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Hawai'i
Pu'u O'o trail
On the Saddle Road, the road that runs in the valley between Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, is the Pu'u O'o trail. It is an old route that was once used for cattle but nowadays it is an exciting trail for bird-watching.
The trail itself is really interesting as it passes through several distinct geological and ecological areas. The trail derives its name from Pu'u - a hill and O'o - a large honeyeater, which is unfortunately extinct now.
The trail is very varied and passes through several kipuka (islands of old lava with vegetation, which are surrounded by newer lava flows). We also crossed A'a (very rough lava), and later through grassland and open forest over old pahoehoe (smooth, glassy lava).
After we hiked about two hours, we had a lovely picnic and on the way back had stunning views of Mauna Kea, and we were fortunate to observe a couple of native birds called I'iwi (see picture).
The trail is on the south side of the road, coming from Kona, at the 22.4 mile point.
You can find more information on the trail and the walk in The Birdwatcher's Guide to Hawaii.
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| Start of the trail |
Pricilla and Tim trailing ahead |
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| Through the first kipuka |
The Nene Sanctuary |
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