Depending on when you leave, it may be wise to note the direction you need to take back down the mountain. I was advised to walk towards Orion's Belt, which worked out decently. They shut off the lights at the bike rentals at some point, so I couldn't use those as a guide.
Finally, don't be scared off by all the details! It was one of the most incredible things I've ever seen. Pictures don't do it justice.
Keep walking towards the lava until you get there. It was about 4 miles for me. I'm not particularly fit, i hike only occasionally, and I had a fever when I did the hike, but didn't have trouble. It's really not that bad. Just long.
Great view, amazing climb across the lava. PLEASE take these precautions if you're coming from the NATIONAL PARK: If you're doing the walk, it is about 4-5 miles each way to the START of the lava. If you want to walk across the full breadth of the lava it is about an extra 2 - 3 miles each way. Lava is undulating and reflective. EASY TO GET SUNBURNT as you're out there for hours. Take plenty of water, a gallon bottle per person, sunscreen, protective clothing and footwear for climbing rough surfaces. The rock is black and it gets very hot and can dehydrate you quickly.
I was able to stand about 15ft away from the lava, it helps if there's a breeze.
One way it took me 40min by bike plus the 1h hike slightly uphill.
The hike over the lava field is no joke, especially at night when it’s pitch black. The way up is easy to find cause you can see the lava flows from far but on the way back you can get lost when it’s cloudy and you cant see stars or the moon. There is no pathway and barely any points for orientation. I recommend besides what others wrote (flashlights..) a gps tracker app for the way back down to the road where the bikes are parked. Start tracking when you go up and on the way back just return the same way. Also works without internet which is not everywhere available around there.
Rent a bike. Yeah it's $20, but the road is a few miles long. Bring water, bring a snack, get a flashlight, wear actual shoes. Long pants not required, and you don't need to use your hands on the hike, so no gloves required.
5 stars are not enough for this place...
This is a long and strenuous trail, but worth it. The return trip is more difficult, because it is completely dark and most of the time, you feel completely alone. Also because you can only see as far as your flashlight goes, you cannot plan better paths ahead. In addition to the checklist posted at the visitor center of the national park, you`d better also bring a GPS or have a GPS app on your phone. It can make sure you are towards the right direction on the way back.
This is a super awesome experience! Wear hiking shoes, or sturdy shoes! Bring water! Be careful where you step, seriously! You can step into hot lava, so be careful! It’s not a super safe place and definitely not for children. You can rent a pedal bike to see the lava flow.
Don't bother with the viewing area. Instead, get to the fence, leave your bike, and just start walking over the rocks towards the glowing lava in the distance. There's no "trail", but the terrain isn't treacherous enough that there would need to be one.
Lava Viewing Area is a US Point Of Interest based in P Hoa, Hawaii. Lava Viewing Area is located at 12-5487 Kaimu-Chain of Craters Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA.
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