The Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hosts its next “Sunday Walk in the Park” on April 8 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. This month’s two-part, two-mile round-trip walk explores two different areas of the park: Sulphur Banks to Crater Rim Trail and Kipukapuaulu. (Photo courtesy of Jay Robinson | NPS)

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The public is invited to join the Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes Park for a “Sunday Walk in the Park” noon-2 p.m. April 8. This monthly program on second Sundays is aimed at bringing together the members of FHVNP to share in the park’s beautiful trails.

Led by Nick Shema, this month’s two-part, two-mile round-trip walk explores two different areas of the park.

The first part starts at the Kilauea Visitor Center and explores Sulphur Banks Trail and Crater Rim Trail, an easy one-mile trek on mostly flat and level ground. The second part requires driving to Kipukapuaulu (Bird Park).

“Kipukapuaulu’s lovely one-mile loop trail explores an ancient mesic forest and one of the park’s Special Ecological Areas, which contains a wide variety of plants and birds,” Shema said. “This dirt trail is mostly level with a slight upgrade for about half the way and then a little steeper on the way back.”

This will be an easy two-part hike totaling about two miles roundtrip, mostly on forested dirt trails. Be prepared for the base 4,000-foot elevation and for variable weather conditions, including sunny, windy, chilly, and/or rainy.

FHVNP’s “Sunday Walk in the Park” is free for Friends members, and non-members are welcome to join the non-profit organization in order to attend. Annual memberships are $30 for individuals and $45 for families, and come with a variety of benefits. Park entrance fees apply.

To register, call walk sponsor Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes Park at 985-7373 or visit www.fhvnp.org