Pu'u Wa'awa'a Hike Big Island Hawaii

The Puʻu Waʻawaʻa hike—also known as Jello Mold Hill—is a unique adventure on the Big Island of Hawaii, leading to the top of an ancient cinder cone with some of the best panoramic views on the island. The name Puʻu Waʻawaʻa means “many-furrowed hill,” and from a distance the rounded cone really does resemble an upside-down jello mold, which is how it earned its playful nickname. This cinder cone is over 100,000 years old, making it one of the oldest land features on Hualālai, and climbing it feels like stepping back in time through Hawaii’s volcanic past.

The hike itself is roughly 6.5 to 8 miles round trip, depending on whether you take the longer loop or the more direct out-and-back route. Most of the trail follows a wide gravel road that gradually climbs through dry forest and open grasslands before narrowing into a grassy path at the base of the cinder cone. The final push to the summit is steeper but not technically difficult, and the rewarding views from the top make every step worth it. From the summit you can see the Kona Coast, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai, offering a sweeping 360-degree look at the island’s volcanic landscape. We spotted several goats along this trail as well.

We found the hike to be relatively moderate overall, even while carrying our toddler, and loved the combination of history, geology, and stunning scenery. If you’re looking for a less crowded Big Island hike with incredible views, Puʻu Waʻawaʻa is a hidden gem that delivers an unforgettable perspective of Hawaii’s natural beauty.

Our gear:
🤿: Mask/Snorkel - get it at https://amzn.to/3vhAaf5
🤿: Toddler/Kids Mask - get it at https://amzn.to/3BL3PzI
👟: Gerald's Trail Runners - Saucony Peregrine - https://amzn.to/2YVccL0
👟: Gerald's Hiking sandals - Keen Newport - https://amzn.to/3BJpyrX
👟: Hailey's Hiking sandals - Chaco - https://amzn.to/3lIZOGu
🎒: Hiking Backpack: Osprey Talon 22 - https://amzn.to/3AIjzSS

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