TAGAYTAY, PHILIPPINES – JANUARY 12: Lightning strikes as a column of ash surrounds the crater of Taal Volcano as it erupts on January 12, 2020 as seen from Tagaytay city, Cavite province, Philippines. Local authorities have begun evacuating residents near Taal Volcano as it began spewing ash up to a kilometer high Sunday afternoon. The Philippine Institute of of Volcanology and Seismology has raised the alert level to four out of five, warning that a hazardous eruption could take place anytime. (Photo by Ezra Acayan/Getty Images)
Sunday afternoon the volcano Taal just south of Manila erupted and threw ash a mile into the sky. Prevailing winds pushed the ash north onto metro Manila and led to all sorts of disturbances. Only a few people showed up in our Manila offices yesterday, and several of my employees live within 15 km of the volcano. Lots of ash fell in Cavite and Batangas.
Even worse, the government is expected Taal to erupt violently at any time, spewing more ash, lava, mudslides, tsunami, etc. Mass evacuations are underway.
Taal Sunday Afternoon
As it was Sunday afternoon, and Taal is a picturesque volcano near metro Manila, the area was full of tourists visiting the area. Taal is located on an island in the middle of Taal Lake. I have been there sightseeing many years ago, it iswas a beautiful spot.
I caught this amazing story on Radiolab this week. It is actually a story I heard years ago now, probably 2014 or thereabouts. It is an amazing story about friends, objects, history and time. One of the main characters, Craig Childs, is an author and he blogged about the same story right here.
Radiolab is one of the great ones. So many episodes are great, but one of my favorites is on YouTube – Dinopocalypse. I love the grungy jam at the end of the episode.
At 2:00 this afternoon I was headed down to Jeff’s Pirates Cove for Mick Pexa’s memorial when I was stopped heading down the hill from Talofofo by the cops. They had traffic closed off and I could see multiple emergency vehicles at the Talofofo Caves trailhead. I knew immediately what had happened: A hiker fell down one of the caves. The largest caves in the Talofofo Caves group are enormous pit caves, and the area is completely undeveloped. It would be very easy to fall down one of those caves, and today, someone did:
A man died Saturday morning after he fell 100 feet inside a Talofofo cave, according to the Guam Fire Department.
GFD spokesman Kevin Reilly reports that it happened just before 11 a.m. A Caucasian man estimated to be 50 to 60 years old fell while climbing inside the cave.
I checked the schedule in the post below, and yes this was the regular Saturday morning Boonie Stompers whose schedule I repost quarterly. My thoughts go out to not only this poor man, but everyone involved. You know, one of the things I remember about Mick Pexa was going on these Saturday Boonie Stomps and he would occassionally attend as well.
Here’s a Youtube video posted by KUAM News with the story:
And the year 2020 is upon us. Here is the list of Boonie Stomps being put on by the Guam Boonie Stompers on Saturday mornings for the 1st quarter of 2020. Hikers meet at the center court of the Chamorro Village to sign up and get directions for that day’s hike. I believe the cost is still only a couple bucks, and you get a free t-shirt if you complete 10 boonie stomps. I don’t get much opportunity to go on these hikes anymore, watching my kids play soccer is my current Saturday morning jam, but maybe I can catch a hike once soccer season is over in the late spring. It’s a shame, since many of these hikes are truly epic boonie stomps. Anao Point, La Sa Fua River, Pagat, Southern Mountains, Tarzan Falls, these are all great, iconic hikes on Guam. Many are long marches to remote mountains and waterfalls. I have many fond memories of going on these hikes, plus my only taotaomona story I can tell occurred hiking to Inarajan Falls about 20 years ago.
04 Jan Talofofo CavesMedium 3 hours for 0.8 miles We explore the extensive cave system overlooking Talofofo Bay including Window Rock. Bring: flashlights, 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, long pants, sun screen, insect repellant, lunch, camera, and a flashlight. Special Conditions: Crawling in caves.
11 Jan AnaoDifficult 5 hours for 2 milesBring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special Conditions: Hiking over rough rocks and a long ascent.
18 Jan La Sa Fua RiverMedium 3 hours for 1 miles We explore the waterfalls of a southwestern Guam valley. Bring: 2 liters water, swim suit, water shoes, hiking shoes, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special Conditions: Some steep slopes, wet rocks, and walking in water.
25 Jan Tarzan Falls with Cross Island optionVery Difficult 6 hours for 7 miles We journey to a series of three cooling waterfalls in central Guam, a great family hike. The more adventurous can continue on to Lower Sigua Falls and out to Turner Road. Bring: 2 quarts water, hiking shoes, gloves, swimsuit, sun screen, lunch, insect repellent, and camera. Special Conditions: muddy trail, several hills up and down, slippery rocks.
01 Feb Mt. Santa Rosa (Piggy) CaveDifficult 3 hours for 0.5 miles We explore a unique cave along the volcanic/limestone geological junction. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, long pants, insect repellent, lunch, camera, and flashlights. Special condition: Climbing in narrow cave passages with water.
08 Feb FadianDifficult 3 hours for 1 miles We descend to this scenic cove below the cliffs to swim and snorkel if the water is calm. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special Conditions: A steep hill to climb and hiking over rough rocks. Possible surf.
15 Feb Pagat LoopDifficult 4 hours for 2.5 miles We descend the cliff and through the limestone forest to explore the coastline with a great view north and then head to the ancient Chamorro village and cave. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, water shoes, flashlight, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special Conditions: Stretches of steep climbing, walking in cave water, and over rough limestone rocks.
22 Feb Hilaan, Lost Pond & Shark’s HoleMedium 3 hours for 2.6 miles We hike north from Tanguisson Beach and snorkel at Shark’s Hole of the water is calm, also visit the fresh water pool for a cool swim in the jungle behind the beach. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special Conditions: Hiking over some rough rocks and in the water.
29 Feb Ague CoveMedium 3 hours for 0.4 miles We descend to a cove ideal for swimming and snorkeling if the water is calm. This will be a cleanup hike. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special Conditions: A steep slope to ascend and a few rough rocky trail areas.
07 Mar Southern Mountains to IjaVery Difficult 7 hours for 8 miles We climb up Mt. Jumullong-Manglo to enjoy the views, descend steeply to the long open Southern Mountains trail, passing Mt. Bolanos and Ilichos to reach Atete, crossing over to Mt. Schroeder, and making the long steep downhill climb down the ridge to Ija. Bring: 4 quarts water minimum, hiking shoes, gloves, sun screen, insect repellant, hat, lunch and snacks, and camera. Special Conditions: Sword grass, little shade, a lot of climbing, and a very long hike.
14 Mar Mt. Lamlam NorthVery Difficult 4 hours for 2.2 miles We explore the ridgeline of Guam’s tallest peak. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and camera. Special Conditions: Swordgrass, rough rocks, and steep slopes.
Mar 21 Mt. Jumulong-MangloMedium 3 hours for 2.2 miles We hike up to the large cross on top of a mountain next to Mt. Lamlam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special Conditions: Swordgrass, rough rocks, and steep slopes.
Mar 28 Mt. Schroeder to InalajanVery Difficult 6 hours for 4.5 miles We hike up and over Mount Schroeder from Merizo, make the steep climb up the shoulder of Mt. Ilichos, hike up to reach Atete, and make the long trek over the southern badlands, with a short side trip to the falls, to reach Inarajan. Bring: 4 quarts water minimum, hiking shoes, gloves, sun screen, insect repellant, hat, lunch and snacks, and camera. Special Conditions: Sword grass, little shade, a lot of climbing, and a very long hike.
So long as that woman from the Rijksmuseum
in painted quiet and concentration
keeps pouring milk day after day
from the pitcher to the bowl
the World hasn’t earned
the world’s end.
-Wisława Szymborska
Here’s a nice write-up. And while I am at it, here’s what incited this post.
And just like that, the end of 2019 is just around the corner. Here are the hikes posted by Guam Boonie Stompers on their Facebook page as of September 29, 2019.
HIKING SCHEDULE:
28 SEP Inarajan Falls Difficult 4 hours for 5 miles We hike over the hills of southeastern Guam to the best waterfalls in the Western Pacific. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Long walking in sun through open, hilly terrain, climbing a steep slope with a rope, some mud.
Oct 05 Lower Sigua Falls Difficult 5 hours for 6 miles We trek over the hills of central Guam to two great waterfalls. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, steep slopes, walking in water, little shade, and a long hike.
Oct 12 San Carlos and Lonfit Swim Hole Difficult 4 hours for 3.2 miles We journey to a secluded waterfall and a swimming hole in central Guam. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, water shoes, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Steep slopes, walking in water, mud, rocky river, and climbing with a rope.
Oct 12 5:30 PM Moonie Stomp – Mt. Jumulong-Manglo Medium 3 hours for 2.2 miles We hike up to the large cross on top of a mountain next to Mt. Lamlam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, rough rocks, and steep slopes.
Oct 19 Cetti 7 Very Difficult 5 hours for 1.2 miles We descend into the Cetti Valley and then climb up all 7 waterfalls. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, water shoes, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Steep slopes, swordgrass, walking in water, and serious rope climbing.
Oct 26 Upper Lonfit Falls 5 hours for 4 miles Hike the upper reaches of the Lonfit River past an endless series of waterfalls, including swimming, jumping, a flume canyon, and a rope swing. Bring: 3 liters water, get wet shoes, gloves, sun screen, insect repellant, lunch, and a camera. Special conditions: extensive walking in water, slippery rocks, steep slopes, mud, sword grass.
Nov 02 Manunu and Clint’s Falls Difficult 4 hours for 3 miles We explore a new sixty foot waterfall in the Cetti-Manunu valley. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera.
Nov 09 Agfayan Falls Medium 5 hours for 2 miles We journey to a secluded waterfall in southeastern Guam. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Some swordgrass and walking in water.
Nov 16 Ben’s Falls to Mt Lamlam Difficult 6 hours for 3 miles We journey to 3 waterfalls on the Sella River in southern Guam. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, water shoes, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Walking in water through rocky river, steep slopes through swordgrass, and climbing waterfalls with a rope.
Nov 23 Taleyfac Falls Medium 3 hours for 1 miles We walk the Taleyfac River to the falls and explore the dam. Bring: Swimsuits, 2 quarts water, shoes that can get wet, gloves, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch and a camera. Special conditions: Walking in water, climbing with ropes, swordgrass.
Nov 30 Tony’s and Asan Falls Easy 3 hours for 1.3 miles From Asan overlook we hike down to Tony’s waterfall. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swim suit, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass and steep slopes.
Dec 07 Sinesa Falls and Lower Sigua Very Difficult 5 hours for 6.2 miles We hike over the hills and through a gorge of southern Guam to World War II tanks and two waterfalls. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, water shoes, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Rope climbing, steep slopes, slippery mud, and walking in water.
Dec 14 Dante River Very Difficult 6 hours for 6 miles Explore the stream leading up to Dante Falls in Southeastern Guam. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, steep slopes, and walking in water.
Dec 21 Maguagua Falls Difficult 4 hours for 2.5 miles We head to a unique waterfall in central Guam. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, steep slopes, and climbing with a rope.
Dec 28 Priest’s Pools Easy 3 hours for 2 miles We hike to the freshwater pools of the Pigua River with waterfalls, jumping, and swimming. Bring 2 liters water, gloves, swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch and camera. Special condition: possible muddy trail and mosquitoes
06 JUL Libugon to Fonte Swim HoleMedium 3 hours for 2 miles We’ll visit the ruins of the historic site U.S. Navy radio station. Then we’ll hike to the 1910 dam and explore the valley downstream and cool off in the pools. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, water shoes, gloves, swim suit, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, and steep slopes
13 JUL We have two hikes: 9AM (Tinta, Faha and Priest’s Pools) and a MOONIE STOMP 530PM Sella Bay
Tinta, Faha and Priest’s PoolsEasy 4 hours for 1.5 miles We hike to the Merizo Massacre Sites of World War II and then cool off in the freshwater pools of the Pigua River. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swim suit, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special condition: mud.
Sella BayMedium 4 hours for 1.5 miles We hike to the scenic bay to snorkel and explore the old Spanish bridge, Spanish oven, and ancient chamorro latte. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera.
20 JUL Liberation HikeEasy 4 hours for 2.5 miles We travel to several sites for short walks to historic features for the Liberation of Guam in July 1944. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Short climbs and possible mud, slippery slopes, and swordgrass at Mount Alifan.
27 JUL We have two options for hikes both at 9AM: Invasion Hike to Tony’s Falls, and Tony’s Falls Only.
Invasion HikeDifficult 4 hours for 1.5 miles We retrace the 21 July route of the U.S. Third Marine Division from Asan to the heights above and end up cooling off at a nearby waterfall. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swim suit, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass and steep slopes.
Tony’s FallsEasy 3 hours for 1.3 miles From Asan overlook we hike down to Tony’s waterfall. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swim suit, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass and steep slopes.
03 AUG Waterfall ValleyMedium 4.5 hours for 1 miles A couple of short hikes to a series of waterfalls in southeastern Guam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swimsuit, sunglasses, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Walking in water, slippery mud, and climbing with a rope.
10 AUG We have two options for hikes both at 9AM: Pagat Loop or Pagat Only.Pagat LoopDifficult 4 hours for 2.5 miles We descend the cliff and through the limestone forest to explore the coastline with a great view north and then head to the ancient Chamorro village and cave. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, water shoes, flashlight, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Stretches of steep climbing, walking in cave water, and over rough limestone rocks.
17 AUG Tinago FallsMedium 3 hours for 3 miles We trek to a series of waterfall cascades in southeastern Guam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swim suit, sunglasses, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Possible slippery mud.
24 AUG Tarzan FallsMedium 3 hours for 1.4 miles We journey to a series of cooling waterfalls. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swimsuit, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and camera.
31 AUG Fintasa and Laolao FallsDifficult 5 hours for 1.6 miles We journey to 2 cooling waterfalls in southeastern Guam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Some walking in water and climbing with a rope.
07 SEP Mt. Finansanta with Gues RiverVery Very Difficult 7 hours for 5 miles Our hardest hike, three difficult hikes strung together. We visit 2 mountains with fantastic views, a pristine jungle river, and swim, jump, and slide spots. Bring: 4 liters water, strong shoes, gloves, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch and snacks, and camera. Special conditions: Sword grass, steep slopes, walking in water, slippery rocks, more sword grass.
14 SEP Guatali FallsDifficult 5 hours for 3.2 miles We hike from the central mountains of Guam into a pristine valley with 2 waterfalls and a swimming hole. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, water shoes, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Walking in water, climbing with a rope, and a long hike up and out.
21 SEP Upper Sigua and Alutom FallsMedium 4 hours for 2.5 miles We hike to two cooling and scenic waterfalls in central Guam. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swimsuit, sunglasses, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Steep slopes, mud, and climbing with a rope.
22 SEP Mt. Tenjo to MaguaguaMedium 4 hours for 3.7 miles We hike to historic features along the Mount Chachao to Mount Tenjo ridge. Along the way we will see some of the remnants of the defensive positions taken up by U.S. forces at the time of WWI and WWII. Bring: 3 to 4 liters of water, hiking boots, long pants, long sleeved shirt, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, swimsuit, and camera. Special conditions: deep swordgrass, steep rocky slopes, possible climbing with a rope and long distances.
28 SEP Inarajan FallsDifficult 4 hours for 5 miles We hike over the hills of southeastern Guam to the best waterfalls in the Western Pacific. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Long walking in sun through open, hilly terrain, climbing a steep slope with a rope, some mud.
And here is the Boonie Stomper Hike Schedule, reprinted from their Facebook page. I wish I could go on a hike, these are some of my favorites here. Alas, my knee prohibits any such thing for the time being. I will also post this to the Google Calendar here.
Mar 16 Southern Mountains to InarajanVery Difficult 7 hours for 12 miles We hike up and over Mount Jumujong Manglo to Inarajan. Bring: 5 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, insect repellant, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, little shade, a lot of climbing, and a seriously long hike.
Mar 23 Pagat LoopDifficult 4 hours for 2.5 miles We descend the cliff and through the limestone forest to explore the coastline with a great view north and then head to the ancient Chamorro village and cave. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, water shoes, flashlight, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Stretches of steep climbing, walking in cave water, and over rough limestone rocks.
Mar 30 LajunaDifficult 4 hours for 4 miles We descend the northeastern cliff to the coastline and head north for a view of the massive landslide from the 1993 earthquake. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Hiking over rough rocks and a long ascent.
06 Apr Brittany FallsDifficult 5 hours for 5 miles We explore a 20 foot waterfall in the heart of southern Guam with what might be the deepest accessible freshwater swimming hole in Guam. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, river crossing, rope climb, and a muddy swamp.
13 Apr Asiga CaveDifficult 4 hours for 1.5 miles We visit an isolated southeastern wilderness area containing cliffs, dry caves, and two wet caves with underground pools. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking shoes, gloves, flashlight, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Walking on rough rocks, climbing in caves, mosquitoes, and scratchy vegetation.
20 Apr Southwest CoastDifficult 6 hours for 7.5 miles We hike south from Agat to Umatac along the coast, passing by several scenic bays that are great for swimming and snorkeling. Bring: 3 liters water, wet shoes, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: A long hike in the sun over, sand, rocks, mud, and partly in the water.
27 Apr LajunaDifficult 4 hours for 4 miles We descend the northeastern cliff to the coastline and head north for a view of the massive landslide from the 1993 earthquake. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Hiking over rough rocks and a long ascent
04 May FadianDifficult 3 hours for 1 miles We descend to this scenic cove below the cliffs to swim and snorkel if the water is calm. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: A steep hill to climb and hiking over rough rocks. Possible surf.
11 May Talofofo CavesMedium 3 hours for 0.8 miles We explore the extensive cave system overlooking Talofofo Bay including Window Rock. Bring: flashlights, 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, long pants, sun screen, insect repellant, lunch, camera, and a flashlight. Special condition: Crawling in caves.
18 May Southeast CoastDifficult 6 hours for 5 miles We hike along this remote Asiga coastline with a few stops to cool off in the water. Bring: 4 quarts water, hiking boots, water shoes, swim suit, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Long stretches of walking in water, over rough rocks, no shade, and possible hazardous surf.
25 May Atillong Acho to Sella BayDifficult 4 hours for 3 miles We hike over black rock to the coastline and then north to Sella Bay. Bring 3 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, camera, swimsuit and snorkel gear. Special conditions: Steep slopes.
01 Jun Ague CoveMedium 3 hours for 0.4 miles We descend to a cove ideal for swimming and snorkeling if the water is calm. This will be a cleanup hike. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: A steep slope to ascend and a few rough rocky trail areas.
08 Jun Tarzan Swim HoleMedium 4 hours for 2 miles We journey to a remote swimming hole to cool off. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swimsuit, sunglasses, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Possibly slippery slopes and mud.
15 Jun We have TWO hikes! Ritidian to Falcona at 0900 and a special MOONIE STOMP at Mt. Macajna at 5:30 pm.Ritidian to FalconaDifficult 5 hours for 6 miles We hike the long sandy beach south from Ritidian Point to secluded Falcona Beach, ending at the remains for the old pirate ship. Fast hikers have the option of trying for Double Reef
22 Jun Mt. Tenjo to Maguagua with Tarzan OptionDifficult 5 hours for 5 miles We hike to historic features along the Mount Chachao to Mount Tenjo ridge. Along the way we will see some of the remnants of the defensive positions taken up by U.S. forces at the time of WWI and WWII. Bring: 4 liters of water, hiking boots, long pants, long sleeved shirt, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, swimsuit, and camera. Special conditions: deep swordgrass, steep rocky slopes, possible climbing with a rope and long distances.
29 Jun Nimitz CavesMedium 4 hours for 1.2 miles We explore at least two natural caves from a significant battlefield of late July 1044, used by Japanese soldiers during the Liberation of Guam. Then we make an optional hike to Fonte Swim Hole to get a great view of Guam’s central area, clean up and cool off, and enjoy jumping and swimming. Bring: FLASHLIGHT, 2 quarts water, gloves, insect repellent, swimsuit, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Climbing and crawling in narrow cave passages.
And we have a storm folks. Typhoon Wutip is headed our way. Closest approach expected Saturday, bringing tropical storm strength to Guam and Yap as it passes between the two islands. Though it seems to be veering towards Guam more and more. Check my weather page for further updates.
I don’t think I mentioned it lately, but the wind turbine that GPA installed several years ago that powered my neighborhood has been down since early September. The turbine featured this collapsible system that allowed GPA employees to lower the turbine when typhoons or other high winds were expected, or for servicing.
Apparently the turbine was damaged during storm preparations a few months ago and it cannot be fixed by GPA. They’ve sought assistance from the French company that sold the turbine, and the generator is offline until further notice. That’s a drag. I really think they need to deploy more wind turbines here on Guam to meet our energy needs instead of building more fossil fuel plants. It gets pretty windy here, especially during dry season when the trade winds are blowing.
Once again, I am reposting the hiking schedule for the Guam Boonie Stompers here on my site… I intend to post these to the calendar when I get a chance, but at the moments, let’s just post this list here. Heading into the dry season, the Boonie Stompers post some of their signature hikes at this time of the year: The Southern Mountains hike, Anao Point, Mount Jumulong-Manglo and Tarzan Falls are all great hikes and must-see places on Guam. One of my New Year’s Resolutions is to get back into hiking, so perhaps you will see me on the trails some Saturday this year.
22 Dec Ghost CaveDifficult 3 hours for 2 miles We trek through one of Guam’s central rivers to get to amazing rock formations that are rare to see. We wade through the river that goes through a long rock tunnel. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, sunglasses, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Riverwalking and some sword grass.
29 Dec Alutom FallsMedium 3 hours for 2 miles We hike to a cooling and scenic waterfall in central Guam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, swimsuit, sunglasses, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Steep slopes, mud, and climbing with a rope.
Jan 05 AnaoDifficult 5 hours for 2 miles We descend the northeastern cliff to the coastline and head north for a view of the massive landslide from the 1993 earthquake. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Hiking over rough rocks and a long ascent.
Jan 12 La Sa Fua RiverMedium 3 hours for 1 miles We explore the waterfalls of a southwestern Guam valley. Bring: 2 liters water, swim suit, water shoes, hiking shoes, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Some steep slopes, wet rocks, and walking in water.
Jan 19 Mt. Santa Rosa Cave Difficult 3 hours for 0.5 miles We explore a unique cave along the volcanic/limestone geological junction. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, long pants, insect repellent, lunch, camera, and flashlights. Special condition: Climbing in narrow cave passages with water.
Jan 19 MOONIE STOMP Atillong AchoDifficult 4 hours for 2.2 miles We hike down a long narrow ridge with excellent views, then climb over the two volcanic black rock hills, Atillong Acho, to the coastline. Bring 3 quarts water, hiking shoes, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent. Special conditions: Steep slopes, sword grass, walking over rough rocks.
Jan 26 Tarzan Falls with Cross Island optionVery Difficult 6 hours for 7 miles We journey to a series of three cooling waterfalls in central Guam, a great family hike. The more adventurous can continue on to Lower Sigua Falls and out to Turner Road. Bring: 2 quarts water, hiking shoes, gloves, swimsuit, sun screen, lunch, insect repellent, and camera. Special Conditions: muddy trail, several hills up and down, slippery rocks.
Feb 02 Mt. Jumulong-MangloMedium 3 hours for 2.2 miles We hike up to the large cross on top of a mountain next to Mt. Lamlam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, rough rocks, and steep slopes.
Feb 09 Ben’s Falls Difficult 4 hours for 0.7 miles We journey to 2 waterfalls in southern Guam. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, water shoes, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Walking in water, swordgrass, and climbing one steep slope with a rope.
Feb 16 Sella Bay Medium 4 hours for 1.5 miles We hike to the scenic bay to snorkel and explore the old Spanish bridge, Spanish oven, and ancient chamorro latte. Bring: 2 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, snorkel gear, gloves, insect repellent, sun screen, sunglasses, lunch, and camera.
Feb 23 Ija to Mt. SchroederVery Difficult 5 hours for 4 miles We hike to hell and beyond! We begin with the long uphill climb to Mt. Sasalaguan with its outstanding views, then traverse through Atete to Mt. Schroeder with its great views. Bring: 4 quarts water, good shoes, gloves, sunscreen, lunch, snacks, and camera. Special conditions: Sword grass, little shade, a lot of steep climbing, and a long hard hike.
Mar 02 Lower Sigua Falls Difficult 5 hours for 6 miles We trek over the hills of central Guam to two great waterfalls. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, steep slopes, walking in water, little shade, and a long hike.
Mar 09 Taguan North
Mar 16 Southern Mountains to InarajanVery Difficult 7 hours for 12 miles We hike up and over Mount Jumujong Manglo to Inarajan. Bring: 5 liters water, hiking boots, gloves, sun screen, insect repellant, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Swordgrass, little shade, a lot of climbing, and a seriously long hike.
Mar 23 Pagat Loop Difficult 4 hours for 2.5 miles We descend the cliff and through the limestone forest to explore the coastline with a great view north and then head to the ancient Chamorro village and cave. Bring: 3 liters water, hiking boots, swim suit, water shoes, flashlight, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Stretches of steep climbing, walking in cave water, and over rough limestone rocks.
Mar 30 LajunaDifficult 4 hours for 4 miles We descend the northeastern cliff to the coastline and head north for a view of the massive landslide from the 1993 earthquake. Bring: 4 liters water, hiking boots, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Hiking over rough rocks and a long ascent.
I am reposting the hiking schedule for Q4 of 2018 here from the Boonie Stompers Facebook page. When I get some time in the next few days, I will post to my calendar here. Or maybe not. I’ve kind of decided that the Time.ly calendar is kind of a pain to schedule things.
HIKING SCHEDULE:
06 Oct Upper Lonfit Very Difficult 5 hours for 4 miles
We hike to the picturesque Lonfit Falls, then hike to the upper reaches of the Lonfit River past an endless series of waterfalls, including swimming, jumping, a flume canyon, and a rope swing. Bring: 3 quarts water, get wet shoes, gloves, sun screen, insect repellant, lunch, snacks, and a camera. Special conditions: extensive walking in water, slippery rocks, steep slopes, mud, sword grass, a long hike, and mosquitoes.
13 Oct Tak’hilo Falls Very Difficult 6 hours for 4 miles
We hike to the tallest waterfall on Guam with excellent views along the way, then walk down a pristine jungle river in a steep walled gorge with 3 major waterfalls that allow jumping and swimming. Bring: 4 quarts water, hiking shoes, gloves, sun screen, insect repellent, camera, lunch, and snacks. Special conditions: Mosquitoes, very steep slopes up and down, walking in water, sword grass, and more mosquitoes.
20 Oct Sinisa Falls Very Difficult 5 hours for 6 miles
We hike over the hills of central Guam to Tank Farm, then visit a secluded, beautiful 50 foot falls. We then hike along two rivers with many smaller waterfalls to end up at Lower Sigua Falls for jumping and swimming. Bring: 4 quarts water, get wet shoes, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, sunglasses, insect repellent, lunch, snacks, and camera. Special conditions: Rope climbing, steep slopes, slippery mud, and walking in water.
27 Oct San Carlos Difficult 4 hours for 3 miles
We journey to a picturesque 40 foot waterfall with a great swim hole. Then we follow a beautiful pristine jungle river to a smaller waterfall with good ledges for jumping, swimming, eating lunch, and relaxing . Bring: 3 quarts water, get wet shoes, swimsuit, gloves, sun screen, insect repellent, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Steep slopes, walking in water, mud, rocky slippery river walking, and climbing down with a rope.
03 Nov Canuon River Difficult 5 hours for 3 miles
We explore a tributary of the Tarzan River, hiking up the river in a deep gorge with huge boulders to hike over, under and around, rock formations, waterfalls, and small swimming pools. Bring: 3 quarts water, waling in water shoes, gloves, swimsuit, sun screen, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Hiking over rough rocks, walking in the slippery river, possible overgrown trail, some sword grass.
10 Nov Tarzan Falls
17 Nov Agafayan Falls & River Medium 4 hours for 2.5 miles
We enjoy views, fight through tall sword grass, then descend to the Agfayan River ledges for jumping, sliding, and swimming. We then hike up the picturesque middle falls, enjoy the shaded Agfayan Falls, continue to Cannonball Falls, and circle back to the start. Bring: 3 quarts water, get wet shoes, gloves, sun screen, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Sword grass, walking in water, slippery rocks, and a fairly long hike.
24 Nov Tony’s Falls Easy/Medium 3 hours for 1 mile
We take a great family hike to cliffs overlooking the Asan battlefield, then follow the open ridge down , with both an easy and medium trail option to Tony’s waterfalls, where the jumping and swimming are great. Bring: 2 quarts water, get wet shoes, gloves, swim suit, sun screen, lunch, and camera. Special conditions: Some sword grass, rocky trail, walking in water, and moderately steep slopes.
So that was a few days without power. It died out late Monday afternoon, and it just came back about two hours ago. Good thing, as we were about to go buy a generator tomorrow if this continued. Super hot last night. No power, not a breath of wind, really muggy. Ugh. It was miserable.
Color Guam fared pretty well. The breadfruit tree behind the studio blew over, luckily in the opposite direction and not into our building. However, the power line into the building went with it. It’s probably going to take awhile for that to get repaired. The power authority is prioritizing other areas now.
Super typhoon Mangkhut is headed towards the Philippines and it is now a Category 5 monster. Current track has it passing just north of Luzon and barrelling straight towards Hong Kong by next Sunday. Good luck people.
We have a typhoon heading for us. Looks like closest approach will be tomorrow evening. Current track has it passing just north of Guam, but that can certainly change. Check my weather links page for all the details.
I spent the day securing the house, putting up the shutters, packing stuff inside, doing laundry, gassing the vehicles. A thousand things to do – and now securing my work place. I am tired. Bone tired.
Ya got trouble, my friend, right here,
I say, trouble right here in Guam.
Trouble with a capital “T”
And that rhymes with “T”
Which stands for typhoon!
Looks like this is going to be a doozy. Maybe Category 4 super-typhoon by the time it gets here on Tuesday, September 11. That forecast says 165 knots – which is like 189 mph. Goddamn. I hope this thing veers away.
The storm has a name now. Tropical Storm Maria is moving away from Guam and the Marianas to the north-northwest at 10 mph, with maximum winds of 65 mph.
Here’s the storm track one last time…
I’m at work, and the power’s still out back home. Checking on that now, but I think it might be awhile. Here’s the situation about a mile down the road from my house.
Downed power poles and lines on Cross-Island Road by Tarzan Falls. Roads closed at this time.
That’s it for storm updates. Going back into stealth mode now…
