American Samoa National Park Hiking Trails: Our Top 5 Favorite Hikes

The nearly equal proportion of water and land make the National Park of American Samoa a popular destination for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring. This national park is a unique spot complete with coral reefs, rainforest-covered mountain sides with white beach sand below, and wildlife.

Hike #1: Mount 'Alava Trail

A must see for any traveler is the view from the summit of Mount Alava through American Samoa. The hike begins in lush, tropical rainforest before following the ridgeline close to the top.

Once there, you can take in panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor and overlook many other islands from clear days.

For a scenic view, climb to the summit and look at old Tramway cars from days gone by.

Climb the stairs to the summit and find yourself panoramic views of Tutuila Island. On the clearest days you can see Western Samoa in the distance!

Total Distance: 6.1 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,548 feet

Type: Out & back

Hike #2: Lower Sauma Ridge Trail

Despite a moderate incline, the Lower Sauma Ridge Trail is an easy hike. Along its 0.4 mile length, you'll stroll past gorgeous views like Lata Mountain and Uncle Eli's Compound that will entice you to stop every so often for a snapshot or just enjoy it as it unfolds before your eyes.

Lower Sauma Ridge Trail is located at an archaeological site that includes a star mound. In the area, breathtaking views and exhibits provide insight into what life was like before European contact.

At this time, you can see Pola Island, which is home to nesting seabirds.

Total Distance: 0.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 173 feet

Type: Out & back

 

Hike #3: Pola Island Trail

Hiking the Pola Island Trail provides a perfect view of Pola Island, the picturesque coastlines, and crashing waves.

Pola Island is a small island that can be found offshore from the village of Vatia and it lies on Tutuila Island in American Samoa. The island is designated as part of the National Park, and it welcomes many visitors every year.

Once you park at the Tuafanua trailhead, cross over to follow dirt and gravel roads until you reach the beach where hikers can observe those unique views.

You can get better views of Pola Island by hiking on the rocks to the right. Waves crash against the beach and if you are lucky, you may be the only one there so you can take in peace and quiet.

After taking in your view, return to your car via a path that was traveled over earlier.

Total Distance: 0.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 104 feet

Type: Out & back

Hike #4: Tumu Mountain Trail

Tumu Mountain Trail is a challenge you won’t want to miss.

Hiking in the tropics has something to offer everyone. Hikers can view wildlife as well as a healthy dose of an untouched rainforest. Just beware there is a steep ascent followed by a short descent.

The hike begins at the village harbor. The trail goes up into mountain jungle, and then passes a solar array after which there's not much foliage. Expect overgrowth in some places on the trail and know that it will be hot and humid all year round.

We recommend choosing the option that’s hidden behind a tree. Use the fixed rope on your left as an anchor to pull yourself up over the edge. At this point, you’ll reveal a perfect view of what lies in store for you on the remainder of the hike.

Total Distance: 5.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,594 feet

Type: Out & back

Hike #5: Si'u Point Trail

The Si'u Point Trail is a moderately-trafficked 5.4 mile out and back trail. This trail is near Ta'u on the island of American Samoa and includes an intermittent river. Accessible year-round, Si'u Point Trail will take hikers through forests, bridges, past waterfalls, and alongside groves of coconut trees and includes some slight elevations.

You’ll get started from the parking lot at the trailhead as you hike up a dirt road for .25 miles before crossing over a small bridge. At this point, you’ll continue another half-mile along this well-maintained trail.

This trail follows an old road in the coastal forest past culturally important Fiti’uta to the southeast tip of Ta'u. The trailhead is actually a continuation of the main road in Fiti'uta. As you leave town and head into rougher, remote territory, this area transitions from paved ground to dirt.

Total Distance: 1.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 488 feet

Type: Out & back