With hundreds of miles of hiking trails traversing the varied and often dramatic landscape of Hawaii Island, also known as the “Big Island,” hikers can enjoy everything from challenging treks over lava fields to scenic strolls through historic sites to lush rainforests and secluded valleys with magnificent waterfalls to green sand beaches.
The massive, still active Kilauea Volcano continues to create some amazing hiking trails in the Big Island’s 300,000-acre Volcanoes National Park.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to over 150 miles of trails that can include walks through a lava tube and hikes around volcanic craters and fields. Hikers can even access birds-eye viewing spots to witness the “Big Island” getting larger, as molten lava spectacularly flows into the sea.
Experienced backpackers and campers might consider overnight jaunts into the park’s exotic backcountry. These adventurers should check in with the Kilauea Visitor Center for trail guidance, maps, and any permit requirements before wondering off into the wilds.
On the other side of the island, along the Kona Coast, is Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, also known as the King’s Trail. This is a network of 175-mile trails that weaves through hundreds of cultural sites, ancient villages, and sacred temples, fishponds, and petroglyphs.
The island’s North Kohala area features some terrific hikes that include a journey to the Pololu Valley Lookout, which leads to a unique, black sand beach. There are also guided, walking tours into lush Waipio Valley, known as the Valley of Kings. Always hike safely, sticking to the trails and making sure to follow all safety tips and guidelines. For more information on the fantastic trails in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, go to http://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm. Learn more about the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail at http://www.nps.gov/alka/index.htm.
After a long day of hiking on the beautiful Hawaii Island, rest up and relax at the iconic Royal Kona Resort. For additional information, go to www.hawaiihotels.com.