The best running trails in Hawai'I Volcanoes National Park

There are over a dozen dedicated running routes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging trails to explore the park's unique volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests.

Yes, the park offers several easy jogging routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Kamakapa'a via Kamakapa'a Trail is an easy 2.7-mile path, and the Lava Cliffs via Chain of Craters Road offers another accessible 2-mile option.

For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Kilauea Overlook to Nāhuku Lava Tube via Crater Rim Trail offer a difficult 8.7-mile run with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is the Ancient Ōhiʻa Tree via Pit Crater Trail, an 8.1-mile route through varied volcanic terrain.

Running in the park offers a chance to see incredible volcanic features. You can jog across solidified lava lakes, through volcanic ash fields, and past steam vents. Notable sights include the Kīlauea Iki Crater Trail, the fascinating Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), and the stark beauty of the Devastation Trail, which winds through a landscape buried by cinders from a 1959 eruption.

Yes, the park is rich in Hawaiian cultural history. You can encounter significant sites such as the Puʻuloa Petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings that offer a glimpse into the spiritual importance of the land to Native Hawaiians. These sites provide a unique cultural dimension to your run.

Yes, the park features several loop trails. The Kīlauea Iki Trail is a popular 4-mile loop that takes runners across a solidified lava lake and through a rainforest, offering a diverse experience.

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park offers a unique running experience year-round due to its diverse climate zones. However, conditions can change rapidly. It's always best to check the current weather and air quality warnings before heading out, as volcanic activity can impact certain areas. Early mornings are often ideal for cooler temperatures and clearer views.

Given the park's varied terrain and microclimates, it's wise to dress in layers. Be prepared for conditions ranging from rain to heat and wind. Sturdy running shoes with good grip are essential for navigating volcanic rock and uneven trails. Don't forget sun protection, a hat, and plenty of water.

While dogs are generally restricted on most trails within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to protect wildlife and sensitive ecosystems, they are permitted on paved roads and in parking areas. Always check the latest park regulations regarding pets before your visit to ensure you're running in approved areas.

Runners frequently praise the park's unparalleled and dynamic environment. The constantly evolving landscape, shaped by active volcanoes, provides a unique backdrop. Many appreciate the contrast between lush rainforests and stark volcanic deserts, as well as the opportunity to run across solidified lava lakes and past steam vents. Over 130 runners have used komoot to explore these varied terrains.

Absolutely. Many running routes offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints. Portions of the Crater Rim Trail provide exciting opportunities to run around the summit of Kīlauea, with views of the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater. The Halema‘uma‘u and Keanakāko‘i Craters via Devastation Trail also offers direct views of these dramatic craters.

Yes, the park is home to diverse ecosystems, and you may encounter native Hawaiian wildlife. Keep an eye out for endemic birds in the rainforest sections, such as the 'apapane or 'i'iwi. While running, always maintain a respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter.