There are some great hikes for kids in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. We spent just a half day and did four great hikes, even though there are plenty more if you have time. We were surprised at the diversity of destinations in a park that was created specifically for volcanoes. These Hawaii Volcanoes Kid Hikes are suitable for families. Read the description of each hike below to find out what else you can see in this amazing park.
Thurston Lava Tube
In our opinion, the lava tube is the must-do hike in this National Park. It runs less than a half mile, but much of the hike is underground through a gorgeous tunnel. The lava tube hike is easy and appropriate for everyone.
Holei Sea Arch
It’s a bit of a stretch to call this a hike as it is more of a short walk. The trail leads to a large arch in the crashing waves on the south end of the island. The view of the ocean, and the drive through the lava fields make this hike worth it.
Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs
There are some amazing petroglyphs in Hawaii Volcanoes NP. This hike is 1.4 miles roundtrip and fairly flat. It is really rocky, so wheels won’t make it. The number of petroglyphs in a small place is really surprising, and most have a special meaning that is described in our post.
Keanakakoʻi Crater Trail
This is a well-known, but unmarked trail in the park that allows you to see down into the sprawling crater of Kilauea volcano. Even during the day, we saw lava (from very far away) and heard the roar of the mountain. This hike is flat and easy at two miles roundtrip. Ask at the Visitor Center if the volcano if this trail is worth walking based on how active the volcano is.
Other Ideas
We only had half a day to explore this national park before we had to catch a plane back home, but here are some other Hawaii Volcanoes Kid Hikes that we had on our list.
- Maunaulu / Pu‘uhuluhulu: moderate, 2.5 miles RT
- Ha‘akulamanu (Sulphur Banks): easy, 1.2 miles RT
- Devastation Trail: Easy, paved, 1.0 mile RT
- Kūpinaʻi Pali (Waldron Ledge): easy, paved, 1.0 mile RT
- Kīpukapuaulu: easy, 1.2 miles RT
- Maunaiki and Footprints Area: easy 1.8 miles walk from the Kaʻū Desert Trailhead
