- State: HI
- NPCA Region: Pacific
- Est. Date: 1980
This isolated peninsula on the north coast of the island of Molokai is surrounded by sea and high cliffs—and not easy to get to. Visitors must pre-arrange access, then hike a steep three-and-a-half-mile trail to get to the entrance, beyond which there are no dining or shopping facilities. The reward for all of this advance preparation, however, is an ecological paradise with natural beauty as well as a fascinating history. Kalaupapa was once an isolated colony for Native Hawaiians suffering from Hansen’s disease, also known as leprosy; in addition to lush, rare flora and fauna, the park preserves many archaeological features dating back to ancient times and historic buildings and relics from its once-exiled residents.
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Blog Post
Objects at Hand: 10 Curious Park Artifacts
The National Park Service manages one of the largest museum systems in North America, preserving more than 45 million artifacts, from the artful to the odd.
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Magazine Article
Founding Mother
Welcomed by former outcasts, an endangered seal starts a dynasty at Kalaupapa National Historical Park.
More about Kalaupapa
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Read more about The National Parks of Hawai‘i (WAITLIST ONLY)
Land Based Trip The National Parks of Hawai‘i (WAITLIST ONLY) Experience the unique cultural and natural beauty within Hawai‘i’s national parks by joining expert biologists, naturalists and cultural interpreters who will share their extensive knowledge and perspectives of this remarkable place. Meet with park rangers to learn more about the work being done to protect vulnerable ecosystems and endangered animals and plants which are found nowhere else on earth. Access locations that are off the beaten path and not readily accessible to the general public. Leave with a greater appreciation of the islands, their natural and cultural history and the ongoing challenges to preserve this unique biodiversity.
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Read more about Trivia Challenge: A Rare and Isolated Community
Blog Post Trivia Challenge: A Rare and Isolated Community Q: National parks help interpret diverse aspects of American culture, including unusual and exceptional stories from our country’s past. One unique park site preserves the history of a particularly rare and isolated kind of community: a Hansen’s disease settlement (commonly known as a leper colony). Can you name this park where former patients still live today?
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Read more about 10 Hidden Gems in the National Park System
Blog Post 10 Hidden Gems in the National Park System Want to explore a few remarkable places off the beaten path? These 10 NPCA picks offer great ways to escape the crowds while enjoying unique, underappreciated natural and cultural treasures around the country.
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Read more about Exiled to Paradise
Magazine Article Exiled to Paradise Kalaupapa National Historical Park celebrates the triumph of the human spirit over Hansen’s disease.
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