The Hawaiian archipelago was created millions of years ago when underwater volcanoes emerged from the ocean’s surface. Each Hawaiian Island is home to at least one volcano, though Hawaii Island — the youngest of the main islands — consists of five volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa, which are both considered to be active, and Kohala, Mauna Kea, and Hualalai. We hear a lot about Kilauea and even Mauna Kea but rarely do we get the chance to learn about — or explore — Hualalai. That ends today because we’re sharing an epic hiking tour of Hualalai’s hidden craters that tops our travel wish list. Adventure awaits.
The westernmost, third-youngest and the third-most active of Hawaii Island’s five volcanoes, Hualalai measures in at approximately 8,271 feet above sea level.
Despite experiencing low levels of activity since its last eruption in 1801 — and being unusually inactive for the last two thousand years — Hualalai is still considered active and is expected to erupt again sometime within the next century. Ready to get up close and personal with an active volcano?
Lace up your hiking shoes as you embark on a journey few people ever take. Enjoy a three to four mile hike through an untouched cloud forest...
…and even climb through a section of a lava tube.
...stand on the edge of volcanic craters that plunge deep into the earth below…
Other highlights include a 200-year-old lava flow, spatter cones, fissures, and collapsed pits.
Don’t forget to bring your camera. The landscapes and views you’ll discover during your tour are absolutely jaw-dropping, and you’ll want to document the entire experience to share with your friends and family (they might not believe you otherwise).
After your hike, head back down to sea level where you will tour Kona’s newest brewery and enjoy a sampling of locally-made beers, ciders, and/or non-alcoholoic energy drinks.
The only way to experience the epic landscapes on Hualalai is by booking an exclusive tour with Hawaii Forest & Trail. The seven-hour tour might seem a little expensive at nearly $185 per person, but this is a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — and lunch is included!
The Hidden Craters Hike is just one of the many incredible adventures offered by Hawaii Forest & Trail. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.
Then, click here to learn all about Hawaii's second-most active volcano, Mauna Loa.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!