Mauna Loa
Mauna Loa is the world's largest volcano by volume and an active shield volcano in _Hawaii_, known for expansive routes and a historically significant summit.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Pacific |
| Subregion | Central-Pacific |
| Country | United States |
| State | Hawaii |
| County | Hawaii County |
| Timezone | PacificHonolulu |
| Latitude | 19.475 |
| Longitude | -155.608 |
| Maps |
9:55 AM LOCAL TIMEMauna Loa rises approximately 13,681 feet (4,170 meters) above sea level and dominates the _Big Island of Hawaii. As the largest volcano on Earth by **total volume (~18,000 cubic miles)** and surface area, it exhibits a broad, shield-building form with gentle slopes. Mauna Loa has been in near-continuous state of eruption for centuries, with the most recent activity occurring in 2022. Visitors come to Mauna Loa_ for long summit hikes, multi-day backpacking routes (subject to permit and safety checks), and to witness the stark contrast between its lower flanks and the surrounding rainforest. Trail access varies — the Mauna Loa Road (aka Saddle Road) crosses part of the volcano’s base, while summit climbs usually require prepared high-elevation hikes and official permits. The region around the volcano includes visitor centers, weather stations, and service roads but requires careful planning to travel safely across its changing terrain.
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