Puu Oo Trail

Description:

• This 7.4 mile, moderate difficulty trail heads south through pioneer ohia forest, brush and grassland in the direction of Volcano Village. It passes over the 1855 & 1881 lava flows and through several kipuka of mixed native species and older koa. Hikers may return by way of Powerline Road, a hunter access road which intersects the trail at the 3.7 mile point and rejoins Saddle Road about 0.5 mi. closer to Hilo. An interesting nature hike through a variety of mostly native vegetation, Pu`u O`o Trail offers birders the opportunity to see I`iwi, `Apapane, `Amakihi, Elapio, `O`mao, `Io, Akiapola`au and Nene. It was pioneered by early cattle ranchers to drive their stock to embarkation points on the coast. Rain, fog and cool temperatures are common. Seasonal bird hunting is allowed, so wear brightly colored clothing for safety. The trail can be difficult to follow where it crosses lava flows, especially in daily fog. Cold climate with rain and fog.

  Trail head is identified by a sign on the south side of Saddle Road (Hwy 200) approximately 22.4 mi. from Hilo. Parking is limited.