The best road cycling routes around Fern Forest

There are several excellent road cycling routes around Fern Forest, with komoot featuring 3 tours in total. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from challenging volcanic descents to scenic loops through lush rainforests.

Road cycling in Fern Forest, Hawaii, offers incredibly diverse terrain. You'll encounter everything from sun-baked lava fields and dramatic volcanic landscapes within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to lush rainforests abundant with native ʻōhiʻa and Hāpuʻu tree ferns. Expect significant elevation changes on many routes, providing both challenging climbs and exhilarating descents.

Yes, Fern Forest is home to some very challenging road cycling routes. For instance, the Chain of Craters Road is a difficult 72.6 km route featuring a dramatic descent of over 1297 meters to the coastline. Another demanding option is the Volcano to Keaʻau loop, covering 75.7 km with over 1195 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, there are moderate options available. The Hilina Pali Road is a moderate 45.4 km route offering remote desert views with a manageable 615 meters of elevation gain. Another moderate choice is the Volcano to Kaʻū Desert Trailhead — Kaʻu, which is 34.7 km long with 381 meters of ascent.

Road cycling routes around Fern Forest are rich with natural wonders. You can explore dramatic volcanic landscapes, including craters and lava flows, especially within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Notable highlights include the Kīlauea Iki Crater Trail, the ancient Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), and the unique Devastation Trail. You'll also cycle through lush Fern Rainforest sections.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding climbs and descents, and the immersive experience of cycling through diverse environments, from sun-baked lava fields to dense rainforests.

Yes, there are loop options available. The Volcano to Keaʻau loop is a challenging 75.7 km route that brings you back to your starting point. Another loop is the Kīlauea Iki East Overlook – Kealakomo Overlook loop from Volcano, a difficult 62.4 km ride.

Given its tropical rainforest climate, Fern Forest can be cycled year-round. However, the dry season (roughly May to October) might offer more consistently clear weather, though rain showers can occur at any time. The cooler temperatures and potentially gusty winds at higher elevations, especially within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, should always be considered regardless of the season.

Yes, road cycling is permitted on paved roads within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This allows cyclists to experience iconic routes like the Chain of Craters Road and sections of Crater Rim Drive, offering unparalleled views of volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests.

Yes, many routes are close to or pass by important facilities and points of interest. The Kīlauea Visitor Center is a key hub within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, offering information and amenities. Additionally, you'll find various trailheads like Keauhou Trailhead, which can serve as starting or resting points.