Crater Rim Trail

Description:

• Crater Rim Trail encircles Kilauea's summit Caldera closely following the path of Crater Rim Road. This is a challenging and long day hike, that passes through varied terrain, including a desert and rain forest. Views of Halemaumau and Keanakakoi Craters and Mauna Loa are excellent from this 11-mile path.

  The trail begins at the Kilauea Visitor Center and leads along the northern crater rim. On the southern side of the crater the trail leads away from the rim, with the road between the trail and the crater. This obstructs hikers' views from The Jaggar Museum to the Thurston Lava Tube. A short spur trail leading north to the Halemaumau Overlook is accessible from Crater Rim Trail. Bring water and food and be prepared for hot and dry, and wet and windy weather. Expect sulfur fumes in the Halema'uma'u Crater and southwest rift zone area. To get there follow Crater Rim Road to the Kilauea visitor center. The trailhead begins from the visitor center parking area.