The island of Hawaii, also known as the “Big Island,” is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests and waterfalls to rugged coastline and volcanic terrain, the island offers a wide variety of trails to suit all skill levels and interests. The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its stunning natural beauty, from volcanic landscapes to lush tropical forests, and offers some of the best hiking trails in Hawaii. With a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, there’s something for hikers of all levels on the Big Island. Here are some of the best hikes on the island of Hawaii that you won’t want to miss.
The Best Hikes on the Big Island
- The Kilauea Iki Trail: Located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Kilauea Iki Trail is a must-do for any serious hiker visiting the island. The 4-mile round trip trail takes you through a dense rainforest and across the Kilauea Iki crater, which last erupted in 1959. Along the way, you’ll see a variety of native plants and wildlife, and get a firsthand look at the island’s volcanic history.
- The Mauna Kea Summit: Located in the central region of the island, the Mauna Kea Summit is the highest peak on the island and offers some of the most breathtaking views in Hawaii. The summit is accessible by car, and from the top, you’ll have panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands and the Pacific Ocean. The summit is also home to the Mauna Kea Observatory, where you can learn about the history and geology of the island and see the stars up close through powerful telescopes.
- The Pololu Valley: Located on the north side of the island, the Pololu Valley is a beautiful and serene valley that offers a number of stunning trails. The valley is home to a rich cultural history and is considered one of the most sacred places on the island. The most popular trail in the valley is the Pololu Valley Lookout Trail, which takes you to a lookout point with breathtaking views of the valley and the coastline below.
The Runners Up
- The Akaka Falls State Park: Located on the north side of the island, the Akaka Falls State Park is a beautiful park that is home to a number of stunning trails. The park is home to a variety of native plants and animals, including rare and endangered species, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Pacific Ocean. The most popular trail in the park is the Akaka Falls Trail, which takes you to a lookout point with breathtaking views of the Akaka Falls, a stunning 442-foot waterfall.
- The Waipio Valley: Located on the north side of the island, the Waipio Valley is a beautiful and serene valley that offers a number of stunning trails. The valley is home to a rich cultural history and is considered one of the most sacred places on the island. The most popular trail in the valley is the Waipio Valley Lookout Trail, which takes you to a lookout point with breathtaking views of the valley and the coastline below.
The Popular Hikes
One of the most popular hikes on the Big Island is the Kilauea Iki Trail. This hike takes you through a lush rainforest and over the still-steaming crater floor of the Kilauea Iki volcano. The trail is just under four miles and takes about 2-3 hours to complete roundtrip. The trail can be steep and rocky, so it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. If you’re lucky, you may even see lava flowing in the distance.
Another great hike on the Big Island is the Waipio Valley Trail. This hike takes you down a steep and winding trail to the bottom of the Waipio Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in Hawaii. The trail is just under a mile and takes about 1-2 hours to complete roundtrip. The trail can be slippery and challenging, so it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. At the bottom of the trail, you’ll find a black sand beach and stunning views of the valley.
Relax and Take in a Hike
For those seeking a more relaxed hike, the Akaka Falls Loop Trail is a great choice. This hike takes you through a beautiful rainforest and past two stunning waterfalls, including the 442-foot Akaka Falls. The trail is just over half a mile and takes about 30 minutes to complete roundtrip. The trail is relatively flat and easy, making it a great choice for families with children.
Challenging Your Stamina
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the Mauna Kea Summit Trail is a great choice. This hike takes you to the summit of Mauna Kea, one of the highest peaks in Hawaii. The trail is just over six miles and takes about 6-8 hours to complete roundtrip. The trail is strenuous and can be steep and rocky, so it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the island and the Pacific Ocean.
Another great hike on the Big Island is the Pololu Valley Trail. This hike takes you down a steep and winding trail to the bottom of the Pololu Valley, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The trail is just over half a mile and takes about 30 minutes to complete roundtrip. The trail can be slippery and challenging, so it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Be Prepared
When hiking on the Big Island, it’s important to take proper precautions and be prepared. Hawaii’s climate can be unpredictable, and weather conditions can change quickly. Always bring plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Additionally, be sure to follow all posted signs and stay on designated trails to avoid damaging delicate ecosystems and preserve the natural beauty of the island.
One important note for hikers on the Big Island is to be mindful of the impact of tourism on the island’s delicate ecosystems. Hawaii is home to many endangered species, and hiking off designated trails or disturbing wildlife can have serious consequences. It’s important to always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment by not littering, staying on designated trails, and avoiding disturbing wildlife.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the island of Hawaii has something for everyone. These are just a few of the many amazing hikes that the island has to offer, so be sure to add them to your list when you visit.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.
