Hidden Craters Hike in Kailua-Kona, HI

Hawaii Forest & Trail73-5593 Olowalu StreetKailua-Kona, HI 96740
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Starting at
$185.00
Total Price: $197.20 (USD)
INSTANT CONFIRMATION
NO SERVICE FEES

Overview

Get ready for an excursion unlike any other on the Hidden Craters Hike through Kona. Your tour brings you behind 3 locked gates to discover Hualalai, Kona’s infamous volcano. Throughout your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the island’s volcanic eruptions in the 1800s, climb through a segment of a lava tube, and embark on a 3-4 mile hike you’ll never forget.

up to 5 hrs 1 to 10 people

Good To Know

  • Total hike length: approximately 3-4 miles.
  • Tour duration: approximately 5 hours long.
  • Walking sticks and rain ponchos are provided.
  • Snacks and beverages are included.
  • Tours depart from Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters.

Description

Experience a peak pint adventure on a rocky hike up the cool and misty lava-scaped slopes of Kona's own Hualalai Volcano. Enjoy exclusive access to this stunning mountain, which offers a bird's eye view of Kona's lava history. Your guide will take you off-road, through multiple locked gates, and then by foot at a 6,500-foot elevation, where you will experience the surreal scene of black lava flows and native dryland forest.

You will see firsthand the geologic forces which created the islands at the heart of Hualalai’s 1801 eruption, the Kaupulehu Crater. Travel to magnificent coastal viewpoints and stunning lava formations, walk amidst a forest of native birdsong, and scramble through a "lava tube".

Hidden Craters Hike Reviews

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shellejcats
Leawood, Kansas
"waterfall fun"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed December 08, 2024 NEW
We loved the hiking and swimming in waterfalls. Dane was an excellent guide who made it very fun as well as informative.
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LauraF6936
Incline Village, Lake Tahoe (Nevada), Nevada
"Nice day"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed December 07, 2024 NEW
My friends and I did two tours. Very smart friendly guides who shared endless information. Beautiful and unique stops, many of which are private to them. Pretty easy hiking between waterfalls. One you have option to swim. Lunch was an amazing view spot. Beautiful vans.
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BryanCtrips
Kohala Coast, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
"Unforgettable and memorably experience!"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed December 05, 2024 NEW
Highly recommend this star gazing adventure! Our guide Jeff was very knowledgeable and ensured everyone was safe and had a good time. The ride up to the observatory was very bumpy at times but Jeff provided a calming environment. The sunset was breathtaking and the view of the stars was indescribable. Jeff also expertly positioned the telescopes for close up views. It does get cold, dress warmly, recommend wearing a hat.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Hidden Craters Hike

How much hiking do we do?

This adventure includes 3-4 miles along uneven terrain with some steep inclines and declines with elevation gains & descents. Rated moderate.

Is there elevation gain?

The tour ranges from sea level to 6,000 feet. During the hike, you can expect approximately 800' to 1,000' elevation gain. While exploring the lava tube, expect to descend and ascend approximately 30-40 feet.

How many different types of volcanic features will I see?

Along the tour, you will see 200-year-old lava flow, spatter cones, fissures, and collapse pits.

Do we need any special type of equipment to explore the lava tube?

The lava tube that the tour visits is perfect for the casual adventurer. The tour will descend via earthen steps with a rope to assist and there’s enough ambient light to see all of the major features inside the cave.

Is Hualalai Volcano active?

Technically speaking, yes. Hualalai’s last eruption ended in 1801 so it is considered active. However, magma is not close to the surface so you won't see any geothermal activity.

How long is the tour?

The tour is approximately 5 hours long in total.

Is food included?

Yes. Snacks and beverages are included

What should I bring?

Guests should bring sturdy closed-toe shoes or hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a light sweatshirt or jacket, and a reusable water bottle.

Where do tours begin?

Tours meet and begin at Hawaii Forest & Trail Headquarters.