Pros & cons
PROS
- Vast, young pāhoehoe lava field with striking channels and tree molds
- Quieter stop with big views across Kīlauea’s East Rift landscape
CONS
- Full sun and radiant heat with no shade or water
- No on-site services; sharp, uneven lava can be disorienting
Overview
Mau Loa o Maunaulu is the roadside gateway to a seemingly endless field of pāhoehoe on the flanks of the Mauna Ulu shield. The name hints at what you’ll feel here: lava that stretches “forever,” still young, raw, and dramatic. It’s less busy than the summit overlooks or the coast, and it delivers that otherworldly, black‑and‑silver lava scape you came for.
What You’ll See
- Miles of smooth, ropy pāhoehoe punctuated by lava channels, cracks, and fragile lava trees and molds.
- Big‑sky views over the East Rift Zone; on clear days you can trace the flows toward the coast.
- Sparse, slow regrowth poking through the rock—proof this landscape is fresh.
Why It’s Special
These flows were born during the 1969–1974 Mauna Ulu eruption—one of Kīlauea’s most storied events. You’re walking across geologic history that formed within living memory, with textbook examples of how lava rivers carved and cooled.
How to Visit
This is a simple roadside stop along Chain of Craters Road with informal access onto the lava. Many hikers start explorations of the Mauna Ulu flows from nearby parking areas, and Puʻu Huluhulu’s panoramic cone is close by. Expect rough, uneven lava underfoot and take your time—route-finding on a uniform black landscape can be tricky.
Safety and Essentials
Stay on durable surfaces and follow any marked cairns (ahu). Hidden cracks are real, and a fall on sharp lava is no joke. Bring sturdy footwear, sun protection, and more water than you think you’ll need—there’s no shade and the rock radiates heat.
Facilities
There are no services at Mau Loa o Maunaulu. Use the restroom at the Mauna Ulu parking area before heading out, and carry everything you need. Pack out your trash.
Best Time to Visit
Go early or late for cooler temps, softer light, and fewer people. Midday can be punishingly hot and flat for photography. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.
Wildlife
This stop is all about geology. Don’t expect much wildlife—conditions are harsh and vegetation is sparse.
Where it is
19.3668, -155.2010Tips for Mau Loa o Maunaulu
- 01Start at dawn or late afternoon to beat the heat and harsh light.
- 02Carry extra water and wear sturdy closed‑toe shoes—the lava is sharp.
- 03Use the restroom at the Mauna Ulu parking area before you explore.
- 04Follow cairns and stay on durable lava; avoid fragile lava trees and molds.
- 05Download or pick up the Mauna Ulu trail guide to identify features.
Amenities
Near Mau Loa o Maunaulu
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayMauna UluOtherworldly lava from Kīlauea’s 1969–74 eruptionTrailhead · Parking
0.4 mi awayPuʻu HuluhuluLush kipuka hike with big Mauna Ulu lava‑flow viewsTrailhead · Restroom
1 mi awayNāpau TrailBig, raw lava trek to remote craters on Kīlauea’s East Rift.Challenging · 11.9 mi · 5.6 hr
1 mi awayPuʻu Huluhulu TrailCairn-marked lava walk to a forested cone with big Rift Zone viewsModerate · 2.5 mi · 2.5 hr
1.4 mi awayPauahi CraterQuick roadside pit crater with stark views and cultural offeringsPullout · Parking
1.9 mi awayKāne Nui O HamoRemote lava shield with solitude and big East Rift views
2.1 mi awayKeauhou TrailLong lava slog to a lonely coast and a lifesaving shelter.Challenging · 7.6 mi · 5 hr
4.1 mi away'Iliahi (Sandalwood) TrailShaded sandalwood stroll steps from the visitor centerEasy · 1.4 mi · 45 min
