Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

View of the “live” volcano named Kilauea

Hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park we experienced the raw beauty and power of nature.

If you are searching for your next unforgettable hiking destination, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park should be at the top of your list. Located on the Big Island, this park offers a stunning mix of lush rainforests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and unique wildlife, making it a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, the trails here offer something for everyone.

We hiked and explored this park in January and the weather was excellent both in terms of mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, however the weather in the park can change rapidly. Throughout the park you are walking on land that was once molten rock. Along the various hiking trails we encountered native ferns, vibrant flowers, and great views of the “live” and active smoking volcano.

Our favorite hike was the Crater Rim Trail which encircles the awe-inspiring summit caldera of Kilauea, this extensive trail weaves through ever-changing volcanic landscapes, offering hikers a front-row seat to the island’s most dramatic geological marvels. The Crater Rim Trail stretches for miles around the rim of Kilauea’s vast caldera, where steam vents hiss and native trees cling to blackened lava flows. The trail offers a journey through raw, living earth with panoramic views into the depths of the crater and out across misty rainforests and rugged lava fields. Pausing at overlooks along the trail, you’ll witness sulfuric plumes swirling skyward, and if conditions are right, the glow of molten lava deep within the crater at dusk.

Hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park isn’t just a walk—it's an adventure into the heart of Earth’s natural forces. The memories you make here will last a lifetime, as you witness the ongoing creation and transformation of the Hawaiian islands.