No. The paved path is straightforward and well-marked. Signage at intersections is clear. Even young children won't get lost.

Devastation Trail - 1mi Easy Paved Walk

Q: Is the sun exposure really as bad as you say?

Yes. Pale lava rock reflects UV intensely. You'll sunburn faster here than on a beach because the rock amplifies reflection. Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, and light long-sleeve shirt are mandatory.

Q: Are there dangerous animals on this trail?

Nēnē geese are the only wildlife you'll encounter frequently. They're not aggressive unless provoked or food-habituated. Keep 25+ yards back, don't feed them, stay on the trail. No snakes, bears, or large predators. Sun is the real threat.

Q: Do I need hiking boots?

No. Tennis shoes or light hiking shoes work fine. The pavement is smooth—no rocks or roots. Save boot investment for Crater Rim Trail.

Q: How early do I need to arrive to find parking?

By 7 AM on weekends, by 8 AM on weekdays. The parking lot is small and fills fast. After 9 AM on busy days, expect to loop or park on the wider shoulder near Crater Rim Drive.

Q: What about water on the trail?

Zero. Bring everything—1L minimum, 2L recommended. No streams, no fountains. The volcanic landscape offers no shade or relief.

Distance

1 mi

Elevation Gain

100 ft

Est. Time

20–30 minutes for the walk; add 20–40 minutes for photos and interpretive reading.

Route Type

Out-and-back (paved)

Best Season

Year-round

Overview

About This Trail

An easy, paved 1-mile round-trip through a 1959 eruption aftermath landscape. The trail offers unobstructed views of the Puʻupuaʻi cinder cone and its volcanic geology with interpretive stops. This is essentially a walk, not a hike—ideal for families or anyone wanting volcanic landscape without technical demands. The payoff is perspective: witnessing how 1,900-foot lava fountains reshaped an entire forest in just five weeks.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Panoramic views of Puʻupuaʻi cinder cone—the new volcanic feature that emerged during the five-week 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption. The overlook shows where 1,900-foot lava fountains reshaped the landscape in real time.

Insider Tips

• Walk the trail twice if you have time: once early for golden-hour light, again midmorning for sharp shadow details on the cinder cone. • The money shot: stand at the overlook's left edge facing the cone with the crater rim as backdrop. Shoot early (6:30 AM) or late (4 PM) for warm light. • Park rangers often position here for wildlife education—ask about nēnē behavior and eruption timeline. • If crowds are unbearable, Crater Rim Trail offers more solitude 1 mile away with similar views.

Best Season to Hike

Year-round

Hiking Tips

Double your water intake. Pale volcanic rock reflects intense UV; you'll burn faster than expected.
Arrive by 7 AM. The parking lot fills fast on weekends and holidays.
Stay on the paved path. Cinder cone looks climbable—don't test it.
Nēnē geese frequent this area. Keep 25+ yards back. Do not feed them.
Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, and light long-sleeve shirt are non-negotiable.
Bring a camera—the overlook has the park's most iconic cinder cone shot.

Family Info

Ideal for young children and families. Flat paved path removes fall and trip risk. CAUTION: Supervise children around nēnē geese—teach them to keep distance, stay on path, and respect wildlife. Short duration keeps toddlers engaged. Sun protection is mandatory; bring a pop-up shade or wide-brimmed hat.

What Hikers Say

Hikers praise the trail's accessibility and geological storytelling—one photo freezes 1,900 feet of volcanic violence in a frame. Sun exposure catches many off-guard, but the shortness and paving make it forgiving. Most complaints center on wishing it were longer.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1 miles

Elevation Gain: 100 ft

Duration: 20–30 minutes for the walk; add 20–40 minutes for photos and interpretive reading.

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back (paved)

Surface: Fully paved

Getting There

Trailhead: Devastation Trailhead parking lot (19.406°N, 155.253°W)

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

None required.

Fees: $30 (private vehicle); $15 per person (pedestrian). Annual America the Beautiful pass ($80) covers entry.

Shuttle Available

Not required or available for this short trail.

Trail Rules

Trail Markers: Well-marked. Paved path is obvious; signage at key intersections guides traffic.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Bring your own. No water sources on trail. Carry minimum 1L (2L recommended for sun exposure and heat).

Shade: None. Full sun on volcanic rock for the entire trail. No shelter or respite.

Hazards:

Sun exposure is the primary threat—pale volcanic rock reflects intense UV, amplifying burn risk beyond typical day hikes. Dehydration can sneak up; thermal loading from black rock and sun accelerates heat stress faster than expected. Nēnē geese frequently the area and are protected; they're not aggressive unless provoked or food-habituated. The cinder cone is off-limits per park rules—stay on the paved path.

Emergency: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park Ranger Station nearby; call 911 or alert a ranger for emergencies.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to heavy (especially weekends and midday).

Peak Times: 8 AM–3 PM daily; peak season: June–August and winter holidays.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Fully accessible. Paved surface, 1-mile easy grade, restroom and parking at trailhead. Suitable for all ages and mobility levels.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Crater Rim Drive (scenic overlooks), Kīlauea Overlook, and nearby visitor facilities include water, snacks, restrooms, and interpretive displays.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can I do this trail with young kids?

Absolutely. It's 1 mile, paved, and flat. A 3-year-old can walk it. Supervise children around nēnē geese—teach them to stay on path and respect birds from distance.

Is the sun exposure really as bad as you say?

Are there dangerous animals on this trail?

Do I need hiking boots?

How early do I need to arrive to find parking?

What about water on the trail?

Is a map needed?