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Routes
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United States
Hawaiʻi County

Hawai'I Volcanoes Wilderness

Routes
Hikes
United States
Hawaiʻi County

Hawai'I Volcanoes Wilderness

Easy hikes and walks in Hawai'I Volcanoes Wilderness

4.7

(696)

7,806

hikers

79

hikes

Easy hiking trails in Hawai'i Volcanoes Wilderness traverse a landscape shaped by active volcanoes and ancient lava flows. The region is characterized by diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush tropical rainforests to arid volcanic deserts. Hikers encounter features such as solidified lava lakes, numerous craters, and steaming bluffs, showcasing ongoing geological processes. This environment offers varied terrain for exploration.

Best easy hiking trails in Hawai'I Volcanoes Wilderness

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Puʻu Huluhulu Trail, a 3.0 miles…

Last updated: August 24, 2026

4.6

(8)

88

hikers

#1.

Puʻu Huluhulu Trail

4.76km

01:16

50m

50m

The Puʻu Huluhulu Trail offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaii's volcanic landscape, guiding you across ancient, razor-sharp lava flows marked by traditional ahu rock cairns. You'll experience a striking transition…

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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5.0

(2)

12

hikers

6.52km

01:44

70m

70m

Step back in time on the Footprints Trail, an easy 4.0-mile (6.5 km) hike through the otherworldly Kaʻū Desert. This route, which takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes with…

Easy

4.9

(140)

1,623

hikers

5.77km

01:42

170m

170m

The Kīlauea Iki Trail is an extraordinary hiking experience that transports you from a vibrant rainforest into the heart of a volcanic crater. This 3.6-mile (5.8 km) loop takes you…

Easy

4.6

(14)

241

hikers

The Halema‘uma‘u and Keanakāko‘i Craters hiking trails offer an easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) walk through a landscape profoundly shaped by Kīlauea's volcanic activity. With just 203 feet (62 metres) of…

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Puffin
April 4, 2025, Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)

impressive 500-meter-long tunnel in the lava flow

Translated by Google

2

0

Ferns in oversize - super impressive

Translated by Google

0

0

Never seen anything like this before

Translated by Google

0

1

World class, like a moonwalk

Translated by Google

2

0

The name of this cinder cone, Puʻuhuluhulu, means "hairy hill" — an apt descriptor as the vegetation-clad slopes here are a stark contrast to the Mauna Ulu lava flow that mostly surrounds Puʻuhuluhulu. There's a great observation deck at the summit, and a public bathroom in the nearby parking lot.

1

0

This 500-year-old lava tube was created by a river of lava. Nowadays the lava tube is lit for visitors from 8am-8pm, and the National Park Service urges you to be avoid touching the tube's walls and any hanging roots, as they support entire ecosystems of very delicate organisms. Parking around the lava tube is extremely scarce, but you can hike here along the Crater Rim Trail, which offers many more parking opportunities.

1

0

Iki Trail is a must in Volcano National Park

Translated by Google

0

1

You have to do it once. Great landscape

Translated by Google

3

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness?

There are over 40 easy hiking trails in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness, offering a variety of experiences across its unique volcanic landscapes. The komoot community has explored more than 7,000 routes in the area, with many suitable for beginners and families.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hiking trails in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness?

Easy trails often traverse solidified lava flows, offering a unique experience of walking across areas that were once molten. You'll also find paths through lush tropical rainforests, volcanic deserts, and ash-covered lands, showcasing the region's diverse ecosystems and ongoing geological processes.

Are there any specific volcanic features or craters I can see on easy hikes?

Yes, many easy trails offer views of significant volcanic features. For instance, the Kīlauea Iki Trail descends into and across a solidified lava lake. You can also explore areas near craters like Halemaʻumaʻu and Keanakākoʻi on routes such as Halema‘uma‘u and Keanakāko‘i Craters. The Puʻu Huluhulu Trail provides panoramic views of unique lava formations and leads past the Puʻuhuluhulu Cinder Cone.

Can I visit a lava tube on an easy hike?

Yes, Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) offers an accessible opportunity to walk through a cave formed by ancient lava flows. While not a specific komoot route listed here, it's a popular and easy-to-access attraction within the park, providing an intriguing subterranean adventure.

What are some family-friendly easy hiking options in the area?

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness offers several family-friendly easy hikes. The Puʻu Huluhulu Trail is a popular choice, known for its panoramic views. The Kīlauea Iki Trail is also suitable for families, offering a unique experience across a solidified lava lake. The park's diverse and relatively gentle terrain on these easy routes makes them enjoyable for all ages.

What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness?

Easy hikes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness typically range from 1 to 2 hours. For example, the Puʻu Huluhulu Trail takes about 1 hour 16 minutes, while the Footprints Trail is often completed in about 1 hour 43 minutes. These durations are estimates and can vary based on your pace and stops.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness?

The easy trails in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique experience of walking across volcanic landscapes, the diverse ecosystems, and the well-maintained paths that make these geological wonders accessible.

Are dogs allowed on easy hiking trails in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park?

Generally, pets are restricted to paved roads, parking lots, and designated paved trails within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This is to protect both the fragile ecosystem and your pet. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current pet regulations before your visit: nps.gov/havo.

What is the best time of year to visit for easy hiking?

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness offers good hiking conditions year-round due to its tropical climate. However, the weather can be unpredictable, with rain possible at any time. The cooler, drier months from April to October are often preferred, but even during the wetter season, short showers are common, followed by sunshine. Always check the local forecast before heading out.

Do I need a permit for easy day hikes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Wilderness?

While you don't typically need specific permits for easy day hikes on established trails within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, there is an entrance fee to access the park itself. This fee covers all visitors in your vehicle for a set number of days. For detailed information on entrance fees and any specific regulations, please visit the official National Park Service website: nps.gov/havo.

Are there any historical or cultural sites accessible via easy trails?

Yes, the Footprints Trail leads through volcanic ash and ancient lava fields, offering a glimpse into the past with preserved 1790 footprints. The park also protects other historic and archaeological sites, providing insights into Native Hawaiian culture and history.

What are some notable natural landmarks to look out for on easy hikes?

Beyond craters and lava flows, you can encounter steaming bluffs and sulphur banks where volcanic gases seep from the ground, creating unique visual and olfactory experiences. The Puʻuhuluhulu Cinder Cone is another prominent natural landmark visible on some easy routes, offering panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

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