The Puna coast. Photo courtesy of Friends of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Join the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park (FHVNP) for a “Sunday Walk in the Park” on December 9, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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, the 6-mile round-trip walk will explore the Puna Coast Trail.

Starting at the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyph Trail parking area, we will follow the Puna Coast Trail for approximately 3 miles (toward ‘Apua Point). We’ll cross the 1971 and 1972 lava flows and have lunch overlooking the ocean while watching for whales. Then we’ll return via the same trail.

This moderately strenuous 6-mile round-trip hike will traverse hardened pahoehoe lava along a windswept, sun-soaked landscape. Hikers should be in good condition, able to do without shade all day in a remote, rugged area.

Participants provide their own transportation to the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyph Trail parking area in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. From Highway 11, between mile markers 28 and 29, turn into Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park (entrance fees apply). Turn immediately left at Crater Rim Drive and then left at Chain of Craters Road. When you are almost to the coast, look for the parking area for the Pu‘u Loa Petroglyph Trail. Approximate travel from Hilo is 1.5 hours and from Kailua-Kona is 3.5 hours. To view maps, visit http://www.nps.gov/havo/planyourvisit/maps.htm

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.

To register, call Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes Park at 985-7373 or visit www.fhvnp.org