Highlight • Volcano
Lava field
Hiking
5.0
(19)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
October 16, 2023
Hiking
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October 21, 2023
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Lava field
4.9
(31)
158
hikers
The Kīlauea Iki West Overlook – Kīlauea Iki Crater Trail loop offers an extraordinary journey through Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, transitioning from a vibrant, lush rainforest to the stark, solidified lava lake of the Kīlauea Iki crater. You'll experience the unique sensation of walking across terrain formed by the dramatic 1959 eruption, with steam often visible from cracks in the ground, a constant reminder of the island's geological power. This moderate 9.5-mile (15.3 km) loop involves 1142 feet (348 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 4 hours and 22 minutes to complete.
To make the most of your visit, start at the Kīlauea Iki West Overlook parking area. Many hikers find it less strenuous to tackle the loop in a clockwise direction, especially for the ascent out of the crater. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear to navigate the uneven and sometimes sharp lava terrain, and consider bringing hiking poles for added stability. The exposed crater floor can get very warm, so prepare for varying weather conditions.
What truly sets this trail apart is the opportunity to walk directly across the Kīlauea Iki crater floor, a landscape sculpted by one of the most spectacular eruptions in recent history. You'll pass below the Puʻu Puaʻi cinder cone, where lava fountains once soared to 1900 feet. This trail provides an intimate connection to the raw, dynamic forces that continue to shape the Hawaiian Islands, making it a highlight for anyone interested in volcanic geology.
4.8
(9)
97
hikers
6.29km
01:49
170m
170m
Step into a landscape shaped by fire on the Kīlauea Visitor Center – View of Kīlauea Caldera loop from Kīlauea Iki. This trail plunges you from a vibrant rainforest, teeming with native ʻŌhiʻa and Hāpuʻu plants, onto the stark, solidified lava lake of the Kīlauea Iki crater floor. You'll walk across uneven, rocky terrain, guided by cairns, with steam often rising from cracks, offering a truly unique geological experience. The 360-degree views of the vast crater and the Puʻu Puaʻi cinder cone are exceptional.
This easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) hiking route, with 544 feet (166 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 49 minutes, starts near the Kīlauea Visitor Center area. While the Visitor Center itself is closed for renovations, you can find information at the Welcome Center at Kilauea Military Camp. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as the exposed crater floor can be warm. The trail is not suitable for strollers or dogs.
This loop is arguably one of the best day hikes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, offering a rare chance to walk across a lava lake formed during the historically significant 1959 eruption. The dramatic contrast between lush rainforest and barren volcanic rock makes it a memorable journey. Consider adding a visit to Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) nearby to further enhance your volcanic adventure.
4.7
(7)
79
hikers
4.54km
01:21
130m
130m
The Lava field – Volcano House Hotel loop from Kīlauea Iki offers a truly unique hiking experience, taking you from a vibrant rainforest down onto the stark, solidified floor of the Kīlauea Iki crater. You'll traverse a mile-wide lava lake, feeling the raw power of the 1959 eruption beneath your feet, with steam often rising from cracks as you pass the dramatic Puʻu Puaʻi cinder cone. This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) route, with 430 feet (131 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Hawaii's volcanic landscape in about 1 hour and 21 minutes.
To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early for parking at the Kīlauea Iki Overlook, as this is one of the more popular trails in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Be sure to pack plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear for the uneven lava terrain, and bring sun protection, as the lava bed can be exposed. The trail is generally well-marked, but staying on designated paths is crucial due to the delicate and sometimes hazardous volcanic features.
This loop provides an incredible opportunity to witness the ongoing geological processes of Kīlauea, offering a profound connection to the island's volcanic history. The striking contrast between the lush rainforest and the barren lava field showcases nature's resilience and the diverse ecosystems found within the park. It's an excellent choice for families or anyone looking for a memorable, relatively short hike with high scenic payoff.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,100 m
Weather
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Thursday 11 June
18°C
13°C
44 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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