4.7
(7794)
16,751
riders
Crater Rim Drive
00:58
21.5km
240m
Road cycling
Crater Rim Drive offers an easy road cycling experience, covering 13.3 miles (21.5 km) with a gentle 792 feet (241 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 58 minutes. You will cycle through a dramatic landscape, transitioning from lush rainforests to barren lava fields. Expect unparalleled views of active volcanic craters like Kilauea Caldera and Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, and observe steaming vents at Kūkamāhuākea, providing a front-row seat to Hawaii's powerful volcanic activity.
When planning your visit, be aware that the road is open to vehicles, so you will share the route with cars and buses, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM. Weather conditions can change quickly here; you might experience hot sun, wind, and rain all within the same hour. It's always a good idea to check park conditions before you go, as parts of the road might close due to volcanic activity or maintenance.
This route offers a unique perspective on the Kilauea Volcano, allowing you to witness an active volcanic landscape up close. The drive highlights the island's dynamic geology, moving from dense, green rainforests to stark, recent lava flows. You'll find excellent viewpoints along the way, such as the Keanakākoʻi Crater Overlook, providing clear sights of the craters and steaming vents.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.99 km
Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents)
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
4.17 km
Kīlauea Visitor Center
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
10.8 km
Keanakākoʻi Crater Overlook
Highlight • Volcano
Tip by
10.8 km
Collapsed Road — Crater Rim Drive
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
21.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
18.0 km
2.82 km
495 m
142 m
Surfaces
21.5 km
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (1,240 m)
Lowest point (1,090 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 10 July
23°C
12°C
54 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay an entrance fee to cycle Crater Rim Drive?
Yes, Crater Rim Drive is located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, so standard park entrance fees apply. You can find current fee information and details on passes on the official NPS website.
Where can I park to cycle Crater Rim Drive?
Parking is available at various points along the route within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. A good starting point is near the Kīlauea Visitor Center, which offers facilities and access to the drive.
Is Crater Rim Drive dog-friendly?
No, pets are generally not permitted on trails or unpaved roads within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, including most areas accessible from Crater Rim Drive. Service animals are an exception. Always check the latest park regulations before your visit.
What is the best time of year to cycle Crater Rim Drive?
The park is open year-round, but the best time to cycle is typically during the drier months, though weather can change rapidly at any time. Be prepared for varying conditions, including sun, wind, and rain, which can occur within the same hour.
Is Crater Rim Drive suitable for beginner cyclists?
While the route is paved and considered 'easy' overall, it's described as 'moderately challenging' for cyclists due to changes in elevation and occasional gusty winds. Some sections involve considerable uphill riding. Beginners should be prepared for these conditions.
How long does it typically take to cycle Crater Rim Drive?
The full 11-mile (17.7 km) paved loop can take around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes to cycle, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. The komoot tour suggests a duration of approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
What are the best viewpoints or attractions along Crater Rim Drive?
The drive offers dramatic views of volcanic landscapes. Notable points include the Kūkamāhuākea (Steam Vents), Keanakākoʻi Crater Overlook, and the Kilauea Caldera. You'll also see diverse ecosystems from rainforests to lava fields.
What weather conditions should I expect when cycling Crater Rim Drive?
Expect highly variable weather. You might encounter hot sun, strong winds, and rain, sometimes all within a short period. The elevation changes also mean temperatures can fluctuate. Dress in layers and be prepared for anything.
When is the best time of day to cycle Crater Rim Drive to avoid crowds?
To avoid heavy vehicle traffic, which is particularly dense between 10 AM and 3 PM, it's best to cycle earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. This also allows for a more peaceful experience and better visibility on narrow, winding sections.
Does Crater Rim Drive connect with other trails?
Yes, the route intersects with and provides access to several other trails. You'll find sections of the Crater Rim Trail, Sulfur Banks Trail, Kīlauea Iki Trail, Devastation Trail, and Lava Tube Trail along the way.
Are there bike rental services available near Crater Rim Drive?
While there are no bike rental services directly on Crater Rim Drive itself, you may find rental options in nearby towns on the Big Island. It's advisable to arrange rentals before arriving at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free