Kaumana Cave

In 1881, a flow from Mauna Loa created cave that is actually a skylight in a 25- mile long lava tube, known as Kauman Cave.  Kauman Cave is located near Hilo.  The opening to the tube is overgrown with plants due to the abundant rain.  Long, thin roots reach all the way down to the floor of the lava tube. There is a well marked easy entrance into the cave.  You may want to bring along a flashlight to explore the 2 mile long opening.  History reports that the 1881 flow stopped within 1 ½ 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.