Hidden Craters Hike
Ages 8 and older. | Rated: Moderate
Overview
Activity details
Venture onto private land behind 3 locked gates to explore the upper slopes of Kona’s very own volcano – Hualalai. This journey provides intimate, unique access to volcanic sites.
What's included
Snacks and beverages.
Gear Provided
Trekking poles and rain jackets.
Itinerary
- Exclusive access onto Hualalai volcano and into a native forest
- Stand on the edge of precipitous volcanic craters that plunge deep into the earth below
- Make your way through an intact lava tube unaltered by humans
Additional information
Check-in details
Meeting Locations
- Hawaii Forest & Trail
What to bring
Sturdy closed-toed shoes or hiking shoes, sweatshirt or light jacket reusable water bottle, and any personal sun protection (hat, sunglasses, etc.)
Restrictions
Guests should be able to hike on uneven or rocky terrain with up to 1,000′ elevation gain & descent. We sometimes encounter cool, wet, or muddy conditions. Other tour restrictions may apply.
FAQs
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?
Our 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, we’ll see a 200-year-old lava flow, spatter cones, fissures, and collapsed pits.
Do we need any special type of equipment to explore the lava tube?
The lava tube we visit is perfect for the casual adventurer. We’ll 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 we won't see any geothermal activity.
Cancellations
Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation.
Private tours: Customers will receive a full refund with 72 hours notice of cancellation.
Cancellations within the cancellation period, “no-shows”, or any guest not meeting the tour requirements will be charged the FULL AMOUNT of the tour.