Kaʻau Crater facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kaʻau Crater |
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 Kaʻau Crater
Location in Hawaii
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 1,516 ft (462 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Honolulu County, Hawaii |
| Geology | |
| Mountain type | Tuff cone |
| Last eruption | Unknown |
Kaʻau Crater is an old, inactive volcano crater. It is located on the island of Oahu in the U.S. state of Hawaii. You can find it near a place called Palolo Valley.
How Kaʻau Crater Formed
Kaʻau Crater was created by a series of volcanic eruptions. These eruptions are known as the Honolulu Volcanic Series. They came from the Koʻolau Range mountains.
Kaʻau Crater is a special type of volcano called a tuff cone. Tuff cones form when hot magma mixes with water. This causes very explosive eruptions. Other famous tuff cones on Oahu include Diamond Head.
Legends of Kaʻau Crater
According to old Hawaiian stories, Kaʻau Crater was made by a powerful demigod named Maui. Maui tried to pull the islands of Oahu and Kauai closer together. He used a magical hook and line.
But the line snapped! Maui's hook fell to the ground. Where it landed, it made a big dent, which became Kaʻau Crater.
The name "Kaʻau" comes from "Kaʻauhelemoa." This was the name of a special, magical chicken. This chicken was said to live in the same valley as the crater.
Exploring Kaʻau Crater
Many people enjoy visiting Kaʻau Crater. They come to hike the Kaʻau Crater Trail. It's a fun adventure for visitors every year.
However, this crater is not as well-known as other volcanoes in Honolulu. This is because it's a bit more hidden. It offers a unique and quieter experience for hikers.
