Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail |
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Restored section of the trail
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 Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
Location in Hawaii
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| Location | Hawaii, US |
| Nearest city | Kailua, Hawaii County, Hawaii |
| Length | 175 mi (282 km) |
| Established | 2000 |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail |
The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a special path on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is about 175 miles (282 km) long. This trail helps people explore the traditional Ancient Hawaiian culture and the island's amazing natural places.
The trail was officially created on November 14, 2000. It is a National Historic Trail, which means it is important for history and recreation. The National Park Service takes care of the trail.
Contents
About the Ala Kahakai Trail
The Ala Kahakai Trail is not one long, unbroken path yet. Instead, you can find different parts of it along the coastline of the Big Island. These sections let you visit many beaches and resorts.
What Does "Ala Kahakai" Mean?
The name Ala kaha kai comes from the Hawaiian language. It means "shoreline trail." This name fits perfectly because the trail follows the coast. It goes along old paths that fishermen used long ago.
Exploring the Trail's History and Nature
The trail passes through more than 200 ahupuaʻa. These were traditional Hawaiian land divisions that stretched from the sea to the mountains. In ancient times, people often traveled by both land and sea in canoes.
The trail goes through both public and private lands. Some parts of the trail are not maintained very often. This means some sections have been worn away by nature or turned into roads. Only a few parts of the trail have signs to guide visitors.
Where the Trail Begins and Ends
The northern end of the trail is at Upolu Point in the North Kohala District. This spot is near the Moʻokini Heiau, an important historical site.
A part of the trail is also known as Ala Loa. This name means "long trail" in Hawaiian. This section was added to Hawaii's list of historic places in 1989. It was also added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. This part of the trail runs from Kiholo Bay to Kalahuipauaʻa near Puakō.
After going along the west side of the island, the trail ends inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This park is famous for its volcanoes.
Planning for the Trail's Future
Starting in 2002, a big plan was made for how to manage the trail. This plan also looked at how the trail affects the environment. The final plan was published in 2008.
Trail Map
See also
In Spanish: Sendero histórico nacional Ala Kahakai para niños
