Big Island Hiking

Walk Through the Big Island’s Changing Landscapes

Hiking on the Big Island can take you through terrain that feels completely different from one trail to the next. You might cross old lava flows, walk near crater areas and steam vents, enter cool lava tubes, or follow paths along rainforest edges and native forest with Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, or Hualalai rising in the distance.

Some hikes stay closer to the Kona side, including Hawaii Forest & Trail’s Hidden Craters Hike on private land near Hualalai. Longer volcano-focused tours may travel from Kona or Hilo toward Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with possible stops along Saddle Road, at Kaumana Caves, lava tubes, ancient lava fields, steaming areas, and viewpoints near Halemaumau Crater.

If you would rather spend the day in quieter forest surroundings, the Hakalau Wildlife Refuge birdwatching tour takes you into protected habitat known for native birds and plants. It offers a very different experience from the island’s volcanic trails and gives you more time to focus on the natural life around you.

Before booking, compare the walking distance, elevation, pickup area, tour length, weather conditions, and included meals. Big Island hikes can range from easy nature walks to longer days on rougher ground, so choose the pace that feels right for you.