About
Length11.2 mi
ShapePoint-to-Point
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain2,500 ft up
Typical time8 hr
TrailheadSliding Sands to Halemauu trailhead
SurfaceCinder, lava and rough volcanic rock
Best seasonTemperatures generally start off cool in the morning and warm up in the afternoon all year. Winter is the rainy season in Hawaii, and there may be an increased chance for fog or storms in the after...
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityThis trail is extremely long and steep. While the trailheads have accessible parking, this trail is not recommended for who may require assistance.
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views🦌 Wildlife🎒 Backpacking

From Sliding Sands down onto the crater floor, past the cinder cones and the Bottomless Pit, and out via the Halemauu switchbacks. The two trailheads are eight road miles apart, so this needs a shuttle or two cars.

Tips
A full self-sufficient day in a wilderness area - carry all your water and food. Watch for nene, the endangered Hawaiian goose, and for silverswords, which grow nowhere else on earth. Three wilderness cabins can be booked by lottery for overnight trips.
Location

Sliding Sands to Halemauu trailhead

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
Your Hikes

🔒 Login or create an account to record the trails you've done, rate them, and tie them to a trip.

Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.