Easy paved walk through dramatic lava landscape — great for little legs. Eerie and beautiful. Bring sun protection as there's minimal shade.
Huge range of options from stroller-friendly crater overlooks to full hiking adventures. Always check NPS alerts for eruption activity and air quality (vog) before taking kids. Bring layers and rain jackets — weather changes fast at 4,000 feet. Junior Ranger program available.
Cool lava tube adventure — bring headlamps (essential!) and wear shoes with grip. Steep stairs down to the entrance. Keep kids close — it gets very dark and the floor is uneven. Not recommended for young children or those with mobility issues.
One of the most spectacular hikes on the island — descend through rainforest into the floor of a crater that was a boiling lava lake in 1959. The 3.3-mile loop takes 2–3 hours. Best for kids 7 and up — steep, rocky, and a 400-foot descent. Bring layers, water, and closed-toe shoes. Check NPS alerts for vog and eruption activity before going.
Best kept secret near Volcano — most visitors drive right past it. Beautiful 1.2-mile native forest loop with native Hawaiian birds. Shaded, cool, and short — great for kids. Go early morning for the best bird activity. Bring a light jacket.
Easy 0.7-mile paved loop through a surreal forest of hollow lava molds — created when a 1790 eruption encased living trees in molten rock. The jungle has grown back beautifully around them. Quick stop, 30–45 minutes, perfect for all ages. Restrooms on site.
A 500-year-old 600-foot lava tube — one of the best 20-minute adventures on the island for kids. Flat paved loop through lush fern rainforest into an ancient cave. Busiest 10 AM–2 PM — arrive before 9 AM for parking. Parking also available at Kīlauea Iki lot nearby.
Gorgeous coastal walk through lush jungle with ocean views. Can be muddy and slick — wear good shoes. Keep kids away from cliff edges. No facilities — plan accordingly.
A hidden gem on Saddle Road — this forested cinder cone is a sanctuary for rare native Hawaiian birds and plants surrounded by black lava flows. Short easy loop, great for birdwatching. On clear days you can see both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa from the top. Wear bright colors — seasonal hunting area.
Easy 1.2-mile round trip boardwalk walk from the Visitor Center — bright yellow sulfur crystals coat the lava rocks and steam vents from the ground. Kids find the rotten egg smell hilarious. Combine it with the Steam Vents just across the road. New boardwalk installed late 2024.