The Big Island in Hawaii really does have some exceptional hiking trails that are some of the best ways to explore the landscape of the islands. Whether you are just up for a stroll to admire the amazing scenery of the islands or love hardcore treks, the beautiful hikes on the Big Island will definitely be a good option.
There is literally so much you that is waiting for you on these hike trails: rainforests, sandy beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, gardens, and petroglyphs to name a few. Below, we have compiled a list of the best hikes you can take as well as what you should expect from it and what makes it special. Some a strenuous or moderate while others are more leisurely strolls, so you can take them according to preferences.
10. The Kipuka Puaulu Trail In The Volcano Region
The word ‘Kipuka’ implies a land that was lava at one point and was even surrounded on every side by recent lava flows. When such areas are left undisturbed for a long time, they turn into an ecosystem that attracts a lot of different species. The Kipuka Puaulu Train is also known as the Bird Park. There are old fern and ohia tree forests in the region that have become a home for many of the birds on Big Island such as the colorful and beautiful Khalij Pheasant.
It is a 1-mile hike that takes around 30 minutes to complete at a stroll level. The trailhead has barbeque pits, picnic tables, and a restroom for the perfect picnic.
9. Napau Crater Trail In The Volcano Region
The Napau Crater Hike zigzags through the now smooth Pahoehoe lava that flowed through 1974. The a’a lava field is also jagged with black rocks that look stunning against the green scenery. The trail does require a permit though and is around 7 miles long. The first leg of your journey of around a mile takes hikers straight to the Pu’u Huluhulu. There is a cinder cone draped by trees but the surroundings are all barren (pretty stunning still though).
The area experienced the second-longest flank eruption of Kilauea. You should make sure to follow the reflective markers along the trail that have been set across the now cool lava.
8. King’s Mamalahoa Trail And Petroglyphs In The Kohala Region
The King’s Trail has petroglyphs that have been preserved by the Big Island’s authorities. There are around 30,000 carvings of people and animals that still show up in the pahoehoe lava flow that were made by the ancestors of Hawaiians.
We recommend bringing water and wearing sturdy shoes for the hike.
7. Chain of Craters Road In The Volcano Region
Definitely one of the most unique experiences for hiking, the Chain of Craters Road is an 18-mile road. It travels up to around 4,000 feet elevation about sea level. The route is quite scenic with the volcanoes of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in a distance. There are many different hiking trails along this road that will take you through breathtaking areas. You will be able to walk through various craters with petroglyphs and lava flows.