10 Best Walks & Hikes in American Samoa National Park

Short, scenic and filled with natural drama, the Pola Island Trail is one of the most accessible hikes in the National Park of American Samoa—and one of the most rewarding.

Located on Tutuila, this brief coastal walk leads you through lush coastal vegetation to a rocky beach encompassing views of the rugged coastline and Pola Island, a protected sanctuary for nesting seabirds.

The trail begins after you pass the last house in Vatia Village and continues along a gravel road, suitable for high-clearance vehicles if you want to park as close to the end of the trail as possible.

You'll pass interpretation panels before arriving at the rocky cove.

Taking 30-45 minutes return for the full gravel road walk, or 2-5 minutes return from the end of the gravel road, this nature walk is perfect for those with limited time but still looking for a real slice of American Samoan beauty.

Note that the powerful currents here pose a real risk to swimmers. We'd strongly recommend staying out of the water at this beach.

The short but rewarding Lower Sauma Ridge Trail on the northern coast of Tutuila is a must for visitors interested in nature, history and sweeping ocean views.

Taking around 15-20 minutes to complete at 660 yards (600 m), the one-way trail is moderately challenging with a gentle incline, perfect for a quick adventure with a big payoff.

At the start of the trail, you'll find interpretive panels highlighting the area's cultural significance, flora and fauna.

March downhill through the forest and over a stony path to an ancient star mound, an archaeological site used in traditional ceremonies and navigation.

The trail ends with stunning views over the Vai'ava Strait National Natural Landmark, with Pola Island visible in the distance; an iconic, narrow rock formation and nesting site for seabirds.

For a rugged rainforest adventure, the Tuafanua Trail delivers an exhilarating hike with rich forest, coastal cliffs and a hidden beach at the end.

This 2.2 mi (3.5 km) return trail starts at the northern end of Vatia Village on Tutuila, winding through dense vegetation before descending via steep ladders and ropes to a secluded rocky beach.

Though short in distance, this trail is challenging due to its terrain. Expect slippery paths, narrow ridgelines and overgrown sections. You'll want proper footwear, water and a downloaded map - just in case, as signage can be minimal.

The trail is well worth the effort, however, as it ends at a quiet, wave-battered beach. Strong currents make swimming unsafe, but the setting is perfect for a rest and photos.

As always, it's best to start early and to hike with others for safety. Allow 2-3 hours to complete.

A must-do on Ta'ū Island, the Saua Trail (known as the Si'u Point Trail) offers a peaceful coastal journey through coastal forest awash in historic landmarks.

This 5.7 mi (9.2 km) out-and-back trail (or, more appropriately, road) begins just beyond the last homes in Fiti'uta Village and follows the southeastern coast of Ta'ū.

The road winds through coastal vegetation, leading past the ancient village site of Saua, which is also believed to be the birthplace of Polynesian culture - you can learn more about it in the 10 Best Historical Sites in American Samoa.

Remnants of the village can be seen at various stone wells and grinding stones situated on the roadside, so keep an eye out as they're easy to miss.

You'll also have the opportunity to stop by various picturesque beaches, such as Luo Ma'a, meaning "Two Rocks", and Pu'a Vai, named after the springwater found in the area. The latter beach is also our favourite for snorkelling.

At the trail's end, you'll reach the remote Aufotu Cove, where rocky headlands meet the vast Pacific. It's best to take a guide if you want to venture along the coast to the Luifuta Waterfall.

Though the route is relatively gentle, the distance and heat can make it moderately challenging, so come prepared with plenty of water, sun protection and good shoes.

As always, we recommend starting early to avoid the midday heat. Allow 3 hours minimum to complete the hike, although you can easily spend longer with stops for swimming and revelling in nature's paradise.

For panoramic views and exploring Tutuila's rainforest, the Mt 'Alava Trail is one for the bucket list.

This 7 mi (11.3 km) one-way trail climbs steadily from Fagasa Pass up to the summit of Mt 'Alava (note that the last few steps to the summit are currently closed due to storm damage), which towers above Pago Pago Harbor with breathtaking views of the island's rugged coastline and central valleys.

The trail follows a ridgeline through lush tropical forests and restoration zones where native trees are being reintroduced. Along the way, you'll pass old communication towers and likely spot native birds circling overhead.

The path is well-defined but steep in places with limited shade, so pack plenty of water, bug spray and sun protection. Needless to say, it's best done in the morning for cooler temperatures.

Diverse, scenic and rich in history, the Fatifati Auala Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in Pago Pago for those ready to break a sweat.

This rugged rainforest trail on Tutuila winds uphill along an ancient path, featuring rope-assisted sections, steep ridgelines and sweeping viewpoints.

Starting near the Mt 'Alava area, the trail starts squished beside a high-wire fence before breaking away from civilisation.

It climbs for approximately 3 km (2 mi) through dense jungle to the Fagaloa Viewpoint, taking approximately 2-3 hours return, with the option to continue onward to the summit of Mt 'Alava to make it around 5 hours return.

Along the way, hikers encounter archaeological sites, including a traditional star mound and a historic village. In other words, look out for flatter areas which would have served as foundations for these sites.

The trail is arguably more interesting than the main Mt 'Alava Trail if you’re into archaeology, since you’ll see these features almost as soon as you enter.

An alternative way to see Mt 'Alava, the Mt 'Alava Adventure Trail is a physical and adrenaline-pumping challenge and the ultimate test in the National Park of American Samoa. It combines the Upper Sauma Ridge Trail and Vatia Trail to make a circuit.

This 5.6 mi (9.2 km) loop takes hikers along steep ridgelines, through dense jungle and up a series of 56 ladders and 783 steps, all leading to the summit of Mt 'Alava (at least when the summit is open, as it recently suffered from storm damage) with jaw-dropping views over Pago Pago Harbor and Tutuila's northern coast.

Unlike the standard out-and-back trail, this route continues down to the village of Vatia, looping through more rugged and remote terrain.

Sections of the trail can be narrow, muddy and physically demanding, especially after rain, so it's only recommended for experienced hikers with proper gear.

Once you reach Vatia village, where you'll seemingly emerge in someone's back garden, but that's Ok, return to where you parked along the road.

According to the National Park's Superintendent’s Compendium, the Vatia village part of the trail should not be walked on Sunday to respect the local customs.

An adventurous out-and-back trail to Mt 'Alava, the Upper Sauma Ridge Trail offers an exciting trail with breathtaking views of the Pola Islands along the way.

This challenging 3 mi (5 km) one-way trail has you scrambling sections with ladders and ropes that will test even experienced hikers. The reward for your efforts comes in the form of spectacular panoramic views of Vatia and Pola Islands that unfold along the way.

Prepare yourself for a very strenuous adventure that typically takes 3 hours one-way, demanding both physical fitness and mental determination. For those seeking an extended challenge, you can combine this trail with the Mt Alava Adventure Trail, creating a loop by returning via the Vatia Trail to emerge at Vatia village before making your way back to the trailhead by road.

A shorter route to Mt 'Alava, the Vatia Trail is your final option to reach the summit or loop with the Upper Sauma Ridge Trail to complete a circuit of awesomeness.

This 2.4 km (1.5 mi) trail traces the ancient route used by the people of Vatia to travel to and from Pago Pago Harbor for trade, later serving as a powerline route to bring electricity to the school in the 1960s.

Prepare for a very strenuous hike that may take 2 hours one-way, featuring numerous ladders, some completely vertical. You'll pass through several old (but unmarked) settlements, near star mounds, adze quarries, habitations and grave sites, revealing that Samoans haven't always lived only along the beach.

You can also use the trail to do the Mt Alava Adventure Trail in reverse, returning via the Upper Sauma Ridge Trail back down to Vatia village.

According to the National Park's Superintendent’s Compendium, the Vatia village part of the trail should not be walked on Sunday to respect the local customs.

Ok, not a walk. But the National Park of American Samoa Visitor Center is still a must for anyone wishing to hike the park's trails. Not only is it a good spot to get the latest trail updates, but it's well worth "walking" around the mini-museum.

Inside, you'll discover topographic model maps of American Samoa, intricate sculptures showcasing the territory's unique flora and fauna, and an impressive whale skull that never fails to impress. The centre goes beyond just park information, offering insights into American Samoa's history and culture.

A presentation room hosts rotating temporary exhibitions; during our last visit, we were delighted by artwork created from repurposed plastic waste.

You can collect your national park stamp, browse memorabilia, and gather essential information to help plan your park adventures.