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Saddle Road, Central Hawaii

This cave is actually a skylight in a 25-mile long lava tube that was created by an 1881 flow from Mauna Loa. Located near Hilo, the opening to the tube is overgrown with plants due to the ambundant rain on this side of the island. Long, thin roots reach all the way down to the floor of the lava tube. The opening is well-marked and a concrete staircase allows for easy entry to the cave. Bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the 2-mile long opening in the tube. History reports that the 1881 flow stopped within 1 1/2 miles of Hilo due to the intervention of Princess Ruth. She camped in front of the flowing lava and prayed to Pele to spare the city. Her prayers were answered! The walls of the lava tube are wet and covered with moss and ferns. Use caution when climbing the stairs as they may be slippery. The cave entrance is well-marked and easily accessed via the stairs.

A steep, concrete staricase leads down to the floor of the lava tube. Lush foliage surrounds the opening and plant and tree roots extend through the ceiling of the tube.

Useful Information:

FREE admission

Ample parking

Picnic tables

Restrooms

Wear sturdy shoes

Bring a flashlight



DIRECTIONS:

From downtown Hilo, turn left of Waianuenue Avenue. Just past Mile Marker #1 bear left onto Kaumana Drive (a.k.a. Saddle Road). Kaumana Cave is located on the right just past Mile Marker #4.