Halema‘uma‘u Trail

Everyone knows that Hawaii was formed from a series of volcanoes over millions of years. But did you know that you can experience one of them up close? Well, as close as you can while staying safe, obviously.

The Halema'uma'u Crater has been active since 2008 when the vent first erupted. Since then, lava levels have varied in size below the crater floor.

Getting to the overlook is very easy and accessible by a short drive and subsequent walk. Enter the park off Highway 11 and head west down Crater Rim Drive to the visitor center. Grab a map and continue heading west along Crater Rim Drive for about 5 minutes until you see the former Jaggar Museum. Feel free to stop in for a bit and learn about the history of the park and the volcanoes located in there.

Continue along Crater Rim Drive for a few more minutes until you come across a parking lot on the left side of the road. Park your car, get out and walk for about 2 minutes until you reach the overlook. Here you'll be presented with stunning vistas of the Halema'uma'u Crater. You'll also notice various steam vents along your way which can be quite hot.

This is a great spot for some stunning pictures, and if you're lucky enough, you might be able to see some active lava flows. Make sure you check ahead of time if the park is allowing visitors to the area as the volcano is unpredictable. More info here.

Admission fees from the National Park Service website:

Vehicle

$25.00 - 7 days

Admits one single, private, non-commercial vehicle and all of its passengers.

Individual

$12.00 - 7 days

Admits one individual when entering by foot or bicycle. Individuals 15 years old and younger are admitted free of charge.

Motorcycle

$20.00 - 7 days