About
Length (round trip)1.6 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyEasy
Elevation gain100 ft up
Typical time1 hr 30 min
TrailheadKau Desert trailhead, Highway 11
SurfaceAsh and lava desert
Best seasonYear round. The summit area is cool and wet; the coastal and Kau Desert sections are hot and exposed.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilitySections of trail are paved, but with steep inclines and occasional deep sand and uneven surfaces.
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🏛️ Historic site

In 1790, a dramatic explosion occured at the summit of Klauea. The eruption involved a torrent of hot gas, ash, and sand that rained down on the Ka Desert. Caught in the middle of this deadly, suffocating storm were groups of Native Hawaiians travelling through the region on long-used trails. In the newly fallen layer of ash, these groups left behind footprints that we can still see today- a reminder that Hawaiians have beared witness to the geological drama of this island for centuries. A shelter with an exhibit about these footprints is accessible via an easy walk about .8 miles (1.3 km) from the Ka Desert Trailhead on Highway 11. Read more about the story of the Footprints area Trailhead: the Ka Desert Trailhead on Highway 11 Difficulty: Easy walk between the Ka Desert Trailhead on Highway 11 and the Footprints shelter Distance: .8 mi (1.3 km) from the Ka Desert Trailhead to Footprints shelter Bring water, food, hat, sun protection and rain gear.

Tips
The footprints are fragile and mostly protected under a shelter. No shade and no water in the desert - carry both and go early.
Location

Kau Desert trailhead, Highway 11

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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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.