Explore the Explosive Wonders of Hawaii Island on Foot
Duration:
14 Hours
Tour Overview:
Get ready to experience the explosive side of Hawaii Island as you embark on a full-day hiking adventure through volcanic landscapes, ancient lava flows, and the dramatic changes caused by eruptions. This 14-hour guided tour offers an in-depth exploration of Kīlauea’s eruptions, past and present, as you hike through lava flows dating back to 1881 and explore the aftermath of the 2018 eruption.
The journey begins with a scenic drive across Saddle Road, which runs between the towering volcanoes Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the most massive and tallest volcanoes on Earth. Along the way, your National Park Service certified guide will share fascinating insights about the geology, volcanology, and rich history of the area, giving you a deeper understanding of the powerful forces shaping this island. Learn about the flora and fauna that call this land home as you pass through diverse landscapes.
Kaumana Caves & Hilo Town Exploration
Your adventure continues with a stop at Kaumana Caves, part of the lava tube system that brought lava dangerously close to downtown Hilo in 1881. Explore the cave’s dramatic cathedral-like interior before heading into the charming Hilo town for a brief drive along its historic waterfront. You’ll also stop by KapohoKine Adventures to grab any necessary supplies for the rest of the journey.
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park – Hike the Halemaʻumaʻu Trail
Next, you’ll venture to the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll witness firsthand the destruction caused by the 2018 eruption. After a picnic lunch surrounded by the sounds of native bird calls, you’ll embark on your longest hike of the day, the Halemaʻumaʻu Trail, which spans approximately 3 miles.
Starting behind the historic Volcano House, the trail descends into the caldera floor, a dramatically altered landscape due to the 2018 eruption. This trail, established in 1846, has a rich history and was even used by Mark Twain, who was once rescued by a native guide here. As you hike through ancient forests of tree ferns, some as old as 1,000 years, keep an eye out for native birds like the yellow ‘amakihi and red ‘apapane.
Along the way, you’ll see huge boulders left by previous eruptions and encounter remnants of historic visitors such as Benjamin Boyd and John Webster from the mid-1800s. Once you reach the floor of Kīlauea Caldera, you’ll be greeted by incredible sights, including the vast rock slide from the 2018 eruption and the newly expanded Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, which has transformed into a massive 1,000-foot-deep pit.
Byron Ledge & Waldron Overlook
As you skirt the edge of the caldera, take in the view of native ʻōhiʻa lehua trees slowly reclaiming the area. The trail climbs about 400 feet in just half a mile to Byron Ledge, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the 1,000-foot-deep pit that has been continuously filling with lava as Kīlauea remains active. This section of the hike offers plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, and there’s a bench at the top where you can take a breather and enjoy the panoramic view.
The trail continues on to Waldron Overlook, where the incline becomes more gradual. Here, you’ll catch glimpses of Pu’u Pua’i and Kīlauea Iki, and the trail ultimately leads back to Volcano House where you can reflect on your hike while enjoying the magnificent view of the park.
Additional Exploration & Lava Viewing
After the hike, your guide will take you to some of the park’s other incredible spots, including the Mauna Ulu lava flow where you can look for Pele’s tears and lava trees. You’ll also explore the Nahuku lava tube hidden within the rainforest, another testament to the island’s volcanic past.
Dinner and Lava Glow
For all your hard work, you’ll finish the day with a hearty dinner at one of Volcano Village’s beloved local restaurants, just outside the National Park. Depending on the status of the eruption, your guide may take you back into the park after dark to witness the lava glow, an awe-inspiring sight when an eruption is happening at the summit.
This hiking adventure offers an unforgettable experience of Hawaii’s explosive volcanic landscape, combining rich history, geological wonders, and stunning natural beauty into one extraordinary tour.
