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.

Hawaiian tattoo as a pop culture

If you want a lasting souvenir for your Hawaiian stint, a Hawaiian tattoo in your hand or finger is not a bad idea. Before a tattoo is imprinted in your body, here are some facts about Hawaiian tattoo that could help you choose what’s best for you. 

Tattooing is not a rare culture in Hawaii. It’s a tradition that can be traced back during the early Polynesians settlers. Now, young generations in Hawaii, wanting to preserve their cultural heritage, considered tattooing as a form of art. It is a pop culture getting vast popularity among the young and tourists desiring to have extreme experience in Hawaii. Today, it is common to see young islanders  and tourists sporting Hawaiian tattoo. Since it is a form of expression, your tattoo is what you are, or your beliefs.