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Fagasā Pass to Mt. 'Alava Hiking Trail: A Samoan Summit

Hike through lush rainforest to panoramic views atop Mt. 'Alava in American Samoa's National Park. A rewarding trek for nature lovers!

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Hike through lush rainforest to the summit of Mount 'Alava, offering panoramic views of Tutuila Island and the Pacific Ocean. Starting at Fagasā Pass, the trail presents a moderate challenge with rewarding vistas, showcasing American Samoa's natural beauty and unique ecosystem.

A brief summary to Fagasā Pass Trailhead to Mt. 'Alava Hiking Trail

  • Monday 6 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-8 pm
  • Friday 6 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Bring plenty of water, as there are no water sources along the trail.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for a potentially slippery and rocky trail.
  • Apply sunscreen and mosquito repellent before starting the hike.
  • Consider hiking during the dry season (May to October) for more favorable weather.
  • Check with the National Park Service visitor center in Pago Pago for trail conditions and information.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Pago Pago, follow Route 005 north for approximately 1.2 miles to Fagasā Pass. Look for a sign pointing to the National Park. Turn north on the road east of Napa Auto Parts and travel 1.2 miles up the mountain, to Fagasa Pass. The trailhead is located at the top of the pass, with off-street parking available. There are no fees for parking or accessing the trailhead.

  • Public Transport

    Local 'aiga' buses travel around Tutuila, but schedules are unscheduled. Check with the visitor center in Pago Pago for bus routes heading towards Fagasā Pass. Ask the driver to drop you off at the pass. From there, walk up the hill through the gravel parking lot to the trailhead. Bus fares are typically inexpensive, around $1-$3 Samoan Tala (approximately $0.37-$1.12 USD) for a short trip.

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Discover more about Fagasā Pass Trailhead to Mt. 'Alava Hiking Trail

The Fagasā Pass Trailhead marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mt. 'Alava, the second-highest mountain on Tutuila Island. This popular trail, located within the National Park of American Samoa, offers hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the island's stunning natural beauty. Starting at Fagasā Pass, the trail winds through a mixed-species paleotropical rainforest, showcasing the park's conservation efforts with native trees. As you ascend, keep an eye out for the Samoan flying fox and various tropical bird species. The well-maintained path gradually climbs along the ridge line, treating hikers to fleeting views of Fagasā and the Pacific Ocean. While the 7-mile round trip is considered moderately challenging, the heat and humidity can add to the difficulty. Proper footwear is essential as the trail can be rocky and slippery, even on dry days. Reaching the summit rewards your efforts with panoramic views of Tutuila Island, Pago Pago Harbor, and, on clear days, even the islands of Western Samoa and the Manu'a District. The summit also features the remains of an old tram station and broadcast infrastructure, remnants of a bygone era. For a more adventurous route, consider the Mount 'Alava Adventure Trail, a steeper path with ladders and ropes. However, be aware that this trail can be overgrown and more challenging to navigate. Whether you choose the main trail or the adventure trail, hiking to the summit of Mt. 'Alava is an experience that encapsulates the beauty and adventure of American Samoa.

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