippery trail, each step feeling like trying to climb up a mudslide. And all I can think is, "If it's this tough going up, how bad will it be coming down?"

The Climb Gets Tougher: Where's My Walking Stick?

Just then, we spot fellow hikers descending the mountain, all with walking sticks in hand. I'm silently begging the universe, "Please, I need a walking stick for the way down." Despite the growing challenge, we press on, driven by the promise of that waterfall.

And finally, we reach it. And let me tell you—it is totally worth it. The waterfall cascades over 150 feet, a breathtaking sight that pictures can't even begin to capture.

The Descent: A Miracle on the Mountain

But now, a new challenge looms: getting down that treacherous path without taking a tumble. As Babette and the kids splash around in the fresh water at the base of the waterfall, I'm still silently praying, "God, I really need a walking stick."

Then, out of nowhere, Amber comes over and asks, "Noah, could you use a walking stick?" And she hands me what looks like Gandalf's staff from "Lord of the Rings." It had been lying there the whole time, just out of my sight.

The Power of a Walking Stick: Making It Down

The fact that Amber found the perfect walking stick felt like a miracle. Someone had left it there, at the top of the mountain, for the next weary hiker—me. With my new trusty staff in hand, we start the descent. And believe me, I don't know how I would have made it down without it.

Here's a snapshot of Amber with the miracle stick:

Conclusion: Believe in Miracles

This adventure taught me something profound: miracles happen when you least expect them. Whether it's finding a walking stick just when you need it or simply getting a boost from the universe, it's the little things that make a big difference. So, always keep your eyes open, ask for help when you need it, and believe in the magic of the journey.

FAQs

Q: How difficult is the hike to the waterfall?
A: It's marketed as a beginner trail, but be prepared for some steep and slippery sections, especially if it's misty.

Q: Is it worth the effort?
A: Absolutely! The waterfall is stunning, and the experience is unforgettable.

Q: Any tips for the hike?
A: Bring good hiking shoes, stay hydrated, and if you can, get a walking stick. It makes a world of difference!

Q: Can you swim at the base of the waterfall?
A: Yes, there's a freshwater wading pool at the base that's perfect for a refreshing dip.

So there you have it—our epic waterfall hike on Oahu. Until next time, keep exploring and believing in the magic of the journey!

Noah’s Note: Sometimes miracles happen when you least expect them. In fact, isn’t that the definition of a miracle? 

I believe in you!