Here’s another ride in Hawaii to dream about while it’s cold out.
Fly past rainforests and black lava rocks toward the southernmost point in the United States on this 95-mile out-and-back on Hawaii’s Big Island.
In the first 25.9 miles, you’ll drop nearly 4,000 feet to sea level, skirting rainforests and sloping hillsides charred with volcanic rock, to the black sands of Punaluu Beach. Upon reaching the beach, look for the endangered species of sea turtles that make their home there before circling back toward HI 11 and heading toward Naalehu.
Hit the first climb of the day at mile 31 and ascend 10 miles at a manageable 3.5-percent grade. Naalehu, a tiny village and refueling stop along the ride, breaks up the climb, which ends just 6 miles away from Ocean View, the ride’s western terminus. If you’re returning to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park by bike—the last 25.9 miles of climbing average a 2.8-percent grade—stock up at the Malama Market in Ocean View before beginning the return trek.
Note: To avoid the long climb back to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, leave a car in Ocean View.
This is another great ride submitted by Russ Stevens. -kris wagner, map editor