Mauna Ulu

Mauna Ulu is a volcanic cone rising roughly 300 feet (91 meters) within the Kilauea volcanic system in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The landscape shows numerous lava tubes, deep craters, and fissures that reveal how the volcano shaped the terrain.

The volcano erupted continuously from 1969 to 1974, marking one of Kilauea's longest eruption periods in modern times. This extended activity reshaped the national park's landscape and created new geological features.

The crater holds deep spiritual meaning for Native Hawaiians, who view it as a living part of their relationship with the land. Visitors can sense this reverence in how local communities speak about and protect this place.

Several hiking trails provide access to viewpoints around the crater, allowing visitors to experience the volcanic landscape from different vantage points. Park rangers are available to share current conditions and safety guidance, as volcanic activity can change unexpectedly.

During the eruption, lava fountains shot molten rock about 540 meters (1,770 feet) high into the air, an extraordinary display of volcanic power. Visitors standing here can better imagine the violent forces that shaped this landscape during those eruption years.