This is it: the biggie. The long trail that completely encircles not only Kilauea caldera but Kilauea Iki pit crater. It is a spectacular trip that’s unbeatable for its scenery and the sheer variety of its life zones.
From the west end of the parking lot in front of Kilauea Visitor Center (left end as you face the center), carefully cross Crater Rim Road and pick up a paved path marked only by the “hiking trail” symbol and a sign pointing you to Volcano House (which you will not pass until the very end of this hike). The path plunges west into fat banks of uluhe fern, passing ginger, tree ferns, and ohia. Keep an eye out for signs labeling the plants if you’re interested in sharpening your plant-identifying skills.
Activity Type: Hiking
Nearby City: Hilo
Length: 10 total miles
Elevation Gain: 700 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Skill Level: Strenuous
Duration: 5-6 hours
Local Contacts: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Local Maps: USGS Kilauea Crater
Topo Map: Crater Rim Trail Around Kilauea and Kilauea Iki Topographic Map
Guide Book: Hawaii Trails: Walks, Strolls and Treks on the Big Island Guide Book