This park offers a quick diversion into a lava tube. You can descend on a metal ladder into a skylight in a lava tube that was created by an 1881 flow from Mauna Loa. Unfortunately, you cannot explore this long tube because it immediately travels underneath private property. There are no admission fees, and the park features restrooms and picnic tables.

Trailhead: From Hilo, follow Hwy. 200, the Saddle Road,  to the west. Locate Kaumana Caves State Park between the 4 and 5 mile markers (right after 4 mm). The parking area is on the south side of the road, but the park is on the north side.

Weather

Gear: Wear sturdy shoes. Bring a flashlight.

Hike: Carefully cross Hwy. 200 (Kaumana Dr.) and simply descend the steep metal staircase into the collapsed skylight of the lava tube. You can explore a short way in both directions before the lava tube enters private property. Bring a flashlight if you intend to travel beyond the cave entrances.