Ever stood on the edge of a steaming crater, watching Earth reshape itself in real-time? That’s exactly what it felt like when I first visited Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this national park is a surreal, powerful place—where molten lava, ancient rainforests, and native Hawaiian stories come together.
If you’re dreaming of a trip filled with volcanic landscapes, moonlike terrain, and a dose of adventure, here’s everything I loved doing in the park—and what I’d recommend you not miss.
📍 Stop at the Kīlauea Visitor Center
This is your launchpad into the park. I always like to start at the visitor center for trail updates, ranger tips, and maps. The rangers here are incredibly knowledgeable and helped me plan my route around the most active areas.
Why I recommend it: You’ll learn about current eruptions, lava viewing tips, and safety guidance—all essential for planning your day.
🌋 See the Glow at Halemaʻumaʻu Crater
When I visited at dusk, the glow from the lava lake inside Halemaʻumaʻu Crater was spellbinding. Located inside Kīlauea Caldera, this spot changes often depending on volcanic activity, but if it’s active when you go, don’t skip it.
Tip: For the best view, head to Wahinekapu (Steaming Bluff) around sunset.
🚶 Hike the Kīlauea Iki Trail
Hands down my favorite hike in the park. It’s a loop trail that takes you through lush rainforest, down into a solidified lava lake, and across steaming vents. Walking across the crater floor felt like I’d landed on another planet.
Trail Length: 3.3 miles
What to bring: Good shoes, water, and layers—the weather changes fast.
🌿 Explore Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku)
This ancient lava cave is an easy walk and feels like stepping into another world. The tunnel is lit, short, and shaded by a canopy of tree ferns. I went early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
🛣 Drive the Chain of Craters Road
If you love scenic drives, this one’s unreal. It winds 18+ miles through lava fields and ends dramatically at the ocean, where a sea arch rises from the surf. There are plenty of pullouts and viewpoints, so give yourself time to explore.
Don’t Miss: Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs—a short walk off the road leads you to the largest petroglyph field in Hawaii.
🌫 Walk the Devastation Trail
Despite the dramatic name, it’s a pretty peaceful stroll. The landscape was shaped by an explosive eruption in 1959 and is now a mix of cinder, lava, and pioneer plants starting to reclaim the land.
Why I liked it: It’s short, flat, and a good look at how nature rebuilds after destruction.
🌌 Stargaze at the Summit
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is part of a designated International Dark Sky Park, so once night falls, it’s perfect for stargazing. I brought a blanket, a thermos of hot tea, and just lay back looking up at the Milky Way.
🗿 Learn at the Jaggar Museum (Temporarily Closed)
While the museum building remains closed due to damage from 2018’s eruption, you can still visit the overlook nearby. It’s one of the best panoramic views of Halemaʻumaʻu Crater—and where I got some of my favorite photos.
🧭 Map Out Your Hikes with the Park App
Before heading out, I downloaded the NPS Hawaiʻi Volcanoes app. It helped me navigate offline, which came in clutch when cell service dropped.
🐦 Spot Native Birds on Mauna Loa Road
If you’re a birdwatcher (or just want a quiet detour), Mauna Loa Road takes you up into the rainforest. It’s one of the few places you might catch a glimpse of rare native birds like the ‘i‘iwi.
🎒 What to Pack for Your Visit
- Refillable water bottle
- Sunscreen and hat (the lava fields are exposed!)
- Light jacket or rain gear
- Snacks—there’s very limited food in the park
- Headlamp if you’re exploring at dusk
🛌 Where to Stay Near the Park
I stayed in Volcano Village, just minutes from the park entrance. It’s quiet, surrounded by forest, and full of charming cabins and vacation rentals. Perfect for early starts or night hikes.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is unlike any other place I’ve explored in the world. It’s raw, humbling, and full of natural power. Whether you’re hiking through a crater or watching lava glow against the night sky, you’ll leave with memories you’ll talk about for years.
Planning your trip soon? Let me know if you have any questions—I’d be happy to share more tips.
FAQs
What’s the best time to visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park?
The park is open year-round, but I found spring (April–June) to be ideal—mild weather and fewer crowds.
Is there an entrance fee for the park?
Yes, the fee is around $30 per vehicle and valid for 7 days. America the Beautiful passes are also accepted.
Can you see lava in the park?
Lava viewing depends on current volcanic activity. Check the official NPS site for updates.
How much time do you need in the park?
At least one full day—but if you can stay overnight near the park, two days will let you experience more hikes and night views.
