Highlight • Trail
Puna Coast Trailhead
Hiking
4.2
(10)
Running
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
March 14, 2023
Hiking
October 17, 2023
Running
September 10, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Puna Coast Trailhead
56
hikers
2.00km
00:31
10m
10m
The Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs Trail offers a truly unique journey across an ancient pahoehoe lava field, where smooth, ropy rock stretches as far as the eye can see. While the scenery is stark, you'll find native Hawaiian plants like ʻIlima adding touches of green. The path is marked by rock cairns, guiding you to the main attraction: the Puʻuloa Petroglyphs, a vast field of ancient carvings.
This easy 1.2-mile (2.0 km) hike with just 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain takes about 30 minutes, but the uneven lava terrain makes sturdy footwear a must. There's no shade, so plan your visit for cooler times of day and bring ample water. The Puna Coast Trailhead provides access, and arriving early can help secure parking.
What makes this trail truly special are the over 23,000 petroglyphs, or kiʻi pōhaku, etched into the lava, making it the largest and most significant petroglyph field in Hawaii. Many are pukas, cupule holes where umbilical cords were placed to bless newborns with long life, offering a profound glimpse into Native Hawaiian history and culture.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
10.5km
02:43
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
4.09km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 40 m
Weather
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Today
Sunday 14 June
29°C
18°C
42 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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