The red dotted line indicates the trail towards Kīlauea Iki Trail from Devastation Trailhead. The orange dotted line indicates an optional trail to begin the hike from.
NPS Photo
The most scenic trail to Kīlauea Iki crater is from Devastation Trailhead.
This trail traverses through a recovering landscape buried by cinders. Witness life as it returns after the spectacular lava fountains of the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption. From Uēaloha (Byron Ledge), you will enjoy magnificent views of the Kaluapele, the Kīlauea caldera. Views extend to the summits of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea volcanoes on clear days. This less-traveled trail takes you to the Kīlauea Iki loop, and Nāhuku Lava Tube all in one hike.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging - Steep and rocky, descent & ascent 400 feet (122 m).
Distance and hiking time: From Devastation Trailhead: 6.0 mi (9.7 km) round-trip. Plan for 4 to 5 hours. Consider starting from Puʻupuaʻi Parking Area. This will add 1.0 mile (0.8 km) round-trip to your hike, for a total of 7.0 miles (11.3 km).
Bring: Water, food, hat, sunscreen and rain gear. Be prepared for hot, dry, wet, windy weather conditions and steep and rocky terrain.
