Kawaikoi Stream Hike (Sugi Grove)

Sugi Grove Hike has been on the agenda for quite a while. Ok, for the record I did not get all the way to Sugi Grove. I Stopped at Kawaikoi Stream. Sugi Grove was across the stream and maybe 20 minutes further. I did not prepare for a stream crossing (socks, water proofing, etc). However, for this hike, I planned, prepared and studied a topographical map. Previous recon of the area as well (a few trips ago). A few years ago, there was a geocache hike to Berry Flats. Did not find the geocache, I had intended to hike to Sugi Grove then, but the weather was rainy and misty which made for slippery and muddy jeep trail. Not fun and not safe.

So here is the discussion point. To me, this is somewhat a big deal because (1) I've heard a lot about this. (2) Wet conditions can make this hard - impassible. (3) Three miles each way can be tough, plus hills, more about that later. To others, local people familiar with the area, this is just a routine drive in the country. Regarding this drive in the country. I'd say a passenger car would be fine, though extra clearance would be helpful. Lots of ruts and so forth so it is not a perfect smooth dirt road.

This follows the same dirt road / jeep trail route to Berry Flats. There had not been any rain for a few days, so the dirt road was nice and dry, fun and safe. Some of the particulars are: About 3 miles each way.  A little over an hour each way. Possibly less that a full 3 miles each way. The below photos show the condition of the road. Also, two of the three bridges that are along the route.

Ok, lets talk about the hills, or as I should say, elevation changes. I did mention that I studied a topographical map of the area. Mostly this study was to get the route, meaning the direction from Camp Slogget to Kawaikoi Stream and to make a distance estimate. You, know, taking into consideration the turns are and so forth. After the hike, and having experienced the elevation changes and 3 bridge crossings, I revisited the topo map with clarity and only then did I see the bridges and contour lines - elevation. Note to self for next time - attention to detail. It's just helpful is all.

Along the way there are two picnic areas. This is the first one, Alakai Picnic Area. There is a single picnic table, covering, pavilion type type of arrangement. Small outhouse, trash cans. It was a nice morning, still early (7:30'ish) and cool. No people yet, no helicopters or vehicles.  

After leaving that first picnic area, continued along the road, and somewhat down in elevation. 12 - 15 minutes later, this picnic area was next. Above is signage of this picnic area and below is the picnic area. It was early in the morning. I was the only one there. It was here I decided to consume the snack, have some water and rest a bit. I left around 8:10 for the walk back.  

And here is Kawaikoi Stream. The turn-around point. The road to Sugi Grove continues on the opposite far side. Going past Sugi Grove is Camp 10. Possible a future hike?

It was a nice hike. Preparation was helpful. Carried minimal load, just a bottle of water and a few snacks. This is totally driveable. Ground clearance is important. It would be a bouncy ride. Walking it was ok. Some of the elevation changes were challenging. Coming across the bridges was very cool and unexpected as I had not 'carefully' studied the topo maps. The whole time, there was no one else hiking. Although, on the way back a pair of Toyota 4x4's passed me. There are several cabin's along this road so it is just a ride in the country.