Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ainahou Ranch House was built in 1941 as a mountain retreat by Herbert C. Shipman, a descendant of one of Hawaii’s oldest missionary families. (Photo courtesy of Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park)
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Join park staff and Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a walking tour of Ainahou Ranch House and gardens.
The free, behind-the-scenes tour is offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the following Tuesdays: Aug. 4, Aug. 18, Sept. 1, Sept. 15, Sept. 29, and Oct. 6.
From the challenges of living and raising cattle on the slopes of an active volcano to developing a safe haven for nene, the endangered Hawaiian goose, Ainahou is rich in history.Â
Tour participants will explore the ornamental gardens, learn about the geology and history, and find out how the Mauna Ulu eruption resulted in the park’s acquisition of this 6,324 acre mid-elevation ohia woodland.
Those who plan to join the tour should meet at least twenty minutes before the tour start time at the Mauna Ulu parking lot located 4 miles down Chain of Craters Road. Allow 20 minutes to drive from the Kilauea Visitor Center to the Mauna Ulu parking lot.
Participants should be prepared to walk a mile over uneven surfaces at a leisurely pace; wear sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and a hat; and bring water, snacks, a camera, and raingear.Â
Tours take place rain or shine, but may be cancelled on short notice due to poor air quality, severe weather, or volcanic activity.
Over the years, a cadre of dedicated volunteers has brought this special place back to life and is excited to share it with others. If you would like to be part of the park’s volunteer team, call Volunteer Coordinator Laura Williams at 985-6304.
— Find out more:
Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: 985-7373, www.fhvnp.org
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Ainahou Ranch House and Gardens (Photo courtesy of Lanaya Deily)
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