Devil's Throat

Overview

Devil’s Throat is a dramatic pit crater just off Chain of Craters Road near the Hilina Pali Road junction. It’s a short, informal stroll from a roadside pullout to the rim—no railings, no signs, and very much on the primitive side.

Geology & history

Formed by a collapse event around 1912 and noted by volcanologist Thomas Jaggar, the crater has grown from a small opening to roughly 150 feet across and about 165 feet deep. U.S. Geological Survey updates emphasize that Devil’s Throat has changed over time, underscoring the inherently unstable nature of this feature.

What you’ll see

Expect a sheer, vertical-walled hole in the lava landscape with layered rock exposed down its sides. The rim is unguarded, so you’re looking straight into the depths from very close range. It’s typically quiet, with few other visitors around.

Access & vibe

There’s no formal parking lot or built infrastructure—just a small roadside pullout and a short path. It’s not heavily signed or advertised, which makes it feel like a low-key, “hidden” stop compared to the park’s marquee viewpoints.

Safety essentials

There are no railings. Keep well back from the edge; a slip here could be fatal. The ground near the rim can be unstable, and conditions change over time. Daylight visits are strongly recommended for visibility. One visitor reported a bee swarm and a sting—stay alert.

Best time to visit

Daylight hours for safety and visibility. It’s generally uncrowded, so timing is flexible. Avoid visiting in poor weather or darkness when the unmarked path and unprotected rim are harder to navigate.