Hiking Makapu‘u Trail On ‘First Day’

Windward residents can join a sunrise hike to the summit of Makapu‘u ridge on New Year’s Day, organized for the fourth year by the Division of State Parks as an inspiring way to start 2015.

Gates will open at 5:30 a.m. Jan. 1, for first-come, first-served parking. Hikers of all ages, from elders to infants in strollers and dogs on leashes, are invited to gather to watch the 7:09 a.m. sunrise at the end of Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail at Ka‘iwi State Scenic Shoreline and along the ridge’s side.

Sunrise will be greeted with a traditional oli by chanter Sam Gon III of The Nature Conservancy. Taiko Center of the Pacific also will perform.

Similar hikes are repeated across the nation as a “First Days Hikes” initiative to introduce people to “the wonders and attributes of state parks” on the first day of the new year.

The 1.5-mile round trip is considered to be moderately difficult because of its steep incline, and participants should bring a flashlight, water, light jacket, sturdy footwear, warm beverages and a camera.

For more information on the First Day-Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail hike, call 587-0300.