Kilauea Crater Trails, Big Island HI

• 5-star hike
• 8 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 1,200 feet
• Big Island, HI | Hawaii
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The image shows a collection of flowers and a pineapple placed on the edge of an active volcanic caldera. The caldera has steep, rocky walls with visible layers of volcanic rock and ash. The ground inside the caldera appears dark and rugged, likely composed of solidified lava. The presence of the flowers and pineapple suggests a memorial or offering, adding a poignant human element to the stark, natural landscape.

Offerings to Pele, at the rim of this crater-within-a-crater.

The volcanic activity that created the Hawaiian island chain hasn't yet finished working on what's known as the 'Big Island' called Hawaii. If you need evidence, look no further than the lava flows and gas eruptions that spill from the Kilauea volcano located on the south-east side of the Big Island.

You'll find Kilauea at Volcanoes National Park where there's plenty to see even without stepping far from your vehicle. However, being hikers we'd suggest leaving your car by Thurston Lava Tube and setting out on an eight-and-a-half mile trek into the Kilauea pit crater itself, along the huge expanses of lava and taking in the Halema'uma'u crater-within-a-crater on the way.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Craters Trail 7.6 mi loop, moderate, gain 1,200 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

There's something other-worldly about walking across a desolate 4-mile wide crater over huge expanses of strangely patterned lava flows. Steam and sulfuric gases venting into the air are stark reminders that you're standing on top of an immense volcano, but the sight of flowers and other vegetation rising out of the cracks reassure you that the lava you're standing on is decades old.

⚠ Caution: Things change around an active volcano. Check the official website, or with a ranger to understand trail closures and to find the best the park currently has to offer.

A delicate white and purple orchid stands in stark contrast against a rugged, dark lava flow background. The orchid's petals are white with a vibrant purple and yellow center, creating a striking visual against the barren, textured lava landscape. The scene is interesting and relevant as it showcases the resilience of nature, with a beautiful flower thriving in an otherwise harsh and desolate environment.

Life finds a way.

Tangents:
• Official: National Park Website
• AllTrails Public: Kilauea Craters Trail
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