The Top 5 Best Hikes on the Island of Hawaii
Hiking on the Big Island of Hawai’i offers a diverse range of trails, each providing unique experiences and breathtaking views. Here are the top five hikes you shouldn’t miss:
Kilauea Iki Trail
- Location: Volcanoes National Park
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4 miles round trip
- Highlights: This trail takes you through lush rainforests and across the floor of a volcanic crater formed from an eruption in 1959. You’ll see steaming vents and a “bathtub ring” marking the height of the former lava lake. The hike offers a unique opportunity to walk on still-warm lava fields and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Pololu Valley Awini Trail
- Location: Kohala Coast
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
- Highlights: Starting at the Pololu Valley Overlook, this trail descends into the beautiful Pololu Valley. You’ll traverse through lush vegetation to reach a black sand beach. The valley floor and coastline offer incredible photo opportunities and a sense of serenity, often without the crowds.
Akaka Falls Loop
- Location: North Hamakua Region
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 0.5 miles loop
- Highlights: This short, paved trail in Akaka Falls State Park leads you to two stunning waterfalls: the 100-foot Kahuna Falls and the 442-foot Akaka Falls. The trail winds through lush tropical greenery, including wild orchids and bamboo, making it accessible and rewarding.
Mauna Loa Lookout Trail
- Location: Near Volcano Village
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Distance: Variable (short hikes available on an 18-mile ascent trail)
- Highlights: This trail starts at a high elevation of over 6,500 feet and offers spectacular views of the world’s largest volcano. You don’t need to hike the entire 18 miles to enjoy the majestic mountainous terrain. Shorter hikes provide a taste of the volcanic landscape and panoramic vistas.
Captain Cook Monument Trail
- Location: Kealakekua Bay
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Distance: 4 miles round trip
- Highlights: This hike combines historical significance with natural beauty. It descends to the Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay, one of the island’s best snorkeling spots. The trail features an elevation gain of 1,200 feet and offers stunning views of the coastline and opportunities to explore the bay’s marine life.
These hikes provide a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and rich history of Hawai’i, making them must-visit trails for any hiking enthusiast.
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