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Pu'u Huluhulu Trail

Volcano· Short and easily traversed (Nā Ala Hele)

A short loop trail over a forested cinder cone at the base of the Maunakea Access Road.

Puʻu Huluhulu is a forested cinder cone at the junction of the Daniel K. Inouye Highway and the Mauna Loa Observatory Access Road, at the base of the Maunakea Access Road, where there is an ahulele (altar). Its trail is part of the state Nā Ala Hele system. A short double loop trail, built by the Youth Conservation Corps, circles both crests of the hill, and Nā Ala Hele calls it easily traversed and ideal for youngsters. The cone is surrounded by lava from a Mauna Loa flow, and the top makes a good picnic spot with views across the saddle between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. It is part of the Hawaiʻi Island Birding Trail, with native plants and birds to look for. Bird hunting is allowed in season, so wear brightly colored clothing. Nā Ala Hele also lists high elevation, a dangerous cliff, falling rocks and sun exposure as hazards. Park in front of the hunter check station, and do not light fires.

Local tip

Park in front of the hunter check station at the junction of the Daniel K. Inouye Highway and the Mauna Loa Observatory Access Road.

Good to know

Short double loop trail
Part of the Hawaiʻi Island Birding Trail
Seasonal bird hunting: wear bright clothing

Getting there

Pu'u Huluhulu Trail
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