Highlight • Viewpoint
View of Kīlauea Caldera
Hiking
5.0
(12)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Best routes near View of Kīlauea Caldera
4.9
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
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158
hikers
The Kīlauea Iki West Overlook – Kīlauea Iki Crater Trail loop offers an extraordinary journey through Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, transitioning from a vibrant, lush rainforest to the stark, solidified lava lake of the Kīlauea Iki crater. You'll experience the unique sensation of walking across terrain formed by the dramatic 1959 eruption, with steam often visible from cracks in the ground, a constant reminder of the island's geological power. This moderate 9.5-mile (15.3 km) loop involves 1142 feet (348 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 4 hours and 22 minutes to complete.
To make the most of your visit, start at the Kīlauea Iki West Overlook parking area. Many hikers find it less strenuous to tackle the loop in a clockwise direction, especially for the ascent out of the crater. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear to navigate the uneven and sometimes sharp lava terrain, and consider bringing hiking poles for added stability. The exposed crater floor can get very warm, so prepare for varying weather conditions.
What truly sets this trail apart is the opportunity to walk directly across the Kīlauea Iki crater floor, a landscape sculpted by one of the most spectacular eruptions in recent history. You'll pass below the Puʻu Puaʻi cinder cone, where lava fountains once soared to 1900 feet. This trail provides an intimate connection to the raw, dynamic forces that continue to shape the Hawaiian Islands, making it a highlight for anyone interested in volcanic geology.
4.9
(10)
94
hikers
The Kīlauea Iki Crater Trail – Kīlauea Iki West Overlook loop from Kilauea Military Camp offers a dramatic journey through Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You'll descend from a vibrant rainforest rim, filled with ʻōhiʻa trees and hāpuʻu ferns, onto the vast, solidified lava lake of Kīlauea Iki crater. Walking across this uneven, rocky surface, where steam still rises from cracks, feels like stepping onto a lunar landscape, with the impressive Puʻu Puaʻi cinder cone as a constant reminder of the 1959 eruption. This difficult hike covers 11.1 miles (17.9 km) with 1274 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 5 hours and 3 minutes. It's a truly unique experience for those seeking a challenging and immersive volcanic adventure.
To access this trail, you'll need to make your way from Kilauea Military Camp to the Kīlauea Iki Overlook trailhead, a short distance along Crater Rim Drive. The terrain is varied and includes steep sections and uneven lava, so sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, from hot and exposed on the crater floor to damp in the rainforest, and carry ample water. Hiking the loop clockwise is often recommended for a more manageable ascent out of the crater.
What makes this trail truly stand out is the opportunity to walk directly across the floor of what was once a churning lake of molten lava, offering a profound connection to the geological forces that shaped the Hawaiian Islands. The abrupt transition from lush rainforest to barren volcanic landscape vividly illustrates the dynamic nature of this active volcanic environment and the resilience of life. This trail is a must-do for anyone wanting to witness the raw power and unique beauty of Kīlauea up close.
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Elevation 1,160 m
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Saturday 13 June
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Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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