Often on my travels I think, “The world is so big and I’ve seen so little!”

There is so frequently some new scene to be dazzled by or an unexpected magnificent view that you never dreamed existed to awe your sense of possibility. And each leaves you wondering, “What’s next? What could possibly trump this?” And there is always something more if you keep looking.

Waipi’o Valley is one of those places. The view from the overlook is absolutely sumptuous.

The road down into the over 1,000 foot deep valley is the steepest public road (up to 27% grade) in the United States, so we took a shuttle into its inner sanctum. At the end of the six-mile long valley is a 1,200 foot waterfall. Stunning! Unfortunately, we didn’t capture a very good picture to share with you.

Here’s a shot up a stream flowing down the valley into the ocean.

The foliage on the rainy side of the island, over near Hilo, is the lushest of lush. The metaphors to describe its beauty and diversity could easily gush forward without end.

If you ever visit the Island, be sure to stop at Akaka Falls.

The hike through the rich forest surround alone is worth the visit. But the falls are even more thrilling. You are able to see the 400-foot fall of water from a fairly close distance, and hear the powerful pounding of water hitting the bottom of the canyon. I find it inspiring to just stand quietly and soak in the natural music and beauty of it all. I like to look for the divine rhythm of it all and learn from its lessons.

And to remember the most important reason for the trip in the first place, to spend precious and close moments with my dear wife and two children who are behind the scenes here taking this picture.