About
Length1.2 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyEasy
Elevation gain100 ft up
Typical time45 min
TrailheadMauna Loa Road, off Highway 11
SurfaceSoft dirt loop
Best seasonYear round. The summit area is cool and wet; the coastal and Kau Desert sections are hot and exposed.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityThe trail is a narrow dirt path with gentle inclines and declines. Note: dogs, horses and bicycles are prohibited on this trail.
What you'll see 🌼 Wildflowers🦌 Wildlife🌲 Old growth

This 1.2 mile (1.9km) loop trail reveals a story of struggle and survival for some of the rarest plants and animals in Hawaii. The walk will take you through a " kipuka ", an area of older vegetation surrounded by a more recent lava flow from Mauna Loa. Difficulty: Easy Distance and hiking time: 1.2 mile (1.9km) loop, 1.0 - 1.5 hours. Trailhead: Kipukapuaulu, located approximately 5.0 miles (8.0km). South on Highway 11, turn right on Mauna Loa Road and travel 1.5 miles (2.4km) to the Kipukapuaulu parking area. The trail is a dirt path with gentle inclines and declines. Note: dogs, horses and bicycles are prohibited on this trail. Bring: Water, hat, sunscreen and rain gear. Be prepared for sometimes hot, wet or windy weather conditions. Restrooms (pit toilets) are available nearby at the picnic area. Kipukapuaulu Trail Guide (pdf 6.18MB)

Tips
Known locally as Bird Park. A kipuka is a patch of older land that lava flowed around rather than over, so this forest is centuries older than everything near it. Go early for the native birds.
Location

Mauna Loa Road, off Highway 11

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.