The best walks and hikes around Mountain View

The landscape is uniquely shaped by volcanic activity. You can expect to hike through lush rainforests, across the floor of volcanic craters on solidified lava lake beds, and past natural steam vents. The terrain offers a dramatic mix of exposed, otherworldly crater floors and shaded, tropical forest paths.

Yes, there are several easier options suitable for a wider range of hikers. For a memorable and relatively short walk, consider the Kīlauea Iki Crater Loop. It's a 3.6-mile (5.8 km) trail that offers the incredible experience of descending through a rainforest to walk across a crater floor.

For a longer and more challenging hike, the Kīlauea Iki West Overlook – Volcano House Hotel loop is a great choice. This 9.1-mile (14.6 km) route takes you through the varied volcanic landscape and is a favorite among local enthusiasts.

Yes, you can explore a lava tube on the Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) loop. This trail combines a walk through the rainforest with the experience of passing through a large, ancient lava cave.

The trails around Mountain View are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the once-in-a-lifetime experience of walking on a volcanic crater floor and the stunning contrast between the stark lava fields and the vibrant, surrounding rainforest.

This guide highlights a curated selection of the best trails in the area, with a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult routes to choose from. In total, there are 7 routes available, ranging from short walks to more demanding hikes.

Weather can change quickly, so layering is key. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the volcanic rock can be uneven and sharp. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, but also pack a rain jacket, as rainforest showers are common. Even on cloudy days, sun protection is recommended for the exposed crater sections.

Yes, hiking on volcanic terrain requires caution. Stay on marked trails, as the ground can be unstable and there may be hidden cracks or steam vents. Be aware of volcanic gases (vog), which can be hazardous, especially for those with respiratory issues. Always carry plenty of water, as it can get hot and humid.

The trails mentioned, such as the Kīlauea Iki Crater Loop, are located within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. An entrance fee is required to access the park and its trail system. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for the latest information on fees, trail conditions, and any potential closures before you go.

The trails in this guide focus on the Kīlauea Iki crater, which is a solidified lava lake from a past eruption. While you will see incredible volcanic features, these specific routes are not typically where you would see active surface lava flows. Volcanic activity is dynamic, so check with park rangers for current conditions and viewing areas.

The trails within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park are generally well-maintained and marked. Look for stacked rocks, known as 'ahu', which are used to guide hikers across the vast and often featureless crater floors. It is still important to have a map and be aware of your surroundings.