Kīlauea Iki Overlook Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Witness the raw power of Kilauea from this stunning overlook and hike into a solidified lava lake. An unforgettable volcanic adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Kīlauea Iki Overlook Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the raw power of Kilauea from this stunning overlook and hike into a solidified lava lake. An unforgettable volcanic adventure.
"This is one of the most breathtaking places on Earth."
Check Eruption Status First
Always check USGS updates for eruption schedules before visiting for the best chance to see lava.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking at the overlook can fill up quickly, especially during eruptions. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kilauea Iki Crater Floor
Kilauea Iki Trail
Hike across a vast, solidified lava lake for an otherworldly experience. Feel the immense power of past eruptions.
Active Lava Fountains
Kilauea Iki Overlook
Witness spectacular lava fountains shooting hundreds of feet into the air during active eruption periods.
Panoramic Crater Views
Kilauea Iki Overlook
Take in sweeping vistas of the dramatic crater, its lava floor, and surrounding cliffs.
Steam Vents and Sulfur Banks
Near Kilauea Iki Trail
Observe active steam vents and sulfur deposits, a reminder of the volcano's ongoing geological activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Eruption Views
Trail Safety and Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Eruption Status First
Always check USGS updates for eruption schedules before visiting for the best chance to see lava.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking at the overlook can fill up quickly, especially during eruptions. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The Kilauea Iki Trail involves uneven terrain and a descent into the crater. Good footwear is essential.
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated, especially on the hike. Pack snacks for a picnic with a view.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Eruption Status First
Always check USGS updates for eruption schedules before visiting for the best chance to see lava.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking at the overlook can fill up quickly, especially during eruptions. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The Kilauea Iki Trail involves uneven terrain and a descent into the crater. Good footwear is essential.
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated, especially on the hike. Pack snacks for a picnic with a view.
Stay on Marked Trails
The crater rim has steep drop-offs. Always stay on designated paths for safety.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking crater views and the unique experience of hiking across a solidified lava lake. The chance to witness active lava fountains during an eruption is a major highlight, though parking can be challenging during these times. Some find the hike demanding but incredibly rewarding.
"A Great Stop For Wide Crater Views And A Glimpse Of Volcanic Eruptions!
Kīlauea Iki Overlook gives you a sweeping view into the crater, with its dramatic lava floor and surrounding cliffs. When I visited, Kīlauea was in its 32nd re-eruption, and from the overlook we could see lava fountains in the distance shooting hundreds of feet high. You could even hear a low roar and feel faint warmth from certain points — a very cool bonus to an already scenic stop.
While it wasn’t the main highlight of the park that day, it was still a worthwhile viewpoint that helps you appreciate just how massive and active this volcanic landscape really is."
S. Sen
"We did this trail and took the lava tube turn off. We were told that the lava tube parking is scarce and the overlook parking was ample. This turned out to be very true. Trail is mostly shaded, well maintained, and tropical. Lots of plants to look at and numerous scenic overlooks. Watch little kids closely as the cliff is only a few feet beyond the trail fence at points. The views are amazing and plantlife beautiful."
Brian Ward
"Just did a 9 day trip to Hawaii a couple weeks ago and this was the absolute highlight of the trip! Besides getting to see Kilauea erupt live, the view even from the parking lot was really good, the trail was beautiful with lots of cover with beautiful trees and flowers, and the view from the main trail once you hit the point past the Iki trail is absolutely amazing! Best part about this train is, unlike the main trail everyone uses to view the eruption, this one had very few people so we got to enjoy it with no tourist noise and just the sound of the birds and the eruption! Somehow I luckily timed the trip just right and got to see the eruption which was a childhood dream come true! For reference, the volcano is currently erupting on average every 20-21 days, although we got lucky and it erupted sooner than that. If you want to see it, check out USGS and watch the local news, that's how we found out it was happening the morning of. Even if the eruption isn't happening, I still highly recommend this hike!"
Ali Alibhai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kilauea Iki Overlook is located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii. Access is via Crater Rim Drive. If coming from the west side of the park, it's a short drive from the main visitor center. If coming from the east, it's further along Crater Rim Drive.
Yes, there is a parking area at the overlook. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during active eruption periods or peak visiting times. Arriving early is recommended.
While public transportation within the park is limited, some tour operators may include Kilauea Iki Overlook as part of their itinerary. Renting a car is the most common and flexible way to access it.
The most direct route is via Crater Rim Drive. If you are exploring other parts of the park, ensure you are heading towards the Kilauea caldera area. The overlook is well-signed.
Yes, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has an entrance fee per vehicle, which is valid for several days. Check the official NPS website for current pricing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kilauea Iki Overlook is within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, so you will need to pay the park's entrance fee. There are no separate tickets required for the overlook itself.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, it's always a good idea to check the official NPS website for any temporary closures or alerts.
No reservations are needed for the Kilauea Iki Trail. It's a popular hike, so arriving early can help you avoid the largest crowds on the trail.
Eruptions are unpredictable. While you can see lava fountains during active periods, the timing varies. Checking USGS eruption updates is crucial.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography if it might disturb wildlife or other guests.
🎫 🌋 Onsite Experience
The Kilauea Iki Trail is a 3.3-mile loop that descends into the crater. It features a hardened lava lake floor and offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
The hike typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views and exploring the crater floor.
Yes, the overlook is an excellent vantage point for viewing active lava fountains during eruptions. You can often hear the roar and feel warmth from the eruption.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes. Layers are recommended as weather can change. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Restroom facilities are typically available at major viewpoints within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, including near the Kilauea Iki area.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light. If there's an active eruption, any time you can safely view the lava fountains is prime photography time.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the crater. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on lava fountains during eruptions. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Absolutely! The overlook provides a fantastic perspective for capturing lava fountains, especially during active eruption phases.
The overlook itself offers panoramic views. For unique crater floor shots, hike the Kilauea Iki Trail and explore the lava lake.
Steam vents can add an atmospheric element to your photos. Be cautious of the heat and sulfurous gases in these areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Kilauea Iki Crater Hike
Once on the crater floor, the experience is truly otherworldly. You'll be walking on a surface formed by a massive eruption in 1959. The hardened lava is uneven, with fascinating textures and formations. Keep an eye out for steam vents that still release heat and gases, a testament to the volcano's ongoing activity. Remember to stay on the marked trail, as the edges of the crater can have steep drop-offs.
This hike is a fantastic way to appreciate the raw power and beauty of Kilauea. It's a moderate hike, but the elevation change and the unique terrain make it a memorable adventure. Many visitors find this hike to be a highlight of their trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Chasing Lava: Viewing Eruptions from Kilauea Iki Overlook
During an eruption, you might see lava fountains shooting hundreds of feet into the air, creating a mesmerizing display of molten rock. Visitors have reported hearing a low roar and even feeling faint warmth from the eruption, adding to the immersive experience. It's crucial to check USGS eruption updates and local news sources to know when and where eruptions are occurring, as they are unpredictable.
While the overlook offers fantastic views, it's important to note that parking can be extremely limited during active eruption periods. Arriving early is highly recommended. Even if an eruption isn't actively occurring, the overlook still provides stunning views of the crater and its dramatic landscape.
Safety and Preparedness
When hiking the Kilauea Iki Trail, wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, is also essential, as much of the trail and overlook areas are exposed.
For those interested in photography, a tripod can be beneficial for capturing stable shots of lava fountains or in low-light conditions. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Remember that volcanic environments can be unpredictable, so always prioritize safety and follow park ranger guidance.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit