Kīlauea Iki Trailhead — Attraction in Hawaii

Embarking on the Kīlauea Iki Trail is like stepping into a living postcard of geological wonder. This moderately challenging 4-mile loop trail, nestled within the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, offers hikers an immersive experience into the heart of a volcanic landscape that is both raw and breathtaking.

The Journey Begins The trailhead greets adventurers with the lushness of a rainforest, setting a stark contrast to the rugged terrain that lies ahead. As you descend from the rim of the Kīlauea Iki crater, the path weaves through a dense canopy of native flora, a prelude to the otherworldly vistas awaiting below.

Into the Crater Upon reaching the crater floor, the environment transforms dramatically. The once verdant surroundings give way to an expansive field of solidified lava, with steam vents punctuating the terrain, a testament to the land's fiery origins. The trail across the crater is well-marked, allowing hikers to navigate the solid lava lake with ease, all while surrounded by the crater's towering walls.

A Geological Marvel The Kīlauea Iki Trail is not just a hike; it's a journey through time. The crater, formed during the explosive 1959 eruption, serves as a natural museum displaying the raw power of Earth's inner forces. The cooled lava flows, with their swirls and patterns, tell a story of their molten past, and the occasional steam vent serves as a reminder that this land is still very much alive.

Wildlife and Flora Despite the seemingly inhospitable conditions, life finds a way. Hardy plants have taken root in the cracks of the lava, and birds can be seen flitting about the crater's edge. The contrast between the desolation of the lava field and the resilience of nature is a poignant aspect of the trail's allure.

The Ascent The hike back to the rim challenges the legs with a series of switchbacks, but the changing perspective of the crater rewards the effort. With each step upward, the view widens, offering panoramic vistas that beckon hikers to pause and reflect on the grandeur of the scene.

Practical Tips Visitors should come prepared with water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be unforgiving. The weather at Kīlauea Iki can be unpredictable, so it's wise to bring layers and be ready for sudden changes.

Conclusion The Kīlauea Iki Trail is a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting the Big Island. It's a physical and sensory experience that encapsulates the essence of Hawai'i's volcanic majesty. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler, the trail offers an unforgettable adventure that resonates long after the hike is over. With its stunning landscapes, geological features, and the sheer thrill of walking on a former lava lake, Kīlauea Iki is a trail that truly embodies the spirit of...

Absolutely loved this beautiful hike, if you do the full loop you experience both walking inside the crater (walking on dramatic black volcanic rock) and hiking the rim (green forest). We started at 8am, and there was no one there but we noticed a lot of people starting around 10 as we ended the hike. There are also 2 other hikes (byron lesge and devastation trail) you can divert to midway if you’re interested. The total loop took us 2 and a half hours at a very gentle pace and stopping to take photos. We noticed most people started the trail from the overflow parking which is a short drive after the regular parking (downhill through a foresty trail for 20 mins, an hour to cross the crater floor, then an hour to climb up and around the rim), we did the opposite - started the hike at the regular parking where you start high up on the crater rim, descend into the base, then up the foresty trail to end in the overflow parking which is right opposite the nahuku thurston lava tube. I dont think it makes a huge difference, if you’re hiking in the morning it might make sense to start from the overflow parking as the sun is behind you and you get better lighting down on the crater. Remember to use the bathroom at home before u start the hike because there are only portapotties at the start and there’s a diversion to the visiter center when you’re hiking the crater rim section, but it’s over a mile away. Overall, a brilliant hike,...

An awesome hike with lots to see and learn about the 1959 Kīlauea Iki erpution and lava lake.

The trip from trailhead to lakebed is about 1 mile in length and 400ish feet in elevation change. Recommend taking water and a light/raincoat as the weather changes constantly. The trail starts out as blacktop but transitions to hard packed dirt or gravel in spots with some steps and tree roots to help on your way up/down.

With my wife, five and six year old daughter we made it to the bottom in appx. 35-40 and back up in 45 minutes. The trail is not terribly difficult but be prepared and stretch beforehand if you do not exercise regularly. The lakebed is flat and stretches about one mile across for easy walking but it is volcanic rock so be careful and trips/falls onto volcanic rock will cut you much easier than dirt or even regular rock.

I recommend 2-3 hours if you want to go out and back across the entire crater (~4.4 miles). Check the weather before going, bring sturdy shoes and have a good time learning the history of the crater!

Also, if you ask for more Kīlauea Iki crater pictures at the Visitor Center, they have some really cool 8x11s and lots...