The Highway 19 bridge near Hakalau, also known as the Umauma Bridge, is a beautiful, old wooden…read morestructure that has recently received some much-needed TLC. The bridge was labeled structurally deficient in 2007 due to corrosion of the steel truss towers and the state of Hawaii went to work to strengthen the supports and retrofit the bridge against earthquakes. Lanes were also widened to accommodate vehicular traffic. The 278-foot span, near the 16-mile marker, was originally built in 1911 to support railroad tracks over the Umauma Stream. The underlying structure, unseen by the thousands of drivers who pass over it daily, is comprised of two rusting steel towers supporting six spans of riveted steel plate girders. A story in the Hawaii Tribune-Herald a few years ago noted that " -- if you look underneath, (the bridge) is in need of extensive repair. It's been a concern," said state Rep. Mark Nakashima, D-Hilo-Hamakua-Kohala. "Initially, because that bridge does not have any alternate route around it, they (the state) will repair the bridge in place." This made for some major traffic problems and delays in the area, according to the tour guide who drove our group through the area in March 2015. The bridge is "110 feet tall, 38 feet wide and is described as "historically significant, due to its association with the Hilo Railroad Co., which played a major role in the development of the Hamakua sugar plantations and as one of the few remaining steel girder and trestle bridges that represent the work of John Mason Young," said the Tribune-Herald. Umauma Bridge is a historically representative example of early 20th-century engineering technology, as well as a source for information about early 20th-century steel manufacture and construction. The work done will rehabilitate the old bridge while satisfying state historic preservation requirements and bring the bridge up to current federal highway safety standards. The area near Hilo where the Bridge is located is awash in tropical greenery and waterfalls. It receives plentiful rainfall and that must be hard on wooden bridges. Very happy that the work on the bridge is soon to be completed and Big Island residents can safely travel in this gorgeous area once again. .

Wow. This view was breathtaking!…read more I visited in April and we definitely got lucky. I hear that all the tour busses come by and parking is often difficult to find. There is a slight hike so if you aren't physically able, this might be inaccessible for you. Tourists used to be able to access the property below the valley but that has changed since the pandemic (unfortunately). Still, nonetheless it doesn't cost a penny and it's a stunning view.

This was such an epic view. The lookout is a short but steep walk from the parking lot and had…read morebathroom facilities. This is definitely worth a stop if on the big island. The day we went, was right after rain and there was a waterfall falling onto a black sand beach. Where else in the world can you see that?

I'm normally more wordy than this, but I have some catching up to do…read more.. This statue is right off the roadway with parking available across the street. While you are in Hawaii spend some time and learn the history and the true culture of the Hawaiian islands. As long as you are in the area make sure you check out the local shopping and restaurants!

Located in kohala district ! Supposed birth place of king kamehameha. The king that united the…read moreislands of Hawaii. Located in front of the old country courthouse in the town of Kapa'au. Made of cast brass and painted with lifelike colors, it depicts Kamehameha I, and represents an important cultural and spiritual object for the local community.

Impressive historical site and good interpretive signed. The pathway is paved and some of it is…read moresuitable for wheelchairs.

This is a not to miss heritage of Hawaiian history with many items from the past. Although small,…read moreit is a clean and well cared for facilities.

As I age like fine wine I realize the value of learning about history. I may not be good on…read morejeopardy or remover the exact years but I find history especially in person exquisite. Wanting to fill our house with historic and local art we had to visit the statue and pay our respects. The first ruler of the kingdom of Hawaii uniting the island. Located downtown easily for all to see. A huge parking lot to drive up and park surrounded by a well manicured landscape. You can see how much he means as even today people continue to show respect by leaving plants and leis to decorate his statue. The bright and vibrant colors pop against the blue sky's and green surroundings. It was definitely worth the stop and a well kept area to wander around taking in Hilo slowing down and enjoying the scenery.

Beautiful statue of Kamehameha the Great cast in bronze. One of three statues in the state (Hilo,…read moreNorth Kohala, and Honolulu). This one is very easy to drive up to and maybe less crowded than going to see the one in Honolulu. I love how at this one there was hookupu in abundance.

"We all long for fairytales in a world full of nightmares... believe... & you're halfway there..."…read more Location: Hilo, Big Island, Hawai'i. Who doesn't enjoy an ancient story? Thor and the Throne of Asgard; Arthur and Excalibur; Tomoe Gozen and the Battle of Azawa in 1184. Not all stories are truth, but always remember there's a reason it was told. Today, many pass-by the Hilo Library, tourists and locals alike, and fail to notice the two heavy stones that rests in front. The larger one is called the Naha Stone. According to legend it had a duel purpose in ancient Hawai'i... First, the 7,000 lbs. Naha Stone, said to be brought over by canoe from the island of Kauai, had magical powers. Legend say whoever was able to move it would be the first King of the Hawaiian islands. At the age of 14, a young Kamehameha decided to try to move this large stone (risking death if he failed). He tried many times, finally moving it with his great strength. The prophecy was then fulfilled when he became King Kamehameha the Great and unified all the islands under his mighty rule. Second, In ancient Hawai'i, it was used to find out who belonged to the ruling Naha clan. After a baby was born, it was placed on top of this stone. If it remained calm, the baby was Naha. If it cried, it wasn't. I can only imagine the outcome of the later. In the end, it always starts from the beginning, and where we all came from. Maybe the Naha Stone is not for everyone, as the previous reviewer mentions, some might be bored (looking at large rocks lol). To me, it's all about respecting the past and understanding the great cultures of our world. And yes, I moved the Naha... slight exaggeration lol, but I did feel the Mana, I hope you do too... And so the ancient story goes...

As a you learn Hawaiian history as a kid in Hawaii you undoubtedly learn about Kamehameha the Great…read morelifting the Naha Stone and about what a feat of strength it was. I am sure every local kid has envisioned it in some capacity. The Naha Stone was very easy to find and sit fronting the Hilo Public Library which I think is absolutely fantastic. Of course we didn't really try to lift it and only posed for the photo.

Beautiful drive up here. It's the preeminent place on earth to see stars. The conditions are…read moredeemed perfect: elevation, lack of light pollution (they have laws about that on this island specifically to protect the viewing) and some thing to do with the wind and air or such in this part of the tropics. There are 12 telescopes set up by volunteer astronomers and park rangers that you can use. All you need are your eyes. You can see satellites buzzing by with the naked eye. They use a laser to point out constellations. There is a short film in the center which is worth while. Dress warm. It is COLD up here. 40 degrees. There are 11 countries with major observatories up here at the summit. There is a visitors center that sells gifts, hot cocoa and hot tea. There are restrooms. Oh, and did I say all of this is FREE?!?! (Except the hot drinks.).

Oh no what could you improve? How about some signage for the different trails. You sent unknowing…read moretourists on a journey through hell and caused us to miss a sunset we drove an hour to see. Who creates trails for visitors without any signs? Let's get our heads out of the dirt people.

This place is the perfect restroom stop on the way from Hilo to Kona…read more Beautiful and super clean with plenty of toilet paper ! It's high up so I bet it's gorgeous to look for the Milky Way and stars! Gorgeous surroundings and Mountain View to see! Enjoy!

Looking for beautiful sunrises o , sunsets or rainbows? This…read moreis the spot to see them all. I was blown away every day at the gorgeousness of this spot. It is on the long storied Saddle Road and you will have to drive through the clouds to get there, but it is worth it!! Be cautious, careful and drive safe. Afternoon rains are normal and cold! Pack your warm weather gear, scarves, hats and gloves and warm jackets. Oh? And your camera! The stars here are fantastic. If you need to connect with yourself and nature, go here.