ALOHA from O'ahu
---Diamond Head---
The unique profile of Diamond Head (Le'ahi) sits prominently near the eastern edge of Waikiki's coastline. Hawaii's most recognized landmark is known for its historic hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history. Diamond Head State Monument encompasses over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater.
This broad, saucer-shaped crater was formed about 300,000 years ago during a single, explosive eruption that sent ash and fine particles in the air. As these materials settled, they cemented together into a rock called tuff, creating the crater, and which is visible from the trail in the park. Most of the vegetation and birds were introduced in the late 1800s to early 1900s.
The trail to the summit of Le'ahi was built in 1908 as part of O'ahu's coastal defense system. The 0.8 mile hike from trailhead to the summit is steep and strenuous, gaining 560 feet as it ascends from the crater floor. The walk is a glimpse into the geological and military history of Diamond Head. A concrete walkway was built to reduce erosion shifts to a natural tuff surface about 0.2 mile up the trail with many switchbacks traversing the steep slope of the crater interior. The ascent continues up steep stairs and through a lighted 225-foot tunnel to enter the Fire Control Station completed in 1911. Built on the summit, the station directed artillery fire from batteries in Waikiki and Fort Ruger outside Diamond Head crater. At the summit, you'll see bunkers and a huge navigational lighthouse built in 1917. The postcard view of the shoreline from Koko Head to Wai'anae is stunning, and during winter, may include passing humpback whales.
The hiking trail to the summit is very steep and uneven in some areas. The last 1/10 of a mile is especially strenuous. The site is accessible to those with disabilities near the visitor booth. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for your hike. Wear good walking shoes, bring water, and wear a hat and sunscreen.
The Diamond Head State Monument hiking trail is open daily 6am to 4pm except Christmas and New Year’s Day. The gates are locked at 6:00 p.m. and all visitors must be out of the park by this time. No pets are allowed in the park except for service animals. As of 12 May 2022, all out-of-state visitors must have an advanced reservation to enter Diamond Head State Monument. The reservation system allows reservations to be made 14 days in advance. Fees must be paid by a credit card. Hawaiʻi residents will have free access without reservations, but entry may depend on parking availability. Commercial tour and trolley patrons must have a reservation. For the most current information and reservations, go to https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/
You DO NOT need to enter Diamond Head to find the cache.
~~~For the puzzle maybe some Diamond knowledge can help you out.~~~
The Four C's
Carat: 1 Carat = ABC milligrams
Clarity: GIA clarity grading is performed under DEx magnification
Color: GIA's Faint Yellow = AGS's F.G to H.I
Cut: How many facets are there on a normal modern round brilliant diamond = JK
Cache is at:
N21 15.K(D+6)H
W157 47.(A+7)JF
You can validate your puzzle solution with certitude.
Cache with Al
ha
Congrats toddz1 on the FTF!!!