Kīlauea Iki Trail

The Kīlauea Iki Trail is a 5.3 km (3.3-mile) loop. Most hikers complete it in approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on their pace and how much time they spend observing the unique volcanic landscape.

This trail is generally considered moderate to challenging. The main challenge comes from the steep 122-meter (400-foot) descent into and ascent out of the crater. Hiking across the crater floor requires careful footing due to uneven lava rock and fissures. While komoot rates it as 'easy' based on overall stats, the varied terrain and elevation changes make it more demanding than a typical easy hike.

The trailhead for the Kīlauea Iki Trail is located at the Kīlauea Iki Overlook within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. There is a dedicated parking lot at the overlook.

No, pets are generally not permitted on trails within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, including the Kīlauea Iki Trail, to protect wildlife and natural resources. Service animals are an exception.

Yes, the Kīlauea Iki Trail is located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, so an entrance fee is required to access the park. You can find current fee information on the official NPS website. No special permits are needed for day hiking the Kīlauea Iki Trail itself.

The trail can be hiked year-round. However, conditions can vary, including hot, dry, wet, or windy weather. The crater floor is exposed to the sun, so mornings are often preferred to avoid the midday heat. Be prepared for rain at any time, especially in the rainforest sections.

The terrain is incredibly diverse. You'll start by descending through a lush, wet rainforest with roots and rocks, which can be muddy. Once on the crater floor, you'll walk across a solidified lava lake, which is uneven, rocky, and features deep earth cracks and fissures. You'll follow rock cairns (ahu) across this otherworldly surface. The return ascent is steep but shorter, leading back into the rainforest.

This trail offers a striking contrast of scenery. You'll hike through a vibrant Fern Rainforest, enjoy views from the Kīlauea Iki West Overlook, and experience walking directly across the Kīlauea Iki Crater Trail, a solidified lava lake. You can also see volcanic steam rising from cracks and the vent from the 1959 eruption. The nearby Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) is also a popular stop.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Crater Rim Trail, Kīlauea Iki Trail, Lava Tube Trail, Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku), and Byron Ledge Trail.

Many hikers recommend doing the loop clockwise. This makes the ascent out of the crater slightly easier, as the steeper section is shorter. It's also advisable to start early to avoid crowds and the midday sun on the exposed crater floor.

Given the varied terrain and exposure, essential items include sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and rain gear. The weather can change quickly, and parts of the crater floor are completely exposed.