Founded in Honolulu in 1981 as a private nonprofit organization, the Hawaii Nature Center has a mission to foster awareness, appreciation and understanding of Hawaii and its natural environment. It accomplishes this by teaching Hawaii's young people about their surroundings, encouraging wise stewardship of local ecosystems, and providing visitors with a unique and educational experience.
Located in the scenic Iao Valley, Maui's branch of the Hawaii Nature Center provides kids and adults with a variety of ways to understand and appreciate the beauty and science of one of the island's most lush natural habitats. It does so by presenting some 30 interactive displays, a solarium with local flora, and guided walks into the rain forest, which is located not far from where segments of the movie "Jurassic Park'' were filmed.
The center's Rainforest Walk takes participants into the vegetation of the Iao Valley, which receives some 400 inches of rain every year. Featuring native and introduced Hawaiian plants as well as the remains of ancient dwellings, the course follows a moderate loop trail along ancient footpaths and across Iao Stream.
The excursion is conducted by an experienced guide, who explains not only the flora, fauna and geology of the region but also the folklore and legends associated with this historic location. Walks begin at 11:30am and 1:30pm weekdays, and at 11am and 2pm on weekends. Participants must be aged five or older.
Following the hike, visitors are invited to spend time in the center's Interactive Nature Museum. Designed to appeal to all ages, it features hands-on exhibits that interpret and enhance understanding of Hawaii's cultural and natural history. A tall glass-encased solarium, for example, displays views of the Iao Valley with water flowing into touch pools that teem with native stream life.
Community programs developed by the Hawaii Nature Center of Iao Valley include "Nature Explorers'' for children aged five and older, and "Incredible Insects'' and the "Makiki Valley Hike'' for children aged seven and up. These two-and-a-half-hour programs focus on insects, moss, fungi, birds, soil, and plants, through outdoor activities. Parents may participate, too.
To bring the Iao Valley experience to children and families who might not be able to visit in person, the Hawaii Nature Center also organizes an Outreach Program. Educators and volunteers help arrange fun, interactive displays and nature crafts at fairs and exhibits around Maui. Families are given a chance to do nature activities together, such as creating insect headbands or making their way through a Nature Obstacle Course.
Reservations for the Rainforest Walk can be booked in advance. The cost is $29.95 for adults and $19.95 for children, which includes a visit to the Interactive Nature Museum. Visits to the museum arranged separately are priced at $6 for adults and $4 for children. HNC members are admitted to the museum free-of-charge, and special kama'aina (local) discounts may apply.
The Hawaii Nature Center of Iao Valley is located at the entrance to Iao Valley State Park on the edge of the West Maui Forest Reserve, just two miles from downtown Wailuku. The address is 875 Iao Valley Road, Wailuku, Hawaii 96793. To drive there, take State Highway 32 (Main Street) west until it becomes Iao Valley Road. The Museum and Gift Shop are open from 10am to 4pm daily.
Review, comment, or add new information about this topic: