Route Editor
Route Scout
Best of the Best! by imike Within the confines of the Volcano National Park you will not find a nicer loop, representative of so much that is to be found in the area. If you do just one hike in the area... this be it! Back in 1959, Kilauea Volcano erupted through a vent some 400' above the bottom of an isolated basin, ...at the time close to 900' deep. After spewing out a 1900' tall spout of molten lava, and filling the basin over 400' deep in lava, eventually the boiling lake hardened into the interestingly crusted and faulted surface that still spews steam out of various cracks along the bottom section of this loop trail. Now, only 500' deep, the valley is an impressive and accessible example of the forces at play within the park. The upper section overlooks the area from rail guarded cliff edges... winding around through impressive foliages, most non-native, but still fun to hike around and under. If you do the loop counter clock wise (suggested) you will enjoy a steep, stepped decline on the far end, then after walking across the lava lake (now fully hardened) you will get to hike up a nicely switched back trail... ending up adjacent to the short walk over to view the Thurston Lava Tube. There are also some connecting trails leading off and away towards the main Kilauea crater... but most of the trails in that section remain closed and off limits; toxic off gassing has closed down the driving and hiking access to that main event. Fortunately, there are nice overlooking hikes that skirt the area... and if you have the time, plan on doing those various connecting routes. This is a National Park... complete with entry fee. Check in at the Visitor Center for hike details and current hazards and closures. Being the most accessible of all the trails, and the one most popular... consider getting up early to beat the crowds. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
