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Mount 'Alava: Summit Views of Pago Pago

Hike to the summit of Mount 'Alava for panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor and a glimpse into American Samoa's natural beauty.

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Hike to the summit of Mount 'Alava, the second-highest peak on Tutuila Island, for panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor, surrounding islands, and lush rainforests. Once the site of a vital tramway, the mountain now offers a rewarding hiking experience through the National Park of American Samoa.

A brief summary to Mount 'Alava

  • Pago Pago, Eastern District, AS

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the rocky and muddy terrain.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can be challenging.
  • Start your hike early to avoid the midday heat and humidity.
  • Check the weather forecast before hiking, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for insights into the flora, fauna, and history of the area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Pago Pago, the Mount 'Alava Trailhead can be reached by walking or taking a bus to Fagasa Pass. From the pass, the trail is well-marked. Follow the trail as it ascends to the summit. Be prepared for a moderate to strenuous hike of approximately 3.5 miles each way.

  • Public Transport

    From the Pago Pago area, take an 'aiga' bus towards Fagasa. These buses are colorful and display the names of the villages they serve. The bus will drop you off at Fagasa Pass, where the Mount 'Alava Trailhead is located. Bus fares typically range from $0.50 to $2.00, depending on the distance. Be prepared for a wait of up to an hour, as bus schedules are not fixed.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Pago Pago and can take you directly to the Mount 'Alava Trailhead at Fagasa Pass. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A taxi ride from Pago Pago to Fagasa Pass typically costs between $15 and $25.

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Discover more about Mount 'Alava

Mount 'Alava, reaching 1,610 feet (491 meters), offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in American Samoa. Located on Tutuila Island, within the National Park of American Samoa, the mountain provides sweeping vistas of Pago Pago Harbor, the verdant landscape, and, on clear days, even the Manu'a Islands and Samoa. The mountain is accessible via the Mount 'Alava Trail, also known as the Mount 'Alava Adventure Trail. This 7-mile roundtrip hike presents a moderate to challenging trek through a tropical rainforest, with sections that include steep climbs and, on the Adventure Trail, a series of ladders and steps. Hikers will traverse varied terrain, from dirt and rock to muddy paths, encountering unique flora and fauna along the way, including fruit bats and diverse bird species. Historically, Mount 'Alava served as a crucial link between villages, providing access to the market and harbor in Pago Pago before modern roads were constructed. A broadcast station was established on the mountain in 1964. The remnants of a former aerial tramway, which once transported visitors and equipment across Pago Pago Bay, can still be seen, adding a historical layer to the natural beauty. The tramway was completed in January 1965 and spanned over 5,000 feet across the Pago Pago harbor, from this hill to the top of Mount Alava. The tramway came of necessity, providing a vital method of transporting TV equipment and personnel across the water and up the steep mountain. Today, Mount 'Alava is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking stunning views and a taste of American Samoa's rich natural and cultural heritage. The trails offer a unique combination of scenic beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit location.

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