Puu Kukui, Mountain summit in West Maui, US
Puu Kukui is the highest point of the West Maui Mountains, rising to about 5,788 feet. Dense vegetation and steep slopes define the terrain across this summit area.
This volcanic formation developed millions of years ago and was shaped by subsequent erosion. These natural processes helped create Iao Valley from the original caldera structure.
The name means 'hill of enlightenment' in Hawaiian, referring to candlenut trees that once covered its slopes. These trees held cultural importance for native Hawaiians and shaped how people understood this mountain.
Access requires special permits and is limited to researchers and conservationists because of its protected watershed status. Visitors interested in visiting should inquire about permit availability with local authorities beforehand.
The summit receives extremely high annual rainfall, making it one of the wettest spots on Maui. This moisture creates an acidic bog environment where water cannot drain properly through the soil.
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