Nāpau Trail

What to expect

This is a long, remote walk across living volcanic history—smooth pāhoehoe, jagged ʻaʻā, pockets of lush tree‑fern rainforest, and big open “lava desert.” You’ll thread past Mauna Ulu and Puʻu Huluhulu, skirt Makaopuhi Crater, and finish at Nāpau Crater with wide‑open views and clear evidence of recent eruptions along Kīlauea’s East Rift.

Distance and difficulty

Plan on 11.9 miles total (out‑and‑back to Nāpau Crater). Elevation change is modest (around 200 feet), but don’t be fooled—uneven, sharp lava makes for slow miles. The park recommends budgeting about 30 minutes per mile on this surface; many hikers take around 5.5–6 hours. Heat and exposure amplify the effort.

Route highlights

Start from the Mauna Ulu/Puʻu Huluhulu parking area on Chain of Craters Road. Sign the trail register, walk about 100 feet on pavement, then turn left onto the Puʻu Huluhulu Trail. Follow ahu (stone cairns) across lava for roughly a mile to the Nāpau Trail junction. Early on there’s a numbered interpretive segment about the Mauna Ulu eruptions—worth the pause. A short side trail climbs Puʻu Huluhulu for a panoramic look at the flows (optional add‑on). Beyond, the path threads between Mauna Ulu and Puʻu Huluhulu, passes Makaopuhi Crater, and continues to Nāpau Crater.

Best time to hike

Year‑round is fine, but start early. Mornings mean cooler temps, more forgiving light, and plenty of daylight for this long outing. Expect frequent rain in rainforest sections and strong sun on the lava fields. Weekdays and early starts are your best bet for a quieter experience.

Logistics and safety

Footing is the crux: wear sturdy boots; long pants help if you stumble on glassy lava. Carry ample water, food, sun protection, and rain gear. The route is cairn‑marked—pay attention, especially across open lava where paths can vanish. This is an active volcanic area; check current conditions before you go. No permit is needed for day hiking, but a backcountry permit is required if you plan to camp at the Nāpau campsite.