The public is invited to join the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes Park (FHVNP) for a “Sunday Walk in the Park” on February 12 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. This monthly program on second Sundays is aimed at bringing together the members of FHVNP to share in the park’s beautiful trails.

Led by Nick Shema, this this month’s 3-mile round-trip walk explores the Mauna Ulu area.

Starting and ending at the Mauna Ulu parking lot, the hike begins on the Napau Trail, then veers off to ascend Mauna Ulu (literally, growing mountain). A recently formed shield volcano, Mauna Ulu erupted from 1969 through 1974 leaving an altered landscape of incredibly fascinating geologic features.

“Along the way, we’ll see hardened lava rivers, forested kipuka, lava trees, cinder cones, lava shields, pioneer plants, and panoramic vistas. On a clear day, you can view Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, Pu‘u ‘O‘o, and the Pacific Ocean,” Shema said.

“Due to the cultural sensitivity of Mauna Ulu, group size is limited to 15 people,” he added.

This will be a moderate hike of about 3 miles roundtrip, mostly over uneven pahoehoe lava, with a 400’ foot elevation gain. Be prepared for the base 3,200’ elevation and for variable weather conditions, including sunny, windy, chilly, and/or rainy.

FHVNP’s “Sunday Walk in the Park” is free for Friends members, and non-members are welcome to join the non-profit organization in order to attend. Annual memberships are $30 for individuals and $45 for families, and come with a variety of benefits.

To register, contact walk sponsor Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes Park at 985-7373 or admin@fhvnp.org. For more information, visit www.fhvnp.org. Park entrance fees apply.

– Julie Mitchell, Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawai’i Volcanoes Institute

The Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park hosts its next “Sunday Walk in the Park” on February 6 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. This month’s 3-mile round-trip walk explores the Mauna Ulu area, which is home to dramatic volcanic features such as this 1969 fissure. The walk is free for Friends members, and non-members are welcome to join the non-profit Friends group in order to attend. Park entrance fees apply.
Photo credit: NPS/Jay Robinson

Tags: Friends of Hawaii Volcano National Park, walk in the park