Nature
Mauna Loa, one of five volcanoes that built the island of Hawaiʻi, is a vast shield volcano whose broad slopes rise from the sea floor to 4,170 meters above sea level. By mass and volume it is the largest active volcano on Earth and covers more than half the island. Formed as the Pacific Plate moved over the Hawaii hotspot, it has erupted for hundreds of thousands of years, with thirty-four documented eruptions since 1843. Its lava has repeatedly threatened communities, giving it special hazard status, while its cultural importance, long scientific monitoring, and nearby observatories make it both a powerful natural force and a major site of study.
Hear stories like this as you drive
ExploreHere reads historical markers out loud as you pass them: over 325,000 stories across the US. No account needed.
4.7 · 800+ ratings · Free
FIND IT
Honaunau-Napoopoo, Hawaii · United States
