Volcano Trekking in Hawaii

Hawaii islands still growing

Geologists confirm that the island of Hawaii is still growing. This is because Volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea are two active volcanoes that keep on erupting. It is reported that between January 1983 and September 2002, lava flows added 543 acres which is equivalent to 220 hectares to the island. These two active volcanoes particularly Kilauea volcano has destroyed several towns such as Kapoho in 1960 and Kalapana and Kaimu in 1990 while in 1987 lava filled in Queen’s bath, a large L0shaped freshwater pool located in the Kalapana area. Trekking down these lava filled areas are a sure bet for an adventure.

Lava flow: A dynamic sight

With dynamic active volcanoes, lava flowing is an everyday occurrence in Hawaii islands. Trekkers can see steam plume as Kilauena red lava enters the oceans, at Waikupanaha three oceans entries and one at Ki lava ocean entry. Some lucky day can have trekkers see some surface lava. It is estimated that two ancient volcanic shields Ninole and Kulani were all buried by the younger Mauna Loa and now these lava “outcrops” are said to be part of the Mauna Loa build up. Lo ‘ihi is an erupting seamount that reaches 3,200 feet, an awesome sight below the ocean surface. Continued activity from this volcano will likely cause it to breach the surface of the ocean with estimated 10,000-100,000 years from now. 

Hawaii's Five Shield Volcanoes

Since Hawaii is an island of volcanic archipelago, volcano trekking gives a one of kind experience to a first time or a come backing Hawaii visitor. But before you go down the line trekking volcanoes, it is advisable to equip yourself about Hawaiian Volcanoes. Some useful insights on these volcanoes may help in getting the best out of your volcanoes trekking adventure.

Hawaii is formed by 5 shield volcanoes that erupt subsequently overlapping one another. Most of these volcanoes are dormant, extinct, and active but not currently erupting, or active and continuously erupting. These 5 shield volcanoes are favorite place for trekking and camping sites. Some have camping trails built within the parameters and with government permits and licenses. These 5 volcanoes are Kohala, now extinct and considered the oldest. Mauna Kea is now dormant. Hualalai is still active but not currently erupting but still showing signs of impeding havocs. Mauna Lao is an active volcano and partly within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the youngest volcano, Kilauea is still active and has been erupting without fail since 1983. It is also part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Hiking in Hawaii Tips

Hiking can be an awesome and fascinating vacation experience. But it can also be dangerous unless safety and precautionary measures are undertaken while on a hiking trail. Here are some hiking safety tips that may help you have a wonderful and fulfilling hiking adventure.

Let others know where you are going

Before you venture to a hiking expenditure, plan you hike. Let someone know about your hiking plans. Let people know which trails you are going. Information about the name and location of the trail are important in case of emergency. Rescuers will know where to start searching in case something went wrong. Never put any hiking escapade in a secret because this may endanger your life.

Hike with a Partner/ Group

It is not advisable to hike alone even if you are a seasoned hiker. Trails can be dangerous any time of the day. Most hikers who get into troubles are those hiking alone. It is advisable to get a   hiking guide who can give you necessary hiking information while on the trail.  He can tell you more about the trails, where to start and the degree of difficulty of each trail. It is a good recommendation to take a group hike or hike with a partner.  A group hike can be more enjoyable as you share and compare experience with other people. You can also compare and assess your level of fitness with your group mates. Most group hiking takes on the same trail based on the level fitness and capacities of its members. 

Hiking in Hawaii

Hawaii is an archipelago made up of different volcanic island. It has the world’s most unique ecosystem and diverse natural environment. The best way to really discover its islands is on foot. With over than hundreds of trail’s miles, exploration by walking and hiking can be a fascinating and enjoyable experience. But in order to enjoy your hiking adventure, here is some hiking information vital in having a safe and enjoyable hiking expenditure.

Hiking trails

Trails ranges from difficult to easy walks. Most of these trails can be found inside Kilauea Park. Some of these trails are Bird Park, Kipuka Puaulu or Thorston and the Lava Tube Nahuku. On the other hand, longer trail hikes can be found in Kilauea Iki or Mauna Iki. There are also other trails that can provide access through wilderness but these trails are not for those who are in top health condition and with proper winter outfit for the climate can be very cold. Wilderness trail are roughly marked by ahu( these are natural piles of rocks). Those with handicaps, Devastation and Waldron Ledge trail are accessible by wheelchairs and strollers. Rocks in Hawaii can be crumbly and are not suited for rock or rope climbing.  Most trails are for public use and therefore shared by every user such as hikers, bikers and horse riders.

Hiking safety measures

Before going on a hiking adventure, be sure you are in a group, or with someone well-trained and experienced in hiking around Hawaii islands. Always remember to bring only proper equipment and avoid unnecessary luggage or bags. Wear proper clothes and shoes. Always have plenty of water. It is mandatory to bring a first aid kit. Do not stray away from your group and stay on designated trail, Remember that trails can be dangerous for first timers and even for experienced hikers. Take extra caution when crossing stream, when walking on wet and slippery trails or on loose crumbly rock soils. Always keep a track of your party. Plan you hike and considered the condition, time of the day and the hazards along the trails. Be sure to you have ample time to return before nightfall. In case you are caught by nightfall. Never venture to return through the night. It is more advisable to stay put on the trail and wait for daylight.

International King Kamehameha Hula Competition

International King Kamehameha Hula Competition is the pride of Hawaii’s tourism Industry. This annual event is participated not only by neighboring islands but by the neighboring countries as well. Countries such as Germany, Netherlands, Japan, Philippines and other European countries do not fail to send participants in this prestigious dance competition. These participants do not only enjoy their stay in their Hawaii Hotels but also the thrills and excitements of joining and winning the competition. Visitors come and return to Hawaii not only because of its mystical island but also of its distinct culture, and the Hawaiian Hula dance is one tradition that is capturing visitors’ hearts.

Hula Auana

Hula has been influenced by the western culture in the island. This is particularly called Auana where performances are accompanied by guitars, ukulele and double bass; musical instruments with western influence. Mele are with English words and dancers are with colorful costumes. Auana hula is basically for visitors’ enjoyment and entertainment purposes.

Hula lessons

With Hula popularity, many interested foreign visitors want to learn this hula dance. Hula dance performances are regularly seen in many Hawaii Hotels and visitors do not only enjoy it but learn some basic steps, too with hotels inclusion of basic lesson of the hula in their packages. For those who are serious in learning the Hula, they can enroll in Hula dance teaching schools or with groups called Halau.

Hula Kahiko

Hula Kahiko is one of the two forms of the Hula. It uses ancient and native musical instruments in every performance. It is basically a sacred religious activity and performs for the goddess Pele.It is also said that King Kamehemeha favored by the gods because he ordered performances of Kahiko before them. An annual King Kamehemeha Hula Competition is held to revive international and local interest in this ancient Hawaiian tradition. This annual event is always a part of the vacation packages of many hotels here. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the home for Kahiko performances.