Hidden Craters Hike in Kailua-Kona, HI

Hawaii Forest & Trail73-5593 Olowalu StreetKailua-Kona, HI 96740
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Starting at
$179.00
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

from Ashley, one of our Kailua-Kona Travel Experts
  • 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

from Hidden Craters Hike
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".

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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.