So, the big day came for the big hike that all the guides had been talking about. We both decided to do it even tho we didn't bring hiking boots or gear. I wore beach water shoes (with socks) and Steve wore tennies. The first part was the steepest, and it never let up for 5 miles. The rule was anytime during the first 20 min. If you felt you made a mistake, you could turn around or wait for a truck which was bringing water and a Dr. It sounded so serious. But we were hiking from one part of the island, up over the top and arriving at another town, where the Aranui would be waiting About 33 people signed the "waiver", which said we were aware of the sporty and adventurous nature of the hike........and off we went, with water bottles filled and determination.
Yes, it was steep, but the main problem was heat. A great stroke of luck happened as it clouded over and a nice breeze blew on us almost all the way up! Steve was 5th to the top...even tho they warned us over and over this was NOT a competition. I just kept a real steady pace, only stopping to drink water. At the top was a lunch wagon! Fresh baguettes with various fillings, fresh ice cold mango juice, fruit....sweet banana cake and hot coffee. The French really love their comfort!
Then Steve and I walked down and the views on the down side were spectacular. It was even steeper in some places going down, and we hit pavement now and then, but it was a knee banger for sure and we even walked backwards part way, which was awkward, but kept the knees out of pain.
We are glad we did it and were thankful it wasn't blazing hot. It was over a 3000 ft gain. Everyone who started, made it, and no one turned back, although some were an hour or more behind us.
On our last night of the sail we found out that last year one hiker died of a heart attack on the hike...thus the waiver.
No comments:
Post a Comment