Day Hike - Ha‘akulamanu (Sulphur Banks)

Ha'akulamanu (Sulphur Banks) Trail

Due to underground heat, this dramatic volcanic thermal area has very few trees. Known as Ha'akulamanu, this unusual place has been famous for birds, colorful deposits, and billowing vapors.

• Difficulty: Easy
• Distance: 1.2 mile (2 km) round trip.
• Trail begins: Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents) parking area.

At Ha'akulamanu (Sulphur Banks), volcanic gases seep out of the ground along with groundwater steam. These gases are rich in carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide -- the gas that smells like rotten eggs. Some sulfur gases deposit pure crystals at Haʻakulamanu. Other sulfur gases form sulfuric acid which breaks down the lava to clay. This clay is stained red and brown with iron oxide.

Visitors with heart or respiratory conditions (such as asthma), pregnant women, infants, or young children should avoid this walk.

Learn more about the phenomenon of steam vents and sulphur banks.