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A trail for those craving solitude, immense lava landscapes, and neat volcanic formations.


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Map Key

5.4

Miles

8.7

KM

100%

Runnable

3,199' 975 m

High

3,007' 916 m

Low

316' 96 m

Up

138' 42 m

Down

2%

Avg Grade (1°)

6%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views

Runner Notes

Tough footing, no shade, very hot and dry.

Description

Some people consider the Mauna Iki Trail to be an extension of the Footprints Trail. Either way, the Footprints Trail is useful for providing access to the Mauna Iki Trail from Hwy 11 at the Ka'u Desert Trail.

From its intersection with the Ka'u Desert Trail, the Mauna Iki Trail branches off to the northeast over barren, desolate terrain. When there is no vegetation or wildlife, you have to be creative and find enjoyment in the wondrous lava formations and textures along the route. Follow lava rock pile cairns and stone pathways to stay on track through the monotonous lava fields.

Eventually the views improve, and you'll see the crumpled Cone Crater in the distance. Soon the undulating trail passes near the colorful and surprisingly deep Twin Pit Craters. The trail eventually visits Mauna Iki, a small version of the giant Mauna Loa volcano to the north. Mauna Iki erupted in 1919 and 1920. The path ends at the Hilina Pali Road near the Kulanaokuaiki Campground.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  3.0 from 2 votes

#28125

Overall
  3.0 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#126

in Hawaii

#28,125

Overall
7 Views Last Month
1,871 Since Mar 6, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Pit Crater, Mauna Iki Trail
Jul 5, 2019 near Volcano, HI

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