It was all smiles on Saturday, August 26, as 45 mountain bikers turned out for Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s first exploratory ride of Kahuku.

The 15-mile route included a 6-mile, 1700’ uphill and loop trails over loose gravel, slick grass, and steep rocky stretches.

To prevent the introduction of non-native plants and insects into the park, rangers helped riders clean their bikes, packs, and shoes before the ride.

The ride was cosponsored by Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the International Mountain Biking Association ( IMBA)