One of the most beautiful and underrated hikes to Pu’uwa’awa’a on the dry Kona side of the island (updated 2023)

A gorgeous trail to explore from the bottom to the top of the cinder cone, Pu’uwa’aw’a is a moderate to challenging hike to undertake to reach the top.

The round trip hike is approximately 12.9 Km or 8 miles roundtrip and the trail is filled with beautiful wildflowers, native flora and spectacular views from all around the trail.

At the 2000 foot elevation, you get a good workout and will burn some calories on the hike to the top.

If you want to do a unique and different hike, check out the Big Island hike at Pu’uwa’awa’a, it is worth the effort to find this hiking trail and enjoy the experience and magnificent views on the top.

Where is Pu’uwa’awa’a located

Pu’uwa’awa’a is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, specifically in the North Kona District. It’s situated approximately 19 miles (30.5 kilometers) northwest of the town of Kailua-Kona. This region offers a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers looking to explore the natural beauty of the island.

Hiking Pu’uwa’awa’a Cinder Cone trail

You can choose to hike up a paved roadway to the base area of the Pu’u or take a side trail called the Ohia trail through some lovely high desert like forest and shady spots before you hit more exposed and sunny areas.

The area around the parking lot is filled with beautiful wildflowers with these gorgeous red succulents in bloom the day we were hiking up the trail.

Starting your hike at Pu’uwa’awa’a

Just past the entry paved road going upwards to the base of the pu’u is a detour trail marked the Ohia trail which is more scenic and a gravel/dirt path to another fire road that eventually connects to the same paved road. This trail is covered and shady in throughout the route which is a nice cover before you get to the more exposed and sunny areas of the trail head leading the base of the pu’u.

The asphalt fire road leads to the base area of the Pu’u cinder cone

You can take a detour on the Ohia Trail, through a dryland forest

What are the main trees to see on the trail at Pu’uwa’awa’a

When hiking the trails at Pu’uwa’awa’a on the Big Island of Hawaii, you’ll encounter a diverse range of native and introduced trees that contribute to the unique ecosystem of the area. Some of the main trees you can expect to see include:

1. Koa (Acacia koa): This native Hawaiian tree is known for its beautiful, curving trunks and fine wood used for traditional Hawaiian canoes and crafts.
2. ‘Ohi’a Lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha): Another native tree, the ‘ohi’a lehua is known for its vibrant red blossoms and plays a significant role in Hawaiian folklore and culture.
3. Mamane (Sophora chrysophylla): A native legume tree, the mamane, features silvery leaves and produces distinctive seed pods. It’s a crucial part of the ecosystem for native wildlife.
4. Kiawe (Prosopis pallida): Introduced to Hawaii, kiawe is a thorny tree with long, sharp thorns and provides shade and shelter for wildlife.
5. Eucalyptus (Various Species): Some areas may have introduced eucalyptus trees, known for their aromatic leaves and rapid growth.
6. Ironwood (Casuarina equisetifolia): Another introduced species, ironwood trees, can be found in some areas. They are recognizable by their slender, needle-like leaves.
7. Araucaria (Araucaria heterophylla): Commonly known as the Norfolk Island Pine, araucaria is another introduced species known for its tall, symmetrical shape and spiky branches.
8. Paperbark Tree (Melaleuca quinquenervia): Also introduced, paperbark trees have distinctive peeling bark, and their leaves release a pleasant aroma when crushed.

The combination of native and introduced tree species adds to the ecological diversity of Pu’uwa’awa’a and provides hikers with a chance to explore a variety of landscapes while enjoying the natural beauty of the Big Island.

Reaching the base of the Pu’u

The paved road eventually stops at the base of the pu’u with a secured gate entry that prevents invasive wildlife from entering the area. Horses are allowed on the trail so take note of all the horse manure left along the trail you can avoid.

You may spot wildlife around the area including goats, rams and wild sheep roaming the hills around the Pu’u along with the typical cows, ducks and various birds living the vicinity.

The trail is a recent addition to the state park system and called the Pu’uwa’awa’a Cinder Cone State Park.  Along the way you’ll see fantastic views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, Hualalei, and North Kohala mountains.

Weather is variable from pure sun to cloudy and rainy, so choose a sunny and clear day if you want to have beautiful views and weather reaching the top of the cinder cone.

Mid range of the pu’u hike

The trail is pleasant with dirt trails that eventually lead to grassy meadows with a moderate incline. There are nice stops along the way with benches if you want to take a break and enjoy the views below. Note – most of the remainder of the trail is exposed and very hot on sunny days so bring plenty of water and sun protection.

The last segment through a mostly dirt pathway to the top is challenging and steep so take a break and enjoy the views along the way. These are fun moments to also capture and even do some selfies.

Reaching the top of the cinder cone

The steep incline to the top is definitely difficult especially on sunny and hot days, but there are benches along the way to enjoy and soak in all the views from the back side. The grassy trails make it more scenic and pleasant to hike through to the top which is filled with beautiful native Ohias and fascinating dead trees that make a nice photo composition to capture.

There’s also a cool set of trees that look like the perfect framing of the coastline views below of the Kohala area.

Views of surrounding mountains and Pu’u cinder cone below

One top is mostly grassy area with a few benches to relax and enjoy the views or have a casual picnic on the grass.

Decayed trees make for dramatic landscapes to capture

Hiking back down to the parking lot

The hike back downhill is relatively fast depending on your speed and need to descent. There are different views going downhill and the light changes late in the afternoon with the clouds coming in and golden light time frame.

Heading back downhill

Cloudy skies and silhouettes from Pu’uwa’awa’a

How to enter the park at Pu’uwa’awa’a

Entry to the state reserve park is between Mile Marker 21 and 22 on Highway 190 and you enter a remote control gate that opens with sensors.

Once the sensors spot the gate to open, drive through and park right next to the sign in station

The station only requires hunters to sign in.

Do clean your shoes at the cleaning station to prevent carrying any virus or bugs on your shoes.

Tips on hiking the trail

Most of the trail and hike is exposed so bring plenty of water and sunscreen or hike in the morning or afternoon when conditions are cooler.

It is mostly asphalt fire road to the base of the pu’u, but you can take an alternate on the Ohia trail through more scenic dryland forested areas which connects to another graveled fire road to the mid way point.

Trail is moderate with a steady climb and steeper at the end with excellent views of the area.

There is a foot entry scrub (which prevents boots that might have contact to the Ohia virus happening throughout the island) so please do scrub your shoes before and after the hike.

There is a porta john on the way up the asphalt road, but outside of this, there are not other services in the park.

The gate and park is  open from 6am to close at 6pm so descend before that time frame.

Directions to Pu’uwa’awa’a

From Kona  – This is 18.1 miles or about  29 minutes from downtown Kona. Take Highway 190 until reach between mile marker 21 and 22.

From Hilo area – This is about 60 miles or 1.10 mins from Hilo. Take the Saddle road to the dead end T and make a left on Highway 190 to mile marker 21 and 22.

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Conclusion to hiking up to Pu’uwa’awa’a.

In conclusion, hiking up to Pu’uwa’awa’a on the Big Island of Hawaii is a journey into a pristine natural wonder, where the spirit of aloha meets the beauty of the outdoors. With the right preparation and a respectful approach, this hike becomes a memorable adventure filled with insights into the island’s unique flora, fauna, and cultural heritage.

Beginning your hike early in the day ensures not only a cooler trek but also the chance to witness the natural world coming to life. As you traverse the marked trails, you’ll discover the incredible diversity of trees, from native koa and ‘ohi’a lehua to introduced eucalyptus and ironwood.

Pu’uwa’awa’a is not just a hike; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and practice responsible stewardship. Respecting the environment, staying informed about trail conditions, and embracing the aloha spirit of Hawaii enhances your experience while preserving the pristine beauty of this unique place.

As you explore Pu’uwa’awa’a, you may encounter the native wildlife that calls this area home, from the majestic ‘io soaring overhead to the elusive nēnē foraging nearby. These moments of connection with the natural world are treasures to be cherished.

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