Tree molds:
Tree Molds form when lava flows around a tree and burns its
truck away, leaving 15-to 18-foot-deep holes in the lava.
Kipuka Puaulu (Bird Park): Kipuka Puaula, known
as Bird Park is a
forest oasis surrounded by more recent lava flows from Mauna Loa. It
is a
sanctuary for birds and nature lovers. In this old-growth forest of Koa and
Ohia, search for native birds and enjoy the birds’ beautiful songs. The
Kipuka Puaulu
Loop Trail takes about 1 hour.
Mauna Loa Lookout: Drive up to the end of the Mauna Loa Road, at
the 6,662 feet level, you will find Mauna Loa Lookout. A trail leads from
here to the summit of Mauna Loa. If you are lucky, at the trailhead you
may see the nene (Hawaiian Goose), the state bird of Hawaii.
Mauna Loa Trail: Mauna Loa Trail is one of the most famous trails in
the volcano area. The round trip hike to the summit takes 2-3 days. For
regular tourists, a round trip of 4-5 hours hiking on this trail is
recommended (the stretch before the 9000 feet maker). The first stretch
of the Mauna Loa Trail passes though old native dry-land forest dominated
by Koa and Ohia trees. Enjoy
the Ohia, pukiawe and ohelo berry shrubs
on the trail! From the trail, there
are bird views of Kilauea Crater,
Halemaumau fire pit, Kilauea Visitor Center,
Volcano House and the rest
of the Volcano area.
Mauna Loa Trail:
The slopes of Mauna Loa are a trekker’s paradise.
The 18-mile hike to the summit
of Mauna Loa (13,679 feet) is
challenging but very rewarding. The summit gives
you panoramic views
of
beautiful Mauna Loa.
The round trip hike to the summit
takes at least
2 days and should only be attempted
by the experienced and
well-
prepared hikers.
Afternoon Punalu’u Beach Park (black-sand beach)
A 30 minute drive from Volcano House,
this beautiful black sand beach,
when ocean conditions are good, offers spectacular
snorkeling and
swimming amongst numerous large Hawaiian green sea turtles.