Highlight (Segment) • Cave
Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)
Hiking
4.8
(93)
Running
5.0
(1)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
November 28, 2018
Hiking
•
April 6, 2024
Hiking
Parking around the lava tube is extremely scarce, but you can hike here along the Crater Rim Trail, which offers many more parking opportunities.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube)
4.9
(132)
1,466
hikers
5.77km
01:42
170m
170m
Embark on the Kīlauea Iki Trail, an easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) hike that takes you through a dramatic volcanic landscape. You will descend into a lush fern rainforest before reaching the floor of the Kīlauea Iki Crater. Here, you can walk across a solidified lava lake, a unique and stark expanse formed by a past eruption. The route involves an elevation gain of 545 feet (166 metres) and typically takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. As you traverse the crater floor, you might even spot volcanic steam rising from cracks, a subtle reminder of the geological activity beneath your feet.
To begin your hike, head to the Kīlauea Iki Overlook, where you will find ample parking available. Be ready for diverse weather conditions, as the area can experience hot, dry, wet, or windy days. Since sections of the crater floor are exposed, remember to bring adequate sun protection. Many visitors suggest hiking the loop clockwise, as this approach can make the ascent out of the crater feel less strenuous.
This trail offers a direct encounter with the powerful forces that shaped Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You will witness the aftermath of the 1959 eruption, including the vent that once propelled lava high into the air. The contrast between the vibrant rainforest and the barren, solidified lava lake highlights the dynamic nature of this volcanic environment. It is a compelling journey into the geological heart of the island.
4.9
(94)
1,197
hikers
10.3km
02:56
220m
220m
Embark on the Kīlauea Iki and Crater Rim Trail Loop, a moderate hike spanning 6.4 miles (10.3 km) with an elevation gain of 711 feet (217 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 2 hours and 56 minutes. The trail offers a dramatic contrast, leading you from a lush rainforest environment onto the solidified Kīlauea Iki crater floor, where you might see steam rising from cracks and feel warmth from the ground. As you hike along the Crater Rim Trail, you will pass through dense rainforest, spotting ʻōhiʻa trees and ferns, and enjoying views of the crater.
When planning your visit, be prepared for diverse weather conditions; the crater floor can be hot and sunny, while other sections might be wet or windy. The terrain is often steep and rocky, especially on the lava lake, which features uneven ground, deep cracks, and sharp lava. It is essential to wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate these surfaces safely and carry plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your journey.
This route is notable for its unique geological features, allowing you to walk directly across a volcanic crater floor. The Puʻu Puaʻi cinder cone, formed during a significant eruption, stands as a prominent landmark within the crater. Keep an eye out for native Hawaiian birds as you traverse the rainforest sections, adding to the immersive experience of this volcanic landscape.
4.9
(67)
477
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Distance 116 m
Downhill 0 m
Weather
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Today
Tuesday 19 May
28°C
19°C
41 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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