Lake Waiau via Mauna Kea-Humu'ula Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a difficult (due to the high elevation and extreme weather) out and back trail to Lake Waiau in Mauna Kea Forest Reserve.

Lake Waiau is very shallow and the highest lake in Hawaii. The body of water holds special reverence for Hawaiians, in ancient times Ali’i (royalty) would make the journey to deposit the umbilical cords of their children as an offering to provide them with the strength of the mountain. The Lake was also thought to be a portal to the spirit world. As such, you shouldn’t disturb the water or touch any offerings left here.