Petroglyph Trail

Hawaiʻi County

Puako

Petroglyph Trail

Easy

4.8

(5874)

18,390

hikers

Petroglyph Trail

Q: How long does it typically take to hike the Petroglyph Trail?

This easy hike is approximately 1.8 km long and generally takes about 28 minutes to complete, making it a quick and accessible outing.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the trail is rated as easy with minimal elevation gain (around 9 meters up and down), making it very suitable for beginners and families looking for a short, engaging walk.

Q: Where does the trail start, and is parking available?

The trail is located within the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. Parking is typically available near the trailhead, often at the end of a paved road or designated lot leading into the preserve.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

Expect varied terrain, often including sandy paths and rocky sections. As an archaeological site, the focus is on accessing the petroglyphs, so paths are generally well-defined but can be uneven in places.

Q: What can I see along the route?

The primary attractions are the ancient rock carvings. You'll encounter significant historical sites such as the Malama Trail Petroglyphs and the Puakō Petroglyph Field , showcasing thousands of years of human history and cultural expression.

Q: Is the Petroglyph Trail dog-friendly?

Specific regulations for dogs on this particular trail are not provided. However, as a general rule for archaeological sites and preserves, it's best to assume dogs may not be allowed or must be kept on a leash. Please check local signage upon arrival.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve?

Access to the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve is generally free and does not require a permit for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any updated regulations or fees before your visit, especially for larger groups or commercial activities.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Petroglyph Trail?

Given its location in Hawaii, the trail can be visited year-round. However, the cooler, drier months from late fall to early spring (November to April) are often preferred to avoid the hotter, more humid summer weather.

Q: Is the Petroglyph Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

The Petroglyph Trail is designed as a loop, allowing you to experience the various petroglyph panels and return to your starting point without retracing your steps.

Q: What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Even for a short hike, it's advisable to bring water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the petroglyphs. Binoculars can also enhance your viewing experience.

00:28

1.80km

10m

Hiking

The Petroglyph Trail offers a unique opportunity to step back in time, guiding you through an easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) walk to ancient rock art. The route is less about the physical challenge and more about the cultural immersion, leading you directly to fascinating historical sites like the Malama Trail Petroglyphs and the Puakō Petroglyph Field. It's a gentle journey, perfect for those who want to explore history in a serene setting.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this easy trail, which involves just 31 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 27 minutes. It's a great option for families or beginners, and you can enjoy it at almost any time of day, though mornings or late afternoons might offer the best light for photography. Always remember to bring water and sun protection, as you'll be outdoors in the Hawaiian climate.

This trail stands out for its direct access to significant petroglyph fields, offering a tangible connection to the ancient inhabitants of the Puako region. Unlike more strenuous hikes, its primary focus is on the intricate rock carvings, providing a rich historical experience without demanding a long commitment of time or energy. It's a true hidden gem for history buffs and those seeking a peaceful, culturally enriching walk.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

177 m

Malama Trail Petroglyphs

Highlight (Segment) • Historical Site

Malama Trail leads from the parking lot to the area where you can watch the petroglyphs. It starts on a paved trail and partially leads through the kiawe forest. At the first 0.2 miles of the trail you will find a huge amount of petroglyphs, but those are actually reproductions, and you are allowed to touch and examine them (a great experience for kids!). But don't worry, you will reach the original ones soon.

Tip by

788 m

Puakō Petroglyph Field

Highlight • Historical Site

At the end of Malama Trail, you will reach the Puakō Petroglyph Field. This is the main area of Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological District and most of the 1,200 rock carving on display, can be found here. In total, the park contains 3,000 petroglyphs what makes it the biggest petroglyph area in Hawaiʻi and probably the biggest in the pacific as well.

Tip by

1.80 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.49 km

279 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.49 km

279 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Thursday 22 October

31°C

21°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to hike the Petroglyph Trail?

This easy hike is approximately 1.8 km long and generally takes about 28 minutes to complete, making it a quick and accessible outing.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?

Yes, the trail is rated as easy with minimal elevation gain (around 9 meters up and down), making it very suitable for beginners and families looking for a short, engaging walk.

Where does the trail start, and is parking available?

The trail is located within the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. Parking is typically available near the trailhead, often at the end of a paved road or designated lot leading into the preserve.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

Expect varied terrain, often including sandy paths and rocky sections. As an archaeological site, the focus is on accessing the petroglyphs, so paths are generally well-defined but can be uneven in places.

What can I see along the route?

The primary attractions are the ancient rock carvings. You'll encounter significant historical sites such as the Malama Trail Petroglyphs and the Puakō Petroglyph Field, showcasing thousands of years of human history and cultural expression.

Is the Petroglyph Trail dog-friendly?

Specific regulations for dogs on this particular trail are not provided. However, as a general rule for archaeological sites and preserves, it's best to assume dogs may not be allowed or must be kept on a leash. Please check local signage upon arrival.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to access the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve?

Access to the Puakō Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve is generally free and does not require a permit for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check for any updated regulations or fees before your visit, especially for larger groups or commercial activities.

What is the best time of year to visit the Petroglyph Trail?

Given its location in Hawaii, the trail can be visited year-round. However, the cooler, drier months from late fall to early spring (November to April) are often preferred to avoid the hotter, more humid summer weather.

Is the Petroglyph Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

The Petroglyph Trail is designed as a loop, allowing you to experience the various petroglyph panels and return to your starting point without retracing your steps.

What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Even for a short hike, it's advisable to bring water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the petroglyphs. Binoculars can also enhance your viewing experience.

Are there any facilities or amenities near the trailhead?

As the trail is within an archaeological preserve, facilities might be limited to basic amenities like restrooms or informational signs. For cafes, restaurants, or extensive services, you would likely need to visit nearby towns or resorts.