Pu'u O'' Trail

The 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.

Directions: 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.

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.

Do not use any trail or access road that is not delineated by name and color and that may also be displayed on these maps. The marked features are managed for public recreational use. Other trails or roads that branch off from the public features may be on private property, and are not managed for any public recreational use. Access is subject to adjacent landowner approval, and if used without authorization, you will be trespassing and possibly putting yourself at risk.

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