When I first stepped into Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, I had no idea just how diverse and otherworldly the landscape would be. Lava fields, steaming craters, lush rainforest—it was like flipping through the pages of different worlds, all within a day’s walk.
If you’re short on time but want to soak in the volcanic magic of the Big Island, these day hikes in Volcanoes National Park are a perfect way to explore. I spent a full day doing a mix of short walks and moderate trails, and here’s what I’d recommend to anyone planning their first visit.
📍 1. Kīlauea Iki Trail
This was hands-down my favorite. You hike through lush rainforest, then descend into a solidified lava lake from the 1959 eruption. It’s eerie, quiet, and completely unforgettable.
- Distance: 4 miles loop
- Time: 2–3 hours
- Trailhead: Kīlauea Iki Overlook or Thurston Lava Tube parking lot
- Why I Loved It: Walking across a crater floor felt like hiking the moon—but with birdsong.
🌿 2. Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku)
A super short and family-friendly walk, but no less fascinating. You get to walk through a dimly lit lava tunnel carved by molten rock centuries ago.
- Distance: 0.4 miles round trip
- Time: 15–30 minutes
- Trailhead: Near the Kīlauea Iki trail
- Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight—the lighting inside the tube is minimal, and it adds to the atmosphere.
🌋 3. Devastation Trail
This easy paved trail winds through a stark, ash-covered landscape formed during Kīlauea’s 1959 eruption. It’s surreal, like nature paused mid-transformation.
- Distance: 1 mile round trip
- Time: 30 minutes
- Why Go: The contrast between charred terrain and regrowth makes for a quiet, thought-provoking walk.
🪨 4. Sulphur Banks Trail (Haʻakulamanu)
Imagine a place that smells like rotten eggs and steams from the earth—that’s Sulphur Banks. It’s weird, warm, and a little wild.
- Distance: 1.2 miles
- Time: 45 minutes
- Trailhead: Visitor Center
- Good to Know: Stay on the boardwalks—these geothermal areas are fragile (and hot!).
🌄 5. Crater Rim Trail (Select Sections)
This isn’t a single hike but rather a series of connected trails with overlook points around the Kīlauea Caldera. Some parts are still closed due to volcanic activity, but what’s open offers dramatic views.
- Distance: Varies
- Good Sections: Volcano House to Steaming Bluff, Waldron Ledge
- Perfect For: Sunset walks and panoramic photos
🥾 6. Pu‘u Pua‘i Overlook via Byron Ledge Trail
A more moderate hike for those craving elevation gain and fewer crowds. You’ll pass through lush forest and get bird’s-eye views of the crater.
- Distance: 3.5 miles
- Time: 2–3 hours
- Trail Conditions: Can be slippery after rain—bring good shoes!
⛔ What I Skipped (and Why)
I was tempted to take the Nā Pali Coast–style backcountry trails like Mauna Iki or Mauna Loa Strip Road. But honestly, with limited time and changing weather, these day hikes gave me the perfect mix of scenery, geology, and accessibility.
🚗 Essential Tips Before Hiking Volcanoes National Park
- Start early: Parking fills up fast at trailheads like Kīlauea Iki.
- Check closures: Trails and roads change often due to volcanic activity.
- Pack layers: The weather shifts dramatically between crater rims and rainforest.
- Stay hydrated: Even short hikes can feel longer in the sun and steam.
- Bring snacks: There aren’t many food stops once you’re out on trails.
🧭 Planning Your Day in the Park
Here’s a sample hiking loop for a full-day visit:
- Morning: Start with Kīlauea Iki Trail
- Mid-morning: Walk through Thurston Lava Tube
- Lunch break at Volcano House or picnic
- Afternoon: Devastation Trail + Sulphur Banks
- Sunset: Short section of Crater Rim Trail
FAQs About Day Hiking in Volcanoes National Park
Is it safe to hike in Volcanoes National Park?
Yes—most trails are safe, but always check for active alerts or closures before setting out.
Do you need a permit for day hikes?
No permits are required for day hikes, but park entrance fees apply.
What should I wear while hiking here?
Sturdy shoes, a rain jacket, and breathable layers are key.
Are dogs allowed on trails?
Pets are only allowed in certain areas—check the NPS website for up-to-date rules.
Final Thoughts
There’s something humbling about hiking on ground that was once flowing lava. Volcanoes National Park offers that rare mix of natural power and quiet beauty—and these day hikes helped me experience it without needing backpacking gear or a ton of time.
If you’re headed to the Big Island, make sure you set aside a full day for this park. Trust me: it’s worth every step.
