Mount 'Alava: Summit Views and Rainforest Hikes

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Hike to panoramic views atop Tutuila's iconic Mount 'Alava, explore rainforest trails, and discover American Samoa's natural beauty.

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Mount 'Alava

Mount 'Alava, the second-highest peak on Tutuila Island, American Samoa, offers panoramic views and lush rainforest trails. Hike to the summit for vistas stretching across the island, neighboring Samoa, and the Manu'a District on clear days.

A brief summary to Mount 'Alava

Pago Pago, Eastern District, AS

Local tips

Wear sturdy hiking boots for better traction on the trails, as they can be rocky and muddy.
Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up during the hike.
Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Check the weather forecast before your hike to ensure safe conditions, as sudden rain showers can occur.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From the center of Pago Pago, board a local bus heading towards the Eastern District. Ask the driver if the bus goes to the nearest stop for Mount 'Alava. The bus ride should take around 15-20 minutes. Get off at the nearest stop and look for the trailhead. Walk a short distance along Route 1 if needed until you find the entrance to the trail. Typical cost for a short bus trip: $1-3 USD.
Walking

From the center of Pago Pago, start at the A. P. Lutali Blvd. and head east along the waterfront. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Route 1. Turn left onto Route 1 and proceed towards the direction of the Eastern District. After approximately 2.5 kilometers, look for a trailhead on your right side that leads toward Mount 'Alava. This trail is marked with signs indicating the path to the summit. Walking to the trailhead from Pago Pago takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Pago Pago. Inquire at local accommodations or shops for taxi or shuttle services to the Mount 'Alava trailhead. A taxi ride from Pago Pago to the Mount 'Alava trailhead will cost approximately $15-25 USD.

Discover more about Mount 'Alava

Mount 'Alava, rising 1,610 feet (491 meters), is a prominent landmark and a must-visit destination in American Samoa. Located on Tutuila Island, it offers breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to explore the island's unique rainforest ecosystem. The mountain is accessible via two main trails: the Mount 'Alava Trail and the Mount 'Alava Adventure Trail. The Mount 'Alava Trail, starting at Fagasa Pass, is a longer, more gradual climb along a wide, often muddy path through the jungle. The Mount 'Alava Adventure Trail, beginning in Vatia, is shorter but steeper, featuring a challenging ascent with ladders and steps. At the summit, an observation platform provides sweeping views of Tutuila Island. On clear days, you can see the islands of Western Samoa and the Manu'a District. The mountain is part of the Pago Volcano's caldera rim, adding to its geological significance. A broadcast station was established on Mount 'Alava in 1964. Historically, the trail was used by villagers from Fagasa and Vatia to access the market and harbor in Pago Pago before government roads were built. The government later renovated the trail and added a tramway to help villagers transport crops. The aerial tramway, built in 1965, spanned over 5,000 feet across Pago Pago Harbor but was later abandoned due to damage from a hurricane. Remnants of the tramway can still be seen near the harbor. Hiking Mount 'Alava offers a chance to experience American Samoa's natural beauty, with diverse flora and fauna, including fruit bats and various bird species. The trails pass through lush tropical forests, with opportunities to see native plants and the park's conservation efforts.