Tantalus (Oahu) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tantalus |
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A view of Honolulu seen from Tantalus (2008)
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,014 ft (614 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Honolulu County, Hawaiʻi, U.S. |
| Parent range | Hawaiian Islands |
| Topo map | USGS Honolulu |
| Geology | |
| Age of rock | Greater than 10,000 years |
| Mountain type | Cinder cone |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Paved road |
Mount Tantalus (also called Puʻu ʻōhiʻa) is an extinct cinder cone on the island of Oʻahu in Hawaii. It is part of the southern Koʻolau Range. An extinct volcano means it is no longer expected to erupt.
Tantalus also has a crater at its top, known as Tantalus Crater. This cinder cone formed long ago, after the Koʻolau Volcano stopped erupting. It was created during a later period of volcanic activity in southeastern Oʻahu. Other famous landforms like Punchbowl Crater, Diamond Head, and Koko Head also formed during this time. Today, Tantalus overlooks the city of Honolulu, which is built on volcanic material from Tantalus.
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What is the History of Tantalus?
The Tantalus Loop is a 6-mile road that was once a popular wagon trail. In the late 1800s, people used it for picnics and to enjoy the views. The area was known for its beautiful plants. These included eucalyptus trees, stag-horn ferns, and guava plants.
There was even a "Half-Way House" along the trail. This small building offered a resting spot for travelers. Many families chose to live in this cool, quiet area. These included the Waterhouses, Giffords, and Alexanders. A 25-foot cliff of black volcanic sand was also a popular sight. However, this sand was later used for paving roads and yards.
Tantalus During World War II
Tantalus played a role in the U.S. Army's defense system. A special station was built there to help control coastal artillery guns. This station worked with another one at Diamond Head. Together, they helped direct the big guns at Fort DeRussey and Fort Ruger.
During World War II, the southern side of Tantalus was bombed. This happened on March 4, 1942, during an attack by Japan called Operation K. The attack was not successful.
Tantalus Today: A Popular Spot
Today, Tantalus is a favorite place for many activities. Hikers enjoy its trails, and road bicyclists love riding the loop. Skateboarders also use the winding roads. It is one of the most visited tourist spots on Oʻahu.
Since 1974, a bicycle race called The Tantalus Time Trial has taken place here. It goes from the bottom to the top of the loop. This race is the longest-running cycling event in all of Hawai‘i.
How Did Tantalus Get Its Name?
Mount Tantalus was named in the 1800s by students from Punahou School in Honolulu. They named it after Tantalus, a character from ancient Greek myths. In the myth, Tantalus was always thirsty, but water would move away every time he tried to drink. The students felt a bit like Tantalus when they climbed the mountain. The peak seemed to always be just out of reach.
These same students also named other Hawaiian peaks. These include Olympus, Round Top, and Sugarloaf.
Tantalus in Books
Tantalus Crater is featured in the novel Micro. This book was written by Michael Crichton and Richard Preston.
Images for kids
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A view of Honolulu seen from Tantalus (2008)
