Hawai Volcanoes National Park shares its Kahuku Unit by offering free programs to introduce visitors and residents to the park’s southernmost section on select Sundays from January through March.
Hawai Volcanoes National Park shares its Kahuku Unit by offering free programs to introduce visitors and residents to the park’s southernmost section on select Sundays from January through March.
For all activities below, enter Kahuku on the mauka (uphill) side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5, and meet near the parking area. Sturdy footwear, water, raingear, sun protection, and a snack are recommended.
Learn about the ohia lehua, the most prominent tree in the Kahuku Unit from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Jan. 12, Feb. 9 and March 23.
Hike the Palm Trail from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 19, Feb. 23 and March 16. This is a moderately difficult 2.6-mile loop traversing scenic pasture along an ancient cinder cone, with some of the best panoramic views Kahuku has to offer. Highlights include relics of the ranching era, sections of remnant native forest and amazing volcanic features from the 1868 eruptive fissures.
“People and Land of Kahuku” is a moderate two-mile, three-hour guided hike that loops through varied landscapes to explore the human history of Kahuku. Emerging native forests, pastures, lava fields, and other sites hold clues about ways people have lived and worked on the vast Kahuku lands — from the earliest Hawaiians, through generations of ranching families, to the current staff and volunteers of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Learn about the powerful natural forces at work here and how people have adapted to, shaped, and restored this land. The guided hike is offered from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 26, Feb. 16 and March 9.