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Mauna Loa Trail, Red Hill Cabin

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Mauna Loa Trail is one of the most famous trails in the volcano area. The round trip hike to the summit takes 2-3 days.  For regular tourists, a round trip of 4-5 hours hiking on this trail is recommended (the stretch before the 9000 feet maker). The first stretch of the Mauna Loa Trail passes though an old native dry-land forest dominated by Koa and Ohia trees. Enjoy the Ohia, pukiawe and ohelo berry shrubs on the trail! From the trail, there are bird views of Kilauea Crater, Halemaumau fire pit, Kilauea Visitor Center, Volcano House and the rest of the Volcano area.    The slopes of Mauna Loa are a trekker’s paradise. The 18-mile hike to the summit of Mauna Loa (13,679 feet) is challenging but very rewarding. The summit provides panoramic views of beautiful Mauna Loa. Most hikers spend the first night at Red Hill Cabin (10,035 feet/ 4039 m) and proceed to the summit Mauna Loa Cabin on the second day. The round trip hike to the summit takes at least 3 days and should only be attempted by the experienced and well-prepared hikers.