Devastation Trail
Walk through a stark, otherworldly landscape shaped by a 1959 volcanic eruption. Witness raw nature's power and, seasonally, an active eruption's glow...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness Pele's spectacular display
Devastation Trail
Best Time
Witness Pele's spectacular display
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through a stark, otherworldly landscape shaped by a 1959 volcanic eruption. Witness raw nature's power and, seasonally, an active eruption's glow.
"A once in a lifetime experience witnessing Pele perform in all her glory!"
Check Eruption Status
Always check USGS updates for eruption visibility before your visit.
Dress Warmly at Night
Evenings can get chilly, especially if waiting for eruption views. Layers are key!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Volcanic Landscape
Devastation Trail
Walk through a stark, otherworldly landscape shaped by a 1959 volcanic eruption. Witness the raw power of nature.
Eruption Views (Seasonal)
Overlook points along the trail
If active, witness the spectacular glow and power of a volcanic eruption – a truly unforgettable sight.
Kilauea Iki Trail Vista
End of Devastation Trail
Gain a unique perspective of the Kilauea Iki trail from above, offering a different angle on the volcanic terrain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Eruption Status
Always check USGS updates for eruption visibility before your visit.
Dress Warmly at Night
Evenings can get chilly, especially if waiting for eruption views. Layers are key!
Easy Paved Path
The trail is paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience, especially for distant eruption activity.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Eruption Status
Always check USGS updates for eruption visibility before your visit.
Dress Warmly at Night
Evenings can get chilly, especially if waiting for eruption views. Layers are key!
Easy Paved Path
The trail is paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience, especially for distant eruption activity.
Respect the Landscape
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile volcanic environment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Devastation Trail for its unique volcanic landscape and accessibility. The chance to witness an active eruption, though seasonal, is a highlight for many, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Some note that it's a short walk, best combined with other park attractions.
"A once in a lifetime experience that has been happening approximately every week or so since last December - if you haven’t somehow made it to our beautiful island to come see this spectacular display of Mother Gia’s true power then WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR LIFE?? Seriously, do whatever you can to make it out here when she is showing off for us… aside from being present for the birth of my children I can honestly say seeing Pele perform like this in all her glory was the most beautiful amazing incredible thing I have ever seen BY FAR."
Phoenix Stardust
"Wow, the volcano had a small eruption and wow was it cool to see.
Make sure to dress warm of going at night. Well worth the trip."
Ronald Asher
"Nice easy little trail. Cool and different views. Walk to the end to see the Kilauea Iki trail from above."
Steph Couvrette
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devastation Trail is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Access is typically via Crater Rim Drive. Parking is available near the trailhead.
Yes, there is parking available near the trailhead. It can get busy, especially during peak times or when an eruption is visible.
While possible, it's challenging. Public transportation within the park is limited. Renting a car or joining a guided tour is highly recommended for easy access.
The most convenient way is by car, driving along Crater Rim Drive within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Yes, Devastation Trail is a feature within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which offers many other volcanic attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need an entrance pass to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Passes can be purchased online or at the park entrance stations.
Devastation Trail is generally accessible during park hours, which are typically 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers and specific facilities have set hours.
No, there is no additional fee specifically for Devastation Trail beyond the general entrance fee for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Yes, you can visit Devastation Trail at night, which can be particularly spectacular if there's an active eruption. Remember to bring a flashlight and dress warmly.
Visitors are asked to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile volcanic environment and for safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Devastation Trail is a short, paved half-mile out-and-back trail. Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes exploring it.
The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it very easy to walk. It winds through an area covered in volcanic cinders and ash.
You'll see a unique volcanic landscape, including cinder cones and ash fields from the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption. You can also see the Kilauea Iki trail from above.
Absolutely! The paved, short trail is perfect for children of all ages. It's an easy and engaging walk.
Yes, Devastation Trail offers views of the Kilauea Iki trail, which is a longer, more challenging hike into a crater.
📸 📸 Photography
The stark volcanic landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset, offers dramatic photo opportunities. If there's an active eruption, capturing its glow is a must.
Yes, the unique textures and colors of the volcanic cinders and ash make it a great spot for landscape photography.
Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for photos. Evening visits are also popular for viewing eruption glow.
Any camera, from a smartphone to a DSLR, can capture great shots. Consider a wide-angle lens for the expansive views.
The entire trail offers unique perspectives. The overlook for the Kilauea Iki trail provides a different vantage point for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be fascinated by the unique, almost alien landscape. It's a great opportunity to talk about geology and nature's forces. Plus, the short length means it won't tire them out, leaving plenty of energy for other park adventures.
🚶♀️ Easy Walkers & Accessibility
You can enjoy the dramatic volcanic scenery without strenuous effort. The trail provides a unique perspective on the aftermath of a volcanic eruption, offering a memorable experience for all fitness levels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 1959 Kīlauea Iki Eruption
This event was a significant geological occurrence, and the resulting landscape offers a unique opportunity to witness primary volcanic succession – the process by which life begins to colonize barren land. You can observe how plants are slowly starting to reclaim the area, a testament to nature's resilience.
Understanding the history of the Kīlauea Iki eruption adds a deeper layer of appreciation to your walk along the Devastation Trail. It transforms a simple stroll into an educational journey through geological time and ecological recovery.
Experiencing an Active Eruption
If an eruption is occurring, the experience can be truly awe-inspiring. The glowing lava against the night sky is described as a "spectacular display of Mother Gia's true power" and "the most beautiful amazing incredible thing" by visitors. Even a small eruption can be incredibly cool to see.
For the best viewing experience, consider visiting in the evening or at night. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures by dressing in layers. Bringing binoculars can also enhance your ability to observe the eruption from a safe distance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit