The best walks and hikes around Kilauea

Yes, there are several great options for families. The Wai Koa Loop Trail to Kilauea Stone Dam — Kauai is a very gentle walk leading to a historic dam. Another excellent choice is the Devastation Trail, a paved and accessible 1-mile round trip that offers a unique look at the landscape recovering from the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption.

Due to the dynamic volcanic environment, trail conditions and closures can change daily. It is essential to check for the latest updates before you go. For official alerts on trail status, eruption viewing, and safety, please visit the National Park Service website.

Weather in the park can change rapidly. It's best to dress in layers. Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes as you'll be walking on uneven lava rock. Bring rain gear, as showers are common, but also sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Even on warm days, it can be cool and windy at the summit.

Yes, you can walk through the Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube). This popular and easily accessible attraction is a 500-year-old cave formed by a river of lava. The trail to and through the tube leads you through a lush, tropical rainforest, offering a fantastic contrast to the volcanic landscapes elsewhere in the park.

Yes, the Pools of Mokolea — Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge trail offers a beautiful coastal experience. This route takes you through a wildlife refuge, providing opportunities to see native birds and enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean.

Besides the main trails, hikers often visit specific points of interest. The Kīlauea Iki Trailhead is the starting point for a highly-rated hike across a solidified lava lake. The Nāhuku Lava Tube is a must-see, offering a walk through a massive, ancient lava cave. For a different perspective, the Devastation Trail provides an easy, paved walk through a landscape recovering from a past eruption.

Yes, the Crater Rim Trail circles the summit caldera of Kīlauea. Portions of this trail offer dramatic views of the Halemaʻumaʻu crater and the surrounding volcanic desert. It's a great way to experience the scale of the volcano. For current conditions and access information, check the official park page for the trail.

For a day hike, you should carry a backpack with at least 2 liters of water per person, snacks, a rain jacket, and sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses). Sturdy hiking shoes are essential. A headlamp or flashlight is also recommended, especially if you plan to be in the park after dark to view the eruption glow.

Yes, there are several loop trails. The Kilauea Stone Dam loop from Kalihiwai is an easy circular route. For a more challenging but rewarding loop, the Kīlauea Iki Trail descends into a crater and crosses the solidified lava lake before climbing back out through a rainforest.

The trails around Kīlauea are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the unique experience of walking on volcanic landscapes, from the stark beauty of crater floors to the lush rainforests that grow on older lava flows. The well-maintained trails and the sheer power of the natural environment are often highlighted.

The Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs trail leads to one of the most extensive fields of ancient rock carvings in Hawaiʻi. The hike is a 1.4-mile round trip across a 500-year-old lava field, ending at a boardwalk that allows you to view thousands of petroglyphs, offering a deep connection to the area's cultural history.

There are over 20 trails to explore around Kīlauea. These range from easy, paved walks suitable for all fitness levels to more moderate hikes through rainforests and across crater floors. The network of trails ensures there is something for everyone looking to experience this unique volcanic landscape.