Hualālai, Shield volcano in Hawaii County, United States
Hualālai is a shield volcano on Hawaii's Big Island that rises to about 2,521 meters in elevation. The mountain is one of five volcanoes forming the island and is composed of trachyte rock.
The volcano last erupted in 1801, sending extensive lava flows toward Kailua and reshaping the surrounding land. The traces of this eruption remain visible in the landscape today.
Local Native Hawaiian communities hold this mountain as sacred and weave it into their spiritual practices and ceremonies. This connection shapes how people today relate to and care for the landscape.
The area is dry and exposed, so bring water and sun protection for any visit. Wear sturdy shoes because the lava fields are uneven and have sharp edges.
The Puu Waawaa area contains trachyte rocks with mineral compositions that reveal clues about underground geological processes. These rock formations tell a story about the complex volcanic history that built this island.
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