I did this hike on September 16, 2009, during my visit to the Volcanoes National Park. First of all, I would like to advise those who are staying far away (like me in Kona) to leave very early if you want to explore the most interesting parts of the park within the same day. This 4-mile hike is not really... more

We were very impressed with the clear, well-maintained trail that wound down into the caldera and across the (now-solid) lava lake. I'm not particularly fit, and I was able to hike the whole thing without any rest stops. Just be sure to wear appropriate shoes and bring some water, especially if it's a hot day. more

My husband and I hiked this trail during a recent trip to Hawaii and we were both amazed. We had no idea what to expect, but as we descended into the crater, we saw some truly spectacular views. There is an interesting connection to the Earth and its history that you experience while within a crater that erupted only 50... more

This is a great hike through a truly alien landscape. You start out in a high rain forest and hike down about 500 ft into a volcanic crater, then hike back up. The crater is like a moon scape, rugged, black, cracked and lifeless except for the few Ohl'a trees and hawks souring above. more

Where else in the whole world can you walk on lava in the caldera of a volcano that was active only 50 years ago!? We started in the Kilauea Iki parking lot, not realizing you could also start in the Thurston Lava Tube parking lot. Pick up a little flyer from the trail head if there are any available. There... more

My family hiked the Kilauea Iki Trail at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in October 2008. We had a beautiful day - the weather was pleasant, the sky was blue, and the air condition was good. The 4 mile hike went from rain forest environment, to the rocky lava floor of the crater, and then up through forest on the other... more

I set off first thing in the morning after breakfast and found the trail pleasantly quiet and the temperature cool and comfortable. The trail winds through a rainforest with interesting ferns and flowers, descending until you reach the Kilauea Iki crater. Once you are in the open area, the trail is marked by piles of lava rocks and it's safe... more

We loved this trail. Start in the parking lot and go towards the lava tubes first. Cross the road and take that little tour, then get back on the trail and go down the steep side and back up the more moderate side. We had some inexperienced hikers with us and they made it okay for the overall 4+ miles.... more

walking on the crust of a lava lake that took 36 years to cool is something to brag about. steam coming up through vents, crust thats buckled and been pushed up to create a from outer space landscape. if you are short on time just go out and back from the lava tube parking lot, skip the round trip loop. more