22 Incredible Big Island Hikes You’ll Want to Check Out

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Looking for the best Big Island hikes on your trip to the Hawaiian Islands?

If you are planning on putting together a Big Island itinerary that includes some of the best Big Island hikes, then you are in the right place! While some of the other islands are known for their trails more than the island of Hawaii itself, you might be surprised at the number of unique trails you’re able to find.

Daniel and I took on several different hikes on the Big Island, including ones with lava tubes, petroglyphs, and amazing views. You’re in for a treat when you decide to take these on!

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Big Island hikes that shouldn’t be missed on your Hawaii trip

Here are some of the best Big Island hikes you’re going to want to make sure to add to your list of trails when visiting Hawaii.

1. Crater Rim Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 3.2 miles

Elevation gain: 741 feet

Nestled in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Crater Rim Trail is a breathtaking journey showcasing the majesty of volcanic landscapes. Offering panoramic views of the Kīlauea Caldera and Halema‘uma‘u Crater, this trail weaves through lush rainforests and stark volcanic deserts, echoing with native bird songs.

Along the path, informative placards deepen the experience about the volcanic eruption that created the crater, merging visual wonder with educational insights. For an authentic glimpse into the Big Island’s geological tapestry, the Crater Rim Trail is a can’t miss option for things to do on the Big Island and is one of the best hikes in the Hawaiian Islands.

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2. Akaka Falls State Park

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: .5 miles

Elevation gain: 121 feet

Akaka Falls State Park offers a straightforward, easy hike on a paved path and is one of the best things to do in Hilo. Located on the Big Island, the main loop trail is less than a mile, making it accessible for most. As you walk, you’ll encounter two waterfalls: Kahuna Falls and the star attraction, Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet.

The trail is well-maintained with handrails and steps in steeper sections. Despite its simplicity, you’ll be surrounded by a lush rainforest filled with ferns and orchids. It’s a quick hike, but the payoff is big. Wear good shoes or sturdy hiking shoes, as the path can get slippery after rain.

3. Pololū Valley Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: .9 miles

Elevation gain: 344 feet

Pololu Valley, located at the northern tip of the Big Island, offers sweeping ocean views that captivate visitors. The descent into the valley floor via a steep trail presents you with black sand beaches, framed by rugged cliffs.

The hike is relatively short but can be challenging due to its incline and sometimes muddy conditions. Once at the bottom, you’re greeted by the roaring ocean waves and the valley’s rich greenery. While swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents, the vista alone is worth the trek.

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4. Kiholo Bay

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 5.1 miles

Elevation gain: 324 feet

Kiholo Bay, situated on the Big Island’s west coast, is a gem for those in search of a serene coastal experience. The bay’s unique turquoise waters are surrounded by black lava rocks, creating a stunning contrast. As you explore, you’ll find tide pools teeming with marine life and the occasional sea turtle basking on the shore.

The area is rich in history, with remnants of ancient fishponds and a flooded lava tube still visible. Accessible via a gravel road or a short hike, Kiholo Bay remains relatively uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy its natural beauty in relative peace. Remember to pack essentials, as amenities are limited.

5. Kipuka Puaulu “Bird Park” Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1.1 miles

Elevation gain: 164 feet

Kipuka Puaulu, commonly known as “Bird Park,” is a treasure trove for bird enthusiasts visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. This easy 1-mile loop trail winds through an old-growth forest, offering a unique ecosystem distinct from the surrounding lava fields. As you walk, listen for the melodies of native birds like the apapane, amakihi, and the elusive Hawaii creeper.

Alongside the avian wonders, you’ll encounter diverse plant life, including the ‘ohi’a lehua tree and massive koa trees. It’s not just a trail; it’s a window into a preserved pocket of Hawaiian ecology. Bring binoculars to enhance your bird-watching experience.

6. Napau Crater Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 11.8 miles

Elevation gain: 2,040 feet

The Napau Crater Trail is one of the best hikes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and offers hikers an immersive journey through the dynamic volcanic landscapes of Hawaii. Spanning 12 miles round-trip, this trail provides a firsthand look at the island’s geologic might, leading you past the Mauna Ulu lava shield and ending at the Napau Crater overlook. Along the way, you’ll traverse diverse terrains, from rainforests to fresh lava flows.

The sights of steaming vents and the sounds of shifting rocks underfoot serve as reminders of the Earth’s ever-evolving nature. For those prepared for a longer trek, the trail promises a memorable, raw Hawaiian hiking experience.

7. The Puna Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 5.2 miles

Elevation gain: 295 feet

The Puna Trail, also located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, takes you through a diverse and lesser-trodden landscape. Stretching across old lava flows and coastal cliffs, this trail offers raw, untamed views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a moderate hike, approximately 5 miles one way, connecting Kahakai Park to the black sand beach at Kaimū.

As you traverse the path, you’ll encounter remnants of ancient Hawaiian settlements, including heiaus (temples) and petroglyphs. The trail captures Puna’s rugged essence, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection to Hawaii’s history and natural beauty.

I highly recommend this hike for those with kids or those who want a unique option for a trail on Hawaii’s Big Island. With stunning beaches and lava rock formations, there’s a lot to enjoy.

8. King’s Mamalahoa Trail & Petroglyphs

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 3.1 miles

Elevation gain: 144 feet

King’s Mamalahoa Trail is a testament to ancient Hawaiian history. This historic pathway once facilitated movement and communication among islanders. As you tread on parts of the original trail, the highlight is undoubtedly the petroglyphs—rock carvings left by native Hawaiians.

These symbols, etched into lava rock, offer glimpses into the daily life, beliefs, and stories of the island’s early inhabitants. A walk along this trail isn’t just a physical journey but a voyage back in time, providing an intimate connection with Hawaii’s rich cultural tapestry. It’s a wonderful option for families or those looking for a hiking with a shorter trail length that goes right from the parking lot.

9. Thurston Lava Tube

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: .4 miles

Elevation gain: 49 feet

The Thurston Lava Tube, or Nāhuku, presents a unique hiking experience in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This short, family-friendly trail leads you into a cavernous tunnel formed by a lava flow over 500 years ago. As you traverse the well-lit tube, the cool, damp atmosphere contrasts sharply with the dense rainforest you journeyed through to get there.

Ferns and lush greenery greet you as you emerge, painting a vivid picture of nature’s regenerative power. The hike offers a captivating glimpse into the geological processes that have shaped the Big Island and remains a must-visit for its sheer awe factor.

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10. Mauna Loa Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 36.1 miles

Elevation gain: 7,283 feet

The Mauna Loa Trail is not for the faint-hearted. Leading to one of the world’s largest volcanoes, this challenging 36-mile route starts at the Mauna Loa Observatory Road and climbs to the summit. The landscape is stark and otherworldly, dominated by vast lava fields and offering sweeping views of the Pacific and neighboring volcanoes.

Due to its steep climb and rigorous terrain, hikers should be well-prepared, acclimating to avoid altitude sickness. Despite its challenges, reaching the summit rewards you with a breathtaking panorama and a profound sense of accomplishment.

11. Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 5.6 miles

Elevation gain: 344 feet

The trail to Papakolea Green Sand Beach on the Big Island is as intriguing as its destination. Located on the Big Island’s southern tip, this 5-mile round-trip hike culminates at one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The unique hue is thanks to olivine, green crystals eroding from a collapsed cinder cone.

The path is exposed and can be windy, so come prepared with sun protection and water. While the hike is relatively flat, the loose sand and rugged terrain demand sturdy hiking boots.

12. Makalawena Beach Hike

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2.7 miles

Elevation gain: 6 feet

The Makalawena Beach Hike takes you to one of the Big Island’s hidden gems. Beginning from Kekaha Kai State Park, this 2.7-mile round-trip trail requires navigation across rugged lava fields before revealing the pristine Makalawena Beach. This secluded stretch of white sand is flanked by crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish.

The beach’s isolation preserves its untouched beauty, making it a serene escape from more populated spots. While the hike can be challenging due to the uneven lava terrain, the reward of reaching this coastal paradise is well worth the effort.

13. Kaumana Caves State Park

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: .1 miles

Elevation gain: 0 feet

The hike in Kaumana Caves State Park offers an exhilarating peek into the subterranean wonders of the Big Island. Situated just outside of Hilo, the park is home to a section of the extensive, lava tube created by the 1881 eruption of Mauna Loa. A short descent via a staircase drops you into the mouth of the cave, where the temperature noticeably cools.

Inside, you’re greeted by the cavern’s intricate formations, the result of cooled and hardened lava. Bring a flashlight, as the tube’s depths are dark and vast. While the main trail is relatively short, adventurous souls can explore deeper into the labyrinthine passages, ensuring safety precautions are in place.

14. Waimanu Valley

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 19.9 miles

Elevation gain: 5,541 feet

Keep in mind that this trail is currently closed, but might open again in the future.

Hiking into Waimanu Valley is a transformative experience, promising unparalleled beauty and solitude. Located on the Big Island’s northeastern coast, the challenging trail demands preparation and stamina, with numerous stream crossings and steep inclines. As you traverse dense rainforests and ascend ridgelines, panoramic views of the rugged coastline and azure ocean unfold.

The reward at the trail’s end is Waimanu’s pristine black sand beach, framed by soaring cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The valley feels like a forgotten paradise, ideal for backpackers seeking an immersive Hawaiian wilderness experience.

15. Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: .9 miles

Elevation gain: 167 feet

The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden offers a serene hike through a living tapestry of exotic flora. Located along the scenic Hamakua Coast near Hilo, the garden’s trail weaves through 40 acres of lush landscape, encompassing over 2,000 species from around the world.

As you meander along the well-maintained boardwalk, also known as the Donkey Trail Loop, you’re surrounded by cascading waterfalls, tranquil streams, and a symphony of bird songs. This isn’t just a hike; it’s an educational journey, with informative signs detailing the various plant species. One highlight is the oceanfront trail segment, providing stunning views of Onomea Bay.

16. Kilauea Iki Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 3.2 miles

Elevation gain: 741 feet

The Kilauea Iki Trail in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a window into the Earth’s raw power. This 4-mile loop takes you from a lush rainforest down to the solidified, but still warm, floor of the Kilauea Iki Crater, a pit crater adjacent to the main Kilauea caldera.

Traversing the crater floor feels otherworldly, with steam vents reminding hikers of the molten magma just below. Along the way, interpretive signs detail the 1959 eruption, which formed this vast lava lake. A moderately challenging hike due to elevation changes, the trail offers a unique perspective on Hawaii’s volcanic forces.

17. Captain Cook Monument Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 3.7 miles

Elevation gain: 1,266 feet

The Captain Cook Monument Trail offers both historical significance and natural beauty. Starting near Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island, this 3.7-mile round-trip hike descends through a mosaic of lava fields and tropical foliage, leading to the spot where Captain James Cook, the famed British explorer, first made contact with Hawaiians in 1778. The monument marks the location of Cook’s eventual death.

As you approach the bay, the azure waters beckon, offering some of the Big Island’s best snorkeling opportunities. While the descent is manageable, the return ascent can be demanding. Proper hydration and sturdy footwear are essential.

18. Mauna Kea Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 13.4 miles

Elevation gain: 4,986 feet

The Mauna Kea Trail, ascending the tallest mountain on Hawaii from its base below sea level, is an unparalleled Hawaiian hiking experience. This 13-mile trek, starting from the Onizuka Visitor Center, challenges even seasoned hikers with its steep grades and high-altitude conditions. As you climb, the terrain transforms from alpine shrublands to barren lunar landscapes.

The summit, standing at over 13,800 feet, offers breathtaking panoramic views and a spiritual ambiance, with its sacred Hawaiian significance. It’s essential to acclimate at the visitor center, given the altitude, and to prepare for extreme temperature variations on this majestic ascent.

19. South Point

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: .5 miles

Elevation gain: 22 feet

South Point, or Ka Lae, on Hawaii’s Big Island, is the southernmost point in the United States. The hike to this dramatic coastline is an immersion in rugged beauty. With windswept plains and views of endless blue ocean and the opportunity to see sea turtles, the trail presents the vastness of the Pacific in raw form.

Along the path, you’ll encounter fishing spots where locals cast lines off the cliffs and the iconic South Point jump-off spot — a thrilling leap for daring adventurers. Due to strong currents, swimming is risky. This relatively flat hike is a journey to an edge of the world sensation.

20. Kaʻū Desert Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 13.8 miles

Elevation gain: 3,415 feet

The Kaʻū Desert Trail presents a stark contrast to Hawaii’s typical tropical landscapes. Located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this trail unveils a vast expanse of ash, sand, and volcanic remnants. Traversing the desert, hikers encounter footprints preserved in layers of volcanic ash, left behind by ancient Hawaiians.

The unique weather patterns, often resulting in acid rain, are a byproduct of volcanic fog (vog) mixing with moisture. A walk through this otherworldly terrain, shadowed by Mauna Loa’s imposing silhouette, offers a profound understanding of the island’s geologic forces.

21. Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1.2 miles

Elevation gain: 85 feet

The Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs Trail on the Big Island offers a profound connection to ancient Hawaii. A relatively short path in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it leads to one of the largest petroglyph fields in the Pacific, with over 23,000 carvings.

These symbols, etched into the hardened lava, represent human figures, canoes, and other motifs that offer insights into the beliefs and daily life of early Hawaiians. As you tread lightly among these sacred markings, you’re not just observing art, but a living testament to Hawaii’s deep cultural roots.

22. Awini Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 1.4 miles

Elevation gain: 406 feet

Located on the Big Island’s northern coastline, the Awini Trail serves as an excellent representation of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes. This hike offers a mix of terrains from dense rainforest canopies to historic terraced fields once used by ancient Hawaiians for agriculture.

As hikers navigate the trail, they are treated to stunning vistas of towering sea cliffs and the expansive Pacific Ocean. It’s important for hikers to exercise caution: certain sections can be slippery and steep. However, for those who persevere, they’ll discover hidden tide pools and isolated sandy alcoves.

Tips for hiking on the Big Island

Here are some of my recommended tips if you plan to hike on the Big Island Hawaii.

• Know the terrain: The Big Island boasts a vast array of terrains – from rainforests, volcanic deserts, a volcanic crater, to snow-capped peaks. Before setting out, familiarize yourself with the specific trail conditions. For example, hiking on volcanic terrains, like those found in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, can be rugged and sharp underfoot.
• Stay updated on volcanic activity: Parts of the Big Island are still volcanically active, especially around the Kīlauea volcano. Always check for current volcanic activity and associated warnings before embarking on a hike. Some areas might be closed due to recent eruptions or high sulfur dioxide levels.
• Respect private property: Large portions of the Big Island are privately owned. Always seek permission before venturing onto private lands. Some areas may have guided tours or arrangements for visitors, while others might be strictly off-limits. Respecting boundaries ensures a good relationship between locals and visitors.
• Respect the environment: The island is home to fragile ecosystems and unique species. Stay on designated paths to minimize impact, avoid picking plants, and never leave trash behind. Also, consider washing your boots and gear before hiking to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Prepare for changing weather: The Big Island has multiple climate zones, which can mean experiencing sun, rain, and even snow in a single day, especially if you’re venturing to higher altitudes like Mauna Kea. Bring layered clothing, a rain jacket, and sun protection. Always check the weather forecast for the area you plan to hike.
• Stay safe and stay informed: Cell reception can be spotty or non-existent in certain areas, so let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time. Carry a detailed map, compass, and potentially a GPS device. Also, be aware of other potential hazards, such as flash floods in valleys and gorges, especially after heavy rains.

Conclusion: Big Island hikes

The Hawaiian Islands are incredible for hiking, and the hikes on the Big Island shouldn’t be overlooked. I recommend you take the time to explore the many trails available and enjoy the chance to explore some of the most beautiful spots on the island.

Have you been on any of these Big Island hikes? Let me know in the comments!

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Want more information on Hawaii? Check out these articles:

• Whale Watching on the Big Island
• Hilo Restaurants
• Haleakala Hikes
• Haleakala Sunset