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Tropical Hibiscus LbNA #15970

Owner:Adoptable
Plant date:Jun 20, 2005
Location:
City:Wailuku
County:Maui
State:Hawaii
Boxes:1
Planted by:Blackvelvetrav
Found by: Angel Winks
Last found:Apr 11, 2024
Status:FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF
Last edited:Jun 20, 2005
“Tropical Hibiscus” Letterbox
Clue Difficulty: Easy
Terrain Difficulty: Moderate - Uphill/Rocky Path
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Child Friendly: Yes (Best for older children)
Pet Friendly: Unsure
Number of Boxes: 1
Hand Carved Stamp: Yes
First Finder Certificate: Yes
Stamp Pad/Ink: No

Special Notes: The “Tropical Hibiscus” letterbox is located in the 'Iao Valley State Park. The lovely, deep valley of 'Iao features the 'Iao Needle, a natural rock pinnacle presiding over the 'Iao stream and surrounded by the walls of the Pu'u Kukui Crater. Once used as a natural altar, the 2,250-foot stone pillar covered in green, is a basaltic core that has survived eons of swirling water. 'Iao Valley is a peaceful lush area with easy hikes, exotic tropical plants, and clear, natural pools. The ridge-top lookout offers a fantastic view of the valley and Kahului Harbor. 'Iao Valley is the site of one of the most famous battles that occurred in 1790 and changed Hawaii history forever when King Kamehameha I destroyed the Maui army in an effort to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

There are three additional boxes located at Iao Valley State Park. Be sure to print out the clues for “Almost a Rainforest,” “Iao Hoku,” and “Iao Tablelands.” We were able to locate the first two mentioned boxes but unfortunately were not successful in locating the third. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent!

Directions: Take Highway 32 (Kaahumanu Road) west out of Wailuku. This road turns into Highway 320 which lead directly to the 'Iao Valley State Park.

Clues: The “Tropical Hibiscus” letterbox is a short hike off the beaten path from the observation shelter lookout at the top of the paved pathway. Access the trail by hopping over the steel rail fence at the entrance to the shelter on your left. The trail is not maintained and is narrow but is easy to follow. You will hike approximately 1/8th of a mile to the box. The beginning of the trail is a bit rocky so watch your footing. You will come to an opening in the brush and you will have a canopy of trees in front of you on the path.

Starting from the first large tree you encounter on your right you will take 20 steps or 10 paces following the path uphill. From this point you will face south west (left) at approximately 210 degrees and take an additional 8 steps or 4 paces. You will find yourself near another large tree with multiple trunks and situated pretty close to that tree a pile of boulders. Standing in front of the largest offering boulder you will look to the right (about 300 degrees west) and hidden under a smaller boulder that rests against the offering boulder you will discover “Tropical Hibiscus” hiding.

Enjoy your visit and hike at the Ioa Valley State Park. Should you note the box missing, it’s contents in bad repair or if you just want to say “hi” please contact me at Blackvelvetrav@yahoo.com. I am from Idaho and may need help with box maintenance should you encounter a problem. Aloha and happy hunting!