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We've been on lots of really long hikes in our travels to the Big Island. One we haven't done is the hike to Pu'u 'O'o from South Glenwood Rd through the rain forest.
To tell the truth, we were a little hesitant due to the reports of aggressive wild pigs that could be encountered along the way.
Have any of you done this hike? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
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I did it 10 years ago, and it was phenomenal. Started around 8, back to the car around 12:30. Really amazing how the dense forest came to an abrupt end. But my guess is that the trail is now hard to follow, as it has been officially closed for years now.
Leilani Estates, 2011 to Present
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Yes, however, be forewarned that there are serious issues with doing it, not the least of which Justin mentioned (it's closed - the sign says up to 2 years in jail, previously it said up to $2000 fine) Next on the list is the risk of the wind changing direction when you are within 1-2km of Pu'u'o'o - it can cause serious irritation or even death. On the more likely, but less serious side, the trail is muddy, full of roots, lava cracks and thus you could slip and twist an ankle or something. It is beautiful and if the trade winds hold there's a great view and it looks like it's currently the closest access to the current lava flow. In a perfect world, you'd be able to sign a waiver or something and just go. I think the real purpose of the signage and regulations is to discourage tourists who don't know how to hike (especially in this terrain) from getting in trouble and costing a lot of $$$ for search and rescue.
Just call me Mike
Me ka ha`aha`a,
Mike
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The crust along the summit is quite weak and easy to break through. I am not talking fall into lava, just break down to next layer. It is very sharp stuff and cuts right into jeans.
To handle the mud on the trail in I heard once someone went barefoot.
Hmmm now why do I know this.
Former Puna Beach Resident
Now sailing in SE Asia
HOT BuOYS Sailing
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the trail is closed, but Many still hike it... but its not as dangerous 'or a big deal' as say Stairway to Heaven or Sacred Falls on Oahu, where many have died
the Pu'u O'o trail is not a park trail, it was cut for fast access to Pu'u O'o for scientists etc., not the public... the main reason its closed IMO besides the northeast flows of recent times... is because many people are unprepared and get lost and injured, especially lost, they dont bring a compass, and when they turn around and start back they may hit a side pigtrail get confused and get off the main trial and get spun.. you can get lost for days in some areas of Big Island, this being one of them...
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save our indigenous and endemic Hawaiian Plants... learn about them, grow them, and plant them on your property, ....instead of all that invasive non-native garbage I see in most yards... aloha
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save our indigenous and endemic Hawaiian Plants... learn about them, grow them, and plant them on your property, ....instead of all that invasive non-native garbage I see in most yards... aloha
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Seems like everyone would benefit if they did a group hike once a month (with waivers if need be). It really is my favorite hike on the island.
Leilani Estates, 2011 to Present
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Great hike! A bit muddy and easy to get turned around (pig trails). Someone I know used colored ribbons, and collected them on the way out.
I've run into friendly hunters a few times.
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Ahhhh. [
] This reminds me of why I joined Punaweb.
Excellent, thoughtful and insightful answers.
And me? Grateful. Thanks everyone.
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Let me know when the group hike is formed!
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Let us know about group hike too ! [
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