The best walks and hikes in Hawai'I Volcanoes National Park

Yes, the park has several accessible options perfect for families. The Devastation Trail is a paved, 1-mile (1.6 km) round-trip walk through a landscape recovering from the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption, making it stroller and wheelchair accessible. Another great choice is the Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) Trail, which takes you through a 500-year-old lava tube and a lush rainforest.

Weather can change rapidly, so it's best to be prepared. Essential items include sturdy closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, rain gear, a hat, and sunscreen. Always carry plenty of water, as there are no water sources on the trails. Snacks or a packed lunch are also recommended, especially for longer hikes.

For most day hikes, including popular trails like Kīlauea Iki, no special permit is required beyond the park entrance fee. However, permits are mandatory for all overnight backcountry camping and for some strenuous summit hikes like the Mauna Loa Trail. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current regulations before your visit.

You can hike in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park year-round. The weather is generally mild, but it can be unpredictable at any time. The dry season, from April to October, often sees less rain, but you should always be prepared for wet conditions, especially in the rainforest sections. Visiting during the week can help you avoid the larger crowds found on weekends.

Yes, the Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs Trail leads to one of the most extensive petroglyph fields in Hawaiʻi. The trail is a relatively easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) round-trip hike over a lava field to a boardwalk viewing area where you can see thousands of ancient rock carvings.

For a truly strenuous adventure, the Mauna Loa Trail offers a multi-day backcountry trek to the summit of the world's most massive active volcano. This hike requires significant preparation, a permit, and acclimatization to high altitudes, but rewards with incredible views and solitude. For a challenging day hike, consider the Kīlauea Iki Crater via Crater Rim Trail Loop, which is a longer and more demanding route around the crater.

The park is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the unique experience of walking across a solidified lava lake on the Kīlauea Iki floor and the stunning contrast between lush rainforests and stark volcanic landscapes, often experienced within a single hike.

There are over 85 distinct hiking routes available on komoot, covering more than 150 miles of trails within the park. These range from short, paved walks to strenuous, multi-day backcountry expeditions, offering options for every fitness level and interest.

Witnessing active lava is a powerful experience, but it is entirely dependent on volcanic activity, which is unpredictable. When an eruption is happening in an accessible area, the park service may designate specific viewing points. However, there are no permanent trails that guarantee a view of flowing lava. Always check the park's official website for daily eruption updates and safety information before your visit.

While the volcanic landscape can seem barren, it supports unique wildlife. In the forested areas, you might spot native birds like the ʻapapane, ʻamakihi, and the nēnē (Hawaiian goose), which is the state bird. Insects and spiders adapted to the volcanic environment can also be found. Remember to keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.

Yes, the park has excellent circular routes. The most famous is the Kīlauea Iki Crater Loop, a 3.6-mile (5.8 km) trail that descends through rainforest to the crater floor and back up the other side. It provides a complete and varied experience of the volcanic landscape.

The Crater Rim Trail offers spectacular views of the Kīlauea Caldera and Halemaʻumaʻu crater. Key features along its sections include the Kīlauea Overlook, the steaming bluffs of Haʻakulamanu (Sulphur Banks), and access points to other trails. You can hike short sections or longer stretches depending on your schedule.