By taking a moment to look around and assess, you can shift from disappointment to enjoyment and then to satisfaction.
Such a moment occurred for me yesterday. My goal was to travel off-trail and reach the highest part of Waimea Canyon to get a shot of Waipo’o Falls in its full glory.
I have made this trek and captured an image of this stunning waterfall and setting hundreds of times. A Kona type storm has been pelting the Hawaiian Islands. After more than eight inches of rain fell at my place in the last day, I went to observe the state of the falls.
The Falls
When I got there, a thick fog had settled over the canyon, yet no rain was falling. Despite a two plus hour wait, there would only be one brief break in the weather. I was ready for it. I captured Waipo’o Falls in its entirety, showcasing its magnificent water flow. However, sunlight and a blue sky were nowhere to be found.
Before leaving for home, I appreciated everything the canyon offered. I love this canyon and the location. So, standing in it is rewarding for me.
Goat’s beard lichen
Goat’s beard lichen hanging from the trees is an interesting visual. Sunshine attempting to poke through the fog creates an intriguing light mask.
Goats beard lichen
Goats beard lichen
Splitgill mushroom
The lichen photograph led me to spot another interesting image. On downed tree branches, I discovered a mushroom I’d never encountered. They are called Splitgill mushrooms.
Splitgill mushroom on a fall tree branch
Splitgill mushroom
While I did not get the shot in the original plan, I got to enjoy the surroundings and capture images of things of interest to me.
Consider Kauai to be one huge microclimate if you haven’t experienced it. As a result, the weather is astonishingly unpredictable. It’s safest to assume nothing and prepare for almost all conditions.
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