Mauna Loa is a mountain of five active volcanoes plow formed the Hawaiian Islands in the state of Hawaii, USA. Mauna Loa means “Long Mountain” in the native Hawaiian language. This volcano, including a shield volcano with volcanic stuffing volume reached 75,000 km2.
Mauna Loa classified as an ancient volcano that might develop into the sea since 400,000 years ago. Mauna Loa is expected due to the form of the movement of the Pacific Plate moving toward hot spots are located just below the surface of Hawaii.
The Mauna Loa eruption that is a disaster for the residents of Hawaii occurred on March 24, 1984 until April 15, 1984. To this day, small eruption issued by Mauna Loa is not sufficient cause massive losses, but history records that Mauna Loa devastating eruptions have occurred in 1926 and 1950 and destroyed several villages and towns in Hawaii.
Mauna Loa, which means “long mountain” many climbs by hiking enthusiasts. This is perhaps due to the contours of Mauna Loa is not steep. The slope of the mountain is not more than 12 degrees. Well, the other active volcanoes are Kilauea. The mountain is actually located on the slopes of Mauna Loa, but because of differences in the composition of the lava and magma so many experts who consider the mountain was different.
Mauna Loa Summit. Image Via: akastrochristy.wordpress.com
In the mountains of Mauna Loa, there is the Mauna Loa Observatory that located near the top and play a key role in measuring changes in the atmosphere and carbon dioxide levels since 1956. The Mauna Loa last eruption occurred in late 1984 for 3 weeks. During previous eruptions in 1926 and 1950 that resulted in the destruction of the villages on the slopes of the mountain. Most of the Hilo area was also affected.
Mauna Loa Observatory. Image Via: research.noaa.gov
In 2009, a series of earthquakes occurred in Mauna Loa raised fears of a possible eruption. Because the big earthquake in 2006 caused minor damage to the majority of the observatory. There are two ways to reach the summit of Mauna Loa. First, through the Mauna Loa trail that starts at the end of Mauna Loa on the south side of the mountain road and ends at the confluence of the cabin and the summit trail. While the second through the observatory trail that starts from the Mauna Loa Observatory on the north slopes of Mauna Loa.
For the climbers who intend to stay overnight at Mauna Loa, you are required to register at the Kilauea Visitor Center. Here we will receive the latest information about the local natural conditions such as weather. Rest house reserved for climbers who stayed at Mauna Loa is equipped with 12 beds, tables and chairs.
Mauna Loa Shield Volcano. Image Via: geotripperimages.com
Mauna Loa is not only interesting for the climbers. You just want to visit this mountainous region would not be disappointed. We will be spoiled with a charming plantation village in the hills. Not just a hill, but the area is also close to two of the most popular beaches in the Molokai Papohaku and Kapukahehu often called the Dixie Maru Beach. Not only that, you will also find a unique shops, galleries, such as the Big Wind Kite Factory. Mauna Loa is also very well known as an area where people have very fond of kites. The ambiance of making kites can also be seen during a visit to Mauna Loa.
Mauna Loa is located about 20 minutes drive from Molokai. You can take a taxi or rental car to get to the area of Mauna Loa.
Mauna Loa Street. Image Via: geotripperimages.com
Mauna Loa Summit Photo. Image Via: akastrochristy.wordpress.com
Mauna Loa Hike. Image Via: kellypaavola.ourrockymountainwedding.com
Mauna Loa Hike Photo. Image Via: sepwww.stanford.edu
Mauna Loa Hike Trail. Image Via: panoramio.com
