Parks / National Park of American Samoa
National Park of American Samoa
· AS
The National Park of American Samoa invites you to discover the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of the South Pacific. Experience a world unlike any other, where natural beauty and cultural heritage are protected for future generations. Join us in exploring these islands of sacred earth!
Official NPS page →Current Alerts (1)
Alava Trail Closure
The Mount Alava trail and Fatifati trail from the Fagasa pass to the summit is closed for trail improvement work until further notice. Visitors can hike to the Alava trail from the Old Vatia trail, it is a much steeper and more rugged climb. Other suggested hiking alternatives include Upper and Lower Sauma trails and the Tuafanua trail.
Entrance Fees
This park is fee-free.
Things to Do
Birdwatching on Lower Sauma Trail
Over 35 species of native birds fly in American Samoa’s skies. Each has its own story and place in our culture.
Fruit Bat Watching
Fruit bats are the only native mammals found in American Samoa. The two species of fruit bat and one insect-eating bat species are harmless to people. They have a wingspan close to three feet. As fruit eaters, fruit bats are excellent and vital pollinators. Plants rely on the fruit bat to spread its seeds through droppings. A colony of fruit bats ensures that the tropical rainforest remains healthy and full of new trees.
Lower Sauma Ridge Trail
Easy = 0.4mi/0.64km total; 232ft/7m elevation gain; 30-45 minutes. A gentle climb to an archaeological site featuring ancient grinding stones, this trail combines history with incredible views of the northeast coastline and the Vai’ava Strait.
Mount Alava Trail
Difficult = 7mi/11.27km total; 1,607ft/490m elevation gain; 4-5 hours. Trail can be steep, slippery, and rocky in places. Stunning panoramic views from the summit. Lush rainforest environment, great for bird and fruit bat watching.
Pola Island Trail
Easy = 0.1mi/0.16km total; 30ft/9m elevation gain; 15-30 minutes. This short, easy trail leads you to the untouched shores of the South Pacific; delivering big rewards with views of the rugged coastline and Pola Island, a sanctuary for nesting seabirds.
Snorkeling
Each island of American Samoa supports a coral reef ecosystem in its coastal waters. These coral reefs support a variety of marine life typical of tropical Indo-Pacific waters. To date, over 950 species of fish and over 250 species of coral have been documented.
Take a boat ride to Aunu'u
About one mile southeast of Tutuila’s eastern tip is the volcanic island of ‘Aunu’u, the smallest inhabited island. It can be reached by boat and explored by foot. 'Aunu'u Island is an excellent exposure of a relatively young flow of basalt inter-bedded with layers of tuff. The site also illustrates erosion by wave action and is covered with dense tropical vegetation.
Tuafanua Trail
Moderate = 2.2mi/3.54km total; 219ft/67m elevation gain; 2-3 hours. The trail leads you via ladders, steps, and ropes to a rocky beach, where you can enjoy the sound of the waves and take in the Western view of Pola Island.
Upper Sauma Ridge Trail
Strenuous = 3.2mi/5.15km total; 1,489ft/454m elevation gain; 3-4 hours. Hike a challenging trail through a dense rainforest, surrounded by native trees and birds. Enjoy one of the island’s most beautiful views of Vatia village and Pola Island at the summit.
Visitor Centers
- Visitor Center and Park Store
Source: National Park Service.